Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “PARADISE”
My husband and I went to Dunn's Sept 14-19, for our 3 year anniversary. Let me start off by saying, what a wonderful place it is. We loved every minute of it. When we landed, we had no problems getting our luggage, came right away, then was takin to a bus to go to the resort. Ok, the bus ride was very bumpy, took 2 hours, we did stop once, where I thought we would be attacked by the natives, but they didn't. We got our drinks and left. Once we got to the hotel, we we given a wet rag and some champagne, and shown our rooms. We were upgraded to a honeymoon suite, standard room if you ask me, which was fine, how much are you in your room anyways. We unpacked and went to get some food. We at at the grill which is opened from 7 am to 3 am, good food too. All of the staff is very friendly, especially the playmakers, they keep you moving, and they are awesome. St. Nick, Dwayne, and Jean were our favorites. You also meet a lot of people that way too. All the food was excellent, we were very impressed. The drinks were good as well. We did have to wait a little bit for a drink at the swim up bar one day, and I felt were very weak. the tree bar will always take care of you. Never a weak drink. We did leave the resort once to go to the falls, which I highly recommend. We had so much fun, and it only cost $24 p/p. You can rent shoes for $5 if you didn't bring any. And bring your waterproof camera so you can take lots of pictures. The tour guides are awesome. Be careful though when you get done, you have to go through the natives market, which they attack you. they didn't take no for an answer. They kept grabbing us and didn't want us to leave. I never felt that scared before in my life, I was very uncomfortable. After that we decided not to leave our resort again. The ocean is beautiful. Be careful, the locals are in the ocean as well harrassing you. Everyday they approached us. It was very fustrating. They wouldn't take no for an answer. We couldn't even walk the beach without being harrassed. We coudn't enjoy ourselves without them right there. But I would defiently recommend this resort, it was beautiful, it was our dream vacation, the best we've ever taken. Sandals really takes care of you. The only down fall we had was the locals bothering us, but other than that excellent vacation.I hope this helps, feel free to email me if any questions at tddyber0916@yahoo.com.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Paradise in Jamaica!!”
I would like to start off by saying it was a wonderful vacation and it was our Honeymoon! I read many reviews before we booked this trip and went on instinct. I read so many different reviews that went from points A to Z. All I can say is, if you love the beach, this place is for you. I have stayed to name a few, at Wyndam resorts, Westin hotels and The Four Seaons Hotels. They are all Luxury resorts. Sandals Dunns River is not comparable to these resorts. This is a BEACH resort!! It's rated, I believe on a totally different level. This resort was wonderful for a beach hotel. I think most of the negative reviews are from people who expect a four and five star hotel located in the cities, without the humidity and sand. We booked for the Honeymoon Penthouse Conceige level and upon arrival we were upgraded to a One bedroom suite oceanview. It was lovely. The room was very clean and comfortable. The service was was very can-do. Each night they came in and turned down the sheets, like most Luxury hotels and cleaned again. Our room was cleaned twice a day. The food was good. I'm not much of a buffet person so I can't really comment on that, but my husband was happy with it. We liked the International Room for dinner and went over to SOR for dinner at Valentio's. It was very good and the service and atmosphere was really romantic and quiet. Drinks were constantly flowing, we never had to wait. They had plenty of staff working at all times. The Pina Colada's were awesome! I am a wine drinker and knew before I left Houston, that Jamaica was NOT the place to go for good wine. They had one California Red and it was drinkable. Really, when your at the beach, who drinks wine? Unless, it's a beach in Northern California. The Jamaican people are by far the most wonderful people. I've been to the Bahamas and really enjoyed Jamaica more. I would recommend Jamaica and Sandals Dunn's River. It was worth the money and the 2 hour drive. The drive is long and bumpy, but it goes by fast. The beach is plenty big enough and it's beautiful. Just stay away from the fence on the far right. We layed at the opposite end of the beach and were not bothered by the locals. Sandals does have a guard that sits on beach near the fence. The guys in the water are just trying to make a living. Say no, and they will leave you alone. Whatever you do, you have to do the couples massage. It was so relaxing and wonderful... We will go to another Sandals resort in the future. Overall, it was a great trip!
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “honeymoon in paradise”
We recently honeymooned at Sandal's Dunn's River in Jamaica the last week of July 2003. We were supposed to stay at Sandals Ocho Rios, but were told we were upgraded to the honeymoon suite at Dunn's River. We were excited to hear this, but when we saw our room we were disappointed as it looked nothing like a honeymoon suite. It was small and the room was kind of run down. The bathtub looked like it was really old and mildewed. The resort itself however, was beautiful. The staff was more than helpful and friendly. They really make you feel at home and get you involved in the resort's daily activities. The aqua aerobics in the main pool each morning was a lot of fun. The beach is really nice, but small. When you go in the water, there are Jamaican's who try to sell you drugs and necklaces. The women at the gated fence pester you to braid your hair. The food at the restaurants were great. Kimono's was our favorite, serving fresh Japanese cuisine and a great opportunity to meet other couples at the resort as you sit together around a big table. We were not impressed with the lunch choices. We chose sandals because we don't care for buffets and wanted sit down restaurants. However, at lunch your only option is a buffet or the grill which serves greasy foods. The service at lunch was not so great, slow to get you drinks. The service at dinner was awesome. After visiting Ocho Rios one night we definitely are glad we didn't stay there as the beaches and hotel are much smaller and older. Overall, the two hour ride to get to Dunn's River is long and bumpy but we did enjoy our time at the Dunn's River resort!
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Very Overpriced and disspaointed”
First of all, we had an overall goodtime and the weather was nice so it was a fun time but there were several little things that could have been better and a lot of the problems we had were also noted on some of the previouse posts. 99.9% of the Sandals employees are very very nice and go out of their way to be friendly.When we arrived at the airport, our luggage took over 1 hour to get and NOONE will answer a question when you ask where it is. The people that work at the airport are the rudest people ever. After we finally did get the luggage, we were so hot and the airport isnt airconditioned. We were suppose to get the free plane trip to ocho rios as we bought a high enough room that it included the free plane trip. Well, Marva, the rudest lady employeed by Sandals informed us that there were no more flights, it was Air Jamaica's fault and we had to take the 2 hour bus trip. Not one "I'm sorry". Just very rudely told us where the bus was. So right off the bat, our trip was off to a rocky start.The overall food is marginal at very best. We thought the International restaurant was by far the best. If you've read the other reviews, we had the same opinions as a lot of them. We never got our salads at Kiminos, room service pretty much sucked, the lunch grill place was barely edible. The dine around program is kind of a joke as you have to take a 6pm reservation if you want to eat at Valentinos at Ocho Rios. Who eats dinner on vacation at 6pm? When hyping up the dine around program, they should tell you that you have to eat at 6pm at the nicer restaurants, that it isnt as easy as it sounds. Our biggest dining fiasco happened on a Thursday night. They had a buffet served out in the courtyard by the pool. It started at 6:30pm. We were not planning on eating there but were going to eat at the International. We went down at 8:30 and were told that no other restaurant was opened that night and our only food option was the buffet. By this time, it had been out for over 2 hours, nothing new was being served, it was old and gross. So we ate the marginal room service.My wife did the scuba diving and it was her 5th time and the worst dive she had ever done. The Sandals lady that was in charge of the diving was very very rude and un-helpful, second in rudeness only to Marva at the airport. She weighs like 100 pounds and they wouldnt carry any of the scuba equipment for her (tank, weight belt, mask, vest, etc..).Then to top it off, we had to wait in line for over 2 hours at the airport on the way home. I know that wasn't Sandals fault but when you leave, you have to get to the airport almost 3 hours early.We have stayed at the Bahamas Sandals and it was overall much nicer. It is an older crowd, many more (better) restaurants, overall cleaner pools and the airport is much easier to deal with. If you are thinking of a Sandals, go to the Bahamas.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “I'll tell you like it is”
I just returned from Jamaica last night. I had a blast. Once arriving at the airport it was a little chaotic and unorganized. Prepare for being in a unconditioned and highly unorganized airport. Once getting out of that chaos the Sandals guy will greet you. We were suppose to stay at the Sandals Montego Bay (which is only 5 minutes from the airport) and you can see it from the runway. They were overbooked and they said we had to stay at Sandals Dunn's River. Which is 2 hours away! I didn't feel like bitching at the guy at the hotel because I was tired from the flight, the airport and the heat. When we arrived at the hotel it was very pleasing. Sheila at Customer Service greeted us right away and said we were going to be upgraded to the honeymoon suite. The honeymoon suite was nothing special. It was just a clean room with a patio area. I would not want that room for my honeymoon. The staff St. Nicholas (looks like Nelly), Garth Brooks (bartender at the piano bar) and Jason (waiter in many of the eateries) were great. These three took the extra mile more so than any other of the employees. Although I have no complaints at all on them these three were just exceptional. The food was good and we ate alot of it. One thing that I must say is leave the resort. We talked to so many people that heard this and that about Jamaica well its reality! Its not america and yes it is different. The resort is beautiful and yes get your money's worth and eat and drink but see the actual Jamaica. Don't just use it for you entertainment. Another thing treat the staff good. Don't talk down to them! Always show your appreciation a smile, a buck or just Thanks! I would recommend this spot for people who like to have a fun time!
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “A good place to go but…“
Sandals Dunns River is a nice place to go. The rooms are average(about what you would expect from a 3 star hotel). I would have to say our stay was mostly positive but there are a few negatives.First the positives:1. The staff - They are some of the nicest and warmest people that you will meet.2. The room - Was clean and of adequate size3. The food - Generally good but with a few exceptions which I will list below.4. Drinks - Plentiful5. Facilities - In decent shape but there are a few areas that could use a facelift.6. Scuba diving - What more is to say.7. If you fly Air Jamaica, you can get your boarding pass at the resort and check your bags(BIG PLUS)8. The Playmakers - They are great people(Dwayne and Nick were especially great).Next the negatives:1. Activities that were sold by the hotel(Dunn's River Falls, Horse Back Riding) were expensive.2. Because the spa is on the property which is all inclusive, the services should be free...We were nickled and dimed to death.3. We found roaches on 2 occassions in the buffet in the terrace. We complained to the staff and immediately removed the food. We complained to the management and they told us that they spray every week and they would take care of the issue. Well think again...We saw them again.If you expect a staff that is seen and not heard, this is not the place to go...They like to talk to the guests and like a little respect which goes a long way. I'm not sure my wife and I will visit Sandals Dunns River again but I have to say it was a wonderful vacation.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Disappointed”
We just returned from Sandals Dunns River. The place is pretty much over-rated. While we generally had a good time (good friends with us helped), we will not return to the resort and most likely not to Jamaica. The beach is small and fenced off to keep the local peddlers out (big problem everywhere). Unfortunately they spend the day yelling at you from the other side of the fence (buy my drugs; get your hair braided; see my junk etc.). Unfortunately when you enter the ocean you are fair game for them as they will swim around the fence and approach you. Most of the activity is around the pool and swim-up bar. We had a pretty good time there but I can only drink all day for so long and call it fun / relaxing, besides, I went for the ocean. The pool also needed a major face-lift to be anywhere near first class as the advertising suggests it is. Another big complaint with us was the food. It was below average at best. We are probably a little spoiled because where we live there is a first class restaurant on every corner, but, I don't think anyone would call their food much above average. I must say though that I thought the staff went all out; no complaints at all about the service. The resort, in general, was beautifully landscaped and certainly has potential, but until the general economic condition of the island improves and you can travel the island and beaches unimpeded, we will not return. I don't like feeling "help captive" at a resort.I would suggest Cayman. We have made a number of trips there and just love it. Island Club and Villas of the Galleon condos are great.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “overrated”
Returned from Sandal's DUnns river for our honeymoon. We were totally looking forward to the trip to this hotel that has such a great reputation for upscale on every level. My dissappointment started when we noticed that the whole resort looks rather run down. It is in dire need of renovation. Lobby furniture was dirty and very used looking, the main pool looked dirty most of the time (looking to the bottom),, the swim up pool bar was in need of maintenance as well. The piano pool and bar were nice. (and clean) The tree bar always had a rather nasty order no matter what time of day it was when you walked by (vomit odor) and the room s were very basic. The bathtub was one that I would even think of taking a relaxing bath in. The porcelain was dull and the tub looked like a million years old. The service that I thought I would get was also a big dissappointment. There was usually not enough bartenders on so you would have to wait for a drink. The activity staff introduced themselves to you and talked to you and then two days later re introduced themselves like this is your first time meeting them. I know there were hundreds of people at the resort and you can't be expected to remember all the people you meet, but one fellow in particular (Dwayne) introduced himself to us three times, give it a rest Dwayne. On the up side of things, the food was excellent. And so were the drinks. The beach was very nice except for the guy swimming in the ocean trying to sell you drugs and the lady on the far end of the beach constantly begging to braid your hair. The resort had a nice layout which was a positive. Would we return to Sandals? Maybe, but not to Sandals Dunn's river. I think possibly to Bahamas. We met someone who has been to several Sandal's and apparnetly The Royal Bahamian is well worth the money. Hope this helps.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “no mon!!!”
Sandals Dunns River was the most misleading vacation. Trust me its not worth the money! Ive been to the Sandals in St Lucia and it blows this one away!! Lets start with thw whole place needs a facelift! It should be updated exspecially the rooms! We had the top room and it didnt look or feel like it! Our tv was broke alot and so was the (dirty) elevator!Our balcony light never worked! The water in the shower was either HOT or COLD no in between! The room service menu sucks along with the rest of the food!!! I did not fully enjoy any of my meals--The menus are diffrent from the online sample ones! In the Italian restaurant they serve chx parm with no sauce or cheese??? The antipasta bar is nice, when they replenish it!! Kimonos is overrated never did get my salad??? International is Okay--The service is just bad-no one comes back to see if your okay once you get your food!! Desserts not that good at all!! The jacuzzi broke twice during my visit although there are 2 more on property! The pools and jacuzzis always seemed dirty to me they dont scoop them out enough at all! Overall the service should have been better! more friendly-it seemed like at times the staff was annoyed! Dont eat at the beach grille its gross!! The nightlife sucks! The shows are just okay (when the power stays on) The playmakers are more fun during the day! Dont go over to the fence the natives will try and take you over and ask you to go bring them food--they are in the water too! Trying to sell you drugs and they even waterproof them!! Dont stay at this resort -you will be very unhappy!
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Best Vacation Ever”
We went to Sandals Dunns River for our 20th anniversary and can say that it was the best vacation we ever had. The service was superb and the food was great. If you're flying in from Montego Bay, there is a bumpy 1 1/2 hour ride from the airport to the resort, but it is an interesting ride. Arriving at the hotel, we were greeted and given complimentary champagne and brought to our rooms. We had reserved the lowest level room (Deluxe), but were given an upgrade. The room was nice, not spectacular or anything, but clean and comfortable. That evening we noticed we saw some ants crawling on the walls, and I notified the front desk. They promptly moved us to another room, which was an additional upgrade, with a balcony facing the mountains. The staff was unbelievable, always attentive, and ready to help out with any problem. We did 2 additional tours - the Blue Mountain Bike tour, which is an all day tour, but very fun. It's an 18 mile bike ride - all down hill, so not strenuous at all. It's a long bus ride up to the top of the mountain, but the tour guide made it interesting. The other tour was the Dunn's Falls tour where we climbed the falls. Very fun, but I did scrape my knee because I wasn't wearing the right shoes. Rent the aquashoes they have there because the rocks do get slippery. The pools, bars and restaurants are great, and although we're not big drinkers, the swim-up bar is neat. Rum is the drink of the island, so most of the tropical drinks had rum in them. There's plenty of activities to do if you want, but there's no pressure to do anything if you just want to lay down and relax at the pool or beach. The piano bar is not as elegant as we expected, although the pianist was good, he was relegated to playing billy joel/elton john songs while half-drunk guests belted out the lyrics. But it was fun anyway. The nightly entertainment was good, not Las Vegas style, but fun. The 2 buffet nights were great. One was a beach party buffet where the food and tables were set up right on the beach. The other was an international buffet where the food and tables were set up on the terrace around the pools. Both were fabulous. All in all, it was a great vacation and we hated to leave. We will definitely go back someday.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Sandal's Resorts are Way Over-rated!”
After travel agents and other people speaking so highly of Sandal's resorts, my husband and I decided to take a 4 night, 5 day getaway to the Sandals' Dunn's River Resort in Jamaica. We wanted the experience to be really nice, since this was our first big trip since our honeymoon three years ago. Let me start by saying that the brochures are very misleading, showing such pictures and giving such ratings. This hotel was supposedly a 9 and 1/2 out of a possible 10 in the book; you would think it would be a great place to stay, and the pictures make eveything look so perfect. Not true. For our honeymoon we stayed at the Moon Palace in Cancun, Mexico, and I'll tell you it was 100 times nicer. The ride from Montego Bay airport to Sandal's Dunn's River is a very, very, very long, bumpy, bumpy ride, in which you'd be very suprised to even get their in one piece. The greeting at the hotel is very welcoming and the workers there are very nice, but that's one of the few good things I can say about this resort. Originally we only had a regular deluxe room booked, but we were promised we would be upgraded as long as they had a room available, and so they did and we were supposedly upgraded 2 categories to a Honeymoon Grande Luxe, and we thought, Oh, this is terrific, until the lady showed us to our room. I mean, surely she had to be kidding when she said this was the Honeymoon Grande Luxe. It was defininitely a lot smaller than we expected, the furniture is outdated and the cushions on the chairs in the room feel like they were stuffed with garbage bags. The bathrooms are very small and old looking and showering was not fun; the water was either freezing cold or scalding hot- take your pick. The carpets are not the greatest either. The hotel is not real new like they try to tell you, and appears run-down and needs redecorating. Besides the room, there was the lobby, gym, elevators, public bathrooms, and Tree Bar that are not air-conditioned. As you sat at the Tree Bar trying to enjoy your drink you had to inhale the smell of rotting garbage everyday probably due to the hot temperatures from no air-conditioning. The food was just average. We did enjoy the breakfast buffet and the Italian restaurant. Kimono's made our stomach's turn. The portions were so small, they do not give you a choice, and the steak was undercooked. I definitely thought the food selction could have been much better. Trying to relax by the pool or beach sometime seemed impossible. I could still hear in my sleep, "Hey, lady, Let me braid your hair!" They don't leave you alone. They even go to the extent of making a passerby give you a card that says she wants to braid your hair. You dreaded going into the ocean, only because you'd be haggled by the voltures on the other side of the fence. If they saw you in the water, they would actually swim over to you and keep pressuring you to buy beads, or drugs, or whatever. They don't take no for an answer. Unfortuneately because they do this in the water there is nothing they could do about it, only if they come on to land and would bother you. Tell me this makes sense... you absolutely have to wear a shirt or girls could wear a bathing suit top with shorts over to play tennis, but you could walk aroung the whole resort or lay out on the beach topless and no one says a word. We still had a nice time getting away for 5 days, enjoying the beach, the pools, and the sun, but we would not stay at a Sandal's again. I wished since we got there that we would have stayed at a Beaches instead, since I heard alot of people saying it was much nicer. Bottom line: Jamaica can be beautiful, but the resort will not be unless it gets renovated.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Thinking Sandals Dunn's River - Look Elsewhere”
We just recently returned from a trip to Jamaica's Sandals Dunn's River 6/15/03 -6/19/03. We cannot begin to tell you how disappointed we were with the resort. We had looked forward to our vacation with great anticipation, expecting a real world-class experience. However, it was so disappointing that our vacation at Dunn's river was the equivalent of a dressed up motel six. The resort was such a far cry from the brochures, that we feel we were utterly cheated out of a wonderful vacation opportunity, if not, infact, defrauded. Our vacation was unique, indeed. Unfortunately, it was not the type of experience we would wish for anyone else. The Dunn's river resort at first appeared absolutely breathtaking. Upon closer inspection, it was rather run down. The hotel lobby furniture was disgustingly dirty, in dire need of a steam cleaning. The lobby ceiling had stains from water leaking through the roof when it rained. The carpet in the indoor game room was torn in several places and presented a real tripping hazard. Our room accommodations were fair, but a shower was practically out of the question. The water was either as ice cold as the Dunn's River Falls, or scalding hot. Maid service left us high and not so dry, with a lack of toilet paper and a toilet that needed babysitting. The so-called international dining was Shoney's quality at best. Don't believe the sample menus offered on the website. We're from the great state of Louisiana, which is home of some of the finest food in the world. All food at the Dunn's River "Resort" was quite disappointing. All breads and cakes appeared several weeks old; they were staled and hard. Don't order the veal picatta at the Italian restaurant, unless you're fond of chicken-fried steak. The cook at the outdoor grill had no problem serving up a few flies in the breakfast orange juice. To top off one particularly bad dining experience in the international restaurant, we hysterically found the waitress earnestly incompetent. She sincerely did not know the difference between strawberries and blueberries. My husband requested blueberry cheesecake, and the waitress checked with the chef to see if it was available. She returned to say it was not, so my husband ordered plain cheesecake. The waitress returned with our orders: a plain cheesecake for him, and a lovely blueberry-glazed cheesecake for me! On a scale of 1 (worst) - 10 (best), one meal was a true 3, with all others together totaling a 0. The beach at Dunns river was really beautiful. Too bad you couldn't enjoy it! You could not go for a swim in the ocean, lest you be haggled in the water by someone waiting to sell you some trinket or dope. We asked the hotel staff to have the hagglers removed, but we were told that "...they are just trying to make a living." Of course the dope-sellers got to enjoy the water while the paying customers of the resort did not. The resort also boasts its non-motorized water sports. This is true.... there are several hobie cats lined up on the beach. But we waited for two days to use one, because there was only one hobie cat attendant, and he would only put one boat in the water at a time. To sum it all up in the nicest way possible, the best part of our experience was our airplane landing back home in the United States! Never again will we stay there!Sincerely Disgusted
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “It was OK but cruising is better”
My husband and I went to Sandals Dunn's River June 2-9, 2003. We forked out a lot of dough for the honeymoon concierge level and actually got bumped up to the penthouse level (top floor of Genoa Bldg). This started us out on a good foot but it when downhill from there. All in all it was a good vacation but I am used to cruises so I was constantly comparing the resort to a cruise. After the 2 hour drive from the airport we arrived and were given ice cold wash clothes that smelled like roses and a glass of champagne (very impressive). And, like I said, got bumped up a room level. Our room was very nice, and it did look like the brochures but we had to change rooms and go down one floor on the 3rd day because our room was sooooo hot. We complained the first and second day but it took till the third day to get someone to listen. Turns out the air filter had not been cleaned/changed in who knows when and the air was not circulating. We smothered the first 2 nights. As a matter of fact, the whole place is hot. They do not air condition the hallways, service areas, lobby, elevators, etc. of the hotel. Only guest rooms have air conditioners (if they work). And all the hype about your own bar and refrigerator in the concierge rooms that is supposed to be stocked each day is not what it's cracked up to be. They never had what we asked for. The first day we had diet Pepsi's then they started bringing regular Pepsi (yuck). I kept leaving notes and they said they were out of Diet Pepsi (although I saw it at the bars). I asked for orange juice, they kept telling me they were out. As for alcohol, they had Appleton's rum (Jamaican brand but it is the best there is) in there but the rest was rot gut stuff you never heard of. They claim the drinks at the bars are top shelf liquor and you saw a few name brand bottles sitting around but you had to "specifically" request the name brands and then you had to watch and make sure they actually gave it to you. I once saw a bartender pick up a bottle of Appleton'suse it when the guy who ordered the drink wasn't looking. My husband always requested Appleton's Estate brand and even though we watched the bartender make the drinks my husband said he never even got a "buzz" in 7 days and, believe me, he as many drinks as he had every day at the pool bar he should have been blitzed!!! And for the record, the Tree Bar near the lobby smelled like a dumpster every single day!!! Never could figure out why....Just like the last post, we too went diving. It was the worst dive I've ever been on. Small reef with very little fish around it. Boring for the most part. And the watersports people have crappy attitudes. I noted this on my comment card before I left. For example, you would ask, "Where are we diving?" They would answer, "In the ocean." We said, "Duh, where in the ocean?" They said, "You wouldn't know if we told you." How cocky is that???? One thing we did do that I totally enjoyed was go down to Chukka Cove and rode horses in the ocean ($65 per person). That was kinda a life long dream to me. My husband didn't like it though. I had a blast even though we rode the last 30 minutes back to the barn in the pouring down rain.The food was OK but food on a cruise ship is much better. The best place we ate was the Internationale the last night. We ate at Kimonos twice. Heard it was hard to get a reservation but we ate there twice with no problem. We went down to Sandals Ocho Rios one night and ate at Arizona's. Food was OK but the atmoshere was soooo romantic. We were there during sunset and the tables were at the waters edge on the ocean with candles, etc. I liked our resort better. Ocho Rios is more plush with foliage but you can't see the ocean from any of their pools and the property is very narrow. Dunn's River is more open and spreadout.Oh my gosh, the fence people!! They were on both sides of the fence yelling at you all day trying to braid your hair and sell you stuff (drugs included). There were even 2 guys who swam around thet in to swim they would approach you and pull baggies out of the water trying to sell you necklaces!! They have to post guards on each side. I have been to Jamaica twice before on cruises and knew they were a little pushy so I was not totally shocked by this but this was more than I had anticipated. Once when I was outside the resort a woman came down street and before I knew it she had put a braid in my hair. I called it a "hit and run" braid!!!!The playmakers were great but nobody really wanted to participate in anything. The pool was crowded during the day so you know there were lots of folks there but at night hardly nobody goes to the shows (cheesy as they are). The disco starts at 11pm and there are no more than 6 people dancing and they all leave by 11:30. The only thing to do is play ping pong or chess on the giantic yard chess board.All in all: Everyone there is really nice, particularly the concierge people, Florence & Joy, but not the watersports people. The food is Average, the alcohol situation is VERY misleading if you don't stay on top of what is happening when you order. Hint, even though you are not supposed to tip if you slip the bartender a buck you will get better drinks. The entertainment at night is slim to none. Day time pool entertainment is better (water aerobics, name that tune, volleyball, etc.) Watch out for the "fence people". I wouldn't say I had a bad time, I had a good time but I think 7 days was too much. I got bored at the end and I think we spent too much money for what we got. We could have taken ourselves and our 3 kids on a 7 day cruise and had a better time than what it cost just the 2 of us to stay at Sandals for 7 days. It was fun but I think I'm going back to cruising.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Not for serious SCUBA divers”
We stayed at Sandals Dunns River June 5-9, 2003. We had never stayed at a Sandals, and were excited to try one. We had previsouly stayed at the Wyndham, Rose Hall in Jamaica. Also Melia Turquesa in Cancun. Overall, Sandals did not live up to our expectations. It definitely does not look like the pictures on their website, or in their brochures. Do not go to this resort especting to dive twice a day! That is a joke! They do 1 scuba dive at 9 AM (or 9:30, whenever, mon, no problem) They have 1 boat, and they have to use it also for the snorkeler's. Also, the dive sites they advertise on their website- joke's on you- you will never be taken to those sites. The site they use (the same one every day) is not worth $1.00. Oh, then the boat broke down so it was not running at all 2 days. We ried to take the shuttle to Sandals Ocho Rios, and that dive was all booked! It just seemed like we were getting the run around, big time. The "water sports" staff did not seem to care at all. It was like, "no big deal, happens all the time." It was just very disappointing to go there expecting to get in 2 dives a day. We picked Sandals becasue they advertise "2 dives a day" included (except Sunday's) We kept hearing the same story from other couples. We met a couple from England and a couple from Germany. They were equally as disapoined as us. Oh well, live & learn. An expensive lesson was learned. Sandals is NOT for serious divers! I hope this helps you in your decision. Other than that- everything else was OK. We had a bad view from our room.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Awesome, Awesome, Awesome”
My wife and I just returned from Sandals Dunn River after staying for 7 days (May 03-10). It was the best vacation we've ever been on. Just for a little background we're both 28, been married for 2 years, work in the financial field, and like to party. The Montego Bay Airport was very chaotic but after reading a few reviews that mentioned hitting the far left immigration line we took the advice and it was actually faster. After that there are two lines; non-declaring and declaring to get through customs. By dumb luck we thought we had to declare our cigarettes, perfume, and cologne but it turns out personal use items don't need to be declared. Fake it anyways because the people in the non-declare line waited 45 minutes as opposed to our 5 minutes. After getting through customs, we were directed to the Sandals desk. They took our bags, confirmed our room, and showed us to the bus; they were very organized. The bus ride wasn't as bad as you hear. Sure its bumpy but not jarring and it is air conditioned well. The bus makes a beer/bathroom stop after about an hour where you'll be asked to buy crafts, necklaces, t-shirts, and yes drugs. A simple no does fine and it isn't bothersome. 15 minutes later you're back on your way. Once arriving at Dunns River the men identify the luggage as the women start filling out the registration. You get a cold towel to freshen up and a cold glass of champagne. After a day of traveling, a couple of Red Stripes, and a glass of champagne we're doing just fine by now. The bags were taken to our room, which was upgraded two levels to our surprise from the Deluxe to the Honeymoon Grand Lux. Checked out our room it was fine, a little musty smell but we didn't even notice after 15 minutes. The air conditioning worked great, enough hot water for both my wife (classic long shower for the lady) and myself every night, TV had US stations, and the room was promptly cleaned everyday. No complaints at all on the room. The pools are outstanding, very big and the perfect temperature ta a lot more of a party atmosphere because of the large pool bar and playmakers playing music and organizing events (beer drinking contest, pool bingo, pool Olympics, etc). The other pool surrounding the piano bar is more laid back and seemed to attract the older guests. The pool bars were well staffed and we never waited more than a minute for a drink. All top shelf liquor (Jack Daniels, Absolute, Cuervo, Jim Beam, Seagrams VO, Dewars, etc.). You're screwed if you are a beer drinker and don't like Red Strip because that is all they have although you could buy Heinekens and Guinness in the gift shop but if you're going to do that why go all inclusive. The food was great. For breakfast they had a buffet every morning from 7:30 to 10:00 at the Terrace and a sit down order restaurant in the International open a little later. Both were good, not spectacular, but its breakfast so you can't go too wrong. The French toast was great. Lunch was also served as a buffet at the Terrace from 11:00 to 2:30 or you could always get food at pool grill 23 1/2 hours a day (cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, etc.) that didnt have everything dowsed in jerk spices as you may have read. Dinner was excellent in my opinion. All four restaurants were great with Kimonos (Japanese restaurant) taking the cake. Kimonos is the only restaurant requiring a reservation. Make sure youre aware of the events going on at night because certain days they organize buffets on the beach/pool and some of the restaurants are closed. Ate once at Ochos Rios (Bay View Restaurant) and it was equally wonderful. We wanted to eat at the Arizona but it was a 1-hour wait, BOO! The grounds have pool tables, ping-pong tables, a pitch/putt 9-hole course, and 8-quarter slot machines. I won close to $150 on the slot machines and won almost every time I sat down for longer than 5 minutes, just make sure you go the full amount of money each pull. I think they are rigged to pay out lot more than regular slot machines. Either way it paid for a lot of souvenirs. The We didnt do any water sports but if we wanted to Im sure it would be no problem mon. The nightlife is pretty dead because everyone drinks themselves out during the day but they do have live entertainment in the disco almost every night that is on par with cheesy cruise ship entertainment but they are talented. Your nights will be what you make them so try to hook up with some other couples and have a good time. We met some great people and took the free shuttle bus to Margiritville at night and partied something fierce, very good time. The 2:00 am bus ride back was very rowdy, I dont know how the driver put up with us. The piano bar got rowdy a few nights we were there but after awhile you can only hear the Piano Man and Sweet Caroline so many times but the guy can play anything. I played golf on the Sandals course twice and have to say I enjoyed it quite a bit (83 and 85 on the par 71 course). The greens were fast, true, and fair. Plus the caddie makes every read for you and trust me he was right every time. The few times I didnt take his advice on either a shot selection or putting line I was in trouble. The front nine is much harder than the back. The golf is free but you have to pay $15 for the caddie (18 holes) and I tipped him $10. If you want to ride in a cart you still have to pay for the caddie and its $38 for the cart (18 holes). I walked it in the Jamaican sun hung over and didnt have a problem. Drink lots of fluids and try to play in the morning because its hot out there. If you play more than once you get the same caddie, which is cool. My wife went to the spa when I played golf and loved it although it is also extra money. She did mention the messages are a bit different than in the States whereas youre naked and they pretty much message everywhere. She was a little taken back at first. We also did the booze cruise to Margiritaville ($90 per couple), which was a blast. They take you on a catamaran from the Sandals beach towards the Ochos Rios harbor all while serving you rum punch the whole time. Siocean is rough and it bounces you around a lot but its a blast. You then snorkel in Ochos Rios (all right snorkeling) and then you go to the Island Village, which has Jimmy Buffets Margiritaville restaurant. It has a pool bar, hot tub, and a waterslide. Its a blast. The topper on the vacation was swimming with the dolphins. It was magical but very expensive ($175 per person) if you wanted to actual swim with them but they have cheaper activities too. They let you ride two dolphins dorsal fins, one on each side, and they have two dolphins push each one of your feet to push you out of the water along with singing, dancing, and petting the dolphins. So cool! We never did the Dunns River Falls tour because we had explored waterfalls in Hawaii for our honeymoon and decided to skip it. Everyone said it was great although regardless of what your vacation package says its not included with your stay at Sandals. All in all, I would recommend Sandals Dunn River to anyone and everyone. What a great vacation I cant wait to experience a different Sandals next time.maybe St. Lucia.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Can't go wrong with Sandals”
My wife and I recently returned from Sandals Dunn's River on April 19, 2003. We had an absolutely wonderful time. Upon arrival we received a glass of champagne and word that our room had been upgraded to a Honeymoon suite with an awesome view overlooking the pool and ocean. The room was spacious and very clean. The furniture was a bit run-down but nothing that I haven't encountered with any above average hotel chain in the States. The service was always top-notch. The playmakers did a wonderful job of providing entertainment if you wanted to take part. St. Nick and Jonathon were awesome. And there was no feeling of pressure if you just wanted to relax by the pool instead of joining in on the activities. All of the playmakers did a wonderful job of keeping us entertained the afternoon that we encountered some rain. Overall, the meals were excellent with a good amount of options to choose from. At times, the appetizers were small in portion, but all you had to do was order more and you would receive a No problem mon from the servers. Contrary to other reviews that I have read, they do serve premium brand liquor including Absolute, Bacardi, and Southern Comfort to name a few. And believe me, the drinks are not watered down. Garth and Faye were fantastic bartenders. As long as you treat the people with respect, they will repay your gratitude three-fold. I was approached a couple times by people in the water offering necklaces, to ride Jet Skis or parasail, but with a simple No thanks they didnt bother you again. One word of caution, if you do cross the fence to the Native Center, go with a small group so you dont get mauled by the people. They have some nice things and most are identical to what you can get in the gift shop for about half the price. The price you pay may be a bit more than if you went to resort where you pay as you go. However, it more than makes up for it not having to bring much money or worry about paying as everything is provided once youre on the property. My wiRiver, riding Jet Skis, and buying souvenirs we still came home with $180. Jamaica is a poor country, however, once you get to the resort its a complete difference as everything is well maintained and kept. Parts of the property were a bit run down, but you had to hunt to find them. Overall it was a fantastic trip and we cant wait to try out Sandals Negril next time!P.S. My wife and I also honeymooned at Sandals Antigua in January 2002. Again, everything was top-notch. The beach at Antigua was probably better, however unlike at Dunns River, the beach was public so you were approached numerous times during the day. The main pool at Dunns River was much better than the one at Antigua. Antigua was a great place to honeymoon, as it was more secluded and private. However, Dunns River is the place to go if you want more nightlife and a party atmosphere.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Great place: Beach okay watch out for the fence!!”
This was my 1st trip to Jamaica and Sandals. I was able to get input from other vacationers on other Sandals resorts, as well as myself as we went to scout it out for future travel. Sandals Dunns River is by far the nicest out of Sandals in Ochio Rios, Montego Bay and Sandals Inn. I liked Sandals Royal Carribean location as the atmosphere is quiet, layed back & little smallerHave not been to Negril so I can't offer an opinion. Hotel in Dunns is big, beautiful & clean. Broken into 3 -4 bulidings. Dunn's gives you the option to relax at one section or party it up by the pool. It reminds me of a mesh of Sandals Montego bay atmosphere (wild & crazy) with Royal Carribean (calm). Rooms> spacious and most have balconies. I wouldn't recommend the special suite rooms. They may offer more but its not worth the money and the rooms are smaller. Don't recommend ocean view because the pool lights and partying on some nights kept me up). Food> Awesome, can't complain with the different resteraunta. Try the Japanese reteraunt. Very good (reservation req at this resteraunt) Beach> very clean but not as wide as I thought. about 1- 1/2 New york City blocks wide. Your enclosed with Rock on one side and "Fence" by the other side. This is the only bumming thing. I love long clean beaches but it was fine..(FYI) FENCE keeps out Jamaican folks that want to sell. (some make their way by water- You'll see what I mean but they are very nice) You can go over past the fence and buy stuff at the huts. There are about 8-12 wooden huts that they sell T shirts, pants, etc..... BUT BE FORWARNED, once you cross the fence they grab you and push you to shop at "thier" tent.. They dragged me in one direction and my husband another. I almost cried but held my composure. Its an experience you'll never forget... Scary but funny afterwards. I suggest you go with a group of people and you get pestered just say- "I will visit each of your huts" just give me some time. weren't so hard up about it. Sal and I stayed in the resort and didn't do any of the exscursions which was fine by me. We met a great couple from England. "HI EMMA JONES" Have fun folks.
Ocho Rios: Sandals Dunn's River Golf Resort and Spa: “Don't Worry be Happy!!!”
I must say Jamaica was something else!! Sandals Dunns Rive Falls was the best! My husband and I got married there July 2002 and everything couldn't have been more perfect. The wedding was coordinated excellently. We had 14 people travel with us the only dilemma we had was the expensive day passes for 6 of those who stayed at another hotel(due to Sandals accepting couples only)however we were aware of these charges beforehand.
The service was acceptional. When we arrived the attendants seated the women, provided us with a glass of champagne and a spa pack. As we arrived at our room it was everything we expected. We were on the back side of the hotel between the gardens facing the ocean it was a magnificient view. The rooms were immaculately cleaned daily with plenty of fresh towels. I never did turn on the TV-hello I'm on vacation to see the awesome beach and experience all there is to experience!!! I don't believe Jamaica is known for their excellent t.v. viewing or programs. The patio restaurant was magnificient. The best shrimp you will ever eat! And the Italian Restaurant was also very good. The snack bar was always flipping out jerk burgers and hamburgers and fries-and the alcohol…Everyone seemed to stand in the same line, so go down to the piano bar!! They are sure to give you a great creation and create many memories for you. The playmakers were awesome!!! Christian, Nicholas and Lili!!! How they could remember everyones name I'll never know. Take the time to talk to them, it was quite interesting to hear how luck they were to gain their positions and just how much money they make. Yes, , I must say it got quite annoying listening to the locals just past the property on the other side of the gate yell “hey lady let me braid your hair”!!! I must say though all annoyance aside, they are a poor culture just trying to get a buck and they sell the same shirts the hotel gift shop does for a quarter of the price-if you are brave enough to step over there tell Veronica I said Hi. They managed to keep quite during our wedding ceremony and then cheered afterwards-soon going back to their business trying to earn a couple of dollars. The hotel was excellent!! However once you got outside of the property… Beware of drunken taxi drivers and locals selling drugs!! However if you do decide to stay there which I highly recommend, and you plan to take back some of the great Appletons Rum head across the street to the local grocery store, they sell it for half the price the hotel does, and if you fall in love with the jerk seasoning, they sell it for about $1 a jar! I am looking to going back Summer 2003!