We have a long-running joke in our family that traveling with children is called a “trip” because it requires work, but when it’s just the adults, it’s called a “vacation”! Our vacation dynamics change because my husband and I can do whatever we please and not be on a kid-based schedule each day. This is a luxury we experience when we visit any of the Sandals® All-Inclusive Resorts in the Caribbean.
We’ve recently been to Sandals Negril in Jamaica which is William’s favorite because of the smaller resort size and wide variety of water-sports available on the famous Seven-Mile Beach. We stayed active at this particular resort by learning to paddleboard, sail our own small skiff and ride Aqua-Trikes (what a leg workout that was!). We woke early each morning to go kneeboarding and water-tubing before the water got rough, then we would alternate between room service for breakfast or a large buffet at the beachside grill. A nap in the sun refreshed my soul each afternoon before we played water volleyball with couples 15 years younger than us on their honeymoons!
Golf in Jamaica is also included! This is a high-point for those that are active vacationers (unlimited free green fees, but cart rental or a caddie incurs a nominal charge); William works in the golf industry so he actually NEVER packs his clubs for vacation, but we have many friends and groups that vacation here regularly just for the golf!
Another perk is free snorkeling and up to two scuba diving excursions per day for those that are open water (or PADI) certified – that unlimited feature with top-of-the-line equipment and dive masters is another major benefit we’ve found!
The Jamaican staff, whether butlers, housekeepers or dining staff, are truly some of the kindest, hardest-working people in the world! What we enjoy most about this particular resort is the laid-back atmosphere. While there are a couple of restaurants that require advance reservations (once on-site and only because of limited seating), you can dine at your own leisure and eat and drink to your heart’s desire. Yes, top-shelf liquor is included as well as top-rated Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks wines. They even offer in-room bars fully-stocked daily in Club Sandals-level or higher accommodations. There’s also no need to carry small bills on you as Sandals takes pride in being a “no-tipping” resort.
Will we return to this little slice of paradise or one of its partner properties? Absolutely! It’s really a great escape for a long weekend or an extended “friend-cation” if you have other couples you enjoy traveling with – you can do as much or as little as you’d like and feel like you’ve truly gotten a good value for your vacation dollars at a Sandals® All-Inclusive Resort!