Additional Coverage:
- I spent 4 nights at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica. I didn’t think I’d like it, but I never left the property and can’t wait to do it again. (businessinsider.com)
Jamaica Getaway: Trading Adventure for All-Inclusive Bliss at Jewel Grande
MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA – For a couple accustomed to scaling mountains and charting intricate travel spreadsheets, a recent four-night stay at the all-inclusive Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa in Jamaica proved to be a refreshing – and surprisingly affordable – departure from their usual adventurous vacations. What started as a destination wedding invitation blossomed into an unexpected lesson in the art of pure relaxation.
Initially envisioning days filled with waterfall explorations and Blue Mountain hikes, the couple, Timothy Moore and his wife, quickly pivoted their plans upon learning the wedding was at the luxurious Jewel Grande. The allure of an all-inclusive experience, where every need is met without a second thought, was too strong to resist.
“We decided to let ourselves relax for four nights,” Moore recounted. “Apart from our trips to and from the airport, we never left the property.”
Their oceanfront junior suite, booked through a wedding room block, cost a mere $1,904 for four nights, a price that included unlimited food, alcoholic beverages, and a plethora of entertainment options.
Wedding Whimsy and Unwinding
The initial two days of their trip were a whirlwind of wedding festivities, including a lively bonfire party and the main event itself, a day-long celebration of food, drinks, and music. However, it was the two days following the wedding, with no agenda whatsoever, that truly left a lasting impression.
“Despite my tendency to cram as much as possible into a trip, I found these days of relaxation unforgettable,” Moore noted, highlighting the unexpected joy of simply unwinding.
The presence of friends, also attending the wedding, further enhanced the experience. Lounging by the pool and soaking up the sun on the beach with loved ones provided a perfect opportunity for reconnection and shared laughter.
Activities Galore, All Within Reach
Despite their decision to remain on the resort grounds, boredom was never an issue. The Jewel Grande offered a diverse array of activities. While some friends hit the nearby golf courses or took yoga classes, Moore and his wife indulged in competitive beach volleyball matches and took full advantage of the complimentary non-motorized watercrafts.
“I never pass up an opportunity to kayak in the sea,” Moore said, also detailing his first-ever sailboat excursion, a guided trip a mile off the coast.
Culinary Delights and Liquid Luxuries
Dining at Jewel Grande was a highlight, a stark contrast to the protein bars and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that often accompany their hiking trips. Each morning began with a fresh breakfast, either from the buffet or via room service, followed by gourmet espressos and ice cream throughout the day. Evenings were dedicated to savoring delicious steaks, pasta, or fresh fish at the resort’s various restaurants, which specialize in Asian fusion, Italian fare, and more.
“Everything I ate was delicious, but we didn’t get to try every single place, which is one of the main reasons we hope to return,” Moore shared, already planning a return visit to explore more of the culinary offerings.
A particular favorite feature was the swim-up bar. “I was able to get an ice-cold beer without leaving the water, which was genius,” Moore enthused. This convenience also encouraged him to venture beyond his usual beer and bourbon, experimenting with tropical concoctions like the Dirty Banana and Rum Runner – a low-risk indulgence thanks to the all-inclusive nature of their stay.
Oceanfront Oasis and the Art of Doing Nothing
The stunning beach views, with crystal-clear waters, were a constant invitation to relax. “We could’ve spent all day reading in the sand or floating in the bay,” Moore reflected.
Their oceanfront junior suite itself was a haven, boasting a king-sized bed, a private balcony overlooking the water, and a generously sized freestanding bathtub that comfortably accommodated Moore, a 6-foot-1-inch man. Round-the-clock room service further enhanced their ability to enjoy lazy mornings and afternoon naps without interruption.
Moore admitted to experiencing a touch of restlessness at times, momentarily yearning for the hiking trails and cultural immersion typical of their travels. However, a quick reminder of past and future adventurous trips helped him embrace the present moment of pure relaxation. “It was important to remind myself that it’s OK to just take it easy now and then,” he stated.
Unbeatable Value and Stress-Free Travel
Upon reviewing their expenses, the couple was struck by the exceptional value they received. For $1,904, they enjoyed four nights in paradise, complete with unlimited food, drinks, entertainment, stunning beach and pool access, and non-motorized water activities.
For a family accustomed to meticulous travel planning involving spreadsheets and extensive research, the all-inclusive aspect of Jewel Grande was a revelation. “One of the biggest luxuries of this trip to Jamaica was that we didn’t have to plan a thing in advance,” Moore explained. “We booked our stay at Jewel Grande and let the resort handle the rest.”
While their wanderlust for hiking adventures, castle tours, and ancient ruins remains strong, this Jamaican getaway served as a crucial reminder of the importance of occasionally putting their feet up and simply enjoying a carefree week by the pool. The Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa delivered a luxurious, stress-free escape, proving that sometimes, the best adventure is no adventure at all.