Tamzin’s Jamaican Adventure: Sun, Sand & Unforgettable Moments

Our day began bright and early as we met at Birmingham Airport at 7:40 am. The hotel was just a 10-minute walk from the terminal, making check-in and security quick and easy. After exploring the airport’s many dining options, it was time to board our Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to Montego Bay.

The flight was comfortable, with good legroom, personal entertainment screens, and USB charging ports. After landing, we passed through immigration smoothly. We took our transfer to the Riu Palace Aquarelle, where we were greeted with refreshments and upgraded to a beautiful sea-view room. Dinner at the resort’s main restaurant, White Bay, was the perfect end to a long but exciting travel day.

After a well-rested night, we got ready for breakfast at the main restaurant, which offered a buffet-style setup with a wide range of choices to suit all tastes. Following breakfast, we joined a guided tour of the hotel. We were shown a variety of room types, including accessible rooms. It was great to see that the hotel is fully equipped for guests with mobility issues or disabilities, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

Once the tour concluded, we had a few hours of free time. We relaxed with a few drinks at the pool bar and soaked up the sun before getting changed for our afternoon transfer. We met in reception and headed off to RIU Ocho Rios for a site visit. We explored the hotel grounds and viewed several room types. This property had a noticeably livelier atmosphere and seemed much busier compared to Aquarelle. After our visit, we returned to Riu Palace Aquarelle for our evening meal at Napoli, the hotel’s Italian restaurant.

Today we visited Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most iconic natural attractions. The 45-minute coach ride from Riu Palace Aquarelle offered stunning scenery before we arrived for an unforgettable climb. The experience took just under an hour and was filled with laughter, teamwork, and photo opportunities, with friendly guides helping every step of the way.

Back at the hotel, we enjoyed some well-deserved downtime: swimming in the sea, relaxing on the soft white sands, and sipping cocktails under the sun.

In the evening, we dined at Krystal Restaurant, one of the resort’s speciality venues, where the elegant setting and fusion-style dishes made for a memorable meal. The night ended with lively beachside entertainment, including music, dancing, and even a guest dance-off to wrap up a perfect day in paradise.

Today, we checked out of RIU Palace Aquarelle. We explored three RIU properties in Montego Bay: RIU Montego Bay, RIU Palace Jamaica, and RIU Reggae. Each had its own unique vibe, and it was great to see the variety within the RIU brand.

We enjoyed lunch at RIU Reggae, known for its lively atmosphere and great food. Guests at RIU Palace Jamaica can also access nearby RIU resorts for events such as the famous Neon and White Parties, which are perfect for those seeking vibrant nightlife.

These hotels are centrally located, close to shopping, dining, and local attractions, ideal for travellers wanting to explore beyond the resort.

After our visits, we travelled along the coast to Negril (around 1.5 hours) and checked into our next hotel. Dinner was at Mandalay, an Asian-inspired restaurant with delicious dishes and a relaxed setting. We finished the evening enjoying live reggae music, the perfect introduction to Negril’s laid-back charm.

Today we visited RIU Palace Tropical Bay, a relaxed and peaceful resort with a charming horseshoe layout that gives it an intimate feel while offering stunning views of the beach and gardens.

A highlight of its location is the easy beach walk to RIU Negril, which takes around 25–30 minutes each way. It was a scenic and tranquil stroll for those who enjoy exploring on foot. The hotel only provides transport there for RIU Party events, which are a big hit with guests.

Dinner at the buffet restaurant featured a delicious mix of authentic Caribbean flavours, including jerk chicken, curried goat, and fried plantains.

The evening’s entertainment was a cultural highlight, starting with a short documentary about Bob Marley, followed by a lively show tracing the evolution of Jamaican music from reggae to modern dancehall. A perfect way to end the day immersed in Jamaica’s rich rhythm and spirit.

Today we explored the famous Seven Mile Beach, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. Our visit included lunch and a welcome drink, which was a lovely touch on arrival. Sun loungers were free, though basic, with optional padded cushions available for under $10, which was a worthwhile upgrade for extra comfort.

The beach had a lively yet relaxing atmosphere, with nearby souvenir shops perfect for picking up gifts. After a few hours soaking up the sun at Broadway Village, we headed to Rick’s Café, one of Negril’s must-visit spots. Known for its cliff diving and vibrant energy, it didn’t disappoint, with beers starting around $7 and cocktails from $14.

Cliff jumping was the highlight, with both medium and high platforms for thrill-seekers. I braved the medium jump, and it was an unforgettable experience. The mix of music, laughter, and Caribbean spirit made it a truly memorable afternoon.

Back at the hotel, we enjoyed a delicious steakhouse dinner, featuring a 10-oz ribeye with crispy wedges and vegetables, followed by chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream, the perfect end to a fun-filled day.

As our trip drew to a close, we spent the final days relaxing and reflecting before heading home. We took the opportunity to unwind and make the most of the resort’s amenities one last time.

On our last day, the group came together for a presentation led by Jack and Maria, who shared updates and gathered feedback about the trip. It was a great opportunity to exchange thoughts, ask questions, and wrap up the experience on a positive and collaborative note.

Afterwards, we checked out of the RIU Negril and travelled to the airport. Although it was busy, security moved fairly quickly. Once through, we had time for a meal and a few drinks before boarding our overnight flight to Birmingham.

We landed the next morning, marking the end of a memorable trip filled with learning, adventure, and fantastic company.

WHO WOULD THIS TYPE OF TRIP BE SUITED TO?

This destination is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway, thanks to its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It could also be suitable for families, especially those with older children who can enjoy the excursions and resort facilities.

However, the flight duration is around 9 to 10 hours, which may be a consideration for families with younger children or travellers who prefer shorter journeys.

FAVOURITE HOTEL VISITED AND WHY?

My favourite hotel from this trip was the RIU Palace Aquarelle. One of the main reasons was its convenient location, with a shorter transfer time from Montego Bay Airport - especially appreciated after a long-haul flight.

The hotel itself is situated in a quieter, more peaceful area, ideal for relaxing, yet still well-connected. Taxis were readily available for those who wanted to explore beyond the resort. The combination of comfort, convenience, and calm surroundings made RIU Palace Aquarelle stand out as the most enjoyable stay during the trip.

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT VISITED?

My favourite restaurant during the trip was Krystal, the speciality dining venue featured in RIU Palace hotels. The atmosphere was modern and stylish, offering a more refined dining experience compared to the buffet options. The menu featured a creative fusion of international flavours, and the presentation of each dish was impressive. It felt like a real treat, adding a touch of elegance to the stay. The service was attentive, and the overall experience made it a standout highlight of the resort’s dining options.

GENERAL COMMENTS AND TIPS:

Download the RIU App: When staying at any RIU hotel, be sure to download the RIU app. It is incredibly helpful for checking daily activities, pre-booking dining experiences, viewing entertainment schedules, and accessing resort information, all in one place.

Visit Rick’s Café Early: Rick’s Café is a popular spot, especially for cliff jumping and sunset views. Try to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and secure a good place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Choose Your Hotel Based on Vibe: If you are looking for a lively hotel with a vibrant atmosphere, RIU Montego Bay is a great choice. It is ideal for social travellers who enjoy entertainment and a buzzing environment.

Bring USD and a Card: Most vendors accept both cash (USD) and card payments, so it is best to bring a mix of both to ensure flexibility when shopping or dining outside the resort.

Stay in Negril for Sunsets: If you are after breathtaking sunsets and sunrises, Negril is the place to be. The views are genuinely some of the best in Jamaica, offering a serene and picturesque end to each day.

AIRLINE COMMENTS:

Flying long-haul with TUI was a pleasant experience. Throughout the flight, complimentary drinks and a hot meal were offered. Economy class is available as standard, but passengers also have the option to upgrade to the Premium Cabin for added space and enhanced service.

We flew on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which was an exceptionally nice aircraft. I found the legroom in economy to be generous, and the seats were comfortable, featuring adjustable headrests that could be tailored for individual comfort.

Overall, the flight was smooth and well-equipped for a long journey, making the trip feel relaxed and like we were well taken care of.

BEST EXPERIENCE FROM THE TRIP?

The highlight of the FAM trip for me was cliff jumping at Rick’s Café. It was such a fun experience, and the energy at the venue was positive. The atmosphere was lively, with music, cheering crowds, and stunning ocean views, making it the perfect setting for a memorable adventure. Jumping from the medium-height cliff gave me a real adrenaline rush, and it was great to see others in the group cheering each other on.