For us, Negril, Jamaica as a much needed and appreciated respite. A complete surprise to K (at her request), K didn’t learn of their destination until in the air flying to Miami, Florida for their connecting flight.
A bus from Couples, Negril (the resort homebase) took us from Montego Bay (where we arrived by plane) along worn dirt paths lined with small haphazard huts that the locals called home. Wayward goats and other livestock found their way into the street along the drive and many locals bombarded the bus offering their local wares. Our driver (thankfully) didn’t stop or pay attention to the local’s appeals for business, but it was emotionally trying to see the way that these folks lived in their beautiful native land.
After a couple hours’ drive, we arrived in Negril. A virtual oasis in the midst of such poverty, the Couples resort seemed to rise out of nowhere. Lush landscaping and beautiful, clear, waveless water greeted us to this wonderful haven. The staff greeted us with drinks and comfy sofas in the resorts open-air lounge upon check-in. And as the resort is all-inclusive, we were promptly offered lunch as we waited for the formalities of check-in.
Our room was appointed with clean, cool, and modern furnishings. French doors opened onto a deck complete with a table and hammock for two.
The weather was perfect during our stay in late September—late day thunderstorms (3-4PM) would bring breezes and cool temperatures at night. The unique orientation of Couples’ rooms allowed us to enjoy fresh breezes and the sound of the ocean at night, without the worries of bugs or rain.
Each day we ventured out for activities. Whether snorkeling, drinking fruity drinks at the resort’s beach, sailing a sunfish, taking a catamaran cruise, lounging by the pool, or plunging to the deep depths of the carribean on a rope swing , our days were fun and carefree. And the resort did a wonderful job of pampering its guests. We had many favorites at the resorts’ formal restaurant: Otahiti. Lobster Bisque, yum!
Needless to say, we are fans of Jamaica, but also of the Couples resorts. They did a great job of taking the stresses from our holiday—allowing us to happily forget your stressors whiling away the time amidst their many pleasures.