I’m not what you’d describe as an all inclusive type of guy. I like to get out into the places I visit to see the culture, taste the food and just wander about. However, Jamaica is known for its all inclusive resorts and no matter how I try to sugarcoat things it’s hard to blend in and robberies aren’t that uncommon. So with that in mind when visiting Jamaica I chose to stay at the all inclusive four star Hilton Rose Hall Resort.
Like any resort there are numerous places to eat, nightly shows, local bands, and a spectacular beach front. The food overall was very good, with many Jamaican staples to choose from but also a range of international offerings. Some restaurants, though still all inclusive, required dinner bookings. The restaurants requiring bookings were usually higher quality and I’d recommend booking them for the duration of your trip on arrival. My favourite overall sit down restaurant was Luna Di Mar with Three Palms coming in a close second. I’d also HIGHLY recommend a stop at the strangely secluded jerk chicken stand. Not only is it delicious but it’s a Jamaican staple any tourist must try!
Outside of eating beyond your fill the resort has a few other activities to offer. There are two beautiful beaches with refreshing yet warm Caribbean water for swimming and snorkeling(bring your own snorkel). A lazy river with a float up bar. Despite my drive to explore I spent a solid day floating this river while downing margaritas. Additionally, there’s also a pool but no one comes all the way to Jamaica for that when there’s a perfect beach a few feet further away!
In addition to swimming you can also take on a variety of water activities FREE OF CHARGE! There’s a sailboat that you can be taken out on(or sail if you know how), kayaks and a wind surfing. If none of these are up to your standards you can also pay to be taken out on the water via motor boat. I’d recommend sticking to the free boats and saving your cash for excursions into the island(there’ll be another article covering these).
Overall, I’d say the trip and resort are well worth the cost(or points). A few potential negatives worth noting are the resort’s nightclub isn’t that great so you’re better off sleeping early to enjoy the sun while it’s up(this isn’t a party fuelled resort). The resort isn’t walking distance from anything so if you’re looking to get off resort property or visit the city of Montego Bay you’ll need to schedule an outing, grab a cab or take the bus(not recommended). And finally some of the staff can be rather standoffish(nothing against them I’m just trying to call it like I see it).
Anyways, I hope you enjoyed this write up. If you’ve got any questions or want recommendations feel free to comment below. Cheers!
