We had never been to Jamaica, but we have always heard many beautiful things about this island. We also wanted a special place to stay as our first trip was also our honeymoon. In research, we found a wonderful resort and booked an all-inclusive with The Royal Plantation, Jamaica in Ocho Rios, owned by the Sandals group. This resort isn’t a party place, but more a resort tailored to adults and relaxing. We couldn’t have chosen a better place! The Royal Plantation is impressive, from the airport’s car ride to the grand entrance and welcome drink. Only 74 ocean-view suites, and ours had a gorgeous walk-out verandah, but not all rooms have that. I’m glad we decided to spend a little more and have this option. We spent many evenings on the verandah, drink in hand, listening to live music.

The endless, flavorful food and drinks

At the Sandals Royal Plantation, Jamaica, the food and drinks at each of the restaurants were delicious and presented well. I’d recommend the jerk chicken from the Royal Grill just off the beach. The butlers and resort staff were all helpful and very friendly. We had some fantastic drinks on the beach. One day the bartender made us a “special” drink, not on the menu. The glass came, and I took the first sip, and it was delicious. They told us upfront not to tip unless we could leave something extra if we felt the experience was above and beyond at the end of our time there. However, we did tip individuals that we felt went above and beyond. Plus, we got a little better service on the beach when we did. (since that visit, we learned the resort now encourages tipping).

We took day trips out from the resort and always had an escort. They wouldn’t let us out on our own, and I wouldn’t recommend it anyway. We swam with the stingrays, snorkeled, and climbed Dunn’s River Falls, which is a must if you can. Most of the time we spent at the resort, sitting on the beach, swimming, reading books, and just plain relaxing. In the evening, after dinner, we sat outside where they had live music and dancing.

We will go back to Jamaica someday and only stay at the Royal Plantation as we fell in love with this place. Maybe for our 10th anniversary! While at the Royal Plantation, we heard that Robin Williams had stayed there when he was in “License to Wed,” which we finally saw on the plane to Italy a year later. It’s a fun movie and gives you a peek at The Royal Plantation.

This trip was a fantastic way to begin our life together!

Other great places to stay.