18 de October de 2024

Expan Experience: Discovering Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica

Jamaica has become one of the most highly rated destinations in the Caribbean , not only for its paradisiacal beaches in Negril , its luxury resorts , the charm of reggae and all the attractions of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios , but also for its golf courses , venues for international championships and which attract fans from all over the world.

In this new edition of Expan Experience , Bárbara Díaz , travel advisor for North America, Central America and the Caribbean , tells us the details of her most recent trip to Jamaica, where she visited the facilities of Sandals Dunn's River , the new resort of the Sandals Resorts International chain located in Ocho Rios, where she learned to play golf and enjoyed its dream beaches.

10th Sandals Dunn's River Jamaica Golf Tournament 2024

" This was a FAM trip focused on a golf tournament held annually in Jamaica at Sandals hotels. This year's edition was the 10th Sandals Dunn's River Jamaica Golf Tournament 2024 , hosted by the chain's newest resort , which boasts its own golf course called Upton Estate Golf & Country Club ."

It's a five-star hotel located in Ocho Rios . You can get there from Montego Bay or Kingston ; from either airport, it's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive. Quite long, but worth it .

While Jamaica is a destination that's difficult to promote, it's a very good option considering its connectivity and diverse hotel offerings . Furthermore, if you don't have a layover in an endemic country, you don't need the yellow fever vaccine .

The new Sandals Dunn's River

" As for the hotel, it's spectacular. The rooms are large, and I was lucky enough to get one with a sea view . The service is excellent, and they take care of every detail ."

It has 12 restaurants, among which I can highlight the Greek restaurant, the Latin restaurant, the pizzeria located in the beach area, and the buffet . They are all truly spectacular, and I was able to enjoy them .

Among the services offered at the hotel are butler service in some room categories and a fully equipped fitness center for exercise enthusiasts. Private sessions are also available for an additional fee .

On the other hand, guests can also enjoy the spa , which uses Red Lane brand products as an additional service. The spa offers a variety of facial and body treatments .

The best beach in Jamaica is in Negril, but the beach in Ocho Rios, especially the one at the hotel, is quite nice . Since it's not a massive hotel, it looks great . Personally, I really liked it .

The experience of playing golf

" This was a golf championship where Latin American countries participate, including Chile. I had the experience of playing; it was my first time, and it was spectacular! You're assigned two caddies who teach you the correct body and hand positions . There's a whole technique to it. In my case, it was a bit more complex because I'm left-handed, but for my first time, I feel I did quite well ."

All-inclusive Jamaica at Sandals Dunn's River (8 days / 7 nights)

Tips and recommendations for visiting Jamaica

" Immigration services in Jamaica are very quick when it comes to checking luggage and documents."
Regarding safety, you should know that if you walk through dangerous areas you expose yourself to crime , so it is not recommended to go for a "stroll" unless you do so with a guide.
The official currency is the Jamaican dollar, but you can bring US dollars without any problem, they accept them .
It comes with a universal adapter , as the current is 110 volts.
Last but not least, public health services do not accept foreigners , so I recommend having good health insurance . While it is not mandatory, it is highly advisable to have it .