RIU Negril

We had a Great Time here! We got a little worried about some of the negative reviews but I guess these are the type of people you just can’t make happy. Rooms are always clean and the mini bar stays stocked. The Buffet has food for everyone and the restaurants were very nice. No reservations needed just walk up. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel right at home. The entertainment was fun. Movies around 6 for the kids, then different things each night for the adults. Bands,music,dancing. Barbie even got my wife up to try and teach her how to twerk. Too funny! Don’t miss the beach party! Take the Turtuga sunset boat trip to Ricks cafe and snorkeling! Be careful with the local boat guys on the beach next to the resort. Our friends went out with the one guy and on the way back he stopped the engine and demanded more money. They did not give in and he brought them back. Book all trips through the resort. Cost a little more but 100% safe. When you go look for Barbie and Fresh with the entertainment staff.

This resort is located in Bloody Bay, which is not on 7 mile beach. We usually travel in late December but this Resort offered a smokin' deal for October. We were pleasantly surprised as the weather was beautiful notwithstanding the forecast and the resort, which could have accommodated twice the people, was not crowded. Line ups for restaurants were non-existant. Reservations for a la carte were not necessary. There is a wide variety of food but after a week, does get redundant. Pools were clean and seating was ample. Staff was friendly. Make sure you take in Paul, the singing bartender. Housekeeping was efficient. Beware of the16% sales tax on products in the gift shops. They charge in American dollars which is extremely frustrating given we are Canadian and have pre-purchased Jamaican currency. You can, however, eventually pay in Jamaican dollars but not until after the 16% is calculated on the American dollar price. I feel taken advantage of. This is unfortunately one of the cons. Lastly, we like to support local but alcohol is certainly best bought at the duty free shop on your way out of the country.

The hotel is clean and neat. All of the staff was friendly and helpful, but if you were expecting a coffee pot in your room or a station for coffee and great food, this is not the place. It was fine, but I guess I am accustomed to a 4 to 5 star hotel. I believe this is a good deal and the jerk chicken on the beach was very tasty. Keep in mind that it says tips are included, but if you leave a few bucks for the maid and tip some, your service will be even better. I always take with me a few hundred bucks in ones to tip our staff for great service. We expect kudos for good service, so it’s fair. On an environment friendly note, don’t forget your biodegradable sunscreen and your insulated cups for your drinks. Please pick up cigarette butts and dispose of all trash, we don’t want it ending up in the beautiful ocean, just sayin.