JEWEL GRANDE MONTEGO BAY RESORT & SPA
Amid terrible destruction in the Caribbean and the Gulf Coast wrought by this year’s barrage of hurricanes are stories of creation, too. In Jamaica, an island that has been relatively unaffected, the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa officially opened its doors Sept. 27. Previously a condo complex known as the Palmyra Resort & Spa, the Jamaican-owned, allinclusive beachfront resort has added a tower of 88 suites, plus elegant polish to a former emerald in the rough.
Setting: On a protected private cove, with turquoise water, white sand and views of the lush green hills above Montego Bay. It’s a 15-minute drive from Sangster International Airport, and 90 minutes in either direction to tourist attractions in Negril and Ocho Rios.
The appeal: Laid-back luxury. Each of the 217 residential-style suites and villas, from one to three bedrooms, comes with private butler service. Don’t feel like whipping up something in your fully stocked kitchenette or kitchen? The 12 dining venues range from whitecloth formal to poolside casual, including Mediterranean, Jamaican and other specialties. The twostory, 30,000-square-foot Grande Spa has Jamaica’s only Himalayan salt therapy lounge as well as services for children and teens. Concierges attend the two pools and beach, where for an additional fee you can lounge in a private cabana or go scuba diving.
Insider tips: Venture down the road for a tour ($20) of Rose Hall Great House, built in 1770 and home to the legendary White Witch. Golfers can check out Rose Hall’s White Witch and Cinnamon Hill championship links; an unlimited-greenfees package is available from Jewel Grande.
Good to know: One of the pools and the French and Asian fusion restaurants are scheduled to open in December. Introductory rates are 50 percent off through Dec. 23. The new units are in the Sentry Tower, one of three beachfront towers. “All-inclusive” rates include unlimited dining and premium spirits, beer and wine; airport transfers; Kids Club and Teen Lounge activities; resort-wide Wi-Fi, nonmotorized water sports; and fitness center access.