Inside Meliá Braco Village in Jamaica | TRAVEL
As the birthplace of reggae and rum, it’s no surprise that Jamaica is one of the go-to destinations for travellers seeking laidback luxury. While this tropical island certainly isn’t short of upscale hotels and resorts, few can rival the newly renovated Meliá Braco Village. Situated on Jamaica’s north coast, just 45 minutes from Montego Bay airport, this five-star all-inclusive resort offers guests a cool yet casual haven with all the creature comforts you could possibly want… and then some.
Exploring the resort is a relaxing experience in itself; you can stroll along wide cobbled streets while admiring the traditional colonial-style architecture, listen to authentic Jamaican music as local Mento bands play, then pick up a fresh coconut or refreshing sugar cane juice to stave off the hot Caribbean sun. The bright, friendly staff can’t do enough for you, whether it’s suggesting the tastiest cocktail (the Mai Tais are exceptional!) or advising you about the resort’s activity schedule.
Guest rooms and suites look out onto beautiful landscaped gardens or turquoise ocean vistas, and if you want a bit of me-time, just step through the French doors to your own private balcony. Inside the rooms, the neutral decor is contemporary and bright, with soft creams tones and natural wood accents. Every room boasts a coffee machine, smart TV, safe, bathroom amenities, comfy bathrobes and slippers and 24-hour room service. For an even more upmarket stay you can upgrade to the premium suites in THE LEVEL, where you’ll enjoy direct beachfront access as well as entry to the VIP LEVEL Lounge, Golden Sands restaurant, and an exclusive pool.
The private beach is obviously the resort’s main drawer, and it definitely doesn’t disappoint.
The long, narrow stretch of pristine white sand is peppered with canopies where you can kick back and relax while staff fuss over you. The warm, azure waters are calm and great for kids, and if you want to get a bit more active you can snorkel, sail or canoe. If you’d prefer to sip a cocktail while enjoying your dip, head to one of the two swimming pools, both of which have covered swim-up bars.
Even from the beach the smell of jerk cooking seems to float on the breeze, and if it stirs up hunger pangs then you’re in luck. There are five onsite restaurants, so whatever cuisine you’re into, there’s something for everyone. Feast on traditional Caribbean food at the beach-facing O’Grille, or for Japanese, Chinese and Peruvian fusion, head to Nikkei Restaurant. The Italian dishes at Rasta Pasta will
please even the fussiest of eaters, and for something a little fancier, 876 Prime Steakhouse offers diners some romantic intimacy. At the poolside Market Place, breakfast is a relaxed affair; sipping coffee while watching the waves is an idyllic way to start the day.
For those seeking a more active experience – or for guests travelling with kids – there’s also a basketball court, tennis court, football pitch, children’s playground, obstacle course and 24hour fitness centre. If you have to – gasp! – work while on vacation, there’s a business centre and WiFi throughout the resort… although it would be a shame to interrupt your blissful experience with real-life duties. The YHI Spa can help ease you back into holiday mode: here you can indulge yourself with a range of heavenly treatments like firming facials, body scrubs or indulgent massages.
While Meliá Braco Village has everything you could possibly want (and more), if you’re looking to get out and explore the location is hard to beat. Just a short drive away from jungle-cloaked mountains, thundering waterfalls and lively, ramshackle towns, here you can easily discover the delights of Jamaica’s unique laid-back culture and still be back in time for cocktail hour. This is a resort that’s as refined as it is relaxing, and it offers a quiet refuge away from the hustle and bustle. Even if you think you don’t do all-inclusive, Meliá Braco Village will change your mind.