Explore SANDALS
Montego Bay is one of the few places in the world that are almost impossible to say without singing. How fitting, for one of the most perfect holiday destinations on the planet
SANDALS Resorts have become synonymous with luxury Caribbean holidays from Antigua to the Bahamas, but it all started back in 1981 in Montego Bay, on Jamaica’s sun-drenched northern coast, when the now legendary local businessman, Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, bought a hotel on the beach with plans to turn it into an all-inclusive resort like no other. His dream soon became reality and in the process revolutionised the industry. His founding philosophy was simple – always to exceed the guests’ expectations.
Today, Sandals Montego Bay is still the company’s flagship resort. Thanks to a complete transformation of the property that has just been unveiled, it still strives to stay true to Stewart’s philosophy for a new generation of sophisticated holidaymakers who demand the best, and is determined to give them even more than they hoped for in an atmosphere that is
perfect for couples who want to escape from the everyday.
From the moment that you check in in the brand new lobby with its views of the turquoise Caribbean lapping against the dazzling white sand – plus a bar if you need a sharpener after your flight, and to wind down ready for your perfect break – this is luxury taken to the next level, while still retaining all the charm and atmosphere that has made this one of the world’s favourite all-inclusive holiday destinations.
Stewart’s vision is celebrated with the creation of a new restaurant named in his honour – Butch’s Steak & Seafood, serving, well, what you would imagine, but even better. The atmosphere is elegant high dining and you would be forgiven for forgetting for a while that you are minutes away from the beach rather than in a top restaurant in London or New York.
The second new eaterie is Soy, serving sushi in an Asian-inspired room, with the discreet lighting making it great for a romantic dîner à deux after enjoying an aperitif in the new Palms Bar that services both restaurants.
If you want to kick back Caribbean style, the Jerk Shack has already become an established favourite with Sandals guests since opening last year, serving authentic Jamaican cuisine that is bound to spice up your life, day or night. But whatever makes your mouth water at whatever time of day, there are 12 restaurants in the resort, serving everything from pizza to bangers and mash, so you shouldn’t ever go hungry.
The new Latitudes Overwater Bar is just off the beach and offers unrestricted ocean views – plus a hammock suspended over the crystal-clear water, if you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy a sundowner after a long day doing nothing. And as with all the restaurants and bars, everything is included, whether you fancy a chilled Pinot Grigio or rich Cabernet Sauvignon from the resort’s exclusive partnership with Robert Mondavi Twin Oaks over dinner, or a perfectly mixed piña colada or dry martini to savour while the sun goes down.
Sandals Montego Bay has long been a favourite wedding destination, and the brand new Over-the-Water Serenity Wedding Chapel takes the experience a bride and groom-to-be can expect to new heights – whatever the happy couple has in mind, the setting and the venue could hardly be more romantic. The views are stunning and what blushing bride wouldn’t want to walk up over the water on a glass-floored aisle on her happiest day, whether her chosen vibe is barefoot or full-on princess? And with a capacity of up to 40 guests, this is a send-off that can be shared in the company of all the couple’s favourite friends and family.
ROMANTIC BREAK
THE most important factor in a five-star stay, however, is your room, and the new Sandals Montego Bay has a range of accommodation on offer. Take the new Beachfront and Crystal Lagoon swim-up suites, which offer direct access to the pool from your patio. Or, if you have a really romantic break in mind, the Love Nest Butler Suites even have a Tranquility Soaking Tub for two, 24-hour room service and a personal butler to attend to your every request. Just be sure you’re not tempted never to step outside.
If you choose a Club or Butler category room, the pampering starts the moment you step off the plane, with chauffeur-driven BMW transfers both from and to the airport. It’s the perfect start – and finish – to your perfect holiday. So, what are you waiting for?
Kick back Caribbean style in the authentic Jerk Shack