Luke and Christine Smrdel wanted to do something out of the ordinary to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary.
Earlier this month the couple traveled to Ochos Rios, Jamaica for a week at Jewel Dunn’s River Beach Resort and Spa.
The Smrdels also considered several other all-inclusive resorts before settling on Jewel Dunn’s with a package that came in at around $2,500 for both travelers, including airfare.
“It was reasonably priced and you got a lot for your money,” Luke Smrdel said. “The beaches were gorgeous and it was very clean at the resort; very nice. The whole area of Jamaica and the coastline was very well taken care of.”
Christopher Columbus described Jamaica as “the fairest isle mine ever eyes beheld.”
No other Caribbean island offers as much splendor and diversity as Jamaica. Sugar-white beaches combine with shimmering waters to sooth your soul. Its rich island culture expresses itself in superb cuisine, scintillating nightlife, and the sensual beat of reggae music.
Jamaica is large enough to provide for every taste. From the world-famous beaches of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay to the toe-twinkling seven-mile stretch in Negril, to uncharted nooks where romantics can hide away, Jamaica is a paradise for everyone.
The Smrdels enjoyed the all-inclusive benefits of the resort, which included hours spent relaxing on the beach and exploring the resort’s other amenities.
“We didn’t have to do too much,” Luke Smrdel said. “It was a very relaxing environment and everything was all in one place. Everything was taken care of; we didn’t have to worry about spending extra money. It was well worth it to go to an all-inclusive resort.”
They did venture off the resort to take part in a boat cruise that included snorkeling and an expedition up Dunn’s River Falls, a 600-foot cascading waterfall and a major Caribbean tourist attraction that receives thousands of visitors each year.
It is said to be the location of the legendary battle of “Las Chorreras”. This battle was fought in the year, 1657 and took place near Dunn’s River Falls. It was between the English and the Spanish Expeditionary Force from Cuba. The battle was in fact for ownership of the island.
“The Falls was very exciting,” Luke Smrdel said. “It was a cool experience walking up a waterfall, but there are a lot of people and tourists so you have to be careful.”
The excursion, which cost about $190 for the couple and was coordinated by Chukka Tours, included sailing on a 65-foot long, 29-foot wide cataraman, snorkeling, the stop at the Falls and lunch at Margaritaville.
The Smrdels received an anniversary surprise on the final day of their stay when Luke’s sister, Jamie, and her husband Matt purchased a beach cabana for the couple.
“They brought us lunch and dinner on the beach,” Luke Smrdel said. “It was nice to relax on the beach in a cabana.”
All in all, the Smrdels celebrated their 10th anniversary in style.
Their recommendation is to get out and enjoy yourself no matter the destination.
“We’ve been to the Bahamas and Mexico and when you go to Jamaica you’ll probably want to stay in an all-inclusive,” Luke Smrdel said. “Staying on the resort is best but the excursions are good to do too and they’re safe as well.”
Don’t forget to plan some extra time for your departure from Sangster International Airport.
“They’re definitely on Jamaican time, for real,” Luke said. “The airport is very slow when departing. It was packed, slow and unorganized. It was so different than what you experience in American airports. The lines were all over the place and chaotic. Be sure to budget extra time for that.”
ABOUT JAMAICA
Whether you’re up for an adventure, ready to tie the knot or simply want some rest and relaxation in paradise, Jamaica has the All Right you need.
We’re the island of happy days, vivid nights and dreams that come true. Paradise in Jamaica can be whatever you want it to be – lose yourself in the adventure and take it all in. Get back to nature in the magic of our rainforests, which seem to be as alive as any of the tropical animals that live there.
Take your loved ones to hike the Blue Mountains and look at the world through new eyes. Meet our friendly people, try our food and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea to the sound of slow reggae rhythms and good times.
QUICK FACTS
- U.S. travelers: Valid passport needed for entry
- Official language: Jamaican Standard English (primary spoken language is Jamaican Patois)
- Official currency: Jamaican dollar (American dollars are widely accepted and easy to convert)
- Climate: Year-round temperatures range from 76-83° F
- Currency converter
- STEP Program
- Jamaica entry requirements
ABOUT JEWEL DUNN’S RIVER RESORT & SPA
Introducing the new all-inclusive adults only Jewel Dunn’s River Resort & Spa located just 90 minutes from Montego Bay airport and just moments from spectacular Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s must-see attractions. Re-opening September 2010, this former Sandals is located less than 5 miles from bustling Ocho Rios and set on 25 acres of lush gardens and beach; you can play under the pool falls or on the executive golf course or relax in the garden hammocks or in Radiant Spa. And where else is there a concierge serving drinks in the pool??
The 250-sumptuous guest rooms and suites were designed to appeal to every taste and attitude. The 2-story Emerald Lanais are set in a verdant garden; Sapphire guest rooms overlook the majestic mountains or sparkling Caribbean Sea; Diamond rooms offer ocean view Concierge service or over-the-top 1-bedroom Butler suites, all with custom decor and 4-poster mahogany king bed.
The full service Radiant Spa & Salon, island excursions desk, photo and gift shop means plenty of options. Complimentary transportation from the Montego Bay Jamaica – Sangster International Airport is also included!
Distance from hotel to town, 10 minutes. Distance from hotel to Sangster International Airport (MBJ), 90 minutes.
Best Available Summer Rates From $135 Per Person
Book your summer stay now to get best available, ALL-INCLUSIVE rates from $135 per person, per night! Enjoy an adult-only getaway to our beachfront resort featuring a full-service spa, pool concierge service and unlimited food and drinks 24/7. Book your summer stay today!