The Purpose of my Trip and What I Needed to do to Enter Jamaica and to Return to the US

I was invited by the Jamaican Tourism Board (JTB) to go on a Familiarization Trip with a small group of travel agents. This is something they do on a regular basis to help agents get familiar with resorts they may not have stayed at before. It also gave us the opportunity to meet with key management personal at each resort. Our group stayed at two resorts and toured 7 others.

Before I could enter Jamaica, I needed to fill out my Travel Authorization (no more than 7 days prior to leaving). This is a very simple online form that asks basic questions (name, date of birth, address, etc.) I also needed to have a covid test from an approved location no more than 3 days before travel. I made an appointment with CVS and the process was very simple. I had the rapid test, so I was able to wait in my car for my results. After about 20 minutes, they called me and I went inside to get the paperwork.

Since information about what is required to enter other countries can change quickly, it is best to always check with your travel advisor to make sure you have the latest information.

I flew Delta regular economy and the process was very smooth. For those that have not flown internationally since covid began, you may find that you cannot check in on line. If that happens, don’t be concerned. Since most countries require some sort of covid testing or vaccine before you can enter, some airlines want you check in at the airport so they can go over all of your documents. They need to be sure you have everything needed to be allowed into the country you’re visiting. Some airlines now have an app that allows you to download your required paperwork and information in advance. So, depending on which airline and what airport, your experience can vary.

I had my paperwork and passport organized and ready so check-in was quick and painless at the Delta counter. The line for security was fairly long, but luckily it moved really quickly. Of course masks were required throughout the airport and on the plane unless you were actively eat or drinking. Throughout the airports and the flights (both directions), everything was clean and lots of hand sanitizer was available everywhere you turned. I thought everyone that I encountered that worked for Delta during this trip (and my July trip) were extremely friendly and somehow seemed glad to be at work. I noticed several that went out of their way to just chat with customers about how they were doing, where they were staying, what they wanted to do while there, etc. It was nice to see everyone so cheerful!

On my last trip during covid, I flew Delta and was in the Comfort+ section. This included alcoholic drinks, snacks and earphones. This time I was in the main cabin and the experience is just a little different. We received a very small bottle of water and two snacks. I couldn’t eat the cheese crackers in the snack bag due to gluten issues, but I was in luck – my other item was almonds! Even though I always travel with my own gluten free munchies, it was nice to get something I enjoy and could eat.

JTB had arranged for Club Mobay service for our group. If you’re not familiar, Club Mobay provides VIP service through the Montego Bay airport. They wait for you (holding a sign with your name) as you exit the plane, fast track you through immigration, and then take you to their lounge to wait for your transfer to your resort. While in the lounge, you can enjoy the Wi-Fi, order drinks and food – everything is included in the price. They also have departure service. On the return trip, there was a line to expedite through security, but it didn’t seem to make much difference – at least not when we went through. But, I would still get it next time I go. Most resorts will try to get you to the airport 3 hours prior to departure. This can leave you with quite a bit of time hanging around the airport with not much to do. The departure lounge includes Wi-Fi, food and drinks. The service was great and they made sure our drinks were never empty. With limited service on the planes right now, you may not get a chance to eat much, but if you have been to Club Mobay, you may have had enough food for the rest of the day! They will keep bringing out more food if your are interested. Also, just a side note… I had to inquire about gluten free options. I thought there really wouldn’t be much for me, but I’m used to that when I travel. But, the chef came out and talked to me about things on the menu I could eat and how he could prepare things. I was thrilled and had some really fabulous food. If you want to purchase the bundle of both arrival and departure service, it is currently around $80 per person.

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For my return trip, I needed to have a covid test as this is required to enter the US from any foreign country. I had my test taken at my 2nd resort (Secrets St. James) and it was a very easy process. The concierge made the appointment for the test when I checked in. When I went to take the test, there were a couple of chairs outside and I waited until someone came out to invite me in. I filled out a simple form and they gave me the test. I went to the next room and waited outside until the called me in for my results. They gave me the paperwork at that time and we were done! There was no charge for the test.

These are the resorts I toured and/or stayed at while on my trip. I will create a new post for each property to let you know what the experience was like.

• Couples Negril
• Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa
• Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall
• Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
• Round Hill Hotel and Villas
• Secrets St. James
• Secret Wild Orchid
• Breathless
• Zoetry Montego Bay