Tag: Jamaica

Club Mobay

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Imagine as you are getting off your plane in Montego Bay, you are greeted by a VIP Representative. They are holding a sign with your name and greet you warmly. They then Fast Track you through Customs and Immigration. After finishing the security process, they take you to their lounge where you can wait for the transfer to your resort. Going through customs and immigration can be stressful – it’s so nice to have someone to guide you through the entire process!

Club Mobay does not provide transfers, but they help coordinate transfers you have booked.

In the lounge, you will have Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages and can enjoy a drink at the bar. They have TV’s, a play area for children and private restrooms. If you are staying in Negril or Ocho Rios, make sure to make use of those restrooms before leaving for the resort. Your trip can be 1.5 – 2 hours long.

If your resort offers their own private lounge, you will be escorted there so you can check in. Before covid, you could check in with your resort and go back to Club Mobay while you were waiting. When I was there last time, they seemed to want you to stay with your resort lounge. It really didn’t matter though… the Sandals lounge was very nice and it was only a few minutes before they were escorting us to our driver. The two pictures below are in the Sandals lounge.

Departure service is also very worthwhile. You go through a separate line for security and it tends to be much shorter than the other security line. Once through, you can make your way to the Club Mobay Departure Lounge and and enjoy some delicious food and beverages. Since you really aren’t getting much (if any) food on planes today, it is nice to be able to eat before boarding. Below is a picture of what my travel buddies were eating and two stock photos of the departure lounge.

I haven’t been able to eat gluten in about 15 years. I didn’t have high hopes that Club Mobay would have much for me to eat. But when I told the server about my allergy, the chef came out to go over the menu with me and explain to me what he could make. I ended up with jerk chicken and some BBQ. It was absolutely delicious!

Club Mobay not only offers the Arrival Meet and Greet and the Departure service, they also help with the following:

Destination Weddings… Along with Arrival service and helping with your gown, they also offer a lounge that you can reserve for the wedding party to hang out together one last time before you get on your flight. They even offer mini spa services.

Groups... 25 people or more qualify for group rates. Each representative will take a 6 people max from the group through the customs and immigration process. They will coordinate the transfers you have booked for the group. They offer a business center and complimentary phone calls to the US and Canada.

Unaccompanied Minors… Help relive some of your stress when your child is traveling alone. The trained and dedicated representative will escort your child through the customs and immigration and take them to Club Mobay to have fun in the kid’s play area.

Club Mobay is also perfect for Business Travelers and Senior Citizens. Actually, I think everyone would enjoy this service! If you travel to Jamaica often, you can get a Annual Card and save some money.

Arriving at the Kingston Airport? Club Kingston offers similar amenities. It’s a little smaller, but has the same type of service.

If you would like more information about Club Mobay, let me know!

Couples Negril

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On my familiarization trip with the Jamaican Tourism Board (JTB), we visited 9 resorts in total. I hadn’t had the opportunity to visit a Couples resort before and was really looking forward to this one. Couples Resorts are popular with a lot of travel agents and I have to say, I was not disappointed!

Couples Negril is a lovely property that is on the smaller side with just 234 rooms and suites. This makes getting around very easy. Everything was very clean and the staff was amazing. As the name implies, this is a resort for couples only. No singles or families.

Couples resorts include the things you would expect such as multiple restaurants and bars, unlimited premium cocktails and wine, nightly entertainment, etc… But a lot of people don’t realize all the fun extras you get included in the price! Here are some examples:

  • Scuba diving is included. If you are a certified diver, the tanks, gear and boat ride to the dive site are all included.
  • Glass bottom boat rides
  • Snorkeling – they will take you out on a boat to get to the best snorkel sites
  • Hobie Cat Sailing
  • Waterskiing
  • Windsurfing
  • Paddleboarding
  • Kayaking
  • Wakeboarding

  • Round trip transfers to the Montego Bay airport
  • Unlimited Golf – Green Fees and Transfers (Clubs, carts and mandatory caddies are extra)
  • Unlimited Tennis Courts – Free Lessons available
  • Some Couples Resorts even have Pickle Ball
  • Complementary Off Site excursions
  • Trips to Margaritaville
  • Catamaran Cruise

  • Complimentary Wedding Ceremony with a 3 night stay
  • Complimentary Honeymoon Package with a 6 night stay

Also, the resort has a strict No Tipping policy. When pricing a resort, all of these inclusions are very important to consider. You might be surprised how fast things can add up once you include all the extras.

We had the opportunity to tour one of the Garden Suites. The room is quite spacious and I found the colors and setting very serene. Personally, when my husband and I go to the beach, we always want a room with an ocean view. But at this resort, I thought the garden views were so pretty that I would enjoy this as much as their ocean view rooms.

After our tour of the property, we were invited to stay for lunch. Eating out can be difficult for me because I am can’t eat anything with gluten. If I accidently eat gluten, I get sick very quickly, so eating at unknown restaurants always causes stress. The chef came to my table and talked about what would be good options for me. I felt very confident after the discussion because it was clear that the chef understood gluten intolerance very well. I selected the Lamb Chops but was very nervous at first because it arrived to the table with sauce. It’s very unusual to get a gluten free sauce in a restaurant and I’m used to the sauce being left off. I even questioned the server about it. She double checked with the chef and confirmed it was safe for me to eat. It was delicious and I am happy to report that I didn’t have any issues at all after eating it! It was so nice to have a gluten free meal with lots of flavor.

The beaches in Negril are beautiful and the water is very calm. The beach at Couples was very inviting and we all wished we could stay and play on the beach for a while. This is a resort that I would like to stay as a guest and I know that we will be back. I would definitely recommend this resort to my clients that are looking for a relaxed all-inclusive at a great price point.

If you would like to read about my travel experience to and from Jamaica during covid, click here. The article covers the process of getting tested before leaving for Jamaica and how I was tested at my resort to get back to the US. I also cover what it is like to fly at this time and any other documentation that is needed to enter travel.

If you would like more information about this resort or travel in general, you can reach me at:

Karen Boss
KBoss Travel by Dream Vacations
919-346-7779
kboss@dreamvacations.com
www.kboss.dreamvacations.com

Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa

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On my familiarization trip with the Jamaican Tourism Board (JTB), we visited about 9 resorts in total. Our first property was the Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa. It is listed as being located in Montego Bay but it’s actually in the town of Lucea. It’s close to the airport compared to going to Negril or Ocho Rios and will take about 45 minutes to drive there. This was my view as I got ready to check in!

The check-in process was pleasant. The porters took our bags and pointed us the the little bar set up nearby to get our welcome drink. From there we walked over to the front desk and got our room information. We were a little early, but they were able to find rooms for all of us to go to right away. Had they had not been able to give us access to our rooms right away, they would have held our luggage for us while we enjoyed the resort. One of the porters put our luggage on a large golf cart and drove us to our rooms.

Here was the view from my balcony. This would be considered an “Ocean View” room. If I had an Ocean Front room, it would directly face the water. Each resort may have different definitions of “views”, so if the view is important to you, make sure you let your travel agent know exactly what you want to see. But remember… with a better view comes a higher price point. The grounds were actually very pretty – I just happened to overlook a brown patch below. There were lots of people working on the landscaping, so I’m sure this was a recent issue and would be taken care of.

Here are some pictures of my room. I thought the room was nice looking and I was able to keep the temperature cool enough for me. This is not always easy when in these tropical locations! At some resorts, the cooling system has a hard time keeping up.

We were invited to a cocktail reception that evening. They had a lovely violinist playing which we all enjoyed thoroughly. The sunset from the reception area was beautiful.

Here is a look at the Adult Only pool. And close by is a secluded area for topless sunbathing.

This is a nice setting for a destination wedding. They have locations all over the resort where you can choose to have your ceremony.

One thing I love about this resort is that they grow some of their vegetables right on the property!

They also have a large, wonderful spa area!

This all inclusive resort is a beautiful property and the staff were wonderful. They were always smiling, friendly and helpful. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to experience it.

If you would like to read about my travel experience to and from Jamaica during covid, click here. The article covers the process of getting tested before leaving for Jamaica and how I was tested at my resort to get back to the US. I also cover what it is like to fly at this time and any other documentation that is needed to enter travel.

If you would like more information about this resort or travel in general, you can reach me at:

Karen Boss
KBoss Travel by Dream Vacations
919-346-7779
kboss@dreamvacations.com
www.kboss.dreamvacations.com

2nd Trip to Jamaica During Covid – April 2021

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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.

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.

My 1st Trip to Jamaica During COVID – July 2020

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Like so many people, we were ready to take a vacation, but knew we had to plan carefully. Options are limited and you really need to make sure you know all the rules and expectations of the country you are visiting. I have been following many of the tourism authorities within the Caribbean. I have attended their webinars and checked the government websites daily to track what was opening and what the requirements would be for US travelers. Jamaica has a great plan in place and although things changing almost daily, I could see Jamaica’s plan was working well and they were not making huge last minute changes to that plan.

I hadn’t been to Sandals Negril before and thought this was the perfect time to go and check it out! Prices are great and Sandals is being very flexible with changing travel dates if needed.

In case you are thinking of going, but want to know what the process is like, I will explain what it was like for us. Of course things can change and your experience could be different. I would just like to emphasize that if traveling at this time, you need to be extremely flexible about changes and possible last minute cancellations with flights and resorts. Go into this knowing that you may need to change dates at the last minute. If you are not comfortable with that level of uncertainty with your travel plans, you may want to plan your trip for 2021.

Jamaica requires a Travel Authorization form be filled out and submitted a max of 5 days before arrival. That form has to be approved, printed out and carried with you. If you fail to to do this, you will not even be allowed to board the plane here in the US. You also have to agree to the their safety protocols. This currently mean you would stay on the resort unless you are on a resort approved excursion. These resorts and excursions have been through a certification process and are deemed safest options at this time.

The requirements for visiting other countries is always changing. Please check with your travel advisor for the latest rules and protocols.

We flew on Delta. The airlines are very flexible right now with changes and this worked out great for us. Originally, we were scheduled to go on a cruise to Alaska out of Seattle in August. That cruise was cancelled, so I called Delta to change to flight to Negril. The agent on the phone was fantastic. She helped me get the flights I needed and managed to get back my Skymiles back that I had used to upgrade on the original flight. The only downside was the 3 hour wait on the phone to get an agent. This was not a surprise as things are crazy right now with flight cancellations and changes.

We flew from Raleigh to Atlanta and then to Montego Bay. When we arrived at the Raleigh airport, we had to go straight to the ticket agent because I had been unable to check in online. There wasn’t any line and check in was handled quickly and easily. There was a short line for TSA and it’s the fastest I have ever gotten through. Delta is currently leaving the middle seats empty, but most of the other seats were filled. Masks were required at the airport and the entire time on the plane (unless you were eating or drinking at the moment). Our temperature was taken as we boarded the plane in Raleigh, and again when we boarded the plane in Atlanta. We were handed a sanitizer wipe each time as we boarded the plane. After the plane took off, we were all given a baggie with a small bottle of water, two snacks and hand sanitizer pack.

My wine, water and Kind bar from Atlanta to Montego Bay

We flew economy from Raleigh to Atlanta and Comfort + from Atlanta to Jamaica (and same for the return trip). The reason I mention this is to discuss the small difference in service. In economy, after getting the baggie with the food and water, that was the end of service (and that was perfectly fine). In Comfort +, after we received the baggie, we were then asked if we wanted any wine or beer. I don’t know for sure, but this is my theory on why it was available for one group and not the other… Alcohol is free in Comfort + and I think it was allowed since no money had to be exchanged. In Economy, alcohol is not included and it would have been difficult to manage payment in the current COVID environment. The only other difference in Comfort + was when we were offered a headset to watch movies. This was not offered in economy. I think a lot of people travel with their own headset, so this is likely not a big issue.

 These are the overwater bungalows at Sandals Royal Caribbean in Jamaica. It was great to catch a view of them as we flew over!

To make our arrival in Jamaica easier, we signed up for Club Mobay. If you are not familiar, it is a service that greets you as you exit the plane, expedites getting through immigration, customs and security and offers a place to hang out while waiting for car service to your resort. The food and drinks are also included in the price. And now, Club Mobay offers another great service – getting to the front of the health check line. This was a huge time saver!

As we exited the plane, our Club Mobay rep was waiting for us with a sign with our names on it. She escorted us to a table where we handed over our Travel Authorization forms, had our temperature taken and were asked general questions about our health. Since we we live in NC, we did not need to have a COVID test before arriving. We knew that they might test us at the airport, but we were lucky and not asked to test. Please note that even if you get tested before coming to Jamaica, they can test you again at the airport. We were then given a number and had to show that to security and immigration. I think the entire process from getting off the plane to getting in our car to Sandals was about 30 minutes. I have heard from others that the process was a couple of hours. I think time will vary depending on how many planes are arriving and if you are using Club Mobay.

Club Mobay

Sandals also has a lounge to hang out in until your car arrives and that is where we stayed. But we didn’t get a chance to enjoy it as our car arrived almost as soon as we sat down (and we were super happy about that!)

Sandals Lounge at Montego Bay Jamaica

We were escorted out to our car and were the only passengers for the entire trip. It takes about an hour and twenty minutes to get to Sandals Negril. For those that would prefer to avoid a long car ride, there are two Sandals locations much closer to the airport – Sandals Montego Bay and Sandals Royal Caribbean.

If you would like to read about my week at Sandals in our Butler Suite, you can view my post “Visiting Sandals Negril During COVID-19”

KBoss Travel By Dream Vacations

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Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m Karen Boss – owner of KBoss Travel by Dream Vacations. As a Navy veteran, I developed a travel bug early in life and my love of travel has grown exponentially ever since. I now have the pleasure of planning travel every day!

There are a lot of great travel agents out there. How do you choose one? You can ask what type of travel they specialize in and see if it aligns with your travel goals. Also, ask what type of training they participate in and certifications they earn to keep their skills current. I am always working on continuing education to assure I can give the highest level of service to my clients.

I specialize in resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico as well as cruising. With that being said, I work with my vendors and suppliers on land tours and vacations all over the world and take as much training as possible to keep my knowledge base strong.

Professional Certifications:

  • Certified Autism Travel Professional
  • Special Needs at Sea Certified Accessible Travel Advocate
  • Travel Safety Certified
  • Certified Sandals Specialist
  • Jamaica Specialist
  • St. Kitts Specialist
  • Regent Seven Seas – Luxury Cruise Expert
  • Norwegian Cruise Lines Master’s Degree
  • Virgin Voyages Certified
  • Avalon Waterways Specialist
  • National Geographic Journeys Specialist (and a member of the G Adventures Agent Advisory Panel)
  • Certified Globus Tour Expert/ Globus +Cosmos Specialist
  • MBA – Monograms Booking Agent Independent Travel Specialist
  • Universal Orlando Resort Specialist
  • Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
  • CLIA Member (Cruise Lines International Association) – CLIA supports policies and practices that foster a safe, secure, healthy and sustainable cruise ship environment and is dedicated to promoting the cruise travel experience. They also provide travel agents with valuable training and industry information.

Where would you like to go next? Let’s talk about your next adventure!

To visit my website, go to: kboss.dreamvacations.com