Just Married at Sandal's Dunns River Resort

Lori · 08-17-2007, 08:17 PM

Hi All: I just returned last night at 12 midnight from the resort. First, I have not been on the site because life and work just got a bit hectic. So, I apologize if I have not been online to support my sisters in the name of love (smile). So here is my review. 8/8-8/16

Over all, the resort gets a 5 PLUS.

Plane: Air Jamaica-Smooth ride. They did not show a movie going to Jamaica as promised.

Arrival: As expected. Sandal's has a fab room for guests arriving. Once we got refreshments and such we were off to the shuttle.

Travel to the resort: The shuttle was nice and air conditioned. The roads were NOT bad. The driver was an older gentleman and very polite. He told us about the history of certain sites and a bit of the economy. There is some last construction to be done, but as others indicated the drivers were not our of control. I think we see more reckless driving here on 76 in Philly or in New York. Of course the driver had to be tipped. So we tipped. It is a poor country so we did. Bring at least 100 in ones it helped us out a lot. We made a less memorable pit stop, but the jerk chicken and snapper was great!

Arrival at Sandal's: We were greeted and separated from the men to handle the check in. We were provided with hand towels and champagne. Our rooms were not quite ready, so we were escorted to lunch at one of the many places to eat on the resort. We came back and was escorted to our designated rooms. Now, during this time we were given a mini-tour of the resort. The rooms were spectacular!!! We were met with champagne and chocolate and fruit. My family and I were upgraded to the suites. Nice touch as we brought along 38 guests! Some people upgraded some did not, but ALL rooms were above expectations.

Riu was across from the resort, but if you want a resort without the family atmosphere this one is for you. I found this resort quiet, but still fun as there were many games (couple oriented) and theme nights.

Food: Great!! The Japanese restaurant was not my favorite, but I still liked the atmosphere. Marco Polo was my favorite and room service!! With concierge service, you can get everything your heart desires. The drinks were outstanding. The favorite among our party were the strawberry daqueries and steel bottoms (Beer with rum). The MEN loved those. The sky was the limit. On our wedding night dinner, we were greeted by the chef he actually made a tasting menu for us, bringing us several items to enjoy throughout the meal. NOTHING was set in stone. Everything I complained about prior to going was a waste of energy.....trust me. BTW...room service every morning for breakfast...HA!!!!

Spa/Salon: I give this a 4. My hair was perfect, but the make-up had to be re-done by my sister. The service however, was top notch.

Wedding: We selected a Preston Bailey package. Ladies, ladies, ladies....it was more than I expected and you DO GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. First, the planning went on the day prior and rain was expected, but they made sure our wedding was set up outside covered with the reception with music inside. The decorations were elaborate as the brochure. It was a fairy tale in my opinion.

Photography: GET A PROFESSIONAL PLEASE. Our photogapher S. Davis and video person (forgot his name) did a wonderful job on our DVD and the pictures were amazing. Even on a cloudly day, she made us look spectacular. They knew and captured the best of us and our guests. I give
them a 5 plus.

Overall: We did the Walker's Woods jerk seasoning tour, jet skied, visited Dunn's River, toured Fern Gully, and did all activities on the resort. We met the management team and they made sure that we and our guests enjoyed ourselves. I would go back for sure. Go...it is fun and worth it. The guests ages range from 21-55.

Lori

Pictures to be uploaded by the weekend!!!!

KRISTEN · 08-17-2007, 09:01 PM

Congratulations and welcome back! Sounds like you had a wonderful time. Can't wait to see pictures! I love the walkers wood seasoning. It is the best. We grill with it all the time.

Lori · 08-17-2007, 09:40 PM

Thanks kristen...it's good to be back.

Lizzy · 08-17-2007, 09:50 PM

Welcome back Lori and congratulations on your marriage! The whole experience sounds like it was great. I am so glad you were happy with everything. Now get those pictures up girl! We do love wedding pix!!!

Lizz · 08-17-2007, 09:54 PM

Welcome back and congrats on your marriage! It sounds like you had an amazing time. Can't wait to see your pics!

MsShelley · 08-18-2007, 07:23 AM

Congrats, it sound wonderful!! Can't wait to see pictures!

DreamsTulumBride · 08-18-2007, 07:29 AM

I am happy for you that everything went well and that you had your dream wedding !

Heidi · 08-18-2007, 07:54 AM

Welcome home Lori, and CONGRATULATIONS! So glad you had a wonderful experience!!!!

starchild · 08-18-2007, 08:28 AM

Welcome home!! Sounds like you had a fantastic wedding!! Good point about the drive there, it was not horrible like I heard it would be. A long drive, but a pleasant one. Not much you can complain about in Jamaica, right? I'm glad you got home before the hurricane moved that way!! Can't wait to see your pics :o)

Christine · 08-18-2007, 08:54 AM

welcome home, can't wait to see pictures