Through my amazing travel agent friend, Coreen, I was able to able to spend two glorious nights at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. This resort was built to impress with beautiful white marble, high ceilings and Apple computers on reception. Luxury is their priority at Moon Palace and no expense has been spared to ensure that each and every guest feels VIP.
A sparkling 50ft Christmas tree and shimmering gold poinsettia’s greeted me while a cold towel and lush welcome cocktail were placed in my hands.
It seemed like a whirlwind of service as my bags were taken, I was checked in, told the resort highlights and somehow ended up in my room overlooking the many resort pools and the Ocho Rios port.
As the sun set, I watched the resort light up, looking almost magical as the night revealed signature hues of blue and orange more enchanting than during the day. That night, I chose to order room service and enjoy some ‘Natalie time’ with the the large Smart TV while sinking into the soft king bed. The food was spectacular, as was the complimentary bottle of Merlot I received on arrival. As a celiac, eating abroad can be difficult but Moon Palace boasted a generous range of gluten free snacks, entrees and desserts, and I did my best to try all of them…(I almost succeeded).
My day by the pool was everything I dreamed it would be. I read my New Yorker (best magazine EVER!) while Dirty Bananas and Margaritas were delivered to my side table. I spent the day alternating between dips into the crystal clear pool and napping on my padded pool side lounger. It was utterly glorious.
Although I don’t have personal experience, the Moon Palace is known for their spectacular children’s program. They have a water-slide and water activities and a place to contain children while the adults enjoy the swim up bar, volleyball and just floating in a different pool. Moon Palace hosts weddings, honeymoons, families and couples and they do it well. From what I experienced, Moon Palace appears to be a well oiled, well trained machine, working flawlessly to cater to the enjoyment of each guest. It was almost scary- I would think ‘I could really go for a drink right now,’ and instantly, someone would arrive at my side with a drinks menu. Perhaps every staff member is trained in the art of mind reading!
Moon Palace has a range of restaurants from Italian to fresh seafood (on the beach), Japanese delights to a Crepe station and coming soon, a steak restaurant. If you aren’t feeling like venturing out in the evening, the room service is a more than suitable choice.
I know it sounds like I’m gushing but I really enjoyed my time at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. It was short yet sweet and I was gutted as I waved goodbye two short days later. Will I go back? Definitely. Especially when I have children that I will no doubt need a break from.
Stay tuned for some Moon Palace video!
At Moon Palace Jamaica Grande, Luxury is Priority!