Hotel Review: Secrets St. James Montego Bay

My husband and I were on our first vacation without our three kids, and it had been many years since I had visited the island of Jamaica.

Upon landing at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, however, I was immediately reminded of how warm and friendly Jamaican culture is. We made our way to Amstar DMC for our transfers to Secrets St. James Montego Bay, and any apprehension we had about traveling in the country was eliminated as we took in the island air, listened to reggae music and received great sightseeing tips from our driver while en route to our hotel.

“Location, location, location” is what comes to mind when describing adults-only Secrets St. James and its adjacent sister property, Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay. The resorts sit on a peninsula with sweeping mountain views. The U-shape building design affords glimpses of crystal-clear water from every angle and creates a strong sense of privacy. The properties are perfectly plotted, with multiple pools, bars and dining venues all within a short walk from guestrooms.

Secrets St. James offers a peaceful environment with British colonial decor, while Secrets Wild Orchid features a more vibrant ambiance and modern decor. Guests of either resort have “free flow” access to both properties.

Dining options are endless, and most are located at the end of the peninsula, offering spectacular day and evening views. My husband and I made a point to experience every eatery and found that international buffet restaurant World Cafe is the place to go for breakfast and lunch, as it offers a wide assortment of tasty options. For those seeking an afternoon snack, the authentic Caribbean jerk chicken cart is worth the wait.

As for dinner, experiencing contemporary French cuisine at Bordeaux is a must; be sure to secure a reservation upon arrival. Also not to be missed is the Jamaican Caribbean cuisine at Blue Mountain. After dinner each evening, it will be hard for clients to resist the temptation to sing along at The Lounge piano bar or the Cuban-themed Piano Bar and then head to Desires nightclub — all of which are within close proximity to one another.

I highly recommend that clients take advantage of Secrets’ Preferred Club. Perks include access to the private Preferred Club Lounge; daily continental breakfast; afternoon hors d’oeuvres, desserts and liquors in the lounge; upgraded minibar service; upgraded bath amenities; and other enhanced services. My favorite bonus as a Preferred Club guest was the access to adults-only Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa, which is just steps away from Secrets St. James and Secrets Wild Orchid.

Breathless Montego Bay features an upbeat, sophisticated party vibe; a swim-up bar beaming with energy; and an afternoon foam party. But the property’s premier feature is its rooftop, which offers stunning panoramic views of Montego Bay, along with Altitude restaurant (the Jamaican lobster is heavenly), Altitude Rooftop Bar and a pool. The rooms at Breathless are luxe and chic; offer the latest technology; and feature marble bathrooms, showers with glass doors and furnished private balconies or terraces with a whirlpool tub. For even more pampering, book clients in an Xhale Club Ocean View or a higher room category, where they’ll receive personalized butler service at no extra charge.

Perhaps best of all is how Jamaican hospitality permeates each of these beautiful resorts. Within hours at Secrets St. James, the staff knew our names and where we were from — we couldn’t walk a few feet without someone calling our names asking if we needed anything. 

I quickly learned that many guests were repeat clients, which came as no surprise considering the friendly staff and excellent service. My husband and I had so much fun meeting new friends from all over the world, and we couldn’t help but notice that whether guests were there for romance or on a group trip with friends, everyone was having a great time. We witnessed two destination weddings during our stay, one large and one small. A wedding gazebo that juts out into the bay offers the perfect backdrop for wedding vows.

Providing luxury, relaxation, impeccable service, delicious cuisine and a kid-free environment, Secrets St. James — along with Secrets Wild Orchid and Breathless Montego Bay — are the perfect escape for any adult, as well as those who, like us, are looking to rekindle a bit of romance.

The Details
Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa
www.breathlessresorts.com

Secrets St. James Montego Bay
www.secretsresorts.com

Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay
www.secretsresorts.com