Ja-‘Merican – thats what our driver called us after learning how many years and visits we have had to the island. Not gonna lie, I was kinda touched by the sentiment.
September is our “regularly scheduled” visit to Sandals for our anniversary. The trips we had between last September and this trip were extra and last minute trips not really planned.
Its a good feeling to have bags packed and ready then get on that first flight headed to your vacation. This time we were able to fly out of our home airport to ATL the to MBJ.
When we arrived we were able to breeze through customs and immigration with no real delays. Then we made it to the Sandals Lounge in the airport. This is the signal we are free to relax because Sandals takes it from here. Next is the hour and a half ride to our “home away from home”.
Once we arrived we immediately got our bathing suits on and slapped on sunscreen and down the steps to the beach.
We have established a tradition of eating at the pub on our arrival night. Every Sandals has an old English pub as one of their restaurants on site.
And just like that our first day was concluded and the next day I had some amazing coffee with my favorite view in the world.
The first 3 days were just amazing weather. Clear, sunny no rain and perfect calm water.
One of the things that keeps us returning to the resort is that we keep making friends with the staff and other guests. This visit we knew we were gonna see 2 other couples that we met last year and became friends with. What we didn’t expect is that we would end up seeing 6 other couples from our trip last year! The emotion is similar to catching up with family whom you only see 1-2 times per year at the holidays.
This visit I decided to try the discovery dive again. This time I had a better mask and an amazing experience. I will get my diver certification soon – this will be my new thing to do when going to Sandals.
The visit was the normal indulgence of food, drink and great conversation with friends and staff.
This one photo is fun for me as this is the location that giants such as Ian Flemming, Winston Churchill and Richard Nixon have come for dinner and to stay when in Jamaica. This Drawing room has unbelievable history and that fascinates me.
We wined and dined at our resort, Ochi, Dunn’s River and of course visited the infamous Rabbit Hole Speakeasy at Ochi.
In the end we booked for next year. This visit we discovered that 10 nights is a sweet spot where you don’t feel rushed, have plenty of time to relax and indulge in some excursions or spa time.
Sad faces for our last morning as we prepared to leave.
In the end it was everything and more we hoped to gain from our “regularly scheduled” anniversary trip. The location and staff set the perfect atmosphere and then the company of our friends makes it regenerative to the soul. Until next time……
Seek adventure and get busy living.
-Ben