Context: We've done 1 AI previously. Typically rent condo's/houses albeit with friends and family. This was just my wife and I, so chose AI. First time to Jamaica.
Most outstanding qualities of the resort are the staff, the beach, and watersports. We found ALL staff to be consistently friendly, welcoming, and service oriented. I've stayed in nice hotels around the world (years of work travel), this was the most genuinely friendly and helpful staff I've encountered. Beach is amazing! Exceptional strip of sandy beach and sandy swimming area with gorgeous westerly views. Starfish (please don't touch) and stingrays frequent the area. Watersports are plentiful with sailboats, wind surfing, scuba, snorkeling, kayak, SUP, etc. Lessons are available as well. All included except for scuba certifications and use of wetsuit. This area is also staffed exceptionally well. Friendly staff assisting with all gear, answering any questions and ensuring you have a great time.
We chose a beachfront verandah suite and were assigned 3317, exactly what we hoped for. 3rd floor, corner room, amazing views, ocean sounds, etc. Room was as expected. A few gripes: mini-split AC ran constantly and took edge off humidity and heat, but couldn't really cool the room. The TV was not 'smart', image was <480p, speaker was blown out. I realize it's an island, but kind of shame given low cost of TV's these days. Also, in room WIFI and cellular was unreliable. We had an emergency call and it was difficult to manage reception. I think working from the room would be impossible, which is also weird shortfall these days.
We are not foodies and can be picky, boring eaters from the mid-west US (meat & potatoes). The Palms buffet was hit or miss. We learned its MUCH better to arrive when the buffet opens rather than later, maybe not a big surprise. Patois Patio was consistently good. In our 4 nights, we were only able to get dinner reservations once at Feathers (other nights, other restaurant not available). It was good. Room could use some updating, although was the only room that had strong AC.
Bar service was very accessible. Offered a 'drink of the day', but didn't have a drink menu. Several times I had to provide the recipe, but they were very accommodating. These resorts have not embraced the bourbon craze. JD, JB and Southern Comfort were only thing close. Mixers including juices are from a bar gun. Flavor tends to end up watered down. If you like Coke as a mixer, take the Coke from the in room mini-bar to the bar with you.
We did Mobay both ways. We arrived 1pm on a Friday. Nice to have somebody hold your hand through arrival, but it likely only saved us 5 minutes. There was no line. We did private car, mainly to not have to wait for bus. Given traffic and lack of passing lanes, not sure duration is any different. Rode bus back to airport. Was fine. They encourage getting there 3 hours early, we arrived on a Tuesday at airport around 10am to depart at 1pm. We went through Mobay lines for security. There was nobody in the regular lines. Killing time in Mobay lounge was comfortable and food was good. Airport has plenty of restaurant options as an alternative, but was busy. Not sure if Mobay is necessary, but it is well executed.
If you value views, the ocean, watersports, friendly service, this place is for you. We will likely go back at some point for these reasons.
US