What’s in a name? When that prestigious appellation is Luxury Bahia Principe Runaway Bay, Don Pablo Collection, you know you’re in for a treat.
After a scenic little drive down Queen’s Highway, I found myself at the adults-only section of this Jamaica property inside my Junior Suite Deluxe Ocean Front fit for royalty with king-size canopy bed, living area, sofa bed, balcony and spacious bathroom stocked with Don Pablo bathroom amenities.
With Caribbean blue waters beckoning me to the sea from my sliding glass door, I wasted no time diving into the plethora of amenities this all-inclusive property has to offer.
Everything’s Irie
It’s difficult to be stressed while in paradise, especially when the unofficial island motto and universally adopted demeanor of the locals deems everything “irie” (nice, good, or pleasing). However, if your clients manage to check their stress past airport security and into the hotel, point them to the Bahia Spa, where natural ingredients combined with the firm hands of a massage therapist will surely melt it away.
Here, I selected the highly recommended Reggae Massage with ganja oil, which boasts therapeutic effects. This is Jamaica after all. Alternative services run the gamut from a Hot Stone and Essential Oil Massage to a hydrating Oats & Honey Body Treatment.
Pair a relaxing treatment with a scenic excursion, such as a rafting adventure on the Martha Brae River located nearby. This 3-mile journey takes guests two by two past lush jungle surroundings on a 30-ft.-long bamboo raft steered by a raft captain. The ride, much like life, is what you make of it, so make sure clients inquire about the legend of Martha Brae, ask to pilot the raft and take a dip in the river towards the end of the tour.
Variety is the Spice of Life
On the way back to the resort after our Martha Brae excursion, we stopped at Scotchies, another island icon renowned for its authentic jerk chicken. After posting a snap of the aluminum foil-encased delicacy on Instagram, one social media follower commented that “Scotchies is always [their] first stop after the airport.” Something to keep in mind for my next trip back.
And it’s not just at Scotchies where your clients can indulge in culinary delights. Bahia Principe Runaway Bay and the adjoining family-friendly Grand Bahia Principe Jamaica property offer a variety of restaurants ranging from the Orquidea main restaurant serving international options to the newly minted Tallawah Jamaican restaurant.
Reservations are required for a hibachi table at Mikado, where tempura, rice seafood and meats are served through an amusing display of culinary artistry—but don’t let the entertainment stop there. At the Bahia Principe Village, after-dinner thrills take place every night from live shows at the Calypso Theater Bar to dancing at the Ska Disco.
Happily Ever After
As my time at the resort was winding down, I pulled up a beach chair hoping to catch one last sunset. Instead, I caught a wedding, complete with family, friends and a steel drum band. As the blushing bride walked down the aisle, a hush came over the crowd with swimsuit-clad guests reverently watching as she made her grand entrance.
A maximum of 30 guests (extra guests are charged an additional fee) are allowed for ceremonies, whether it be a complimentary wedding, which includes a ceremony, reserved tables at any of the resort’s restaurants for a formal dinner in a semi-private area, or, the top-of-the-line Emerald package, featuring live music at the ceremony and reception, a couple’s VIP spa experience, 1-hour cocktail party with appetizers and drinks after the ceremony, 2-hour open bar after the dinner and a romantic room service breakfast the morning after. Whatever guests desire out of their stay, it is sure to be as sweet as this special moment.
Contact Information
Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts: bahia-principe.com/en
