The internet is a dangerous and costly habit, thinking of Jamaica February 2022

[Retired Engineer Bob]

Weather looks fantastic for February, average low 70, average high 86. A one week getaway from the cruel Indianapolis winter.

My husband and I are mid to late 50’s. We’re not really into the nightlife/bar scene. Relaxing and being pampered is more our speed. We previously spent 4 nights in Cozumel at Secrets, an all inclusive resort that we adored. We didn’t want a gay resort, just a place where we were accepted and made to feel welcome, and at Secrets that is what we found.

Been looking at Couples San Souci in Ocho Ríos. All inclusive, drinks and meals included in the cost. A bit pricey but our budget will allow.

My folks went to Jamaica yearly and stayed at this resort once or twice. They thought it was great.

Anyone care to comment on Couples, or suggest alternatives?

[viva la]

1. There's a great river falls near there

Dan's River Falls.

[viva la]

2. And I like all inclusive resorts.

They're like a cruise ship, but you're not stuck on the ocean.

[VarryOn]

3. My wife and I went to the El Dorado Casitas Royale in Playa del Carmen...

for our honeymoon. We loved it! We were there seven days and never left the resort for the entire seven days. We stayed in the 'adults only' section, although there were hardly any kids in the open area. The facility was beautiful, except the beaches. But, the pools were great! We had seven days of awesome time spent laying out at at the pool, drinking, eating at their fabulous restaurants, and...well...you know! Lol

El Dorado prides themselves with their restaurants. They had American, Mexican, Chinese, Latin,and a couple others. We ate very well.

We reserved one of their casitas. They're detached from any other rooms, with very private patios (very good for private activities!), outdoor showers, Jacuzzis, and large pools that are shared with only about eight other casitas.

[Retired Engineer Bob]

4. I've spoken to my travel agent

She came up with 6 options. All ok excellent, how to choose?

Two are in Mexico, both near Akumal. Scratched these off the list simply because we were in Cozumel 5 years ago and wanted to check out something different.

Two are in Punta Cana, two in Jamaica. Based on flawed gut feeling and reading reviews, we selected one from each location. Now to choose between the two.

My travel agent mentioned the beaches in Punta Cana are not as good as Jamaica. You mentioned beaches as well. Care to elaborate?

So it’s down to either Jamaica’s Excellence Oyster Bay, or Punta Cana’s Secrets Cap Cana. How to decide?

[VarryOn]

5. Sure. The beaches weren't sandy at all. They were more...

lava-like. Plus, about 50 yards off-shore, they had these huge baffles.

Other than the beach, we really enjoyed El Dorado. The food was especially good.

[Retired Engineer Bob]

6. Appreciate the reply

I was leaning to Jamaica. My husband seems to prefer Jamaica as well. So the decision is made, Jamaica here we come. Time to start listening to more Bob Marley.

[VarryOn]

7. I've yet to go anywhere in the Carribean that I didnt love...

I'm sure you will love it. Of the places I've been, the Abacos in the Bahamas has been my favorite. But, I've loved every place I've been!

[Retired Engineer Bob]

8. Starting to get excited

This is our room:

Flight now leaves Indianapolis at 5:30 am, February 22nd. Thinking about getting a room for the night before. Cost of the room includes a shuttle to/from the airport, and parking for the week.

Dog sitter has been lined up and interviewed. Good ol’ Rover.com.

Looks like they have a good COVID policy. All employees vaxed and masked, free testing the day before the return flight, and if you happen to test positive they allow you and your partner to stay up to 14 days. There are worse places to be quarantined.

[Retired Engineer Bob]

9. We are here 😊

Arrived Tuesday afternoon, 83 degrees.



View from our room



Sunset



Visitor cruised past, on his way elsewhere

[Callalily]

10. Beautiful! I am with you in spirit! ;-)

It's 12 degrees here right now with a fell temp of 1. 83 sounds mighty nice.