This was purchased as an all inclusive vacation, including flight down from Chicago, and connection from Airport. Went in Middle of June, and was concerned about possible rain; but no problem; we had 2 hours of rain during the week. Also, read about how bad the trip from airport would be, but to me, was not that bad. Improvements made in roads, but part still very rough. Keep in mind this is a poorer third world country, but not the poorest. The Bus trip is recommended; at least one way to see more of island & people.

Like all vacation packages, you should read other reviews carefully, and pick a resort that meets your needs. I will describe what we felt were strengths/weakness. In our case, this resort filled our needs, but it may not for everyone.

The resort itself was very good, even if the room did not measure up to a 6-star standard (whatever that is). Other parts of the resort more than made up for the average room. We didn't feel crowded, i.e. the number of people using amount of land they had, appeared to be much less crowded than other resorts I've seen or stayed in. The layout seemed to be well though-out, with nice pools, good shade available on the beach, as well as plenty of chairs, etc for sun worshipers. The water is very clean, with nice white sand, but the size (depth) of the actual beach not what I expected. The resort is actually one of 3 on a separate bay. This gave more privacy in your area, and when I went out on the small Hoby-cat sail boats (free), it was a nice easy sailing for less experienced sailers. In water, has slow drop-off, sand covered bottom; we had no jelly-fish problems. Other activities included at not cost, the sun-set cruise on larger boat going up to coast; snorkeling out on nearby reef; and glass-bottom boat (went out over near-by reefs)-not has hoaky as it sounds. (for details, see travel info). Also interesting, saw many repeat visitors, including a honeymoon couple where wife was travel agent (could have gone to any resort).

The food was excellent, morning food very adequate, and if a little slow at noon, the evening more than made up for any fancy food needs you might want. We went to fancy restaurant one night (reservations required), but found regular dinning still had very excellent food, with what I would call a Continental style food service. I had a lot of excellent fish dishes, that if I bought in Carolina's or Florida, I would hate to think what it would cost! (ok wines were included also). Service was slow (on purpose) to give you a relaxed romantic feel, and much appreciated. The earlier band played a quiet jazz type music, which was appreciated.

This is couples only, and 1/3 people met were just married. WIth no family but couples, it was interesting that we met a high number of people informally, and made a large number of casual friends during the week. Mostly Americans, but a few Brits and Canadians. This informality was much appreciated.

Other little activities, almost to numerous to mention. Lot of tasty liquors, wines available, as well as usual mix of tropical drinks (I had know brand names on liquors). On Two nights had a wonderful buffet spread outside, with Sushi and wonderful seafood stir-fry, etc--amazing. Tennis available, workout rooms, etc.

What this place does not have is noisy disco night-life. I felt it was a fairly relaxed, although a later band got somewhat noisy for my taste, but not out real late. So, if you want noisy (swinger) night-life feel, and good near-by shopping, look elsewhere than Couples Negril.

The staff was somewhat reserved, but on the whole, friendly and responsive to our needs, if slightly slow in some cases such as busy evening time bar times. Only disappointment was slow check-in; I wanted to hit the beach ASAP.

Was mix of couples (age wise); lot of young, but some middle-aged and a few retired.

Recommended: Yes

Best Suited For: Couples
Best Time to Travel Here: Dec - Feb