It’s always a good time for a vacation, right? I think so, that’s why I recently packed my bags for the sunny island nation of Jamaica. Now I’ve been to Jamaica many times before but this was my first time since pandemic restrictions have been lifted so I wanted to do it right. I headed to the S Hotel Jamaica Montego Bay and this place did not disappoint.

The Basics

S Hotel is one of the first non-all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay and one of the newest, having only been open since 2019. The hotel is a short 10-minute ride from Sangster International Airport (MBJ). Once you arrive past the gates you are transported to a relaxing oasis.

I found this resort to be great for a number of different types of vacations - a romantic baecation with your love, a fun laidback vibe for the family, a gorgeous backdrop for a getaway with the girls, or a calm solo respite. The climate will always be warm in Jamaica but pay close attention to the rainy seasons - May/June and September/October - to be prepared for passing showers. It rained on us almost every day but if the island attitude towards “liquid sunshine” is any indication you’ll know that it didn’t put a damper on my vacation.

Ambiance

Upon arriving we stepped into a beautiful open-air lobby boasting lush wood, live plants, cozy furnishings and Missoni accents. Just one floor below was the spa, accessible by stairs or elevator. A dip in the heat-controlled pools was a complementary offering with our reservation. The entire area is encapsulated in stone so you feel as though you are in a majestic cave. I took a quick splash - pools are not really my thing - before indulging in a fantastic sauna. Caution: do not get too steamy in the spa pools, I discovered on my way out that there is an observation area where you can sit and watch people in the pools. Omg!

The room was simple and sleek. Most notably the floor had no carpeting which is something that is very important to me. I fully believe in clean bare floors especially at any destination that may have sand. The bathroom was lovely - a tiled open shower and cabana door to separate from the main room. I will say be advised if you’re on a romantic vacation these types of doors do not allow for as much privacy. The bed was amazing, so comfortable and I definitely fell into a few unplanned beauty naps - a good sign, no?

The rest of the property was equally as lovely. Your spots for pictures will definitely be the red and white cabanas and lounges by the lower pool, the doorway and runway in the main lobby, the infinity pool on the top deck, and of course laid out of the white sand beach. The reason this resort works for so many different types of trips is because everyone there seems to understand that it’s a nice place and acts accordingly. In the five days we were there we encountered many people but heard very little noise. Towards the end of the week you will see more couples and families checking in but it never impedes on your good time.

Breakfast and dinner were also included in our reservation. The eating area is fairly standard and the majority of the food is served buffet style. Even with covid precautions I never felt uneasy about the food. In general if buffets freak you out, this will be a rare time when you may feel totally comfortable. Drinks are served to you personally which helps as well.

The beach! The beach! Oh how I loved the beach. S Hotel has its own towel stand before you walk onto the beach, you just grab a towel and head out.

Service

Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way. I saw the bartender pouring some fugazi liquor into my drink. The menu clearly states what kind of tequila is supposed to be in the margarita that I ordered and yeah - that was not it. I could barely taste any alcohol at all and I did hear other guests echoing this sentiment. When it comes to food and beverage I do not play so this was disappointing.

Bar bamboozle aside the service was good. Keeping in mind that in other countries outside of the United States most people are not in a rush, if your coffee takes a few minutes at breakfast you can relax and chalk it up to “island time.” Our front desk check-in crew was extremely accommodating and knowledgable. A girl named Brittany helped us and to my surprise she was still training.

In general everyone was very friendly and helpful - from the airport to the cleaning staff. I appreciate genuine interactions so it certainly enhanced the experience.

Comfort & Cleanliness

Cleanliness is one of the main features I look for in accommodations, especially abroad. I was very pleased by how the property and room were kept. Due to covid your cleaning staff will visit 48 hours after check-in. Everywhere else I assume is cleaned and sanitized a few times a day.

At mealtimes we were asked to use hand sanitizer before entering the restaurant for safety. Masks were optional around the property but in lobbies, elevators, and other close common spaces they were required. I really appreciated these precautions because not every country has the same regulations.

Covid Regulations

Before entering the country you have to have a negative covid test result from an official source. You also must obtain paperwork attesting to the negative result and absence of symptoms. This is important because you actually need to present it at the airport before security. Similarly, you also have to take a covid test to leave Jamaica. Most hotels, like S Hotel, provide this service for a charge. Our tests were $50 per person and a nurse comes to process your test. I of course did not mind taking a test, to the contrary I was actually grateful we didn’t have to go anywhere else to do it. However, with many guests needing the test and it being offered at the same time for everyone (3pm) you have to plan a bit of time to fill out paperwork and wait.

I had an amazing time at the S Hotel Jamaica Montego Bay. It was the perfect place to relax, have a few drinkypoos, and enjoy the Caribbean beach. I will definitely be returning soon!

I am happy to share more of my experience and answer questions in the comments so ask away. You can also reach me on Instagram or Twitter and see more of my personal photos from the vacation.

x Miss Suber

S Hotel Jamaica | Montego Bay | Review