Resort has completed a US$27.5 million renovation
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
It’s shortly after 10:00 p.m. and the Infinity Saloon Bar at Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa has been transformed into a pumping dance floor but there is virtually no sound aside from the occasional person singing out loud (and slightly off-key). Three separate DJs each representing a different channel are spinning tracks trying to capture the most engagement from the crowd but the music is only heard by those donning the red, blue or green glowing wireless headphones. This is silent disco and the concept is ingenious — keeping the party going without disturbing guests who are staying in nearby suites — as well as appealing to fans of different musical genres at the same time. Suddenly, one colour reigns supreme as a conga line breaks out to Follow the Leader by The Soca Boys. Talk about a Monday night to remember!
Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa, which is situated adjacent to Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa near Montego Bay, has just completed a US$27.5 million renovation that saw upgrades across its 537 suites, common areas like the Infinity Terrace & Bar and the addition of new room categories with private swim-out suites.
Travel Courier recently checked into the updated resort to get a first-hand look at what awaits clients. Here are some of our tips and insights.
Meal recommendations: For delicious Jamaican cuisine, guests have some tasty options. There are two jerk huts serving fan-favourites like festival and jerk chicken by the Las Brisas beach and on Sunset Cove beach. An excellent dinner-time choice is Xaymaica, which offers local staples like curried goat, oxtail, plantain and more. Guests also can’t go wrong at Bhogali, a high-end Indian restaurant overlooking the main pool. Butter chicken, biryani and chana masala are just some of the delicious menu choices. For a morning cup of joe, head to Miss Lou’s for a flavoured latte or visit the coffee and piano bar at night for adult beverages like espresso martinis.
For the best Instagram shot: Clients can head over to the 86,000 square ft. main pool and secure a spot in one of the circular benches surrounded by white pillars to grab some impressive photos. For the best ‘gram, guests who splurge on one of the resort’s new Superior Suite Private Pool Oceanfront View rooms can grab a mimosa and take stunning photos in the comfort of their private pool that will ensure they are the envy of all their family and friends back home.
Spa day: Spas at Palladium Hotels & Resorts properties are always impressive and the onsite Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness is worth a visit even for guests who aren’t embarking on a treatment like a relaxing massage. The expansive spa has a hydrotherapy circuit featuring jacuzzis, sauna, steam room, cold plunge, multiple pools and more.
Get off the resort: There’s no shortage of choice when it comes to things to do beyond the resort in Jamaica. Embark on a catamaran cruise to snorkel, see the coast and have a dance party. For a taste of Jamaica, visit Scotchie’s Jerk Centre for some delicious jerk with all the fixings. Or go rafting on the Martha Brae to soak up the scenery and capture some lovely photos.
