Sandals Royal Caribbean

Description:

• This middle-bracket branch of the all-inclusive Sandals chain (they define it as one of their "classic," but not one of their "signature," properties) pays more frequent and deeper homage to the aesthetics and manners of the British colonial empire than any other member of the chain. Tranquil and just a bit more sedate than some of its counterparts within the same chain, it lies astride an appealing private beach. References to things English abound: Buildings bear British-inspired names that include, among others, Caernarvon, Kensington, and Arundel, and afternoon teas are widely publicized and popular, beginning at 4pm. There are modern touches as well, including a private, clothing-optional island reached by boat.

  The spacious rooms range from standard to superior to deluxe. Best are the grand luxe beachfront rooms, with private patios or balconies. Each unit has a small but well-equipped private bathroom with a shower/tub combination. The cuisine is more varied here than at the other Mo Bay Sandals, with, for example, Royal Thai, a Thai/Indonesian restaurant on an offshore island. The Regency and The Pavilion serve a rather good Jamaican-inspired cuisine, among other options.

  Facilities: 5 restaurants; 7 bars (2 swim-up); 4 outdoor pools; 5 whirlpools; 3 lit tennis courts; fitness center; sauna; canoes; kayaks; sailing; scuba diving; snorkeling; water-skiing; windsurfing; room service; massage; coin-operated laundry; nonsmoking rooms; rooms for those w/limited mobility.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010