The Grand Palladium is an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica. I got to visit Montego Bay, Jamaica in April of this year to attend my cousin’s wedding and I was super excited as this was my first trip since COVID happened! This was my second time staying at The Grand Palladium. My first stay was in the Dominican Republic and it was wonderful. There are several all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, but I do recommend checking out The Palladium Hotel Group.
Of course, I was a little reluctant to go due to COVID, but I had just gotten my second dose of the vaccine and researched the COVID cases before going to Jamaica.
A few things that were important before my trip that I had to get:
- A negative COVID test
- A travel authorization form for entry
During COVID, Jamacia does have a strict curfew that you have to abide by so make sure you research what it is before going as it is always subject to change. You may also be selected by random to do another COVID test if the authorities choose to do so. If you are selected you will have to quarantine until your test results come back.
The Grand Palladium All-Inclusive Resort in Jamaica prioritizes guests’ health by requiring face coverings and also having free onsite COVID testing. They also provide you with free medical insurance, including covering your stay if you have to quarantine or if you have to go to the hospital. To schedule your free COVID testing, all you have to do is go to the front desk 48 hours prior to your flight to schedule it. It is a RAPID test and results come back to you in a few hours via your email.
I highly recommend downloading their app before you arrive, as they have a lot of information about the hotel as well as a map!
ARRIVAL AT THE ALL-INCLUSVE RESORT IN JAMAICA
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with complimentary drinks and prompted to check-in.
Checking in was somewhat chaotic, as it seemed like everyone arrived at the resort at one time and their staff was limited at the front desk. I was traveling with a group, and it took about 45 minutes to check in since there was a line in front of us. There is an option to check in online, but you still must go to the front desk and present your documents to receive your key.
After checking in we got in the cart to go to check out our villa.
ROOMS
The Grand Palladium All-Inclusive Resort is split into two different sections. One side is called the Lady Hamilton side and the other side is called the Jamaica side. I stayed on the Lady Hamilton side, which was newly renovated and I highly recommend booking a room here!
There are several room options at the Grand Palladium:
- Junior Suite Ocean β has ocean views, double bed with canopy, lounge with sofa bed, complete bathroom with hydro-massage bath, minibar, Nespresso coffeemaker with capsules and tea, balcony or terrace with table and two chairs.
- Junior Suite Poolside-complete with direct pool access and a terrace with loungers. This elegant 44 sq. meter rooms have a spacious living area for your comfort, and a luxurious bathroom with a hydro-massage bath to unwind in.
- Suite Garden View-room with terrace and balcony with views of Jamaica’s tropical plants and wildlife. Includes a separate living room with flat-screen TV, sofa-bed and hydromassage bath.
My room was the suite garden room and each room at the resort has a minibar, which was stocked with water, soda, and beer.
To see a full room tour you can check out my video here.
THE AMENITIES
Due to COVID, a few things have been closed for safety such as their clubs and kids center. There are still plenty of amenities to enjoy during your stay.
The Spa
The spa is hands down one of my favorite amenities that is a part of The Palladium group. I highly recommend checking out Zentropia spa. My experience at The Grand Palladium Punta Cana resort was amazing, so I had to check it out in Jamaica. The massage was absolutely wonderful and the massage therapist tended to my needs. Masks are optional during the massage, but the therapist wears a mask and gives you a massage with gloves on. I could not tell a difference with the gloves and it did not take away from the full experience.
Afterward, I checked out the hydromassage area and they had complimentary smoothies, which was so refreshing. They have pools, different saunas, and hot tubs you can check out after your spa treatment. If you want to visit without going to the spa area, they offer day passes that you can purchase!
The Pools & Beach
The resort has different pools that you can check out, including an adult-only pool.
The Main Pool
This exclusive family pool is located in the center of the pool. It is an infinity-style pool with beautiful views of the ocean, there is also a bar nearby to enjoy.
Kids Water Park
There was a water park that the kids get to enjoy right by the main pool. There is a place for adults to lounge while the kids are playing in the water park.
Beach
The resort has two different beaches you can choose from and they are both nice. The Sunset Cove is quieter and has the option for you to go snorkeling. Las Brisas beach is the beach that is located by the main pool.
THE FOOD
The Grand Palladium has a wide variety of foods to choose from and it is all you can eat. You do not need to make reservations for any of the restaurants. The drinks are all you can drink as well, but I did notice that the drinks were watered down which was disappointing.
Portofino
You will find Italian options at this restaurant for dinner. I had pasta and pizza here and it was tasty.
Xaymaica
This buffet offers Jamaican cuisine and you will find traditional Jamaican dishes here.
Negril
I went to this buffet in the morning time and they had a lot to choose from. I liked the fresh fruit, pancakes, and mimosas!
Breakfast Bar Touchless Menus
Sports Bar
The sports bar is open late at night, where you can order food or drinks. The only downside is they do not allow you to take it back to your room or leave with your drinks.
ENTERTAINMENT
There are various entertainment activities that take place at The Grand Palladium All-Inclusive Resort in Jamaica. During my stay, there was music entertainment, as well as classes to partake in like painting or yoga!
The resort also has an onsite gym and you have the chance to use a personal trainer.
My favorite part was seeing the fire breathers and listening to the live music.
THE LOCATION
The location of the resort is located in Lucea, which is between Montego Bay and Negril. You can arrange an airport transfer to the resort online for around $55 or you can take a local taxi. Jamaica does not have Uber or Lyft, so you need to arrange for either a car service or ask the resort for assistance if you want to go off the premises.
There are a wide variety of things to do in Jamaica that are nearby and if you want to purchase a tour you can go with the resort’s partners, book with a travel agency, or do research online.
I will be making a Jamaica Travel Guide with lists of resorts/hotels/Airbnb, as well as, things to do and placeS to eat that are popular! CLICK HERE TO BE NOTIFIED
Overall, my experience at The Grand Palladium All-Inclusive Resort in Jamaica was great, despite it being somewhat different than normal times due to COVID. It was a pleasant time, and if you are looking for a resort where you can relax then this is the place for you. Comment below if you would stay here or ever been to Jamaica! If you have any questions you can comment below or send me a DM.
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Britnee Luckett
Iβm trying to go next year! Iβm ready for that travel guide π
Adriannea
Yes you need to go!!!
Tashae Sterling
Super helpful Blog with in depth need to know info. Thank you!
Adriannea
Thanks for reading and I am glad you found it helpfulπ