Secrets St James Montego Bay

Secrets St James was not a good experience for me. I had heard such great things about it over the years that my expectations were extremely high. What I found was mediocre service, indifferent staff and outdated furnishings. Secrets St James is in need of some upgrades and upkeep. I would suggest visiting the property “Breathless” next door. Difference of night and day.

Reason for visit: Celebrating 19th year Wedding Anniversary and Travel AGent Site Visit for Future Client Recommendations Personnel: Ms. Regina Mcmahon, was the highlight of my trip. One of the best managers I had the opportunity to meet. I had an issue with my room the first night a few maintenance issues. I received a call from Regina the next morning and met with her. The beautiful Regina was amazing she rectified our issue expeditiously. Regina went above and beyond expected. She provided us a complimentary upgraded preferred room in the same building for our inconvenience . The room was very nice and the view was lovely. She checked on us every day twice a day to ensure no other issues. She made me and my husband 19th anniversary a memorable moment. I can’t say enough about Regina (10 out of 10) just know she would be the main reason for our return! Ms. Shadea Jamieson, responded to my email requests prior to arrival, provided information for preparation of trip. Definitely a big help.. She called to check on us when she returned to work but I was leaving the next day so unfortunately, didn’t get a chance to meet her in person. Maybe next time. Ms Joy: Was always pleasant with a smile and kept our drinks coming when entering and exiting the bldg. Myron: Service with a smile as well. Always inquiring if we need anything. Appreciate it. Young Lady across from Concierge: Unfortunately I can’t remember her name across from concierge desk (married 10 years) she greeted us every time she seen us which was so refreshing. Some Others were kind of quiet during passing didn’t want to engage much but I’m the type of person to say hello in passing. Notice tips were expected everywhere I don’t mind tipping its just seems as if it was needed to receive better service. Preferred didn’t seem preferred in services provided but luckily I had Regina to make everything better. For example, 4th of July celebration preferred member weren’t VIP ($99 charge per person) first place I’ve been were you had to pay for entertainment. Room: It was like home away home in the upgraded room St James Preferred Master Suite (1-king bed with separate living/dining) from St James Preferred Junior Suite category. I must say both had a nice view. You have to review some YouTube videos a little dated but very nice. My only recommendation would be to have liquor bottles/dispenser in preferred rooms for enjoyment and accessibility. Mini bar only consisted of beer, soda, water. Turn-down service available as well. Room service available as well just order 1-2 hr advance. Restaurants: Blue Mountain-nice indoor oxtails and curry goat were great. The hubby and I really enjoyed. Himitsu-The hibachi was good unfortunately didn’t get a show (our cook didn’t engage, watched the other cook younger gentlemen he was good I was recording him during my dinner but the food was as expected)it was hot kind of uncomfortable (covered outdoor setting) a cooler environment would make it a little more enjoyable. Bring a fan. Altitude-My favorite (on Breathless side) Rooftop setting the ambiance, music and view is great. Lamp chops were excellent. Stateside I get about 5-6 bones. Received 2 bones they were sooo good I wanted to order another. LOL. Hats off to Chef. World Cafe-Buffet style with Cooked to order cuisine available ie (grilled salmon, shrimp, steak, burgers, etc) nice touch to buffet style dining. Other restaurants as expected didn’t visit all. Recommendation Preferred dining would be nicer with Cooked to Order Services. Appetizer food sat out with no cover over food didn’t partake. Beach- 9 out 10, Clean w/minimum seaweed, plenty of covered seating, Drink service was good. Plenty of towel readily available. Pools- As expected, swim up pool bar on Wild Orchid location. Would have been nice if on Preferred locations. Entertainment Daily activities as expected -Highlighting Bob Marley Show and 4th of July celebration (Additional $99 for VIP status even if preferred, think it should be included) Casino: Entertaining open to roughly midnight….bar and pool table nice touch. Night Club: Approximately 10-2pm nice DJ for after hours. Variety of music. Resort Shopping; As expected, pricey but shops available if needed. Key Items Notes: Sunscreen, Hats, Sunglasses, Men sleeve shirts, dress sandals-Check restaurant dress codes prior to arrival, Pool Floats. Excursions: Been to Jamaica 5x just wanted to enjoy resort. Overall: Ms. Regina 10 out 10. Excellent customer service. Would be the reason I recommend and return. Food and Entertainment 8 out 10. Some VIP areas during entertainment upcharge. St James Preferred Master Suite 8 out 10. NICE VIEW… Separate Living/Bedroom Area. Oversized Balcony with Sitting Area/Jacuzzi (2 way entry to balcony).

The facility is well maintained. The simmer experiences was not good. The service was slow & food mediocre The pool bartenders service was very excellent. This is not a Sandals resort.

Property is excellent outside. Beaches pools grounds very clean. The rooms need cleaned better. Floors very dirty. Not cleaned daily. Food is barely average. Nothing great. Probably the best meal was our lunch buffet on the last day. Overall love jamaica. Been there a few times. Just was there in March also in negril. It was nice getting to the hotel in 20 minutes instead of 2 hrs for negril. Will keep going back but probably different resorts each time.