Ann, The TravelSlut's 9th Trip to Hedonism II resort & 7th Annual Group Trip Adventure
I was most recently at Hedonism II from June 21 to July 1 and wow, what a positive difference from my June 2012 trip!
I did this trip with about 30 other Krewe de Krazy Life members for 10 days and the bottom line was that this Hedo experience ranks near the top overall thanks mainly to a great Krewe including: (PF& ISS, M & J, R & Dr. T, LD & R, BB & BBS, L & J, T & M, J & M, K & T, D & R, A&A, B & M, R & T, YR, M & A, M & M, and a few others).
So, in a manner not so normal, my trip report as follows comes from my notes during the week and are random and certainly not chronological. I hope you pick up a few tips and ideas though. Remember to check my 300+ photos from this trip also as pictures tell a better story sometime.
When you are in the main dining area, be sure to check the wall with the Daily Activities Board next to the new Wine Bar and walkway to Reception. The board changes daily and has relevant information including the theme night dress, main and nude pool events, and special announcements.
Also, on the main dining area wall between the start of the buffet station and Martino's, you will find the food menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
One more thing: On the ceiling above the lobby bar are some of the pictured specialty drinks that Hedo bartenders can concoct. I have tried most, if not all, of them during the 75+ days I've spent at Hedo. And it is so hard to decide on a favorite but I was told by several bartenders that the three most popular drinks at Hedo are: Rum & Coke, Dirty Banana, and Red Stripe beer.
At the nude bar, feel free to enjoy the Delroy and Scumba drink specials but be forewarned...they are tasty but potent!
I had several options for transport and transfers between Montego Bay Airport (MBJ) and Hedonism II resort in Negril including a private driver (Jason) but I opted for:
Sunholiday Travel and Tours Ltd. P.O. Box 531 Montego Bay 2, St. James, Jamaica
876.953.3144
Email:
reservation@sunholidayjamaica.comsunholidayjamaica.com/index.html
Kiosk #5 inside the Montego Bay airport lobby is easy to find and my experience of transfers were nothing less than superb. They were professional, courteous, handled all baggage nicely, were on time and most importantly, drove safe. Plus, there were no stops either to or from Hedo so the driving times were 70 minutes to Hedo and 75 minutes from Hedo in air conditioned comfort. I met a very nice couple on the trip to Hedo (A & S) but no others on the return to the airport. I paid $33 roundtrip not including the tip I gave the driver who also handled my all baggage (four bags of costumes of course)
I want to thank a few people that made my 9th Hedo visit special. This is not an all-inclusive list because everyone of the Hedo staff I encountered this trip were at a minimum kind and courteous and others helpful and resourceful.
Naomi, room attendant; Scumba, Sharma and Delroy, nude pool bartenders; Paulette, main pool bartender; Delano, Latoya and Byron, main office; Winston, Entertainment Crew
Be sure to complete your survey of your Hedo stay while waiting for your airport-bound bus transfer or during breakfast on your final day.
The locked survey collection box is located on the shelf behind the main reception desk. I normally pick one up the day I arrive and keep it in my room and when something deserves noting (positive or negative), I can complete it right away instead of trying to remember something that might have occurred days before.
In the lobby, I checked the internet room several times during the week and found recent USA and international newspapers and magazines (along with some paperback books) in case you are looking for some reading materials.
On one day I did some travel business in the internet room using my own laptop and even noticed that someone left a thong on a chair! And yes, I worked all 10 days on business, either with the Group I brought to Hedo or two of my pending travel groups, and I probably averaged three hours a day working…. but I definitely made up for lost time at night…lol.
Also, the wi-fi internet costs were US$15 per day or $80 per week and with the exception of the days where thunderstorms ruled, wi-fi coverage and speed was excellent, even in my room. Several times though I had to reboot but I did not worry about it but took it as a sign to get back to the pool and my Krewe.
Hedonism II has so many venues and some, like the piano bar, gift store/boutique and fitness center, are frequented often but other locations are often less visited (or never experienced) like the beachfront Reggae Café (clothing optional side) for great Jamaican food, tennis courts (behind the gift store and piano bar), billiard/ping pong rooms, slot machine “casino”, or even the miniature golf/putt-putt behind the piano bar. I would recommend that everyone take time during the day to explore all the nooks and crannies of Hedonism on both nude and clothing optional sides and you might be surprised how much of Hedo goes unnoticed.
The gift store/boutique has been revamped and now includes an entire section devoted to "adult" toys and other adult items for your fun and pleasure.
Hedo room #2157 (a garden view nude room and the first building down the ramp and stairs from the Spa and Fitness Center) was my home for 10 nights.
Actually I had booked my normal nude oceanfront room but changed to the garden view room when one of my group members was about to be bumped to garden view due to all the oceanfronts being sold out. I had never stayed in the garden view nude rooms and I must say, I was quite happy being halfway between the nude pool and main dining area/reception and especially how quiet it was.
Some notes about my room.
In order to use a hair curling iron, I had to use the bedroom mirror vanity area (and sit on the small stool) as the bathroom did not have another outlet.
Extra, but sometimes overlooked, storage areas within the room include: under the bed; under the bench by the window; under the desk where the stool is stored.
The TV receives about 40 channels including international news and programming, sports, and three adult-only (two XXX and very explicit channels plus the Playboy channel). NOTE: The TV remote control device will not turn on the TV unless the wall switch by the door is also turned on.
Some ideas I left on my survey for both new and existing rooms were the addition of wall hooks for hats and other items to hang plus more hangers for the closet.
Also, I used scotch tape (but Velcro strips would work too) to secure the room curtains to the frames and wall so that light would not leak in during the morning. I loved the black-out drapes but it was difficult to overlap the curtains completely to eliminate all the cracks of light.
The thermostat for the air conditioner worked great for me and at 22C degrees (72F degrees). I was always cool and less humid plus the white noise masked many outside noises (except of course the always present, nighttime “chirping” tree toads).
Note: the closet contains and extra big pillow and blanket plus an iron, ironing board and safe).
I liked the idea that I had a choice to not do a daily exchange of linens and towels in keeping with a green/eco theme.
I also used the room’s coffeemaker every morning and enjoyed the complimentary Jamaican coffee.
Finally, upon 1st entry into your room, disable your desktop alarm clock unless you have a real need to wake up (unexpectedly) early.
I also made a point every night to close my bathroom door to muffle any hallway sounds plus I used one of my towels to tuck under the room entry door to block any light, noise or bugs. Fortunately, I did not encounter any room insects this trip.
My shower always had plenty of mostly hot water (not lukewarm but not scalding hot either) but it did take some time to heat up so I just left the shower run for a minute or so. Depending on your room, the shower activator dials might take some time to learn as my bath had 5 shower heads controlled by two dials.
In all my times at Hedo, I have never seen the rock climbing wall being used. Anyone know why or whether it is ever used?
Many of the guests commented on how nice the new loungers were and how there were an adequate supply even when the resort occupancy was near 80% for a few of the days I was there.
Be especially careful about the wading areas of the lagoon and beach areas. Please wear aqua socks or water sandals to avoid being cut on the coral rocks or stepping on a sea urchin! It happens every time I go to Hedo and makes for some uncomfortable times for some guests.
Towel exchanges were no hassle both at the nude pool near the grill area and also at the marina’s watersports shack.
One thing I did not see this trip was anyone playing sand volleyball or playing bocce ball. Maybe I was just there at the wrong times.
I completely forgot about checking out the family of stingrays that had been seen recently at the marina dock area after dark. Oh well, their loss….lol.
I would suggest doing the complimentary snorkel trip that leaves every day from the watersports marina and dock about 2 pm and it uses one of the Hedo boats out to the Middle Sound Reef. The trip is about 90 minutes (20 minutes out, 45 minutes on the reef, 20 minutes back) and the boat trip is relaxing and the water is nice, warm and clear even if you don’t snorkel.
I was excited for those in the oceanfront nude rooms that received the new multi-jet hot tub jacuzzi’s while I was there.
I am also excited about the new wine bar addition being developed in the main dining area. I understand from talking with the bar manager that a plan to implement use of this area is pending and there may be REALLY premium wine and alcohol available for purchase or supplemental fees including high-end items like Cristal, Dom Perignon, and Opus.
I still find (and my group/Krewe will confirm) that Martino’s is a dinner venue not to be missed for both a wonderful service and great dining experience. It has a full choice of menu options and great service and all in an air conditioned environment.
Close behind Martino’s is the “new” Harry San (formerly Munasan) teppanyaki-style Japanese outdoor restaurant (off to the piano bar side of the main dining area). I especially loved it this year because I scheduled our group dinners at 7 pm so that we had plenty of time to socialize and talk (without having to shout) before the main stage entertainment started. Both nights it was also right after a thunderstorm so it was cool even around the teppanyaki grills. Consider the earliest or latest booking in order to enjoy conversations around the grill (which seat 8 to 10).
Hedo rocks: For the first time I did not update nor create a new rock but instead I commissioned a wooden plaque by woodworker Christopher who is on-property. I did find one of my older rocks just past the skybridge on the pathway to the nude pool. I also saw some very descriptive and creative rocks throughout my walks inside the resort though and I think they are a great memento to all visitors and next year I will bring a bag of rock painting paints for both me and the Krewe.
A couple miscellaneous thoughts:
EVERYONE loved the pizza served at the nude pool grill late at night & the early morning hours. It was awesome! Speaking of the grill, the fish sandwiches and jerk chicken nachos and sandwiches were a great snack in the afternoon and before dinner. I did manage to be the last out of the hot tub and pool when it closed for cleaning & chemicals about 8 pm each night.
The new white mattresses for the outdoor gazebos were well received by all and very comfortable both day and night.
The nude waterslide: it is a FAST and a quick, wild ride that ends in the disco pool. Be prepared for a dunking.
If it is raining, be extremely careful near the Hedo legend/map sign located at the end of the fitness center and entrance to the main stage area. The tiles are slippery when wet and there is a slight slope where slick-bottomed sandals or shoes may cause a fall. I witnessed at least two slips.
Also, several people took the slip/fall-plunge between the nude pool and conversation pool where the steps are depth-deceptive. Just be careful transitioning between the two pools, especially if you are under any influence from alcohol.
This trip I did get some bug bites and probably from the Super Moon night (summer solstice) where I was on the beach for 30 minutes or so without any bug repellent while taking some photos.
I rarely saw anyone take advantage of the soda and ice machine located at the rear of the nude hot tub. There is filtered water and ice which is nice to take back to your room at night.
Some of the Krewe again this year did either (or both) the catamaran to Ricks (US$55) on Thursday afternoon and the One Love Bus that does the Pub Crawl on Wednesdays. Both are nice and safe ventures off property and allow for a guest to see some of Negril and meet up with others that they might not have a chance to interact with otherwise. The Pub Crawl is free but tipping the driver is expected and paying for drinks at the various stops.
Our Krewe will consider a totem pole with names/nicknames for 2014 as crafted by Christopher, the woodworker near the nude pool. Christopher made me a commemorative wooden plaque this year that is a great representation of my TravelSlut character and it should be hanging near the nude pool bar. (If anyone can get a photo of it and email me, I would really appreciate it).
I had a few moments at Hedo this trip (again) where I created some smiles including spending an afternoon in the nude pool complete with my trademark big blonde hair and accessories. This brought me a standing ovation and applause for which I was humbled. Then some of my "Ann-tics" in the piano bar (and sideroom) apparently raised a few eyebrows...lol.
The two pool parties (thanks Hedo Naughty Rockers & Wild Women) featuring glow sticks and a "rave" atmosphere with live DJ were awesome! I hope I did not embarrass anyone that I decided to "dress up" in one of the Krewe members costumes I "borrowed". It was all meant in good nature.
In conclusion I wanted to add my updated Top 10 tips for those going to Hedo for the 1st time or anyone that is returning after a lengthy absence.
10 things to remember about trips to Hedonism II all-inclusive resort in Negril, Jamaica
1. Bring or buy or borrow and then USE mid-high range SPF sunscreen-especially your 1st few days and don’t forget both to reapply often and don’t forget the SENSITIVE SPOTS! I have seen way too many red lobster-skinned people during my previous 9 trips to Hedo and spending your vacation/holiday time applying aloe vera while sitting in the shade and taking aspirin to reduce pain and swelling from sunburn cannot be enjoyable.
2. Consider bringing or buying an insulated drinking mug... but a caveat: using big cups or containers means more drinking and means more and quicker absorption of alcohol. Since trips to the various bars can take time and you might hydrate with more ice waters in between...by drinking with just one big container your hydration takes a back seat. Not necessarily a good thing in the heat and humidity.
3. Have an idea what you might like to do indoors should the occasional passing rain showers decide to linger for several hours or longer. Whether it is a game of billiards, drinks under the roofs of the pools, lobby bar area, taking a well deserved nap, socializing in a pre-planned spot or even working out in the well-equipped fitness center, have a back up plan. All that green foliage comes from the rains.
4. Consider making a beaded name necklace or have your group leader include them in your packaged trip. If you are uncomfortable using your real name, then use a nickname. The name necklaces certainly help initiate conversations and socializing.
5. Flights to Jamaica and getting to Hedo II can sometimes require almost a full travel day despite your point of origin and reconsider doing an all-nighter on your arrival date if you plan on being at Hedo a week or more. My simple flights from Florida take 8-10 travel hours doorstep to doorstep and I've seen new arrivals never pass a bar without drinking within hours of arrival and seeing them passed out early in the evening. If you are new to Hedo II, then take time to explore the various areas and if you are a veteran, then check for new developments and start the “pacing” of both time and energy so that you can make it through your entire trip with maximum fun and energy levels. A supply of energy bottles or drinks can also help.
6. If you seek quiet areas, then you may want to remain flexible and when one area gets to noisy or busy, move to another. I know a few times around the nude pool, people either moved to the nude beach or one of the clothing optional pools where the noise level was more acceptable. If you seek activities, check the board in the main dining area for the "what's happening now" schedule.
7. Consider joining or at least learning about any group or groups that will be at Hedo when you are planning to be there. A great source to see who might be there is: hedonism.com/events.php (and it includes my group). If you can't join our group in 2014, then try to find a compatible group that you might like to join or at least meet people that are members. Every June we add many people to the Krewe de Krazy Life during our visits and often see them again at Hedo the following June, one of our annual private rendezvous parties and even in Key West for Fantasy Fest every October.
8. Expect the unexpected at either the hot tub/jacuzzi or the nude pool at night. The liquor flows freely (literally) and the jacuzzi is called a "hot" tub for good reasons. :-)
9. Tipping (gratuities) are not required, expected or preferred at Hedo but it does happen on occasion. The rules state "No Tipping". IF (and a big if) you do decide to tip one or more staff members at Hedo--please do it both one-on-one and very discreet--and please explain that while the tip is from you alone for above & beyond service, that your positive feedback on your departure survey form will reflect and earn more for them job-wise.
NOTE: baggage handlers at the Montego Bay airport and your shuttle bus driver ARE NOT employed by Hedo and therefore rely on tips.
10. Rule #1 ---Hedo is about what YOU want, when you want it, where you want it, with whom you want it, and how you want it-----or NOT WANT IT. Rule #2 --- When in doubt, refer to Rule #1
I try not to dwell on the negative because I’ve often felt that just about any “bad day” on holiday or vacation is better than most good days at work.
Remember, for those that have experienced Hedo, no explanation is needed. For those that haven't--no complete explanation is possible.
In the meantime, take care, travel safe and have safe fun!
Ann, The TravelSlut
INFO: groups.yahoo.com/group/KrewedeKrazyLifers4Hedonism
EMAIL:
TheTravelSlut@yahoo.com PHOTOS, ETC:
www.flickr.com/groups/hedonismresortgrouptrip
