As a journalist who has written for the Washington Post, People, New York Times Magazine, Travel & Leisure and USA Today on food, health, travel and business topics.
I recently traveled to Jamaica on assignment to cover the AAA 4 Diamond Rated Secret’s Wild Orchid quest to save the planet from climate change. The resort sits on a half mile of the Montego Bay peninsula, and is best known for its breathtaking sandy beaches, sparkling blue water and all-inclusive wining and dining that lure many repeat visits year after year.
Secrets also promote sustainability initiatives that subtly meet the needs of its guests without compromising those of future generations. Rising sea levels, higher carbon dioxide levels and plastic flooded landfills and oceans have spurred the adults-only resort to recycle and conserve without skimping on luxury accommodations, culinary and recreational activities.
Beaches, pools, seven onsite restaurants, eight bars, fitness center, shops, and lavish Secrets Spa by Pevonia are an easy walk. No vehicles are allowed on the property; for this, Secrets has received the Rainforest Alliance Certified™ award for ecosystem conservation, wildlife protection, fair treatment and good working conditions for workers, and been designated a Trip Advisor Platinum Eco Friendly Resort.
“Our mission is not to leave a big carbon footprint,” said Francois Lucchesi, Secret’s manager of environmental health and services who credits AM Resorts, the resort’s Philadelphia-based parent company for its inspiration. (Next door, sister hotels, the St. James and Breathless Montego Bay Resort, also are onboard.)
Green initiatives include: recycling paper, cardboard, batteries, cans, plastics and other high-energy products; energy-efficient motion detectors to control the lighting, air conditioning and fan; paperless iPad daily activity schedules; cards alerting housekeepers whether to change the linens, and used sheets and donating towels to nursing homes, hospitals and other needy community organizations.
Besides meeting its social responsibility to the environment, Secrets offers the best of amenities and much of it’s food is organic and locally sourced. The Preferred Club reservation package includes all food, premium beverages, 24-hour room service, international phone calls, Wi-Fi, and access to the Club Lounge and restaurants at next-door sister properties of St. James & Breathless resort where additional food and beverages are served throughout the day. Most fees and gratuities are part of the package. I recommend considering The Butler Service if you are accustomed to or simply enjoy the perks of having someone with the clout to get your needs and wants met at your beck and call.
The suites were newly renovated and the improvements show. My marble bathroom had a separate shower, water closet, and double vanity sinks with a sound speaker, recharge outlet and fine toiletries. Thanks to the open floor plan, I was able to watch the flat screen LCD-TV on the bedroom wall and listen to music while soaking in the jetted whirlpool tub with a choice of in my room or on the balcony overlooking the ocean view.
The staff was responsive to indulging my preferences. Matthew, the Preferred Club concierge, knew everyone by his or her first name and always asked how I was, while the desk staff suggested the many tourist attractions available.
The World Café was also a must. It has a two-room buffet brunch spread with dozens of appetizers; entrees, juices, breads and desserts and eggs, pancakes and waffles are made to order at two grilling stations. I understand that the award-winning table water sourced from the island’s rivers and streams is safe and it was absolutely delicious.
After brunch, I headed to the sedate members-only beach club before going over to lively St. James beach. The ocean temperature and gentle waves were made for uninterrupted laps, but body surfing demanded more heft.
My colleagues raved about the tasty marinated jerk chicken with a spicy hot pepper sauce served beachside. Red Stripe beer, a rich Jamaican lager that hails from Kingston, I heard it has a hint of sweet apples and sting, and is popular with the locals and tourists alike.
I love Jamaican rum drinks, especially O'Riley's and Sangster's rum cream, but needed a non-alcoholic libation to quench my thirst. As if my wish was his command, a coconut cart vendor pulled up on the path where I was standing beach side. The man used a single knife stroke to crack a coconut open and inserted a straw before handing it to me.
Sister property, Breathless Resort is an option of thrilling fun just a 3 minute walk away which two days a week they have “Sophisticated Pool Parties”.
The next morning, I took a nature walk with Elaine. The soft-spoken tour guide had a wealth of information about native tree species, tropical flowering plants and aquatic wildlife lead.
Secrets was the perfect eco-friendly getaway with easy access to the beach, dining, spa and entertainment--all an easy walk from my suite. The service was good and I enjoyed relaxing and meeting new people and learning about Jamaica’s commitment to sustainability.
Local Fare
In Sanskrit, coconut is dubbed kalpavriksha--the tree of heaven--as it is mostly edible and a sustainable staple for much of the world's population. The coconut shaped like a greenish bowling ball and just as heavy, one can happily sip on the watery liquid until it runs dry.
Native buffets are available on Sundays at the World Cafe. The country’s national dish--a sweet and tangy Ackee fruit and Saltfish dish-- was worth the wait!
Before You Go: Tips for Traveling without a Travel Agent
Dated passport? Fill out a DS-82, $60 expedite fee your MD State ID, proof of citizenship, airline ticket and passport photo for a same or next-day renewal. Apply at Washington Passport Agency, 600 19th St NW,DC 20005, 8:00 AM-3PM (877) 487-2778.
Airport express with Club Mobay: fast tracks VIP arrivals and departures through customs and immigration. Single privilege service: $30/adult, $20/child (2-12 years old). Bundle Service: $80/adult, $40/child (2-12 years old) http://www.vipattractions.com/page/services
Med alert: Pack aspirin, sunblock, bug spray and anti-itch cream to protect against the sun, sand fleas and mosquitoes.
FUNFACTS of JAMAICA
1. Has the most rum bars per square mile
2. Is the top consumer of cranberry per capita
3. Produces the most music per capita
4. Has the fastest runners on earth
5. Has the most Churches per square mile
6. The United Congregation of Israelites in 2020 celebrates 364 years of continuous Jewish worship in Jamaica