Bill & Pam - January, 2010

Trip report, hedonism II Jan-Feb 2010

 

We booked the vacation trip with several friends last August, and had plenty of time to research “what to expect”   Having heard that “anything goes”, the logical question was “What did we get ourselves into?”.   An internet search led us to several sites, including DennyP’s, where all sorts of information abounds, some more confusing than helpful, but a good cross section nonetheless.

 

First, we were able to score a copy of Chris Santilli’s book, Truth about Hedo II (2nd ed) on ebay at a reasonable price, which was helpful.  At least we knew about the two sides of Hedo, and how not to act like a Vinny.  Also helpful was the lists of what to take, what to wear, and where to go.  These lists were closely scrutinized, so we didn’t over pack or under pack.  For all you 1st timers, what we learned was:  take extra SPF, as certain parts may not have had regular exposure to the sun, women’s shoes are “Oh so important”,  bubba mugs are a godsend, beach towels are not a problem, and whatever you might have missed is available at the resort, otherwise, you don’t need it.

 

On our way, the flights were uneventful.   Our “un-named” Airline hostesses were unfamiliar with Jamaican Customs declaration forms, and didn’t realize that each person entering Jamaica needed a customs form.  It was about a 15 minute delay getting through customs as a result; otherwise, the Jamaican customs personnel were efficient and kind.  Off to the SuperClubs desk – Welcome to Jamaica!  For those travelling from a winter climate, there was plenty of time to change into summer clothes at the airport.

 

SuperClubs check in was manageable, not a lengthy wait, but have your return trip info handy, as this is where they record your return flight data so they can plan your departure date and time.  Small suggestion here, had they made an online form available a day ahead of time, it might have been simpler, and then the check in process would be confirmation of the information.

 

The drive to Negril was as uneventful as any drive in Jamaica; the road construction just gave additional “passing” lanes through the area.  Several repeat visitors urged the driver to not stop for the requisite Red Stripe, the total drive was slightly over an hour.  If you are a nervous back seat driver, sit back, relax and watch the country pass by, you’re on vacation. 

 

Check-in at the front desk was no problem, mon.  Our room was ready, and better yet, an ocean view upgrade.  We unpacked, relaxed, and explored the resort and found our way to the main bar in the dining room.  We threw ourselves on the mercy of the bar hostess and said make us something good.  The result was a hummingbird – perfect to aid in finishing the afternoon.

 

Here’s our version of the bad; I can live with that; and the good to great about Hedo II:

 

The bad – We had to go home.  We didn’t think DIF was real.  It is.

 

I can live with that category:

 

The room was dated.  While clean, with a good A/C, and a most excellent shower (plenty of hot water, too), the room could have used some TLC.  Since we didn’t come to stay in the room all day, it was acceptable.

 

The temperature of the nude side hot tub – some nights it was tepid, others scalding.  I can appreciate the difficulty of managing that area… but temperature shouldn’t have been one of them.

 

Pastafari – Although we had a large group, the service was inattentive, and the A/C was not up to par.  We did mention this later on in the trip, so we’ll let it go at that.

 

The good to great:

 

As first timers, we didn’t know what to expect from the EC’s.  I think some of the posts that might seem critical of the EC’s is based on expectations, since we had none, they were good.  Our first night was beach party and bonfire night.  What a blast!  We had a great time, and won some Hedo bucks.  All the other evenings’ entertainment was equally fun – if that’s what you are into.

 

Food was good and plentiful – no complaints here.  The beach dining experience was great, no problems with sand fleas, ambient light or other issues. 

 

The atmosphere at Hedo II: Outstanding.  We are the luckiest – going in January, there was little restriction between prude and nude.  Thank goodness, or we’d have been in trouble… often. 

 

The staff – from our room attendant, to Sophie at guest relations…. Outstanding and helpful.  The tour desk made arrangements for us to go to Dunn’s River Falls, no problems mon!  The service in the main dining room, which had complaints voiced against it, was good. 

 

To all we met down in Jamaica – Hope to see you again soon!

 

Pam and Bill