Dan - January, 2014
To begin with Ambiance was about half the price of Hedo. Ours was actually a
little less than half and everyone that we spoke to had gotten deals pretty
similar to ours. The internet rack rates seem to be way higher than this
property can be booked for, and if I was honest I don't think that we would
have thought it very good value at those prices. But at half the price of
Hedo it was superb value.
Ambiance was underwhelming as we entered the property. It looks like it is
maybe a 1960's vintage. I could see it having been a real hopping place back
then since the layout is really conducive to a good party. Beach people may
not like it because there is only the smallest of man-made beaches, but...
we are beach people and we still loved it. There is a nude beach, a prude
beach, and a clothing optional pool. Everything is easily accessible since
the property isn't that big. I think there might be 80-90 rooms but I never
checked.
One great thing is that every room has either a patio or balcony. And the
views are all good -- either a pool view that also looks out on the sea or a
beautiful garden view that also looks out at the sea. Second floor rooms
will give you the views. Balconies and patios are pretty large with tables
and chairs.
The rooms themselves are large, much larger than at Hedo, about like Grand
Lido rooms. And while they are older carribean furnishings they are spotless
and everything works. Did miss the Hedo mirrors though. Bathrooms are about
the size of Hedo's and were well supplied with towels and sundries.
Food while we were there was pretty good. But we're not fussy. I'd say it
was about like Hedo used to be last year and a lot of people seemed to
complain about that. It never bothered us. But with Hedo's recent upgrades
in the food department Ambiance can't compare to it. But it was totally fine
for us. And some things were actually outstanding... best in the world cream
cheese tarts, great fish and grill offerings.
The booze selection was very limited... mostly bar brands... definitely not
top shelf stuff. But the bar staff more than made up for the booze quality.
In fact, the entire staff was fantastic. We love the staff at Hedo and have
many good friends among them, but the staff at Ambiance is unbeatable. Keep
in mind though... it is Jamaica... and they have that easy going, no problem
attitude. They joke around a lot and are very playful. I have a feeling that
this playfulness is misinterpreted by some guests that have reviewed on
other websites. Our experience is that some first-time travelers to Jamaica
mistake this playful culture for harassment.
Back to the underwhelming entry to the property... When we first arrived at
Ambiance we weren't sure about it. By the end of our first day we thought
our three days would be just about right. By the end of the second day we
were sure that we could have easily stayed for a week. And by the end of our
third day we didn't want to leave at all. The place grew on us hourly.
Ambiance is definitely no Hedo! There is no party life. But they try hard
with a great house band in the evenings and some enthusiastic EC's. If
you're looking for the wild party don't look here. But if you're looking for
a place to go for a super quiet time as either a single or a couple and want
excellent value, we'd highly recommend it. We do love the Hedo party and
we're lifestylers so we will keep going back there. But this would be a
great place for a small lifestyle takeover or even a great place to go with
a small group of couples that could make their own party. The management is
trying to sell the place as a lifestyle-friendly resort but without some
synergy it really isn't happening.
So here's our recommendations... If you want a party, bring some friends
with you; if you want quiet, laid back, real Jamaican experience, go here;
if you are fussy about food or drinks, this probably isn't your place; ask
for a second floor room and you'll have a great view; don't expect too much
here, and you'll fall in love with the place!
r and d
