Hedonism II Trip Report - Paul & Sue: December, 2022

December 3-10, 2022

WET WILD AND WICKED GROUP

First, thanks, DennyP and all the contributors to his website - reports, forums, reviews, etc. Got some great tips even though these Hedo virgins were not new to Jamaica.

Will try to call out by name those we found most memorable, though by no means anywhere near all! To Steven we first met at the main pool bar (though we learned he bartends everywhere!), thanks for the first warm welcome. One short chat with you and we were reminded why we love JA. To Sanoy and Wayne in Harrysan, shout out for service and genuine smiles even though our table was the last of your busy day. We were surely not treated as an afterthought and our dinner was terrific! Richard, thanks for the patois lesson each time you saw hubby and me. We won’t forget! Charlton, thanks for the warm sendoff - you made us smile even as we frowned, loading the bus back to MBJ. 

Food? Definitely something for everyone. If it looks intriguing, try it! Surprised to see the executive chef standing buffet-side, answering questions and asking for feedback about his dishes. Loved that paella, chef! First-night dinner at Flame was excellent. That intimate setting was a perfect low-key start after a long travel day. Didn’t get to try Pastafari, and missing it was my only food disappointment. Welcomed the afternoon iced-coffee pick-me-up at the espresso bar.

Property is dated but very clean. Grounds are immaculate. Housekeeping staff was right on top of any request - got a random call from staff Ryan F., asking for feedback. Made the suggestion that a softer mattress  might be nice, and voila - next room turnover meant I had a mattress pad for the bed. I’m not a fan of the provided shower gel/lotion, but they are plentiful if you are in need. Some lost power for a time one afternoon, but none complained that we heard. All part of the laid-back vibe we love. Even vendors on the beach were not high-pressure.

Friends recommended lobster man (Fireman) and his bar/grill off-property. Easy walk, and interesting to see a glimpse of some of the resorts nearby. Great food, and welcoming vibe. Eye-opening glimpse into a local place.

Disappointed we didn’t learn more names of entertainment staff. Super talented, super sexy, all! Winston is a treat you may not expect, but won’t forget. Kudos to all the nude pool happy hour staff. Your skill in steering and enjoyment of that party scene was fun to share.

Best tips we found:
Do bring insulated mugs (though they need not be giant). Same for ziplock bags. 
Do bring meds for just-in-case. Had to buy extra cold medicine and it was crazy expensive.
(Flip side of that = if you don’t want to carry extra sunscreen, you get it there, but it’ll be pricey.)
Do try the nude beach/pool. Be brave. You’ll meet amazing folks who don’t judge.
Do take advantage of group intros, etc. Being our first trip with Denny, we wish we had participated more up front.
Don’t stress about what to wear (or not wear!). Some dress to the nines for dinner, but definitely not all. 
Same for costumes. Fun to see what guests do with the theme nights, but no pressure to participate. 
Recommend bringing your fav shampoo/conditioner/body wash, etc. Whatever makes you feel sexy and at ease.

Hard to capture our pleasure in the week, in just being part of the Hedo vibe and meeting so many great people. We didn’t take advantage of most of the activities, as our goal was a gloriously lazy week, and we achieved that. Best part of Hedo? Freedom. You can do, see, eat, drink anything, BE anyone you want, and hopefully take a little of that home with you. Thanks and much love, H2, JA and DennyP. Virgins no more. We’ll be back.

Paul & Sue