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I just visited the RIU Montego Bay for not only my own family vacation but to check out the facilities for destination wedding groups as well, especially since this 4.5* property is very easily accessible (only about 10 minutes from the airport) and is one of the less expensive properties of its class in Jamaica (translation: good deals to be had and most guests should be able to find it affordable).
The hotel property is large but it is not unmanageable (I have been to properties where you literally need a shuttle system to get around!). You could easily go from one end to the other in a few minutes. It’s quite well laid out around the central massive pool… which is actually two pools side by side.
The beach is decent – there is the occasional Jamaican vendor paddling by in his canoe trying to sell something but it wasn’t annoying and they weren’t pushy. Several friends have also been to the RIU and raved (!!!) about the Jerk Hut on the beach whee you can go for jerk chicken and all the fixins through lunchtime.
We had a standard room which was perfectly fine, no issues.
There are three a la carte restaurants on property (reservations required) specifically a steakhouse, the Asian restaurant and the Italian restaurant. The buffet, which is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner was massive and offered one of the best selections that I have ever seen.
Now in terms of having your destination wedding at the RIU MoBay, the onsite coordinator is Christina. The RIU offers four different packages to choose from (including one free one!); visit www.weddingsbyriu.com for more complete details. These are standard packages offered at many of the RIU properties throughout the Caribbean, not just in Montego Bay.
All packages include:
- RIU wedding coordinator
- Decoration and set up
- Reception dinner at one of the specialty restaurants
- CD or recorded music for the ceremony
- Bridal bouquet and matching boutonniere
- Sparkling wine during the main toast
- Wedding cake
There are two locations to choose from. For smaller groups, there is the beachfront gazebo:
For larger groups, they will use the plaza area and set up the chairs accordingly:
Here is another shot of the plaza from a different angle:
Wedding photography is provided by Best Images who are the onsite photographers at the RIU MoBay. Michael Sondern is the head photographer. Their website is www.photoshopjamaica.com
All in all this is a solid resort with something for everyone. It is definitely worth considering for your destination wedding in Jamaica.
