Grand Lido Braco, Jamaica, April 30 - May 10, 1999
First, a Word about All-Inclusive Resorts: My husband and I have enjoyed many trips to these "everything is included" resorts in the past. Without a doubt, we find these resort vacations to be the most relaxing of any type of trip. And. we know that there are no free lunches ... we know we've paid for these amenities up front. But, once we land, we don't worry about travel, be it taxi or rental car. Everything is in walking distance in the resort -- the pool, the ocean, entertainment, activities, the spa and gym, bars, disco and restaurants, too. My husband says it is nice to not have to dig in his pocket for his wallet every time we want a drink or a meal, this benefit that really enables him to relax--and when he is happy, I am happy. I find the pre-paid aspect of vacation quite nice because we tend to dine rather than simply eat ... when in doubt of our appetite we simply walk to the restaurants and check out menus, instead of driving around looking for a place that looks o.k. to both of us, then finally deciding on Arby's or McDonalds because at least those are reliable names. And price is never an issue, no need to wonder if one should risk the $75 per plate charge at a restaurant that one knows nothing about. Also, I find that room service coffee in most hotels is outrageously priced. Being a coffee addict, I'm appreciative of inclusive room service, where all one has to do in order to wake in the morning is to place a call and in 10 minutes or so a piping hot carafe of the hot stuff arrives. An instant eye-opener included in the deal! My husband doesn't even have to walk to the lobby to seek out the complementary pot of coffee for me.
One of the features of most all-inclusive resorts is that they are enclosed ... So, if one does not take the effort to get off-site, they may not experience the authentic feel of the country they are visiting. If this is a concern, Grand Lido Braco is an excellent choice. Modeled after a Jamaican settlement and loosely emulating Falmouth, an ocean-side city to the west, Grand Lido Braco is designed to give the feel of Jamaica within the spacious resort. The village set-up is so convincing, we found ourselves saying, "let's walk 'downtown' to see what is going on." With street vendors, an authentic Jamaican restaurant, a typical Jamaican dance hall, the beautiful water fountain in the 'town square,' Jamaican musicians and even a fruit lady who offers Caribbean fruits, the downtown feels Jamaican-ly charming. A Jamaican entree is even available at most every restaurant each day. Of course, the bars offer uniquely Jamaican beverages, as well as Caribbean and 'standard' beverages.
My Trip Report is a Facility Report: I have decided to give an updated version of the resort itself, not a play by play of our daily activities ... although I will share some of the unique amenities which we enjoyed.
So You Know What to Expect, From the Plane to the Resort: After arriving at of Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, immigrating and clearing customs, we were directed to the SuperClubs desk in the arrivals lobby. We were pleasantly greeted and our reservation confirmed. Baggage handlers watched our luggage while we waited outside for 15 minutes for our minibus to depart. Comfortably travelling east along the north coast of Jamaica, we rode an hour to arrive at Grand Lido Braco. The road going east is not nearly as pothole-infested as the one going west, toward Negril, and it is straighter, too! There were two other couples in the minibus headed for Grand Lido Braco.
The resort is nestled on the ocean in the Rio Bueno district in Trelawny Parish, just West of the Rio Bueno, where it is said Columbus found his first drink of fresh water in 1492.
Grand Lido's front gate is just off of the major road between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. After passing through the security gate, we rode through the 9-hole golf course, between the water reservoirs and small "lakes" that are a part of the property. On the east side of the main entrance road is the soccer field, which has served as training grounds for the Jamaican national team, the Reggae Boyz. Our minibus stopped in front of the Town Hall where a friendly bellman, Mike, helped us off the bus and gathered our bags. He walked us to the Town Hall desk for registration and check-in. We were greeted with what we have come to call "the Lido Welcome Home" which includes the traditional three forms (the credit card imprint form for incidental charges, the in-room safe information card, and the return flight confirmation form). We were offered a beverage and a cool cloth for wiping remnants of travel off our faces and hands. The Town Hall is home to the concierge, bellmen, and check-in/out and other administration functions for the resort.
FYI, a Bit about the Resort: My husband and I have enjoyed this property ... this was our third trip to Grand Lido Braco in a little over a year. While most observations are new, I am sure that this report will reflect some of the information gathered on the two previous trips. One thing is for sure, we enjoy the many personalities of Braco: lovely tropical paradise, light-hearted and playful, grand, erotic, gala, and even secluded or peaceful ... one can just pass from place to place and let the ambience of the surroundings and one's desires guide the spirit.
The resort itself opened originally in May 1995 as "Braco Village" with 180 gardenview, oceanview and beachfront rooms. Additionally, Grand Lido Braco property includes the buildings of a never-opened family resort (which would have been known as Braco-Pebbles). The family resort has been converted to an Au Natural section of the current Grand Lido Braco. SuperClubs took over the management of the entire property on June 15, 1997, and its official grand opening as Grand Lido Braco was on December 1, 1997. The Au Natural section has 52 rooms, each of which needed renovation from family-style to luxury suite. The resort rests on 86 acres and has over 2000 feet of beach. The architectural style is 18th Century Jamaican, called Georgian and Gingerbread.
The Suite: We were escorted to our suite, room 3027, a lower level deluxe suite on the Au Natural side of the resort. The suite was roomy with a decor of pastel yellows and purples and sandy-colored tile throughout. We entered into a large 'living room' with a lovely view of the beach, through the glass French doors is a patio with wooden beach chairs and a table. Amenities within the living room include a fold-out couch, a wet bar and refrigerator completely stocked with Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Ting, 7 Up, and Red Stripe, a coffee/tea maker with all the makings, a kitchenette table with chairs, a decorative corner desk, and a four-drawer television stand, TV, remote control, lamps, and a telephone. This portion of the accommodations has a small closet with iron and ironing board and a full bathroom.
The bedroom portion of the suite offers a large closet, a king-size bed with two nightstands, three lamps, a telephone, and a four-drawer dresser, a TV stand, and television (CNN, ESPN, TNT, USA, TBS, NBC, CBS, HBO, Cinemax and Jamaican TV) with remote. Another full bathroom is adjacent to the master bedroom.
Both bathrooms are plain, but immaculate and new with one sink, a large vanity and mirror, tile floors and walls, and a toilet, a shower/tub unit which includes in-shower dispensers of shampoo, shower gel and lotion. There are plenty of towels, an on-wall hair dryer, and soaps available in each bathroom.
Both rooms are extremely spacious and very clean with plenty of windows adorned with light concealing curtains. Other features worth mentioning are the tile floors, plenty of lights, two independently controlled air conditioning units and two ceiling fans, one of each in the living room side and for the bedroom portion of the suite. The flowering foliage outside of each window is lush and full of tropical color ... a colorful Caribbean view from every window. Overall, the room is cheerful, spacious and comfortable.
In-Room Information: Upon arrival, each couple is given a copy of the daily activity sheet, which includes a resort map, and the list of dining options. The in-room literature is a folder that has room service menus, breakfast "door hanger" room service menus, a fact sheet describing most of the amenities offered at Grand Lido Braco, plus the complementary dry cleaning/laundry information and forms. A TV channel guide is located by each TV remote control. Inter-resort phone directory and outgoing call directions are located on a card by each phone.
When additional information or assistance was required, we found the operator and front desk associates to be very helpful.
The Center of Town, Where the Action is: As previously mentioned, Grand Lido Braco mirrors a Jamaican seaside village. The center of 'town' is a beautifully landscaped water fountain circle, with the architecturally authentic Jamaican restaurants, bars and shops all in a close proximity to each other. Guests and workers use the "streets" around the fountain and throughout the downtown as oversized hallways, which are paved in a pseudo cobblestone. Streets approach the fountain from four directions … one from the north, south, east and west.
Let's take a Tour: If we were to guide someone through the town that is Grand Lido Braco, we would start with LaPasta, an Italian restaurant at the west side of the circle. LaPasta is an Italian open-air restaurant with a full pasta and pizza menu and an antipasto bar inside. While dining, the view of the fountain is warm and friendly. The ambience is casual and guests are seated and served on a first-come, first-served basis.
Next door, a bit north of due west, is the Bakery. All day long sweet treats, small sandwiches, beverages and coffee are available here. If one chooses to enjoy their sweet treat al fresco, they may do so on the open-air patio shared with LaPasta. Or, one may grab a snack and go.
The tour would continue in a clockwise fashion, headed further toward north, a staircase leads up to the entrance of Piacere, Grand Lido Braco's French restaurant.
If one were to take the 'road' north, they will almost always encounter an authentic Jamaican pastime right on the 'street': by day, street vendors show their carvings, bamboo instruments, jewelry; in the evening there may be musical entertainment or guys playing dominoes (a favorite Jamaican game).
Below the Piacere, but entering through a door in the street that runs due north of the fountain, is a small collection of slot machines. Just to the right of the casino (north) is the Entertainment Office. The Entertainment manager and her troupe of Activity Directors are based here. So, guests should either call or stop by this office with questions or concerns.
Passing further, through the casino, a door leads to an authentic Jamaican dance hall, creatively named 'the Disco.' It is dimly lit, dark, painted with Jamaican colors, the bar has a thatched roof over the top of it, and the music is loud.
Backing up to the street and further north, one can either walk directly into the main pool (straight ahead), or turn left to find the Victorian Market. Let's go left. An open-air walkway brings guest to the Victorian Market, the central dining room for breakfast and lunch buffets as well as fine a la carte dining in the evening. No reservations are ever required to eat here, and there is a smoking and a non-smoking seating section. For the most part, seats are configured in groups of two or four, although there were a few tables with seating for eight. The staff seemed happy to help with special group seating arrangements. The feel is that of a pavilion, with high wooden vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans, crashing waves in full view and a stage and dance floor in the center, the Victorian Market is a pretty place to dine.
Passing through the Victorian Market, walking directly west and taking a few steps outside, one approaches the entrance to MunaHana, the resort's new Japanese restaurant. MunaHana offers a variety of sushi and Japanese menu items.
Just beyond the MunaHana entrance is the open-air gym overlooking the ocean shore. Fully equipped with free weights, professional Cybex training equipment, steps, treadmills, bikes, and more, the equipment in this gym makes my health club's look like toys. Ceiling fans, a grand view of the Caribbean and piped-in tunes give the gym the required surroundings for sweat. A steam and sauna room is available. We had heard that the gym might soon be enclosed and air-conditioned.
Passing through the gym, guests find the Spa Office, which is also accessible via the road running due west of the fountain at city center. The Spa offers a host of services, here is a summary: Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage, back and neck massage and reflexology--Seaweed, essential oil, pure aloe and paraffin body wraps--Aroma salt, seaweed, louffa and tropical body polishes--Many types of facials, body waxing, manicures and pedicures, paraffin treatments for the feet and hands--A full range of hair care services is offered, including: Trim, Styling, Cut, Shampoo & Set, Shampoo & Blow Style, Deep Conditioning, Hair Relaxing, and Braiding--Packages are available, too. For a complete menu of spa items, please visit our web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
Back to the Tour! Backing up to the main pool (just before the entrance of Victoria Market) again ... No other word but "Wow" comes to mind. Facing north, with the Victoria Market to the left and the fountain directly behind, one sees the immense main pool facility. With an oversized, covered swim-up bar in the center, an oversized deck with plenty of seating, a nearly full-size water volleyball court, a bridge from the beach-most section of the Victoria Market, the pool rivals any seen at water parks domestically. Beyond the main pool lies the sandy beach. In addition to seating, there are plenty of towels available poolside. This is the center of activity during the day with music, vendors, fun and games; it certainly is where the action is.
Now, looking to the right (east), one will see a cobblestone walkway that runs adjacent to the pool deck, perpendicular to the north/south road. This road leads first to the White Gaulin, the main bar, on the corner the walkway and the (north/south) 'road.' The White Gaulin is named for the white 'cow birds' seen throughout the countryside of Jamaica. A large bar inside services the inside and outside tables, as well as the piano bar and lounge (adjacent to the bar on the side closest to the fountain in the center of town). The piano keys are usually being tickled around 11:00 each evening for a sing-along ... an extremely popular place to be at that time of night.
Continuing down the cobblestone walkway, just beyond the large main bar is a lounge, featuring Karaoke on some nights.
During the day the cobblestone walkway has Jamaican vendors selling woodcarvings, Jamaican dolls, paintings and jewelry.
Finally, just before the walkway veers down to the sand beach around the eastern side of the pool deck, and off to the guest suites, one finds Nanny's Jerk Pit -- boasting some of the best Jamaican cuisine on the island. The restaurant is covered, but open air and the decor is authentically Jamaican, right down to the chalk board menu hanging on a bamboo post. Nanny's is open from 11 AM to 6 PM.
To continue the tour, let's go back to the city center, the fountain. We've already gone nearly half way around (clockwise), starting in the west with LaPasta ... around to the northeast to the piano bar. Now, directly east of the fountain stands the Courthouse. This building serves as special meeting and function space. The steps of the Courthouse serve as the stage for the Friday night street dance.
A road leads off to the east on the south side of the Courthouse separating it from the Town Hall. That road leads to the "residential part of town," the blocks of guest suites ... More on that later.
Again, the Town Hall, southeast of the fountain, is where all guest services and transactions take place. The concierge and front desk manager, along with the bellmen, handle requests and questions with ease. Chelsea Galleries, a Kingston-based art gallery has a very limited collection of artwork for sale here and at the Courthouse.
The main entrance to the village called Grand Lido Braco is on the Southernmost end of the 'street'. Here, there are bellman waiting to assist guests, and there is a second entrance to the Town Hall for arriving guests.
Leaving the Town Hall and crossing the 'street' that runs to the south of the fountain, a two-level string of shops offer duty-free shopping, souvenirs and toiletries. Here is what you'll find: toiletries and health & beauty aides; souvenirs of all kinds, cigars, coffee, Jamaican cassettes and CDs, duty free shopping, logo embellished items, lots of "Bob Marley" "Irie" and "No Problem" gizmos; emergency clothing and swimsuits for the 'lost suitcase'; lots of jewelry and fine collectibles in the duty-free shop.
Before finishing the walk around the fountain and returning to LaPasta, there is one more street running to the west of the city center. Taking a left down that road, to the west, one will find a dive shop with swimsuits and water/diving paraphernalia. Further to the west is the Nurse's Station and medical center available to guests at no charge. The resident nurse is very helpful. We had a friend who was having a bit of trouble with his ear. The nurse came at all hours to administer required medications for him over a period of three days. The Nurse's Station is not excessively stocked with medications, so if one has a medical condition or a recurring problem, plan for it and pack appropriate pharmaceuticals. I have heard that, when required, a doctor will be called to assist guests, although there is a charge for this service.
Above the Dive Shop and Nurse's Station, is the Spa Salon. Accessible by an outside stairway, it is at the Salon that complementary pedicures and manicures are performed, although appointments are to be made at the Spa Office. Also available for a fee are special paraffin and seaweed treatments for the hands and feet, and hair braiding and styling. I took the time to have the complementary pedicure and manicure. The Spa Salon is one of many areas that has dramatically improved over the course of the last year. The staff here is very friendly, outgoing and well trained. One should book their complementary appointments a few days ahead of time because many men and women opt to take advantage of these services so, at times, the schedule books up. My toes and fingers never looked so lovely.
If one continues on the 'road' west, they will pass the Spa and Gym Offices, to the right. Further down is the Au Natural beach/pool/sleeping unit complex.
The Au Natural Section: Two large buildings housing the guest suites separate the pool area, to the south, from the beach to the north. Said to be Jamaica's largest swimming pool, this is a virtual water playground. Its unique layout features a covered swim-up bar, a beach-sloped entry, stepped entries, a bridge, a covered 'island pavilion,' and a vast pool deck. There are two whirlpools, one seems to be enough to seat 30 – 40 people comfortably, and the other is about a six-person hot tub removed from the main pool area and separated by plantings. There are many, many chairs, tables and chaises all around the pool and there are more than enough floats/cushions and towels to go around. It seemed as though there was water volleyball being played all afternoon long here. The unique pool and pool deck setup offers shade as well as direct sunlight while in the water or sitting poolside. Around 1:30 each day there is a planned activity on near the pool. Information regarding Au Natural and general daily activities is posted on a chalkboard near the pool bar each morning.
In addition to the swim-up section of the Au Natural pool bar, guests may enjoy beverages and short order lunches at the covered pool bar pavilion. This, of course, is a gathering point on this side of the resort. The bartenders and cooks are outgoing, friendly and helpful -- even entertaining.
The sleeping unit complex runs parallel to the beach and separates the beach from the pool area. On the ocean or north side there are spacious private balconies. Open-air hallways connect rooms for entry on the pool side (south) of the building.
Many available chaises and chairs speckle the Au Natural beach. A man-made breakwater of boulders keeps the surf breaking at a distance off shore. While beautiful, it creates a natural barrier for safe swimming and floating. The crashing waves are a site to behold. I found it difficult to walk on the beach, the sand is so soft one's feet dig in; So, walking the beach made for a great workout.
Regarding behavior on the Au Natural side of the resort: No photography is allowed here. In addition, we were told by many managers that inappropriate/explicit behavior is not tolerated. Guests who partake inappropriate/explicit behaviors will be asked to 'take it to their room.' If behavior happens again, guests will be driven to the airport or relocated to a different resort -- no refunds. To quote one top manager, "What happens in the public areas of the resort affects other guests so it is my business, what happens in the guest suites is the guests' business."
Also available on the Au Natural side of the resort is a lit tennis court.
On the western most point of the Au Natural side is a pleasant, open Clubhouse offering the room service menu, a bar, ping pong, pool and open-air dining.
The Main Suites Room Block: Backing up to the downtown area again ... The road between the Town Hall and the Courthouse, as well as one continuing east from Nanny's, paves the way to the Main Suites Room Block. Here there are 180 units that comprise the sleeping rooms for the original Braco Village resort. Cleverly painted in pale colors and carrying an architectural theme called Georgian & Gingerbread, these twelve to twenty-four unit blocks are nearly as beautiful as the lavish foliage that surrounds them. With their unpredictable architectural elevations, the units are situated in two rows, one adjacent to the length of beach, and the other row of units running parallel tot he beach but on the south side of the oceanfront buildings. Garden view rooms have a spectacular view -- the gardener's handiwork and Mother Nature's glory. Beachfront and ocean view rooms have a superior view of the ocean, with beachfront rooms being accessible to the beach by a set of patio doors and a pair of sandals. Available on this side of the resort are two tennis courses; one is lit.
The Main Beach: The Main Beach lies directly north of the Main Pool area and is spacious and clean. It spans (about) a quarter mile east until it hits the Clubhouse at the property line. Waves crash against the manmade breakwater about a hundred yards from the sandy shore. This breakwater creates more than a safe place to swim, but also a harbor for the safety of the watersports equipment. The sand is coarse and colored pale rosy white. Plenty of cozy beach chaises, floating cushions and shade umbrellas are situated neatly on the clean sand. A volleyball court seemed to be in use all the time with random games going on, and a few scheduled ones with activity directors leading the teams in fun. A Clubhouse, with full bar and full room service menu is on the eastern most end of the property. Situated on the beach, east of any building including the furthest of the guest suite complexes, the Clubhouse offers a hot tub. It is airy, tidy and the service was great -- a nice place to drink in the Caribbean sunlight, and a beverage of course.
Water Sports: Complementary SCUBA diving, wind surfing, sailing, snorkeling and water-skiing. Free lessons are provided for beginner SCUBA diving. PADI Certification is provided at additional cost. The water sports headquarters is a thatch-roofed pavilion on the main beach. The watersports guys are friendly, laid back and helpful.
Activities: If guests want to be busy, they sure may ... A partial list of activities follows: Morning Power Walk, Tennis and Golf Lessons, Aquacise, Pool Volleyball, Scavenger Hunt, Beach Volleyball, Pool Tournament, Reggae Aerobics and Abs Gym, Fortune Reading - US $10 & US $20, Sing-a-long, Music Trivia, Reggae Dance Class, Soccer, Aerobics, Pianist entertains, Crab Racing - US $3 per bet, Botanical Tour, Pool Olympics, Exotic Fruit Tasting, International Trivia Pool Side, Jamaican Cooking, Fishing, Karaoke Drink Mixology, Soca Aerobics, "Dare T Be Bare" Pajama Party, Jamaican History Class, Jamaican Trivia Quiz, Table Tennis Tournament, Weight Training, Domino Tournament, Nature Hike Lobby, Craft Class, Pool Tournament, Chat Jamaican Class .... and more
Dining Options: The Victorian Market. Dress for this restaurant is very casual by day, as many come in from the beach or pool deck to have a light meal. Shorts and/or appropriate cover-ups are required; shoes and tops are required of all. The buffet lines have cold tables and hot tables, keeping food at appropriate food temperatures for safe eating. The buffet lines are cheerfully colored in ceramic tile.
7:30 - 10:30 AM Victoria Market Breakfast Buffet: No reservations. Hot buffet line offers: waffles, pancakes, French toast, scrambled eggs or eggs Benedict, omelets made to order, sausages and bacon, breakfast potatoes, and Jamaican breakfast foods. The bread display includes: sweet breads, breakfast rolls, muffins, and toast-able breads and bagels. Also available: fresh fruits, yogurt, breakfast cereals and milk, hot breakfast cereal. Coffee, tea, and juice are served at the table. Appropriate condiments are available for everything.
12:30 - 3:00 PM Victoria Market Lunch Buffet: No reservations. Buffet menu is different every day, but always includes an extensive hot food line (Chinese, Jamaican, German, Mexican, etc.) The buffet includes: many types of salads: green, pasta, seafood and vegetable; sandwich ingredients like cold cuts, cheeses, vegetables with condiments; fruit and vegetable display; soup du jour; a Jamaican food item or two; a huge bread display; and the most awesome dessert display ever. Coffee, tea, wine, juices and full bar service offered at the table. Appropriate condiments are available for everything available.
Musical Note: Two out of three trips, we got lucky! An extremely gifted traveling quintet of Cuban string players performed each day at lunch every day and Saturday at dinner. The ensemble, called "Fantasia," consists of three violins, a cello and a bass, with one of the violinists trading in his strings for a clarinet occasionally -- breathtaking performances.
Evening dining, a la carte in the Victorian Market: In the evening, Victorian Market is a little dressier, perhaps considered sporty casual. Men seemed to wear dressy shorts or casual pants and collared shirts. Women were wearing casual dresses, skirts or dressy shorts with dress tops or casual blouses. The food is beautifully presented and there is a great variety of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
Piacere: Dinner seating is from 6:30 - 9:30 nightly, except Friday. Reservations are required, reserve with the concierge. Required attire is a semi-formal jacket, long pants and leather non-sneaker shoes for men … dresses are appropriate for the ladies. The décor is an elegant, dim Caribbean floral. Separate waiters carry out separate service functions: water, wine, cocktail, and food. White-gloved service is elegant and impeccable. We heard nothing but raving reviews by the guests we spoke to about the food quality and the level of service provided in the French restaurant. Menu includes a selection of appetizers, soups, salads, sorbet palate cleanser, entrée and dessert. There is no smoking allowed in the Piacere, although guests may have a between-course smoke on the terrace overlooking the city center. The diverse menu includes, appetizers, soups, salads, homemade sorbet or granite, entree, and last but not least dessert. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
MunaHana: The Japanese cuisine restaurant is open nightly, except Friday and Wednesday. As far as attire, upscale casual is appropriate, meaning neither ties nor jackets are required. Required reservations may be made with the concierge. Dining guests are entertained as they watch their table's chef preparing and cooking selected menu items at the table. Portions are small, quality is excellent. The menu includes an assortment of nigiri and rolled sushi, salad, soup, and an entree followed by dessert. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
Nanny's Jerk Pit offers authentic Jamaican cuisine from 11 AM to 6 PM daily: No reservations. Authentic Jamaican atmosphere. Attire is very casual (cover ups and shoes required). I walked by during the day at several different times and it seemed as though this was, with exception of the clubhouses, the most casual dining atmosphere among the resort restaurants. The jerk is great! The jerk burger may require a fire extinguisher! A typical day at Nanny's features pumpkin soup; many specials like stew beef with rice, jerk chicken & pork, jerk burger, cocoabread, vegetable loaf; and grilled beef, chicken and vegetable. Also regularly on the menu are roast yam, breadfruit, sweet potatoes. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at:
http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
LaPasta, noon until 2:00 AM: No reservations. During the day casual attire is the norm with a switch to dressy casual in the evening. A wide selection of antipasti and salads is displayed inside the restaurant. Diners receive freshly roasted garlic bread and their choice of soup, pasta, and pizza. Dessert is offered at the Bakery, next door, and diners may personally select the most appealing from among a display of goodies in the showcase. Ice cream, coffee, tea and espresso is also available. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
Room service: We found room service to be consistent and quick, taking only 10 minutes for a pot of coffee and a half hour for a meal. Room Service Continental "Door Hanger" selections include basket of oven-fresh croissants to full breakfasts and plenty of a la carte items from which guests may select. Clubhouses and main room service menu includes things like snacks: BBQ buffalo chicken wings; nacho chips; stuffed potato skins. Also on the menu are soup of the day, salads, several hot and cold sandwiches, entrees like Grand Lido-famous lamb chops, and quite a few lovely looking (and tasting) desserts. For a complete menu listing, readers may visit our travel web site at: http://members.aol.com/scharpfy/private/travel/homepage.html
Friday Night Jamaica Street Dance Dinner (7 PM) / Jamaica Street Dance (9 PM): This is the biggest event of the week at Grand Lido Braco. Cross your fingers to keep the rain away, and be prepared for an all-out party. The street is decked out with bistro tables covered in linen. Trees are lit. Food is served from everywhere around the fountain in the city center. After one has dined and dined and dessert-ed, the partying of a Jamaican street dance begins. Try not to miss this event because it is beautiful, charming and a great time, too!
Wednesday Night Beach Party (7 PM): This is another excellent evening event and offers the most outstanding entertainment of the week right on the main beach. An island buffet is set up along the rosy sand, tables seem to outnumber shells on the beach, and then there is the show ... contortionists, fire eater, singers, folk dancers, and more. The ceiling of stars is one you'll never see at home.
Bars: There are eight bars to choose from ... Two clubhouses; the main "White Gaulin" bar; two pool bars; the Disco bar; Victoria Market; and MunaHana. Each bar serves top-shelf alcohol, however the guest must specify top-shelf brand names, or call brand liquor will be served. Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Ting, 7 Up and Diet 7 Up are available in the bars, too. Although Red Stripe is the authentic Jamaican beer that is normally served at the resort, domestic beer is available at times -- we saw Miller Lite.
Golf: Grand Lido Braco offers a nine-hole executive golf course, par three. Green fees are complimentary, but there is a rental fee for clubs. To golf, simply walk out to the clubhouse. Also, Grand Lido Braco provides complimentary transportation and green fees at Breezes Runaway Golf & Beach Hotel. It is an eighteen-hole world-class course about twenty minutes east of Grand Lido Braco. Guests pay for caddy and equipment rental. Reservations are made through the concierge’s desk.
Fishing: Grand Lido Braco has two ponds on property for fishing, one named "Fun Fishing," and the other "Fishing at Sea." Sticks and baits are available by contacting the entertainment office. Fish that are caught will be prepared for guests at Nanny’s Jerk Pit, unless fishers wish to practice catch-and-release or give the fish to a favorite employee.
Cynthia, the Fruit Lady: Singin' and sharing fruit, that is this woman's job description. A kind Jamaican woman menders the grounds in her peasant costume (and 20th Century Nikes) with a basket of fruit for the sampling. I enjoyed Jamaican Jackfruit for the first time ever, what a great, unique flavor. I also I indulged in lots of fresh coconut. She sings folk music in a smooth, robust voice at your request.
The Strolling Trio: Three elderly gentlemen, calling themselves the "Golden Airs Mento Band," stroll and play Jamaican folk tunes on a guitar, a banjo and a very unique instrument that provides the bass for the ensemble. We enjoyed renditions of "Yellow Bird" "Shame and Scandal" "Big Bamboo" as well as others. Their costumes are bright, their music has a great beat, and their dispositions are heartwarming. They have a tape for sale for $US 10.00, fun keepsake.
Weddings: There are a couple of weddings each day at Grand Lido Braco. Most couples are married either among the gardens or in the wedding gazebo that is gracefully positioned on a rocky walkway to the beach breakwater. Grand Lido Braco, as with all SuperClubs, offers complementary wedding arrangements. The weddings include the presiding minister, flowers for the bride and groom, a cake and champagne. Photos are available at an extra charge. For further information, because my information is truly limited, contact the Wedding Coordinator at the resort.
My random thoughts about the resort:
Wines: If one is a connoisseur of fine wines, don't be disappointed when $US 80 or $US 100 bottles are not being served (do the math; the economics just is not there). The wines that are served are acceptable, not raving. So, if that aspect of vacation is critical to your happiness, pack a bottle of the stuff in your luggage. Otherwise, try a few different wines until you find one you like, and then remember the name of your favorite. I could always find a wine that was more than suitable and had no complaints. Remember, top shelf cognacs are available, too.
Healthy Menu Items: Grand Lido Braco has gone through the rigors of noting healthier food choices on its menus, items lower in fat and calories. There are usually a few menu items from which to select. I was happy to choose from those items, occasionally, so I did not feel quite as guilty about having dessert with every single meal while on vacations.
Spa: The spa is simply an excellent addition the list of guest services. I am happy to pay a little additional money to assure a superior treatment. If a massage is what is needed to relax your body, indulge! I enjoyed the indulgence package and my husband enjoyed four 1 1/2 hour-long massages. The women who work in the spa are very professional and respect your modesty. I recommend a treatment or two.
Restaurants: Honestly, the day we departed I couldn't eat another bite of anything if I tried. The food quality is great. The selection is excellent. I enjoyed the meals at Grand Lido Braco immensely.
Foliage: The grounds are beautifully kept. Lavish greenery and perfumed bursts of floral brights dazzle the senses. The view of the ocean from one's room has stiff competition in the beauty of the manicured island vegetation. Can't congratulate the grounds keeping staff enough ... what an amazing difference a year makes when it comes to growth of tropical plantings. From May of 98 when the greenery, especially on the west side of the resort, was short and sparse, to now, as the vegetation has flourished and is hardy, lavish and dense. Beautiful! I watched grounds workers raking leaves out of the shrubbery surrounding the building we stayed in, each and every day. In addition, the grounds are kept clean. One can tell the workers are proud of their resort because there is virtually no litter anywhere, not even brown leaves lying on the ground. Salute!
Wonderful Weather: We were really fortunate with regard to weather. Every day the sun shone brightly all morning. In the early afternoon random clouds would roll in, progressively thickening throughout the afternoon. One two occasions we had showers late in the afternoon, and then a quick switch to clear skies for evening.
Floating Fun: My favorite aspect of this most recent trip to Grand Lido Braco was simply floating on a chaise cushion ... the pool water temperature was perfect for spending hour after hour floating, chatting and sipping blended fruit punch. Heaven on Earth!
Housekeeping: Or experience is that maid service and turndown is timely, complete, and the gals seem pleasant. We had hibiscus scattered throughout the room and beautiful towel sculptures on our beds after turndown service.
Pack Lightly: I am finally getting smart and packing more lightly, I have learned to use laundry and dry cleaning services we have paid for with our room.
Seating and Towels: There seemed to be an abundance of beach towels and beach chairs/chaises everywhere. No need to get up early to mark a chair with a towel or book at this resort.
Return Flight Confirmation: The day before guests are scheduled to depart, the resort confirms the flight numbers you wrote down on the day you arrived and a front office person slips a return flight confirmation under your door. This note lets guests know when to have bags packed and outside of the suite door for bellmen to pick up (usually three hours prior to flight departure time). Plus, it informs guests of the time their taxi/minibus is scheduled to leave the resort (usually two hours prior to flight departure time). Reality hits, you must return to work to earn the cash pay for your next trip ... Bummer!
Don't Forget to Relax: While the pace of the island's music is upbeat, the pace of its people is sometimes slow. One of the beautiful aspects of the island is its pace, however any strength carried to an extreme becomes a weakness. Jamaicans, at times, push that limit. However, by deciding to enjoy the slower pace of the island, and by making 'slowing down' an integral part of the vacation psyche, the speed of anything should not phase you. Relax, slow down, and enjoy.
One Final Note: What great strides this resort has made in just a year's time! Last year, I had a few issues with the level of service provided, and I felt there was work that needed to be done to bring Grand Lido Braco up to, what I call, "Lido Standards." Now, Grand Lido Braco has raised the bar for all-inclusive resort service and amenities, in addition to offering far superior accommodations and activity options. I can't wait to get back there; our ten days just flew by. Maybe we'll go for two weeks next time!