Hedonism III, October 30 thru November 7, 1999, This was my first trip to Hedonism, or any all inclusive resort. I have been on several Carnival Cruises. After the wonderful experience I had, I doubt I will ever cruise again.
Rooms: We arrived at the resort at approximately 12:00 pm, and it took approximately 4 1/2 hours to get our room. I was traveling with a male friend and they were only able to provide one king-sized bed. We were able to change to two singles the following day. Since I expected the accommodations to be a problem based upon previous trip reports, it didn't bother me. Travelers should be prepared to relax at the pool while their rooms are being prepared. Toni worked hard to satisfy our requests of a new room and her smile and friendly attitude was a plus. The luggage appears to be safe out front of the resort with the numerous employees in the area. The rooms are beautiful! Sorry, still no shower curtains or hair dryers.
Singles: I met a beautiful South American woman the evening I arrived and had a wonderful time with her throughout the week. She will be visiting me in Virginia for Thanks Giving!!!! There are a few more single guys than ladies, but if you are at least average looking, you will have no problem with the ladies. I met one single guy who had been to Hedo II four times and this was his first experience at Hedo III. He didn't get laid there either. Sorry sap, this is certainly the exception. Of course, the women at Hedo III have absolutely no problem finding a man.
Piano Bar: While I enjoyed the piano bar on several occasions, I was not impressed with its layout. When you enter, the bar is approximately five feet high and there is no view of the actual piano player. Seating is limited and it is almost impossible to find a seat which provides a clear view of the performer. I believe it is important for a piano player and the audience to develop a relationship, and this is difficult. This was only a minor concern to me since I didn't plan to go to Hedo III to relax to piano music.
Disco: The Jamaican employees at the disco will make sure everyone has a good time. If someone is alone, they will pay special attention to them. I would suggest that the employees give a friendly nod to the gentleman when asking his lady to dance. My lady was approached several times by the same employee while my arm was around her. A friendly smile and nod toward me would have been courteous, but than maybe that's just me. Garnette seemed to understand this concept. Nudity is acceptable in this area when in the spirit of the evenings theme.
Nude Pool: The nude pool is no place for a saint after 2:00 am. I stopped by for a beer on Saturday night and witnessed a four-guy two-girl show. I'm not complaining mind you.
Diving: I had never been diving before and took the crash course with Anne-Marie. She and her staff are true professionals and I felt safe and secure even when nearly 40 feet underwater in the presence of a 6-foot Nurse Shark. I would certainly recommend this! It is included with your resort cost and they even offer a three-day certification course.
Your Health: Although the resort is modern, visitors should realize they are in a third-world country. If you get hurt, don't expect the specialized hospital treatment as provided in the U.S. A group of people I was hanging out with ordered eight Bob Marley shots and the bartender proceeded to set a portion of the bar on fire with alcohol in the spirit of the festive moment. Unfortunately, the fire was swept onto a guest by an employee who was attempting to extinguish it. I swatted at the flames several times as she ran from the area and received very minor burns on my hand and arm. Fortunately, Julio, a hero/guest, was present and tackled her and extinguished the flames with his body. The resort had no stretcher to carry the victim and it took nearly an hour for an ambulance to arrive. I spoke with a family practicioner/guest of the resort who stated another guest fractured her wrist and was provided motrin by the hospital, when she should have been prescribed a narcotic. To see a doctor at the resort costs $120; however, most insurance companies will cover the cost.
Should you go: YYYYYYYYYYYeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You will have the time of your life!!!!!