We had originally booked for a week at H2. My lovely wife came across the DennyP site and saw a bunch of people signed up under Cocktails. After writing back and forth with the hostess with the mostest (Desiree), we decided to change our plans and go with the group- what a great choice that was.
The weekly chats and website made it really easy to get to know a many of the others before we went. So when we finally met a bunch of them, it was like seeing old friends. Being Hedo virgins, we also really appreciated the guidance of some of the vets as far as what to bring and activities on resort.
We met up with a few couples in LAX for our flight- we had a bunch of people from Cocktails on the same AJ plane, so that was cool. I will not go into specifics on AJ, but I will say that I will NEVER fly them again. Customer service-wise they are the worst I have ever encountered.
MBJ was as expected for an upscale banana republic airport. We have always thought that when you travel it is best to get on island time before you even land. That way you can just let things roll off of your back- it’s still vacation, even if you’re waiting right? The people in the lounge were very nice and helpful. One of the couples in our group accidentally did not have their travel vouchers, but even that was solved relatively quickly and we all headed out for the dreaded and much reputed bus ride to the resort.
We had been told ahead of time about “rest stops” being available, and right out of MB we stopped for drinks and snacks. Refreshed, we got back on the bus where one of our group broke out a bottle of Tequila and passed it around. We had a wonderful time on the bus talking with all our new friends. Aside from coming about 2 inches from hitting a cow on the road the ride was uneventful (the bus driver must have been a race car driver in a previous life- lightning reflexes when Bessie stepped out in front of us). The road was fine the whole way- been on worse here in the states, and the company was exceptional.
On arrival we met our hosts and hostesses in the lobby- again, just like seeing old friends. Like most people, our room was not ready, so Des and Juju offered to let us stow all our junk in their rooms. It wasn’t 20 minutes later we made our first foray into the nude pool area. This was our first au naturel experience, and it’s true- once you get over yourself and realize that no one cares about your extra 15 pounds (in my case) it’s awesome!
Later in the day our room was ready- garden view au naturel. If you looked out our bathroom window you could see the ocean, so that was cool. The noise of the quad and nude pool were a perfect distance away to make afternoon naps possible. The AC worked good, the bed comfortable enough, the bathroom great, and the only gripe we had was nearly killing ourselves more than once on the slippery tile in bare feet. The maid service was excellent all week. Not sure what building it was- the orange one.
The next week was spent basically doing whatever we wanted. Getting up late, eating light or heavy depending on mood- drinking ALL day. Lots of volleyball in the nude and quad pools. Unfortunately I got a sinus infection, so diving was out for me- hopefully this year. The hosts/hostesses did a great job as far as keeping everyone informed and setting up the many fun activities like the scavenger hunt, naughty gift exchange, and group dinners. We never had any problems resort wise, but I know for those people who did, being part of a large group like cocktails was a guarantee that it would be taken care of immediately and properly.
During the week we were there, a hurricane came through. The nude pool deck was cleaned off and everyone sent to the quad. We think the drinks got a bit stronger that day, and the winds and rain came through. It was neat. We spent a bit of time in the water at the nude beach- much to the confused looks of others- but we had it all to ourselves that day.
We took one excursion into Ocho Rios for shopping. Mainly just to see what the town looked like. Got offered illicit substances almost constantly when out of the main shopping area- politely passed as I understand that there are lots of undercover officers working the tourists for drug charges. Bought some tourist trash and were happy to be back in the pool later in the afternoon.
As for food, we enjoyed the scotch bonnet quite a bit- do yourself a favor and try the patties. The buffet was ok, but not spectacular. A couple of times the best meal of the day was at the nude pool- cheeseburger and fries from the grill. We both really enjoyed the meals at Munahana and Pastafari.
As you can imagine, with the crowd there, the bar service was a bit spotty. Just lots of people to help all at once, and sometimes it took a little while to get your cocktail- so bring a decent sized insulated cup to avoid many trips to the bar. Body shots on the fountain, and a certain lady’s talent of unhinging her jaw one afternoon, kept it interesting (I love you doll). Pool volleyball in the nude pool is tight- but lots of fun. There were a few people who took it a little too seriously, but still fun. We spent most of our daytimes in the nude pool.
Nights were great. We dressed for almost all the themes, and went to the piano bar then disco every night. The music was not all that great, but from what I understand that has changed for 2005. After dancing the nude pool or hot tub were the perfect places to be.
The week ended of course sadly- really did not want to go home. The bus ride to the airport seemed a lot longer and quieter. Customs was fine and the cheeseburger in Margaritaville was ok, but not the same as the nude grill.
Kerry and Nick (Rookie of the Year 2004)