GLSS 09/23-09/30/2002

Lisa and Dave

Being that this was our first time with Grand Lido (have been traveling with Sandals for the past 6 years) you can understand that I was a bit nervous about trying something new. But with the "Travel 2002, get 2003 Free" deal, I couldn’t resist. And boy am I glad I did!! Grand Lido San Souci is far better than I could have ever expected!!

The check-in at the airport was fast, efficient and courteous. We waited only about 15 minuets for all the Super Clubs guests to arrive then off to the bus. The bus ride itself was uneventful. A quick stop ½ way for bathrooms & Red Stripes and we were on our way. Made it to GLSS in about 2 hours (had to stop at Hedo III for drop-off first).

**NOTE** Bring US $$ for the luggage porters. One couple who had never traveled before were given quite a hard time. The porter didn’t want their Canadian money and was actually blocking their entrance to get on the bus. For someone that had never been to Jamaica before, I felt bad that their very first impression had to be this one. Very tacky.

Check in was pretty quick. Not a well of information, but that’s what orientation is for. We were originally slated for room D10, did not like it at all. Was at ground level (you had to wave to everyone from your balcony as they went by), the sitting room ceiling fan was hanging by a thread, the bathroom was mildewy and there was a musty smell to the room. We went to the front desk and Lorna (an absolute wonder, as you’ll come to see) had the bellhop take us to two other rooms to see which we preferred. We chose G17, it was perfect!!! High on the cliffs with an unobstructed view of the ocean, massive bedroom, nice bath with a good size vanity, a sitting room larger than most apartments and a balcony that had 2 chaise lounges, 2 chairs and a table.

**NOTE**If given the choice I will continue to choose the G block. Second choice would be A or B blocks. Most depends on your preference. G block is larger with a wonder view, but you do have to hike to the beach. A & B block are much smaller, but right in the middle of everything. C-D-E locations did not seem to offer much. F block only if you can get the higher floors, or else you’re very close to the Balloon Bar and the nightly activities sounds.

The food: Three simple words," Oh My God!!" Every, and I do mean every, meal was wonderful. The variety was only outdone by the quality. Definitely make all your reservations as soon as you get there, especially for the weekend nights, since they do tend to fill up fast. But definitely make sure you try all of them. Each is unique in its own way except in the fact that each offers wonderful food and service.

Beaches: The regular beach is beautiful and sandy and we never had problems finding lounge chairs. But actually, we spent most of our time on the clothing optional (c/o) beach. The beach is very rocky; you can’t enter the water without beach shoes. But the privacy and the pool make up for the rocks. There are also thatched shaded areas to protect from the sun. Marlon was bartending and Seymour controlled the grill, and between the two you couldn’t have asked for a better time. Even when we got a sudden downpour one afternoon, they kept us fed, liquefied and well entertained!! Really, a great time was had by all.

Staff: If you need anything, and I do mean anything, Lorna at the front desk will do her best to get it. I had asked for a tour of the resort since I book trips not only for myself but also for family, friends, and also many of my fellow workers including the boss. So I wanted to get a look at all the different blocks and the rooms/views they had to offer. Lorna was able to set it all up for me. She was a real wonder. If you wonder over to the c/o beach make sure you get some jerk from Seymour. The best ever!!

Spa treatments: Get Them!!! Don’t hesitate!!! We both had the massage, reflexology, body scrubs, manicures & pedicures. Absolute heaven. I love spas, but this was my husband’s first. I think we’ve created a monster, he loved it all!!! Again, make your reservations as soon as you can since they do fill up and you definitely don’t want to miss on anything.

Final thoughts: I am very pleased that we happened upon GLSS. Sandals has no comparison to Grand Lido. I have been to Sandals Antigua, St. Lucia, MoBay, Royal, Negril & Ocho Rios and there is not anything at these resorts that Grand Lido does not have and does not do better. Grand Lido has found a new follower in us and we are already looking forward to Fall 2003!!!

Final note: bring an alarm clock if you need one because you won’t find one anywhere on the resort. Good thing/bad thing…you decide.

Lisa & Dave