Checking In: Meliá Braco Village in Jamaica

Tucked away in Trelawny Jamaica on a secluded stretch of gorgeous shoreline along the north coast is the luxurious Meliá Braco Village. This all-inclusive island resort opened in 2015 and is designed to resemble an upscale colonial village. Just 45 minutes from the airport in Montego Bay this replica village even has Jamaican street parties on Friday nights complete with reggae band and villagers dressed in colonial outfits roaming the grounds. So be prepared to jam the night away dancing under the stars to the sounds of the ocean in the background.

Meliá Hotels & Resorts’ signature concept, The Level, includes VIP treatment and an ultimate pampering experience for those discerning vacationers that want preferential services and amenities. This Jamaican village home is the perfect vacation spot for families, couples, friends, and groups.

Location:

Meliá Braco Village is an ideal place to learn about Jamaica’s rich and vibrant history and the locals are more than happy to chat about life on the island. Located right on the beach, the Meliá Braco Village is about 30 minutes from exciting excursions and tours can be arranged in the hotel lobby. Although you don’t have to leave the resort as everything you could possibly need is right here. Explore the gorgeous lush green gardens; enjoy an outdoor meal or drink; take advantage of the water sports such as snorkeling and paddle boating; and my personal favourite – walking along the stunning beach at sunset.

Dining: 

Arrive hungry, as you will experience exceptional gourmet meals with five on-site restaurants including the diverse and delicious Market Place. Every morning I enjoyed my made to order smoothie with soymilk, colourful fresh fruit, and kalaloo – green leafy Jamaican spinach. 90% of the produce here is locally grown and supports local farmers.

Dining options include Rasta Pasta, an a-la-carte Italian restaurant with delicious pasta that arrived piping hot and topped with homegrown vegetables and a side of fresh baked bread. O’Grille is an authentic and casual beachside restaurant serving Jamaican dishes with a view of the ocean at lunch and dinner. Nikkei, a state-of-the-art culinary restaurant, fuses Japanese and Peruvian cuisine served Teppanyaki style. I was thrilled when the Chef prepared me an outstanding tofu, rice, and veggie dish upon learning I was vegan.

Executive Chef Frederick Gayle explains that guests with food allergies and special diets can fill out a form prior to arrival to ensure all their meal preferences are taken care of.

“We don’t look at this as a challenge, it’s an opportunity for us to prepare delicious dishes and we are accustomed to doing this”, Gayle says with a smile.

The Chefs here are used to accommodating peanut allergies, Celiac Disease, gluten-free diets, plant-based diets, and even watermelon allergies, Gayle explains.

At least once during your stay find the time to check out the piano bar, Jigger, for a drink after sunset. This contemporary and lively bar is open all day, so if you really must enjoy a Caribbean drink sooner, just remind yourself it’s 5pm somewhere in the world.

Rooms: 

There are 232 guestrooms including 52 suites that come with plush bathrobes and slippers, coffee maker, flat screen TV, WIFI access, and a min-bar that is replenished daily with Jamaican treats such as crunchy plantain and banana chips. Some rooms offer Colonial Style villas on the ground floor for easy access to the gardens and there are also premium Oceanfront Rooms with a private balcony for an outstanding view of the ocean. The Level section of the resort is home to a Romance Suite for ultimate exclusivity and one large and exceptional Royal Suite. However, every room in this beautiful village is definitely fit for a queen or king.

Amenities:

If you love outdoor challenges you are in luck because their brand new Adventure Park recently opened. As part of your all-inclusive package guests age 6 and older can zip line over a natural wildlife pond in the forest; practice flips on trampolines; attempt the obstacle course; or rock climb up 35 feet – don’t forget to ring the alarm at the top!

Other amenities include a Kids & Co. adventure program; a duty free gift shop; a wellness and fitness center; tennis clinic; and gorgeous outdoor pools with swim-up bars where adults can enjoy a Jamaican-style cocktail.

There is also an YHI Spa & Wellness Centre on site (not included but worth every penny) where you can treat yourself to a pampering massage and beauty treatment for the ultimate unwinding experience.

Insiders Tip:

• Located steps from the beach is an authentic Jamaican fruit cart with fresh sliced pineapple, sugar cane, soursop, and massive coconuts.  I sipped on pure fresh coconut water – ask for Sajay and he will brilliantly slice your coconut for you once it’s empty.

• Take a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, one of Jamaica’s true natural treasures and home to over 600 feet of flowing water – daring guests can climb up the falls in a human chain following an experienced Jamaican guide

If You Go:

Meliá Braco Village is located in Rio Bueno, Trelawny Jamaica

For reservations and to view special offers click here or email: jamaica.melia@melia.com

All photos by Miriam Porter

The writer was a guest of Meliá Braco Village. The hotel did not review or approve this article.