As our Instagram feeds continue to fill up with awesome moments from girls’ trips, bachelorette getaways or birthday vacays, one thing has become abundantly clear – one is always in need of the perfect resort home for their next super lit friendcation. In order to please your entire group, said location should be adult-only, all-inclusive (AKA affordable for all), super-fun and filled with Instagram-worthy amenities and rooms to enjoy. I know, I know –it sounds like a tall order, but trust me, it’s doable.
As the Senior Lifestyle and Relationships Editor here at ESSENCE.com, my passion for healthy relationships and group travel and large inner circle serve me well. I regularly get the opportunity to road test some of the hottest new hotels around and my friends and I are always in search of the next best vacation moment.
I’m happy to report that I’ve just uncovered Jamaica’s latest gem. In March 2017, AMResorts opened their newest property, Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa. It’s adult-only (yes, no kids, please), all-inclusive (hello unlimited cocktails) and uniquely designed with nonstop vacation party vibes in mind. How did I love thee, and why is it where your next girls’ trip or friendcation should begin? Well, let me count the ways.
1. Nonstop partying is literally encouraged
The resorts’ tag line is “welcome to the party” and when you arrive you’ll see that it’s not just a greeting, it’s a way of life. Anything goes, just ask. All Xhale club suites come with a butler, who wants your group to turn up in style and comes in handy for treats like requesting morning mimosas by the pool, late night snacks by the fire pits, or turn down service when you need to take a break for self-care.
2. Nothing beats the views
The hotel, which is just a 15-minute drive from the airport, offers panoramic views of the bay, the hills and the ocean to go with your afternoon and evening cocktails. Find them at the hotel’s Altitude rooftop bar, Montego Bay’s only rooftop bar, which really took my breath away. Lie back in a boat-shaped lounge chaise or take a dip in the infinity pool. Either way, it’s paradise. Promise.
3. Two words: Foam parties
The featured entertainment is as grown and sexy as the resort. From afternoon foam parties by the pool to acrobatic fire dancers parading around after dinner, the top-notch nightly entertainment is designed to create upscale and unforgettable group entertainment worthy of gathering round the fire.
4. The rooms and the grounds are like a vacation within a vacation
Not all swim up suites are created equal – but at Mo’ Bay’s Breathless property, every category of room is sexy, chic and instantly ready for the ‘gram.
5. The group party possibilities are endless
Breathless offers packages for group celebrations to help make your toast one of a kind. From custom cakes to fireside champagne, your group’s celebratory moment will feel like the resort’s top priority.
6. Get more for less
Breathless Montego Bay is actually right next door to AMResorts sisters adult-only properties, Secrets St. James and Secrets Wild Orchid. Which is good news for the group because the guests of each property can dine, dance and beach at all properties – all the time. Winning!
7. Jamaican food favorites right at your fingertips
Hop over to Breathless’ private beach, Bare Buns Grill, for tanning and between beach baths pass delicious small plates of beef and chicken Jamaican patties and jerk chicken between you. The beachfront grill’s menu and service do not disappoint.
8. Live the spa life
What girls’ trip would be complete without a group visit to the spa? Breathless guests can visit the Secrets St. James Resort spa any time, which is conveniently located just steps away from the private Breathless beach. So, just do the math: morning beach relaxation, plus afternoon eats at the oceanfront grill equals just the right mood for a full body massage, facial or wrap. Enjoy!
9. Everything really is included
The resort’s Unlimited Luxury promise includes everything you love about an all-inclusive and even some of the things you haven’t thought of yet, like, 24-hour room service, pool and beach wait service, a dialy mini bar refresh and a “booze cruise”. See everything you get for your money, here.
10. They have a package for EVERY occasion.
Every. Single. One! Bachelors only getaway? Check. Bachelorette shenanigans? Check. Just a girls’ trip? Great, because with this package, the third girl in your group stays for free. There’s even a divorce party package for the ultimate post-breakup therapy, because….well, self care! Want complimentary “just because” champagne or tequila upon arrival? They’ve got that covered too. The Get Bold Or Get Bubbly At Breathless gives you the option and your vacation a true first class feel.
