Had a very good stay here.. Standard non american hotel... Linens were awful but the all inclusive outweighed that. The food was good and the view was magnificent. Not sure if this a thing with all resorts on islands but there were NO BUGS.. like flying insects. ...non what so ever.. but if you left a drink on the counter you were bound to find ants....Hotel staff was somewhat friendly... I stayed April 28-30 2011 for a Wedding and the weather was AWESOME...crystal clear blue water!!!! Simply beautiful... The hotel is a lil on the pricey side...but so worth it. Oh....and beware the elevator is TINY and has no air conditioning!!! And on Friday nights they bring in local merchants who set up table and sell goods!

Stayed at the RIU with wife for 7 days. Very noisy as our room faced the theater and bars (other rooms may be quieter). My feeling is that this is not a quiet peaceful place, rather more nightlife and entertainment heavy place. Rooms were generally nice, but details were missing, as others have remarked. Food was remarkable good (we are very picky and critical), especially the Jerk and beach grilling. Staff were helpful and friendly. entertainment was excellent and above expectation. Beech very good. Generally, more of a family vacation than a quiet couples getaway. Get a room on a higher floor, AWAY from the stage and bars.

This place was great from the moment we arrived and were greeted with tropical drinks. The food was great with lots of selection. Jerk chicken on the beach was delish! Swim up bar is wonderful as well as the storts bar and disco. Drinks are strong and not watered down. Rooms are beautiful. I would reccommend this resort to anyone. Also go on the dunn River Falls excursion, it is excellent.

This was my second time in Jamaica, first time in Ocho Rios, staying February 3-10, 2012.

I cannot understand how any human being could give this hotel any type of bad review, as I was very impressed with my experience. I found the hotel staff ALWAYS aiming to please, and reminded us that we are on vacation and to have a good time. There were always people taking care of the hotel grounds and maintain it to a tee. All I can say about the food situation is try to make sure you have a good work out routine because you are going to stuff your face and gain a couple of pounds due to the amazing food selection. I NEVER went hungry, and could never get bored of the of the food because the Riu provided various dishes. We also ate at the steak house and the gourmet a la carts, and the steak was cooked to perfection.

The beach was very nice, and had a few pedellers now and again, but was patrolled by security and marine police (the bod mon). A simple no thank you was all it took. Keep in mind it's a poor country and people are doing what they have to do to eat. I felt safe at ALL times and never had an issue with anyone.

We did the catamaran tour to Dunns River Falls through Scuba Caribe and it was the highlight of the trip, and would highly recommend it. The two guys that work on the catamarn are great people, and provided a spectacular tour to Dunns which was followed by snorkiling and a stop at the James Bond Beach. There are locals selling things there but like I said a firm and respectful no thank you works. If you are interested in shopping keep in mind that bargining is key.

The pools are both beautiful and there is a bar at every corner. Rooms are kept clean and tidy daily. One thing I was disappointed with was the safe in the room, it seemed secure but locked with a key which was a little out dated in my opinion. I also had a key for my room which I hear all Riu's are like, but much rather use a key card. Also water temperature was an issue in my mother in law's room.

Entertaiment staff.......truly amazing, some of the best and professional shows I have EVER seen at a resort. By far, my favourite was the Africa show, it's a must see.

Special thanks to James Bond 007, and Pim, as these guys are highly talented, personable people who went out of their way to make you feel great. Antoher geart person was Terry Ann who worked in the buffet. She has a special rum treat, and she will tell you to "Come get your medicine", loved it!. I found the ENTIRE staff helpful, friendly and outgoing, and was very pleased.

Overall I had a fantastic family vaction and will give my business to the Riu chain again, especially this location, absolutey spectacular. I hope this review was helpful and I will answer any questions you may have.

Do not listen to the poor reviews! This hotel is AMAZING!!!