The Royal Plantation, although owned by the Sandals corporation, is not anything like the better known typical Sandals resorts. No playmakers, (for us that's a huge plus!), quiet, sedate atmosphere, lovely accomodations, and fine dining are the hallmarks of the resort. There are actually two beaches at the Royal Plantation and they are on the small side, but there are only 75 rooms total at the resort and we've never had a problem finding plenty of room on the beaches there -- even in the height of the winter travel season with the resort at 100% occupancy.

The best thing about the Royal Plantation, which keeps it from being cold and stuffy, is their wonderful staff. We've become very good friends with many of them and are in contact with them regularly. After Hurricane Ivan hit, we have done all we can to help out many of our friends there who lost a lot of their belongings due to the storm. These are fine, fine people and make a resort that is formal in atmosphere a truly fun and warm place to vacation.

Recently, the resort went through a conversion from a true all-inclusive to one that now offers both a European plan (room only) and what they call their Royal Plan. Royal Plan is similar to all-inclusive, but it doesn't include absolutely everything. You can get the details on what the resort offers at their website: www.royalplantation.com

The resort is not the place to go if you need lots of organized activities and a non-stop party. It is, however, a wonderful place for total relaxation, meeting interesting people from all over the world, and for forging new friendships with their awesome staff --- truly some of the nicest people we've met anywhere. Another alternative if you are looking for a beautiful, quiet vacation haven is the Jamaica Inn -- just across the cove from the Royal Plantation. We've stayed at both and love them both, although they are very different from one another. Our personal preference is the Jamaica Inn, but it's those friendships we've made at the Royal Plantation that keep drawing us back there. We will return to both places again soon.

Athough Butch Stewart still owns it, Royal Plantation has separated itself from the sandals/beaches name. Becuase of this the Sandal Signature Guest progam doesn't apply but they have established their own returning guest program. RP is a small 80 room resort that is wonderful for a decompression vacation. All the rooms are suites (can't get a bad one). All rooms have a fully stocked bar/fridge and every room has an ocean view. The staff knows you by name and they are wonderful. Since it's not a major hubub of activity, you get to know them on a personal level and they become friends. The beach is small but never overcrowded (one on the east with water sports, one on the west with the Royal cafe). They also have beach butler service where they deliver fresh fruit and drinks whenever you want right at your beach chair. We've seen all ages there and haven't talked to anyone there that hasn't loved it. They now have both the EP and all-inclusive plan (I recommend all-inclusive; the Hensley special drink is great and could rack up the bill!). They offer flambe dining (new!), 24 hour room service (surcharge applies), bayside restaurant, La Pappillon restaurant and the Royal Cafe on the beach. There is one pool and a 2 level hot tub. Also on site is a European spa. Evening entertainment is normally on the quiet side but nice to relax on the terrace and visit with other guests and have a few drinks. If you're looking for a big party place, this isn't it. If you're looking to totally relax and feel special, you've found it. We're going back for our 3rd visit in a few weeks. No waiting in line for a drink, having the staff remember you from previous visits, and totally relaxing. Best de-stress we ever had. If you get a group together, try the woo-hoos or Bob Marely drinks at the bar. Things tend to get a little louder and then the evening goes a little longer! We've had night where we were in bed at 10:30 and other nights into the early hours.

Hello Boston, Well I dont think that you could ask for a more complete set of reports than those shared with us by Barrister and Gracie. The best that I have read on this forum.

Even Steve liked it. And he likes big action places.

Now if you are asking for anything better than these places you may have to look upwards towards the heavens or try opening up this web-site, www.islandoutpost.com