I’m back in London Town after an incredible week at Princess Hotels Jamaica. Although this was my third time visiting Jamaica, my last trip was just over ten years ago, so I was eager to make up for lost time.

I flew in from London on a direct Virgin Atlantic flight, followed by about a two-hour drive from Montego Bay Airport to Princess Hotels Jamaica. It was close to midnight when I arrived at the property, and I went straight to the Platinum Club for a quick and easy check-in. It was dark outside, so I didn’t see much of my surroundings until the next day.

Waking up with the sun the next morning was the perfect start to my week in Jamaica. I felt refreshed and excited to soak up the sun—well, as much as my Irish skin can handle—and relax into ‘island time.’ The next morning, everything felt completely different in daylight.

Exploring the property

One thing to note is that the Princess Hotels Jamaica, are two separate hotels built right next to each other in the same complex, making it super simple to move between them. In our case, our group stayed on the family-friendly side—Princess Grand Jamaica—but had full access via an add-on to Princess Senses The Mangrove. Guests at Senses The Mangrove automatically have access to both properties.

At first, I wasn’t sure about staying on the family-friendly side, but it turned out to be the best decision. My room was a swim-up suite facing the sea and felt incredibly private and peaceful. From there, anytime I wanted the adults-only side, it was a 10-minute walk through the property. There are also golf cart shuttles running between the two hotels.

Despite how sprawling the complex is, it’s really easy to navigate. Several shared restaurants and walkways connect the two properties. Across both hotels, there are 14 restaurants—some à la carte and best booked in advance, while others are buffet-style or food trucks. There are also swim-up bars and my personal favorite—coffee shops. 

Slowing down and savoring the moment

My first two trips to Jamaica were jam-packed, and this time around, I really wanted to relax and actually embrace a slower pace. 

Aside from group dinners, an amazing massage at Princess Senses The Mangrove Spa, and a fun sunset painting class, I mostly kept to myself. From the comfy lounge chair in my swim-out suite, I read, journaled, and pitched editors. I swam, I prayed, I dreamed. Somehow, I did so much without doing much at all.

When I did leave my suite, every interaction felt meaningful. The people working at Princess Hotels Jamaica—from restaurant servers and bartenders to entertainment performers and housekeeping—are incredibly kind, hardworking, and genuinely happy. I can’t tell you how much my mood lifted just from talking with staff throughout the week. In Jamaica, you really are on “island time,” and it’s surprisingly healing.

Probably my favorite activity was the floating breakfast experience. I’ve seen these breakfast spreads all over social media, but I didn’t expect to actually try one myself. The “Megan” personalization was such a nice touch, as was the bottomless mimosas.

Staying as a solo traveler (or introvert)

As with many all-inclusive or adults-only hotels, Princess Hotels Jamaica is a popular choice for families and couples visiting the island. At the same time, I felt very comfortable here as a solo traveler, even while staying on the family-friendly side. I loved having the option to chit-chat with staff or other guests or to simply enjoy my audiobook in peace.

Another great thing about Princess Hotels Jamaica is the layout. Because it’s so sprawling, it rarely feels packed or overcrowded despite being at full capacity. I also took advantage of the jetlag that had me waking up at 6 a.m. every day; I was pretty much the only person on the beach before 9 a.m.

Booking your stay

I absolutely loved my time at Princess Hotels Jamaica, and I’m pretty sure you will, too. 

As for which property to book, it comes down to budget, room preference, and availability. Our group wanted swim-out suites, and those were only available on the Grand side during our dates. That said, as someone without kids, I spent most of my free time at Princess Senses The Mangrove. It felt quieter and a bit more upscale.

Also, don’t rule out the overwater bungalows. Yes, these are typically booked for honeymoons and other special occasions, but I would totally reserve it all to myself and think of it as a mini writing retreat. Each bungalow has a private infinity pool facing the ocean, glass floor panels, an outdoor shower, and butler service, among other touches.