What is it that you look for in a room/resort when you go to Negril?

This year there is going to be a small group of friends coming along with my wife and I when we head to Negril in January.

Part of the group has been to Negril before but never stayed anywhere but the all inclusive resorts on Bloody Bay. I am trying to convince them that there is a different(cheaper) way to experience Negril other than staying in an AI as there are so many good bars and restaurants on the Seven Mile that AI is a bit of a waste of money. So out of the four couples we basically have three that are good with staying at a non all inclusive resort and one that isn't so thrilled about it.

I have stayed in several spots on the beach and I don't require rooms like what you see at the Riu and Couples resorts. I just need a good clean and a secure room that has some air conditioning and a fridge. I am a bit worried that my level of comfort isn't going to match up with theirs.

So what do you think? What is it that you look for in a room/resort when you go to Negril?

On the beach,POOL and room safe. Breakfast included with room rate. That's it for us, we are SO EASY!

LOL....I am hoping couple number four comes to that conclusion on this reach as well! :)

A pool is not important to me with the novelty of the beautiful warm sea. Being beach side is important (tried across the road last time which didn't cut it). Fridge, important. Love small, Caribbean charm (Country Country, which includes a great, hot breakfast) although cost is important, need to get a deal. Staying at Coco for 2nd time coming up, lacks the small and Caribbean charm criteria for me, but found deals I couldn't ignore. Security. The rest is all around as mentioned.

Cleanliness, great beach, pool (I love the ocean, but hubby prefers the pool), happy, smiling staff, fridge, secure.
Cocolapalm cuts it for us every time. We tried a different hotel on the beach last reach and spent the whole time sad that we weren't at Coco.
Sure hope you convince your friends to give it a try. I couldn't imagine doing Negril at an AI, you would just miss out on so much.

Comfortable chair (2)...A/C........Lockable and secure doors, patio doors
Ask if locals are allowed on grounds
NO BUGS or signs of BUGS......( we turn down all bedding, spray a mild bug spray and Lysol, wash all eating utensils in boiling water, disinfect toilet and surrounding areas)

Must have safe, cold fridge

My requirements

Clean
safe
Bar
Beach
AC

Fridge
Porch with shade
In room safe
Clean
Good bar close by

A safe, a fridge, and security.

The Mrs. is a little more picky than I am, but over all here is what we look for:

balcony or patio w/ocean view
direct access to the sea
clean, comfortable room where everything works
A/C
If there isn't a bar/restaurant on-site, then one (or more) within walking distance.
A pool is preferable