Staying at Roots Bamboo - Tips/Advice

I've been lurking this board for the last month ever since I decided to take my first trip to Negril. I'd like to say, what a wonderful forum, great information, posts, pictures and just some outstanding contribution from so many folks.

We are a couple in our late 20's making the trip in the last week of Feb. I was born in the Caribbean, so the language/culture/way of life is nothing new to me, and I've grown up around an abundance of Jamaicans and Ja-fakings my whole life.

She is a sexy whitey from the boons and was absolutely against going to Jamaica. It took a lot of convincing on my part. She went to Ocho Rios with her sister, and didn't feel safe, the guys harassed them everywhere they went, followed them, stalked their hotel room and basically felt she was on the verge of being raped. I am a little concerned here, because the last thing I want to spend my vacation doing is playing Protector Pete.

We settled for Roots Bamboo given our budget, options available, and the fact that a lot of the places suggested here were not available for when we were able to take the trip. I settled for Roots Bamboo mostly on a whim from the reviews on TripAdvisor, video's and pics. Our vacations usually revolve around eating, hanging on the beach, day trips, partying and hitting up the clubs and doing it all over again the next day.

I haven't seen much info here about Roots Bamboo, just that it's loud on Wednesday nights a good party etc.

Any suggestions/tips/advice/pointers for a couple staying at Roots Bamboo would be greatly appreciated. Are the accommodations clean? safe? Is it a hassle getting a beach chair? Is there anything specific we need to pack? How about walking around at night? Is this a sub friendly place? Please enlighten me my fellow boardies.

i'd try Firefly, Pure Gardens, Catcha Gardens (on the cliffs), Gardenia, Rayon . . . I don't think your girl would like Roots Bamboo

Mom's Place ... Root's might be a little " sketchy " for her ..
abit more laid back .. but that might not be such a bad thing ...
If Mom's doesn't have rooms ...
Barry's is my next choice

My advice....Don't.

Go there for some live music, but based on what you've shared, and my last impression, it's not the place for y'all. I'm a white girl from the stix myself and I wouldn't stay there. Just my $.02

maybe Yellowbird, Ansell's, Green Leaf Cottages . . .

Roots is kind of roughing it with small wood cabins, and not sure if every cabin has its own bathroom. But one thing I have noticed in general in Negril is the locals are respectful of "couples" and usually don't bother ladies if their significant other is within 18 inches.

Thanks everyone for all the help so far. Seems as if I need to cancel this booking and get myself into a more cozy place.

I will lose $80 on the first night of the booking, but I did talk to the lady at Roots who was really helpful. Said to come eat and drink if I decide to cancel.

I told her straight up some of the concerns based on what I read, and she obviously tried to convince me it's all good and that our rooms are the more renovated ones, bigger, closer to beach with bathrooms, not those shared shacks.

@Slighty Stoopid, checked out Mom's Place, definitely looks cool. I sent an email asking about vacancies for our trip.

Yellowbird, Palms, Rayon, Firefly, Fun Holiday and Tamboo all have vacancies.

If you c an get into moms place, you will love it. Perfect for a couple. Nice bar and restaurant and really nice people.
Good security, and short walking distance to a lot of music and things on the beach.

I like Mom's but probably wouldn't choose it for a first visit . . .

I am really liking the pictures I see of Firefly. Seems absolutely serene, I suppose that's Negril for ya.

My only concern is they don't seem to have any pics of the bathrooms in the room. I assume they can't look worse the bathrooms in the Roots cabins. :)

try Hidden Paradise, soon come

Check out Pure Gardens.

Pure Gardens was nice.

How far is the beach from Pure Gardens?

I am somewhat picky about accommodations, but my employment status has recently changed, so I have been looking at more value-oriented places in Negril. I am leaning toward Rayon. It looks really nice. However, it is across the street from the beach. But, I have stayed at Sunset at the Palms which also has their beach across the street. I did not mind it that much to cross the street to go to the beach. Maybe take a look at it too as was suggested.

I love to hang out at Root's bar......... that being said......would never stay there though......

I see a trend here; folks saying it's a nice bar to chill at, but not one person vouching for the accommodations.

I have known people who have stayed there with no problems. It could be loud till late on music nights, Monday and Wed. when I was in Negril in Dec. I stay at Barrys behind Moms Place.

Pure gardens is right beside times square and across from Bourbon beach. You can walk through bourbon or walk in the area that the rv mobile home is in. Basically the beach is yards away and Pure gardens has a pool and restaurant.

Moonrise Villa across from Idle Awhile and Coco La Palm is a great budget hotel. Rooms are very clean, nothing fancy, but you can't beat that location of the beach. Your girl may be happier towards that end of the beach.

Thank you all for your responses, they're so helpful and prompt. Red Stripes all around on me. :P

I get so anxious and excited like a little kid before Christmas when planning my next adventure to a new place. What's even more exciting this is the first time that I am going back to a West Indies country since I immigrated from Guyana 20 years ago. It's going to be nice bruckin' out some rantid Creolese (guyanese patois) widout de man dem tinkin' all me ah chat a "wah wah wu wah bah boo bah". It's really to bad that I didn't jumped onto this board earlier before going out and booking a place, definitely lots of wisdom here.

So my ultimate decision is to wing it. I'll stay at Roots for the first night and not lose my deposit. Wake up early the next day, scope out some of the spots and pick our final resting place. I figure this will be a good way to jump right in and see what all these places have to offer. Maybe some face to face bargaining might reward me with a more favorable rate, I've had some good success pulling this exact flex in Mexico.

Have any of you ever done something like this? I am going in the last week of February, will I run into a bunch of no vacancies if I don't book ahead of time?

I say wing it --- I've done this several times --- found one of my favorite spots this way --- there are also some nice spots on the cliffs

let me dig around and see if I can "the map" of Negril so you can see all the places to stay and eat

you may also want to check out some trip reports to give you ideas for excursions, places to eat and drink

and yes I've winged it during Christmas, New Years and Emancipation --- always found a room - or a recommendation

I don't think Negril is ever "sold out" --- our preferred places may be -- but not the whole city --- and since you've never been before - you have no preferred place :-)

Negril maps http://media.tripod.lycos.com/2567851/2007898.pdf

I toured Rayon a few years ago. It is lovely! And, across the street from one of the nicest stretches of the beach. You would be in the middle of everything at that location.

I just found Moms place last reach,, bought my wife back to look at the rooms. Very nice.I would actually ask for the cheapest rooms on the 1st floor way in the back.They will know...More privacy.

But??? If you can get CoCo for similar price,for her it would be better.

I have friends that have stayed at Rayons for years and love it there. We are at The Rondel and we are first timers. I've heard very positive reports about the place and cannot wait!! Good luck with your trip!

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Originally Posted by chris55

I have friends that have stayed at Rayons for years and love it there. We are at The Rondel and we are first timers. I've heard very positive reports about the place and cannot wait!! Good luck with your trip!

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Stone cold big fan of Rondel... Location, rooms, poolS and staff! You have done well in your choice esp for a first time visit. Great jumping off point to anywhere you want to go. It's where we took our kids a couple years ago and where we have had some off the chain guy trips... Very nice...

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Originally Posted by KidRick

Stone cold big fan of Rondel... Location, rooms, poolS and staff! You have done well in your choice esp for a first time visit. Great jumping off point to anywhere you want to go. It's where we took our kids a couple years ago and where we have had some off the chain guy trips... Very nice...

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Thanks..it's kind of tough to pick a place from all the advice on here. Everyone has their favourites.. We are paying more then I'm used to for just a room but I'm told its worth it!

In the end it is ALL worth it. You may come to realize , as so many of us have, that you can't afford to NOT go :-)

Hi everyone.

I was hoping to get a little clarity regarding people's opinions about staying at Roots Bamboo. Has anyone actually stayed there before, and if so, have they had any bad experiences, or do they know anybody who has? Or is it more in response to the OP's girlfriend feeling nervous because of her last experience in Jamaica?

I only ask because my wife and I are travelling next week for our third trip to Negril (can't wait), and have booked the first half of the stay at Roots Bamboo. As of now, we are feeling pretty confident -- we're off the resort kind of travellers and really enjoy mingling with the locals. The first time we visited we stayed in the middle of town (by the Burger King), and last time (November 2012) actually stayed at Alfred's and loved it! The number of vendors didn't bother us, and we found that there aren't too many repeat solicitations once they recognize you and you're upfront. And the noise from the live music doesn't bother us either. We won't be sleeping, we'll be dancing! We hung out at Roots last time when I think the Hurricane Band was playing, and had a great time. My wife definitely got some attention from locals when she was walking to the restroom, but again, and upfront and kind "no thanks" seems to do the trick.

So I guess one of my questions is, is the vibe/atmosphere of staying at Roots Bamboo similar to that of Alfred's? If so, all the better! And the staff at Roots have been very helpful and kind from my phone/email conversations with them.

And to Narjee -- I completely understand your girlfriend's apprehension regarding Jamaica if she had an uncomfortable experience last time. Here's hoping that it had more to do with the fact that it was girls travelling alone, because I echo an earlier commenter from personal experience that when it's a couple travelling, the locals respect that. And I hope that wherever you stay after that first night, you enjoy your visit. Negril is a real special place, filled with wonderful friendly people, great food and beautiful scenes.

And who knows -- maybe after your first night you and your girl will decide you don't want to leave Roots!

And while we're on the topic, does anyone know of any concerts that are going on at Roots or on the beach/cliffs the next couple weeks? I know there will be live music around Alfred's/Roots/Bourbon, but am wondering if there are any especially big acts since it's such a popular time.

Thanks!

I give Roots thumbs up. I have stayed there several times and had nothing but great experiences. I just returned 3 weeks ago from a 12 night stay there. I am a 40 year old white american girl basically from the boons too :) I have stayed at Roots by myself some trips and with boyfriend other trips. I always felt safe and I can't think of a single negative thing to say. The cabins are basic, but decent size, cheery, clean and priced great, in my opinion, for being right on the beach. On that note, the location on the beach is ideal. And most of the cabins have been recently updated. My very first stay there was very last minute, I just needed a place to crash for the night so I stayed in one of their very basic rooms...bed, table with mirror and a closet, $30 US at the time. You get a key for the bathrooms and showers which are conveniently located and more than enough stalls/showers...also very clean. When I decided to stay there for the rest of that trip I did move into a room with private bathroom and it was perfect. For me, my spur of the moment stay turned into a great find. Everyone from the ladies in the office, to the bartenders, waiters/waitresses, cleaning ladies, grounds/maintenance guys, to the few locals who are there every day ,to the many repeat guests....Everyone is very fun, friendly, helpful and polite. Everyone has always respected my privacy, but they are always there if you wanna chat, hang or ask questions,etc.

On the flip side, I can certainly understand how what appeals to me may not appeal to others. It is a very laid back/basic place, and it is public so it's by no means a 'guest only' place. Monday and Wednesday nights are live show nights so it is very loud until at least 2am, with many people(local & tourist) walking and hanging around the property. Certainly don't expect a quiet, private night on your veranda those nights. I love show nights and enjoy just people watching, meeting people and listening to the show from my veranda, but for some this may be disturbing and unappealing so I am just trying to paint a clear picture for those who would/wouldn't want this type of atmosphere. Roots does have a security guy and he does a great job! Even on show nights when there is A Lot going on in every direction he is totally on top of the whole scene.

Anyway, when I saw this post I took it as an opportunity to share my positive experiences at Roots. I am very laid back and have stayed in pretty much every type of accommodation in Jamaica....from All Inclusive resorts on the beach, to hotels/private homes on west end, to private homes up in the hills of Lucea. So being among local living is very comfortable/appealing to me. If someone prefers a plush, tightly gated resort type place then Roots is not for you, but if you are laid back, and just looking for affordable, clean friendly place I would highly recommend Roots Bamboo! Anyone want any more info, PM me and if I can help I'd be glad to.

And narjee, wherever you decide to stay I hope you fully enjoy your stay in Negril!! And now that you are on the board I'm sure all boardies would love a trip report from you :)

Drifter, that does help put a lot into perspective. As you said, the staff at Roots have been very helpful. They explained a lot of the pictures online are old, and show the cheaper priced ($30-40/night) rooms. It would be great hearing from someone who's had first hand experience staying there in one of the 'nicer' cabins.

Music late into the night doesn't bother me at all, I like staying up until sunrise a few of the nights. Do I ever have me some good stories to tell, and hopefully I'll have some new ones right from the jump as we arrive on a Friday at 3pm and I'll most def be playing sun catcher the first night.

I am really so astonished by the adventurous souls here and the amount of repeat trips to Negril. Something special must be bringing everyone back. I can't wait to be there and experience all these tremendous things I've read about, feels like my town.

Drifter, hope you have a great trip, third times a charm. Let us know how it goes at Roots, it'd be cool living vicariously through you before I go.

Jennnn - Thank you so much for the information. It looks like you have the same travel style as my wife and me! She was actually hoping to hear feedback from a female since it can be a very different experience than guys, and your feedback really confirms that we made the right choice to book with Roots. While it may not be for everyone, we really do enjoy all the activity that goes with places like Alfred's and Roots Bamboo on the beach -- there's always something going on!

One quick question -- do you know if Roots takes credit cards as far as paying for the rooms? We just want to know how much cash to have on hand.

Narjee - I'm glad you found some of my feedback special. We'll definitely give a report on our stay here and on other travel sites to give some updated feedback. We're staying in one of the $65 rooms too, so we'll be sure to take a lot of pictures to give a good sense to other prospective renters.

When are you travelling to Negril? My wife and I will be there until Feb 22, so maybe we'll cross paths! We're actually breaking up the trip and staying the second half on the cliffside at Blue Cave Castle, and are really looking forward to that part as well.

That's the thing about Negril. The accommodations really do run the gamut from camping on the beach to basic rooms to plush non-AI to all inclusive resorts. It's really whatever your level of comfortability! It sounds like you could be down with a place like Roots, but obviously when travelling with a couple it comes down to what works best for both people. So if your girlfriend would be more comfortable in a different setting, then you'll most definitely be able to find something that is perfect for the two of you!

Drifter141.... After just re-reading your original post on this thread I am quite sure you and you wife are going to be very happy at Roots! If you loved Alfred's I can't imagine you won't love Roots even more and I have a feeling this will be your first of many stays at Roots.

To answer your question, Yes Roots accepts credit cards...I have used both Visa and Master Card there. Also, just wondering....which room type did you book? Did you book a certain cabin? Just asking so maybe I can help with cabin location (based on availability of course) just to further ensure you enjoy your stay to the fullest. Not sure if that even matters to you or if you know the lay out of Roots. Not that it's a big place or anything, but I just know for me I like to choose my cabin ahead of time, if possible, so just thought I'd offer info if your interested in that. .

I'm glad my feedback helped and if I can help any further before your trip just let me know:)

Thanks Jenn, that's great to hear! We are really excited about staying at Roots. We are staying in one of the cabins with private shower/bath and everything. Didn't reserve a specific cabin.

Do you have any recommendations for which cabin to book? It's great timing because I am going to call on Monday to confirm our arrival time and would love you thoughts on prime location!

It's really about what your preference is.... When you enter the property from the road the office is straight ahead....then behind the office are basically 3 rows of cabins labeled by letters. The middle row cabins are the one's without private baths,etc....So you will be staying in either the left row or the right row. Each row has approximately 6 -8 cabins. The biggest difference is the right row is in what I would call the back of the property...more private, yet still just steps to bar and beach. There is really no view from the back row as a fence divides the beach from the property. But again, its a small property and its never more than 20 steps to sea view or bar.

The left row, front of property, has a lot more traffic so to speak...people walking by, staff going from kitchen to restaurant all day,etc. The restaurant/ bar pretty much prevents any real view of the sea from any cabin, front or back row, but from the front row you can see the sea a little bit and certainly feel closer to it. From what you have said it seems you like to socialize and enjoy the company of locals...in this case I would recommend the front row. Doesn't seem this would concern you, but just heads up, on show nights if your in the front row,especially in a cabin closer to the show area you will basically be sharing your veranda with who ever decides to sit on the ledge of it. I personally enjoyed it, but again, just doing my best to let you know what to expect.

If you want to inquire about a specific cabin this is how it goes..... Front row, very first cabin closest to bar is Cabin A...then it goes B,C,D,etc....as you go further away from sea/bar. I stayed in B last trip - loved it, but would probably go with C next time...just for the slight further distance from the bar...yet still right in the heart of it all. Of course it all depends what is available and no matter which cabin you get I am sure you will have a great trip!! I'm getting jealous with all this Roots talk, even tho I just got back :)

I have never stayed there and never would. The hustle there my last couple trips has been too much. Too many punk a$$ hustlers for my comfort level, and I am pretty much good anywhere that I have been in Negril, both beach and West End. Some folks have made some good recommendations that I would seriously consider, especially considering your lady is apprehensive from her previous visit.

Have you considered the West End? When you going? That makes a difference as well regarding price of accommodation. Most places relax their prices either the middle of April or beginning of May till usually Dec 15th. If you could bump your budget a little you can stay at some great West End places. Blue Cave Castle, Moonlight, Catcha Gardens, Banana Shout, Seastar. These places have walls and security and provide a solid peace of mind. All sorts of good eats up their as well. And you can take taxi to the beach for cheap if you need your beach time. Or relax on Canoe's beach on the West End.

I get there on Feb 21, exactly 2 weeks. I can't wait to get to the tropics, I swear, old man winter is pissed off this season. Snow banks are taller than me here, and I'm not 4'12 either.

Since we get there on a Friday, we'll be up late, my plan is to wing the first night at Roots. Come Saturday, we're gonna troop around, see how we feel and land where the the vibe and mood takes us. My girls been reading these posts as well, so she's well aware of what she's getting into and is looking forward to checking out Roots. We're minimalist, frugal, we aren't BMW, Mercedes people, we're Honda, Toyota types, and spend at most 6hrs in the room each day. She can deal with the aggressive men and hustlers and understands foreign girls are always a hot commodity. Even I love hooting and hollering at the foreign chicks. Nice to hear their accents and a bit about their culture, and some of 'em are real sexy too.

Jennnn - Some amazing information and perspective you've provided. Also, what a great vivid review, reading it was as if I was walking through the place and can picture it come to life in my head. It does sound pretty cool, guess I won't be seeing any Picasso's on the walls there, but I might catch some goonies who look like they just jumped out of a Vybz video.

Booger - The west end and those cliffs do look gorgeous, some of the properties are just astonishing. Blue Cave Castle is unique, I am really feeling how that spot looks. But we are looking for a very beachy vacation, I think it would be better for us to be close to the beach, and do a day trip or 2 and some sunsets in the west end.

Drifter - You lucky man can't believe you'll be there in a week, I don't know how much of this winter crap I can take, I personally just want to be in Jamrock already. Are you taking it easy or planning to tear up your last Friday night? If you're tearing it up, let me know if you found any good parties popping that night, maybe we'll bump heads there.

narjee...sent you a PM, but forgot to mention the irony in you making sarcastic reference to Picasso's....because I think the one person at Roots I hadn't mentioned to you is Rohan...He is the 'on site' very talented artist who paints right there on the property. There is a whole section on the beach, right off the restaurant displaying all his work. He is really amazing. The Jamaican Picasso. ha ha.

I stopped by the last two nights and the bothersome people are no longer there....at least I didn't see them. Memories of how bad it was in the past are still in my head but as for now looks like it cleaned up.