Hide Awhile

My wife and I stayed ay Hide Awhile last February and enjoyed it very much. We have stayed at the Caves 3 times and Samsara Pillar Houses twice. We have never stayed at the beach, because we just love the Cliffs and it would be hard to change. In fact I was just trolling the forum trying to plan our 2013 trip when I came across your posts.

We stayed in one of the ocean villas. We would have not enjoyed it as much if we were in the Garden Villas. The room was great with plenty of space. A/C in the Bedroom was nice and the internet worked well, which we never experienced in Jamaica before.

The Breakfast was very good. They would deliver to the room if preferred. We tried the in-room chef one night and it was disappointing. Lunch was pretty weak, just a choice of a couple of basic sandwiches. We enjoy the local Cliff Restaurants so this was not a problem. The fresh food at the local restaurants is hard to beat. We hate to travel and end up eating Sysco Institutional food. We have a Jamaica SIM card that made coordinating with a route taxi driver very easy.

I would plan on eating breakfast at the resort, go out for lunch or purchase it at a local store or have it delivered, which most places can accommodate. I think they just send a route driver with your food. I would plan on eating out for dinner. Moondance is right next store, easy walk for lunch or drinks but you get the big resort feel which is why we like Hide Aawhile.


I did not hear any rumors back in February about a new restaurant but you never know. The pool was about 5 ft deep which is perfect for floating. The ocean seemed a bit rougher than we experienced at the Caves and Samsara. I am not sure if was just the days we were there or the fact that it is farther west and where the island turns.


Positives:
View
Ocean
No sand (or sand fleas)
Very nice room, even nicer than the Caves
Took private plane from MBay to Negril (our first time, but loved it and would only fly in the future)
Ordered Flowers from local florist, which worked out great
Did night of 100 Candles dinner at Catch a falling star
Bar is open until about 7 at Hide Awhile

Negatives:

Service could be better at lunch
Private Chef should be better
]

Large 1GB Video of Flyby of Cliffs. The Caves and Hide Awhile are at aboyr the 3 minute mark

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/phot...eat=directlink


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Thanks for these. Have seen very little on Hide Awile, looks nice.

Thank you for posting your video and pictures! We just booked this resort today and when I looked on Tripadvisor I saw that you responded to my post. Now I know we booked the right place. Your video is beautiful!

Wow, that hotel is really beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing your photos and review. You mentioned that you stayed a few times at The Caves, and I was wondering if you experienced the special candlelit dinner in the cave? I recently booked it as a surprise for my boyfriend on our upcoming trip, and I would love to hear your "review" of it or perhaps see any photos if you had any. Also, what did you think of the 100 Candles dinner at Catcha? Thank you! Baylee :-)

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Baylee

Wow, that hotel is really beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing your photos and review. You mentioned that you stayed a few times at The Caves, and I was wondering if you experienced the special candlelit dinner in the cave? I recently booked it as a surprise for my boyfriend on our upcoming trip, and I would love to hear your "review" of it or perhaps see any photos if you had any. Also, what did you think of the 100 Candles dinner at Catcha? Thank you! Baylee :-)

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The Night of a 100 candles was great they took very good care of us. I attached some pictures below.
I have also attached some caves photos. We stayed at the Blue Hole, Stardust and I think it is the Blue Dolphin. They were all great. We like the A/C of the downstairs units, but we actually did not have a problem with Stardust without the A/C. The Caves is our #1, but it is pricy in season, so we try to create the Caves experience at other properties. Every time we have been there ours as well as the other guests desires are met.
Caves Positives
Glass, Glass, Glass. I can’t say it enough and have included a few photos. We hate spending good money at a beautiful location and drink out of plastic cups.
Truly All Inclusive. Whatever you want of great drinks and food. For the most part the high end alcohols included like grey goose. With that said they do charge for high end cordial’s and high cigars in the cave bar at night.
Food is great. Recommend the Jamaican soups, especially pumpkin and at the caves you can’t go wrong with the ever popular combo.
Our perfect Caves schedule:
6:30 am Coffee and Baileys in the room
8:00 am Breakfast and Bloody’s
9:30 am Frozen Drinks on the Lounge Chair
10:30 am Snorkeling
11:30 am Frozen Drinks on the Lounge Chair or pool
12:30 pm Lunch
1:00 pm Nap
4:00 pm Sunset Cocktails
6:00 pm Showers
7:30 pm Dinner
11pm-3am Playtime in the Resort
In the evening you have the place to yourself. The bars are self-service, the pool is great under the stars and the sauna is open.
We have done the cave dinning twice and enjoyed it. I could not find any pictures handy. The set it up with the candles and the flowers as seen on the web. Just prepare dress, hair and makeup for a very humid experience. It is very comfortable but you are in a cave, so be prepared to sweat. The same applies to the Cave bar open after dinner.
We really enjoyed the private bath and would recommend reserving that. The pictures are attached. It is in a private cave with locked door. It will be set up with champagne, fruit and chocolates. There are big windows that open to the ocean and a nice padded bench. Bonus the water is changed after each use, so it is not the typical resort hottub brew.
While we are at the caves we find it hard to leave paradise.
I also recommend the Spa for a morning or early afternoon treatment. We did a couples sunset massage which was great except my wife was outside, and you could overhear the Rick’s sunset music which kind of drowned out the tranquil spa vibe.
You guys will have a great time.
One last recommendation. We always go to the bank and take a stack of 5s and 10s with us to Jamaica. It is always nice to have the correct change and we are big believers in the power of tipping, even at an all-inclusive resort.

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Some more pictures




I forgot to mention, our favorite dining spot at the caves is the little red table cliffside. They will be happy to serve you there as it is right next to the evening restaurant. In fact we got a little jealous when another couple posted a picture of themselves eating at “our table”.

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Good stuff, thanks for posting and sharing.

My own experiences with flying from Mobay to Negril (also flew to Ocho Rios). Before the "New" Highway to Negril was completed I flew several times to Negril. 1st time was a charm, beat the bus by an hour. 2nd time had to wait a while for the pilot to show up and we landed in Negril about the time the bus arrived in Negril. 3rd time, not so lucky. Problems fueling up in Mobay and issues with the weather. Took off about 2 hours after the bus left. Had to buzz the landing in Negril 3xs to scare off some goats on the runway. Once we landed, our ride to the resort wasn't anywhere to be seen, had to wait almost an hour for ride to show up. I recommend doing the flight once, but weather and mechanical problems can effect the outcome.

Now that the "NEW" highway is completed the ride isn't as long as it used to be and hard to justify the extra expense for the flight.

Enjoy,

VVHT

We also loved the drive from Mobay, each time we had a private van which worked out great and always made the ceremonial stop at the cold beer joint. On our last trip we arrived late in the afternoon and the difference in time gave time to check in and go out for a great dinner on the cliffs. Many of the restaurants are shut down by 10 pm. We looked at it as getting and extra night, but it maybe saves a couple hours tops.

Madmolecule, thanks for sharing! My wife and i are arriving at Hide Awhile next weekend. So stoked!! Ocean Villa as well. We really like the private location. Are there many things within walking distance? We dont mind walking a mile or so. I know that Moondance is next door (any opinions on the meals?). I also noticed Out of Town Pastries and maybe even Sexy Rexys are within walking distance.

Thanks!

[The Moondance is a very close walk. We went there for lunch on one day and it was tasty. They were very welcoming and even tried to get us to come back and spend the afternoon and use the pool etc. There is a small store on the same side road but it we never stopped in. We would typically go L&M down the cliffs road to stock up or the Hi-Lo, at the circle. The villa comes with a nice French Press so I would get some good Jamaican Coffee for your villa. We did not go to Out of Town pastries because when I looked on the web it appeared to be more patties and dark loaf bread, and not as much sweet pastries as we are used to. Jamaican patties are ok, but in my opinion they do not hold a candle to jerk chicken, fresh fish, lobster and curried goat. I use Been & Jerry’s Vanilla Ice cream and special cake from next store to what used to be Jenny Cakes pastries with the local small bananas to make my famous, only to us, Negril Sundae in the photo. You will have a decent size fridge to stock up on supplies and keep the drinks cold.
I would also recommend Jus Natural for breakfast/lunch/dinner. It is nice to eat fresh food in the garden. It is also the only place in the world that I have had a fresh squeezed Bloody Mary.
The route taxis do not come down the road that Hide Awhile is down much, so I would recommend a local cell phone and get the number of a driver or two. If you don’t get a local cell you can call them from the room, and they are usually there to pick you up by the time you are ready.
I would not use your personal cell phone in Jamaica, regardless of the rates, as I have heard of many people being harassed once they are back home, by Jamaicans once they have your number.
I have also read that the Westender Inn and Jackies on the Reef will pick you up for lunch if you like.
Enjoy your trip, I know you will love the sunsets from your bedroom Balcony, as in attached picture.

Link to short Clip from King Yellowman concert we caught at Bourbon Beach last Feb.

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/phot...eat=directlink


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I forgot to say, we are not big fans of walking down the cliff road. It is not a relaxing walk. You will be hassled by the locals hanging out, even though we never felt threated. The biggest problem is that the cars drive on the left side of the road, and it’s confusing and dangerous just crossing the street, especially with some red stripes in you. You will be worn out and sober after a short walk down the road. A route taxi will cost you $5-10 us, but it is worth it.

Thanks so much for the advice! The view is beautiful. Can't wait to show my wife. We were just married earlier this year in Maui. As soon as we got home we were planning our next island getaway. Lol.

I've also heard lots of places will provide transportation for dinner.

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Originally Posted by Madmolecule

A route taxi will cost you $5-10 us, but it is worth it.

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A Red Plated Route Taxi will cost $100 Jamaican Dollars per passenger each way. That is about $1.10 US per person each way. Two people round trip would be $400 Jamaican dollars or about $4.40 US, but I'm a big tipper!

The Cliff Road from just past Rick's Cafe down to the Round a bout is the cliff route. From the Round a bout to Point Village is the beach route.

Enjoy,

VVHT

I agree about walking the road. I almost got hit one night after a bit too much to drink but my loving wife pushed me into the weeds and saved my sorry butt. Someone slammed me on the TA board for saying it was dangerous but she was well seasoned and knows how and where to step aside. Once you get past the lighthouse, it's not too bad. It's really worth the $5 US to get around. (I tip big as well)

I totally enjoy walking West End Road. I know that it is an area that we should all be careful on...and I truly watch what i am doing. A Jamaican friend kindly showed me a few tips on maneuvering the curves...which truly helped! So much can be appreciated when walking. I have never been truly hassled when walking the West End. Yes, there are people that want to sell their goods, etc....but no one failed to accept.."Mi criss" " Have every ting mi need".... With that said, If I am tired or just don't feel like maneuvering....just jump in a route taxi and be on your way. Truly a great deal at 100 Ja per person...and yes...if I get the yardie rate....I TIP! Respect to them for giving me the respect and I want to pay it forward. I know from this board...that ALL of us...whether... from US, Canada,England, Germany, etc.... if you love Jamaica...it shows in your actions. I truly love the west end and I guess I always will. Soon come... peace out!

Your photos are so beautiful! We love staying at their sister property, Idle Awhile, and have also enjoyed our previous stays at The Caves. P.S. I LOVE your daily schedule!!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Madmolecule

The Night of a 100 candles was great they took very good care of us. I attached some pictures below.
I have also attached some caves photos. We stayed at the Blue Hole, Stardust and I think it is the Blue Dolphin. They were all great. We like the A/C of the downstairs units, but we actually did not have a problem with Stardust without the A/C. The Caves is our #1, but it is pricy in season, so we try to create the Caves experience at other properties. Every time we have been there ours as well as the other guests desires are met.
Caves Positives
Glass, Glass, Glass. I can’t say it enough and have included a few photos. We hate spending good money at a beautiful location and drink out of plastic cups.
Truly All Inclusive. Whatever you want of great drinks and food. For the most part the high end alcohols included like grey goose. With that said they do charge for high end cordial’s and high cigars in the cave bar at night.
Food is great. Recommend the Jamaican soups, especially pumpkin and at the caves you can’t go wrong with the ever popular combo.
Our perfect Caves schedule:
6:30 am Coffee and Baileys in the room
8:00 am Breakfast and Bloody’s
9:30 am Frozen Drinks on the Lounge Chair
10:30 am Snorkeling
11:30 am Frozen Drinks on the Lounge Chair or pool
12:30 pm Lunch
1:00 pm Nap
4:00 pm Sunset Cocktails
6:00 pm Showers
7:30 pm Dinner
11pm-3am Playtime in the Resort
In the evening you have the place to yourself. The bars are self-service, the pool is great under the stars and the sauna is open.
We have done the cave dinning twice and enjoyed it. I could not find any pictures handy. The set it up with the candles and the flowers as seen on the web. Just prepare dress, hair and makeup for a very humid experience. It is very comfortable but you are in a cave, so be prepared to sweat. The same applies to the Cave bar open after dinner.
We really enjoyed the private bath and would recommend reserving that. The pictures are attached. It is in a private cave with locked door. It will be set up with champagne, fruit and chocolates. There are big windows that open to the ocean and a nice padded bench. Bonus the water is changed after each use, so it is not the typical resort hottub brew.
While we are at the caves we find it hard to leave paradise.
I also recommend the Spa for a morning or early afternoon treatment. We did a couples sunset massage which was great except my wife was outside, and you could overhear the Rick’s sunset music which kind of drowned out the tranquil spa vibe.
You guys will have a great time.
One last recommendation. We always go to the bank and take a stack of 5s and 10s with us to Jamaica. It is always nice to have the correct change and we are big believers in the power of tipping, even at an all-inclusive resort.

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MadMolecule! Thank you SO much for the great review and details about The Caves dinner! You have me sooooooo excited for it now! I'm kinda curious, at Catcha's 100 candles dinner, do they really light up 100 candles? Btw, I love that photo of you and your sweetie snorkeling together! So sweet.:) Baylee

I may have to look into the caves myself. Sounds great! We just booked the 100 candles table yesterday for next week. I was told they so in fact light the candles assuming its not too windy. Cost for 2 people is currently $174 us. So excited it was available.

I think we will take everyone's advice on walking. Take a route taxi. Money well spent sounds like.

Now if only someone had any advice on getting my wife to snorkel! We saw some sharks in Maui and that's all she wrote!