RIU Montego Bay vs RIU Palace Aquarelle
- Stacy-Ann Reid
- Jan 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 26
What do pineapple on pizza and RIU Montego Bay have in common? It's not for everyone.
RIU Montego Bay – The Party Spot
RIU Montego Bay is the place to be if you’re looking for a quick getaway with one main goal: getting lit and staying lit.
It’s an adults-only resort, with party vibes and they keep the energy high throughout your entire stay.
Think party music, beachside dancing and lively events all day. This isn’t the place for quiet relaxation. It's all about embracing the energy and singing along to dancehall music with a shot in your hand.
The food? It’s decent, but you’re not here for gourmet meals. You're here to enjoy the vibe, the music and get back before your boss knows you were even gone.
Location wise, RIU Montego Bay has an undeniable convenience: only about 10 minutes from the airport. Bonus points for being directly across the road from a KFC, Juici Patties, gift shops and supermarkets (just trust me, skip the resort gift shop).
RIU Palace Aquarelle – A More Relaxed, Family-Friendly Experience
On the other side of things, we have RIU Palace Aquarelle, about 30 minutes from the airport, located in Falmouth, Trelawny.
While it’s still a RIU property, the experience here is much more laid back and it's family-friendly. You can expect a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere where families and couples alike can recharge and enjoy quality time together.
The resort offers plenty of nearby activities like bamboo rafting, horseback riding, photoshoots in clear kayaks and visits to the famous Luminous Lagoon.
This means you can dive into some exciting experiences beyond the resort, making it a perfect choice if you want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
And Now... The Price
Now, let's address the elephant in the room: Price.
RIU Montego Bay typically runs around $1,000 for 2 adults for 3 nights, including round-trip airport transfers.
RIU Palace Aquarelle usually comes in at around $1,500 for 2 adults for 3 nights, including airport transfers.
RIU Montego Bay Waterslides
But let’s dive into why the extra cost for RIU Palace Aquarelle might be worth it.
Why I (and My Clients) Prefer RIU Palace Aquarelle
Laid Back Vibe - RIU Palace Aquarelle offers a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer to unwind, reflect and recharge. It’s an ideal setting for families, couples, or even solo travellers.
Aesthetic - The resort is stunning, with sleek, modern designs, ambient lighting and beautiful views.
RIU Palace Aquarelle- Junior Suite You can also book a room with a private plunge pool, not just on the ground floor but also on the second floor with a view of the ocean.
Whether you’re taking in the resort’s grounds or relaxing by the water, the aesthetic is definitely Instagram worthy.
Exchange Privileges - If you're ever craving a change of pace, you can head over to RIU Montego Bay to enjoy its high energy vibe and head right back when you've had enough. Plus you also get access to RIU Ocho Rios' weekly theme party and there’s a shuttle to make it easy!
Food Quality and Variety - You can enjoy a wider variety of dining options, making it a better fit for those who want to enjoy their meals as part of the overall experience. Oh and if you're a coffee lover like me, you HAVE to try the Espresso Martini at the lobby bar.
RIU Palace Aquarelle Lobby Bar Water Park and Activities - If you’re travelling with kids, the water park is the perfect way to keep the little ones entertained while you kick back and relax. Even for adults, the activities available keep the experience exciting without overwhelming the senses PLUS there is an adult waterslide.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice between RIU Palace Aquarelle and RIU Montego Bay comes down to what kind of trip you’re after. If you're in it for the party, fast vibes and proximity to the airport, RIU Montego Bay might be the right pick for you.
But if you’re seeking a more balanced getaway with beautiful aesthetics, better food, exciting activities and a laid back vibe, RIU Palace Aquarelle is where you’ll find more value.
Either way, both resorts offer a great experience, but it’s all about aligning the resort’s energy with your trip goals.
Ready to book a trip that makes you think... I have to revisit this place at least one more time?
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