Hermitage Bay - All Inclusive

Intro: Being a Hilton Honors Diamond member, we were able to use 520,000 HH points for a 5-night stay. We booked our stay when the points rate was 130,000 per night (standard room rate with 5th night free). Since then, they have raised the standard room rate to 150,000 per night. The standard room we booked was the Beach Front Villa. The cost of the room would have been around $18,000 at that time for the 5-night stay. Obviously, this was an exceptional use of HH points, probably the best on the planet I’d say. If your stay is 3 or more nights, then your airport transfers (from and to) are included in the cost. You also get fast-track immigration upon arrival. Arrival: They provided us with details of how to navigate the arrival hall and all went without any issues. We met Lisa and she guided us through the process. It was smooth and stress-free. We were in our private car with Vernon to Heritage Bay in no time at all. At the resort, check-in was seamless. They provided welcome drinks, an explanation of food times and planning, and a brief tour of the grounds. They made us feel special from the very first interaction (and it had nothing to do with our Hilton status). Room: Our beach villa was an amazing place to relax throughout the day. A bi-level deck in front, with various places to sit, lounge, and sleep provided comfort for any mood we were in. The room was huge, with a very comfy bed as well as various areas to sit and lounge. There was also a high-quality Bluetooth speaker in the room that we used on several occasions, and it did not disappoint. The only oddity in the room (as you have probably read about before) is the toilet not having a private room within the bathroom. It’s just in the bathroom, like the two sinks are and the giant soaking tub. This may be an issue with some, but if you are a couple spending 3 to 5 grand a night on vacation, then hopefully you’d be over this minor inconvenience. We were not bothered by it. Nor were we bothered the the amazing (private) outdoor shower. As for some room basics, we always had plenty of hot and cold water, and most importantly, the AC worked great and we were able to make the room as cool as we needed it to be for a great night’s sleep every night. Our room also came with robes and thong sandals and was serviced twice a day. Food/Drink: Yes, I hate all-inclusive too. At least that’s what I always said before I got here. I can state that the food here was comparable to or better than the best à la carte resorts we have ever visited! (check out my other reviews, we’ve been around). The menus had plenty of variety and the food was always fresh to order and most importantly it was all excellent. And for those with food issues (and we all have them), they always asked and were always able to accommodate you no matter what your issues were. The cocktail menu at lunch, Tree Bar Sushi, and dinner were surprisingly creative and again made with fresh ingredients. No pre-mix sugary shortcuts here

Literally every detail…. Rooms, staff, grounds, food… impeccable. The have a fun complimentary boat tour twice daily, be sure to do that. They were also very attentive to my food intolerance. Evening omakase sushi and cocktails is a great touch. Zero complaints, zero notes. Would 10/10 recommend and I truly hope we return.

Best beach vacation ever? Fortunate to be a frequent traveler and usually line up some type of beach vacation a couple times a year. Always in search of that "special place" that provides first class accommodations, genuinely friendly service, quality locally sourced food, incorporates the local culture, all while maintaining a touch of class. Look no further than Hermitage Bay. Literally checks all the boxes referenced. The quality and options for food and drinks is simply amazing. Nightly live music at lunch and after dinner is a wonderful touch. Plenty of water sport options. Just thinking about pulling up a chair at the Tree Bar makes me smile. A big THANK YOU to the entire staff for making this one of the best vacations ever! Your professional service accompanied with a smile made this guest feel like family. Looking forward to visiting next year now that I have found that "special place".