Unforgettable Flavors and Adventures: My Transformative Jamaica Food Blogger Retreat at Sandals Ocho Rios
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Jamaica! This recap details my incredible journey last October for the exclusive Eat, Love, Sandals Food Blogger Retreat, an experience that combined culinary delights, breathtaking scenery, and heartwarming community engagement. Prepare for a visual feast and a narrative brimming with personal reflections and unforgettable moments.
Last October marked a pivotal moment in my journey as a food blogger and as an individual. I was granted the extraordinary opportunity to travel to the stunning island of Jamaica, a rare solo trip without my beloved husband or children. The destination was none other than the luxurious Sandals Ochi Resort in Ocho Rios, where I was set to join some of the most inspiring and talented food bloggers in the industry for an enriching retreat.
Writing this Jamaica retreat post has been a deeply personal and somewhat emotional endeavor. A significant reason for my hesitation stems from the recent passing of my dear friend, Joan. Her unexpected departure a few months ago, due to a heart attack in her sleep, left a profound void. Joan was the driving force behind my attendance at this retreat. She not only secured a coveted spot for me but also gently yet firmly pushed me beyond my comfort zone to embark on this adventure. I admit, I felt a wave of nervousness about meeting many new faces and the sheer thought of leaving the country after years of staying close to home. It had been an incredibly long time since I’d traveled so far, making the prospect both exhilarating and daunting.
Ultimately, I agreed to go because, simply put, you couldn’t say no to Joan. Her infectious enthusiasm and persuasive charm were irresistible. She truly wouldn’t let you decline such an amazing opportunity, and for that, I am eternally grateful. This trip, in many ways, was a testament to her spirit.
Upon our arrival in Montego Bay, a comfortable bus shuttle awaited us, ready to transport us to our ultimate paradise in Ocho Rios. The drive itself was an experience, winding through picturesque landscapes for a good 90 minutes. I quickly discovered that driving in Jamaica is an intense affair! The local drivers exhibit an almost fearless agility, often navigating on the opposite side of the road compared to what we’re accustomed to in America. They frequently pass vehicles by skillfully maneuvering into the oncoming lane, creating heart-stopping moments where other cars seem to be hurtling directly towards you! Then, at the very last second, they deftly swerve back into the left lane. There were several instances where I swore I was on the verge of a panic attack right there on the bus. It was an exhilarating, yet slightly terrifying, introduction to Jamaican road culture!
However, any lingering anxieties from the drive quickly dissipated upon our arrival at the Sandals Ochi Resort. After a smooth check-in process, we were whisked away to our rooms to refresh and settle in. The moment I stepped onto the grounds, I was struck by the utterly gorgeous atmosphere. It was, quite simply, breathtaking. Despite the enveloping humidity and tropical heat, the panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and lush greenery were out of this world. The resort staff, ever attentive, provided convenient golf cart transport to guide us through the sprawling property to our luxurious suites.
My room was nothing short of magnificent. From my private deck/patio, I overlooked a scene of serene beauty, perfectly capturing the essence of a Caribbean paradise. My suite featured a comfortable sitting room, a convenient kitchenette, and a grand four-poster bed that promised restful nights. And, perhaps most importantly for escaping the Jamaican heat, it boasted the most powerful and welcome air conditioning! The attention to detail in the accommodations truly made it feel like a home away from home, but with an infinitely better view.
That evening, our first official event was a vibrant welcome party and dinner. It was a fantastic opportunity to mingle with fellow food bloggers and savor the incredible culinary offerings. Among the array of delectable dishes, my absolute favorite was the coconut shrimp served on skewers. They were undeniably yummy and set a high standard for the meals to come during our retreat.
The following morning began with a truly unforgettable breakfast. We were treated to the quintessential Jamaican National dish: Ackee & Salt Fish, alongside a rich and aromatic Jamaican hot chocolate. You guys, I cannot overstate this – that hot chocolate changed my life! It was, without a doubt, the best hot chocolate I have ever tasted, a perfect blend of sweetness and spices that truly awakened my senses and left an indelible impression.
Delicious breakfast of the Jamaican National dish Ackee & Salt Fish and Jamaican hot chocolate. Incredible! #eatlovesandals #breakfastofchampions #jamaica
A photo posted by Jen Nikolaus (@jen_yummyhealthyeasy) on
After our delightful breakfast, we gathered for a roundtable discussion, a key component of our food blogger retreat designed for professional growth. We shared insights on the best things we’d ever done for our businesses, exchanging valuable tips and strategies. Because, you know, we were definitely there for serious business networking, not just for a luxurious vacation, right? (Wink, wink!). The discussions were incredibly stimulating, offering fresh perspectives and fostering a sense of community among us entrepreneurs.
I had to excuse myself slightly early from the meeting for a very special engagement: my first-ever snorkeling adventure! This was an experience I had both anticipated and dreaded, given my long-standing, significant fear of the ocean. It was truly a “first date” with the underwater world.
A Jamaica retreat recap wouldn’t be complete without a selfie that captures a raw moment, would it? Below, you’ll see me looking… well, possibly excited, but internally, I was terrified. My fear of the ocean isn’t just “a little fear”; it’s a huge one. Even in the most gorgeous, crystalline blue waters, I’ve always been reluctant to fully immerse myself. I think it stems from not being a strong swimmer. While I can doggie paddle and swim underwater, I never learned proper strokes, so open water without the defined boundaries of a pool genuinely unnerves me.
Despite my apprehension, the boat ride to the snorkeling spot was incredibly fun, and I was in excellent company, which certainly helped calm my nerves. The camaraderie and supportive environment made a significant difference.
So, I took a deep breath, figuratively put on my “big girl panties,” swallowed my fear, and plunged into the Caribbean Sea. I armed myself with my oldest son’s GoPro, determined to capture this momentous first-time experience. And I’m so glad I did!
It was absolutely awesome! This particular spot turned out to be the perfect “first” snorkeling experience for me. The water was relatively shallow, and while there wasn’t an abundance of large sea creatures, there were plenty of harmless, colorful little fish swimming gracefully around. My fellow adventurers, Leslie and Meghan, who joined me, might have been hoping for a more dramatic underwater spectacle, but for my timid self, it was perfectly exhilarating and eased me into the marvels of the ocean!
After our snorkeling excursion, the boat transported us to the magnificent Dunn’s River Falls. This was another incredible adventure where we had the opportunity to hike up a series of breathtaking natural waterfalls, guided by an experienced local who led us safely through the cascading waters. It was an invigorating and truly unique experience.
Having only ever seen one other waterfall, a modest one in Kona a few years prior, this experience at Dunn’s River Falls felt truly spectacular and innovative. The sheer scale and natural beauty were astounding, offering a stark contrast to my previous waterfall encounter. There’s a particular picture from that day that still makes me laugh every time I see it!
One of the most cherished memories from that snorkeling and waterfall trip was the lively boat ride back to shore. Our charismatic boat driver decided to take the scenic route, speeding over the waves, which added an extra layer of thrill to our journey. The speakers blared loud reggae and popular music, transforming the boat into a floating party. We joyously jammed out with the tour guides, who joined in the singing and dancing. Yes, there were definitely a few enthusiastic renditions of “Watch Me Whip” echoing across the Caribbean Sea!
Upon our return to the resort, after freshening up, we had the fantastic opportunity to engage in a hands-on culinary experience at the resort’s Jerk Shack. Under the guidance of local chefs, we learned to prepare a few authentic Jamaican dishes ourselves. Our menu included succulent Jerk Pork, flavorful Fish in Foil Packets, and crispy hush puppies. Every dish we created and then savored was utterly delicious, providing a deeper appreciation for Jamaican cuisine and its rich flavors.
The following picture, though not the highest quality due to lighting, beautifully captures our group gathered together after that memorable dinner at the Jerk Shack. It’s a testament to the wonderful bonds formed during the retreat.
The next morning commenced with another insightful roundtable discussion after a hearty breakfast. These sessions proved to be incredibly useful, offering practical advice and fostering collaborative spirit among the bloggers. Following our engaging discussions, we boarded a bus for a truly special excursion to The Seville Golden Preschool, an initiative supported by the Sandals Foundation’s “Pack for a Purpose” program. Each of us had brought a backpack filled with school supplies and other thoughtful items from home, eager to distribute them to the children.
I find myself tearing up even as I recount this experience, as it was undoubtedly the most profoundly amazing and humbling part of my entire trip. The immediate area where the school is situated is undeniably gorgeous, with stunning views right by the ocean, as the pictures attest. However, the surrounding areas often present a stark contrast, revealing the widespread poverty that touches much of Jamaica. It’s a reality that becomes evident everywhere you look beyond the resort gates.
Yet, the children at Seville – wow. They are incredibly vibrant, resilient, and thriving spirits. Their happiness is utterly contagious, radiating a joy that captivated all of us. I genuinely fell in love with these kids, their bright eyes and infectious laughter leaving an indelible mark on my heart.
I’m feeling absolutely humbled right now. We were able to take a trip to a local Jamaican school, hand out school supplies and stuffed animals we brought, read books, color and play with some of the sweetest little kids. I am so grateful for such an amazing experience!! I’ll never forget it. ? #eatlovesandals #packforapurpose #readingroadtrip #jamaica
A photo posted by Jen Nikolaus (@jen_yummyhealthyeasy) on
We spent precious time reading books to them, engaging in cheerful conversations, sharing warm hugs, and coloring together. Then came the moment to distribute the items we had brought. You guys, their reactions were beyond thrilling. To receive something as seemingly simple as a pencil sharpener brought them immense joy and excitement. A stuffed animal was greeted as if it were the most precious present imaginable. Their genuine appreciation for these small gestures was profoundly moving.
These children were so incredibly sweet, and I am eternally thankful for the opportunity to have spent time with them. This experience truly made the Jamaica retreat the most special and meaningful journey of my life. I urge everyone to consider donating to the Sandals Foundation to support this and other schools like it across the Caribbean. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in these children’s lives.
On our journey back to the resort from the school, we made an impromptu stop at a local spot, eager to capture some truly authentic Jamaica beach pictures. These moments, away from the groomed resort beaches, showcased the raw, untamed beauty of the island’s coastline.
Our farewell party that night was a spectacular affair, themed around the charming elegance of the 1950s. The dinner featured exquisite French cuisine, a delightful contrast to the local Jamaican flavors we had enjoyed earlier. I even ventured to try escargot for the first time! The food from this evening stood out as my favorite of the entire trip, particularly the French Onion soup, which was simply the best I’d had in a very long time. While I captured some pictures, the ambient lighting of the room was quite dim, making it difficult to discern the details of the dishes. Nevertheless, the memory of that gourmet meal remains vivid.
The following day, it was time to pack up and bid farewell to this enchanting island. I was filled with a profound sadness to say goodbye to Jamaica, its vibrant culture, and its beautiful landscapes. However, an even deeper sadness came from having to part ways with friends, both old acquaintances and wonderful new connections forged during this incredible journey. This Jamaica retreat had taught me so much, both professionally and personally.
The picture below holds immense sentimental value for me. It is the last photograph I took with Joan, marking the final time I saw her. I will miss her dearly, her warmth and her unwavering encouragement. She was particularly insistent on capturing this moment in the airport, amidst the bustling duty-free goods. I am incredibly grateful that we took that picture, as it is a memory I will cherish forever.
Thank you for allowing me to share my story of the Eat, Love, Sandals Food Blogger Retreat. It was truly the Best Jamaica Retreat Ever, a blend of luxury, adventure, culinary exploration, and deeply meaningful connections that I will never forget.
Check out the incredible sponsors that helped make this unforgettable retreat possible:
Kendra Scott – Graze – Tieks – SugarWish – Heirloomed – New West Knife Works – It! Cosmetics – Nielsen-Massey – Sweets and Treats Boutique – Minted – Fiestaware – ProFlowers – Inkspot Workshop – Partners Crackers