Antigua Starfish Jolly Beach Resort & Spa

Antigua Starfish Jolly Beach Resort & Spa

Jolly Beach Resort was my third all-inclusive experience in less than 2 years and I must say that we were charmed by the intimacy of the site, the small number of travellers and its very small size. There are very few steps to go from the room to the pool or from the buffet to the beach. Obviously, such a small site comes with fewer services, fewer restaurants, less choice at the buffet. Despite everything, the central swimming pool, the evening entertainment, the beach and the climate exceeded our expectations.

I mainly spent my time in the huge central pool which has a volleyball net, a classic water bar, deep water on one end and a beach-style entrance on the other, as well as water fountains where I could have fun, all overlooked by several decks, made from natural stones, of cascading water. The beach was breathtaking: fine sand, a gentle entry to the sea and coral and shells only in a few spots. Completely to the left, there are fewer people, and the sand is magnificent. It is possible to practise certain water sports, and sellers offer souvenirs and clothing.

The small buffet is repetitive, but the food is generally good. Rice, fish and meat, vegetables, a pasta bar, a salad and crudités table, and many desserts fuelled us throughout the stay. During the evening of the full moon, the main restaurant was transported to the beach where the meal was served to the rhythms of Caribbean music and disco lighting. However, we did not try the à la carte restaurants.

Another highlight was the entertainment every evening. Circus shows, fire-eaters, musical performances, karaoke… everything was there to entertain me. However, evenings end early, and the bars close as well. It is not a resort where the party is in full swing day and night. Finally, I must say that the few people on the site and the proximity between them allowed me to know almost everyone about the club. By the end of the trip, everyone knew my first name. This might seem unpleasant to some, but for my mother who was travelling alone with me, it was of great help. We have made hundreds of friends with whom we are still connected.

Good to know

When to visit

From October to March. Direct flight from Montreal with Sunwings.

What to do

Outside the resort : Several excursions on the island, the port, the city of Saint John’s, catamaran cruises. At the resort : Receive a massage or pedicure, aqua fitness every morning in the central swimming pool, watersport rental.

Strengths

The climate, the beach, the pool, the staff.

Weak points

At 11 p.m. everything is finished. The buffet and the rooms could be improved.

Things to know

he sun is very intense. Bring mosquito repellent, as they can be stubborn at times. $ 5 round trip taxi to the capital.

Tourist trap

There is a large grocery store within a 3-minute walk where you will find everything you need rather than buying from the shop in the resort which sells for three times more.

How to dress

The days and nights are very hot. A hat is necessary for young children.

Cost

From $ 900 to $ 1,300, depending on the city of departure, the time of year and when you buy your package.

www.starfishresorts.com/resort/starfish-jolly-beach-resort

Note from my parents

I was not sure where to go this time and was looking for a country where I had never been. Since I was travelling alone with the baby traveller for whom I had to pay the full price, the cost of the trip influenced my choice. This is why I chose this destination for its cheap price and I was not disappointed. Certainly, some facilities and the rooms deserve to be refreshed, but the modest size of the site, access to everything quickly, the friendliness of the staff, the market just around the corner, the entertainment and the proximity to other travellers represent the positive points of my stay. Be sure to visit Saint John’s! A little drive is enough to get there. Its port and its many shops will charm you.