Sandals Dunns is a far superior resort.

Consequently, it will likely cost far more.

I would also check out Couples Sans Souci and Jamaica Inn in the Ocho Rios area.

Sandals dunns is actually only about 200 more per person for our chosen departure date......so you would say sandals? have you been to either?

the sandals property is indeed dated compared to the Riu, however the level of service and overall product you get with a sandals holiday is above that of the riu's and the prices will reflect that (although dollar for dollar, I personally think i would prefer a couples over a sandals.)

the riu is a 3*, sandals closer to a 4* (this is the true international rating and not the tour brochure's "ammenities rating")...

Riu is a nice hotel for a nice vacation... sandals or couples represent a better choice for a romantic honeymoon (IMO)... Riu is a family destination and fairly kid friendly, Sandals/Couples are adult only...

you will enjoy a Riu stay, i'm sure, but if your budget permits, go with Sandals or Couples for a honeymoon...

(personally I'd go with Couples San Souci if I was looking to be in the Ochi in that general price range/resort class)..

Chelle

I agree completely with Easton...

Couples over Sandals for me personally, and Jamaica Inn or Royal Plantation if you really have the money to splurge (and are still attached to the Ochi area)...

Chelle

I have not stayed at Sandals Dunns (nor probably would I) or the Riu (I definitely wouldn't) but Chell hit the nail on the head.

The Riu is new and shiny. Sandals is smaller, more dated, and will have FAR superior service.

So...it depends what you want?

Cheap marble bathrooms with impersonal service or slightly dated (but clean) rooms with personal service.

I, too, would choose Sans Souci over either. I would also choose the newly remodeled Couples Ocho Rios (now called Couples Tower Isle) or Jamaica Inn before either.

is Tower Isle open yet?

I thought it was december...

it will probably be the superior couples property in the area once it is completed (it very well may be for the time that you are planning), but I don't think you can go wrong with San Souci...

that said... list prices on Riu hotels can often drop significantly closer to the date (unless you are travelling during peak season, xmas, march break, easter ect)..

I'm not sure of what the Riu price that you're seeing is, but I can say that I've saw ROR during the quieter times of high season (late jan early feb past) for well under 1300pp...

you will not see this type of selloff on a sandals or couples property, (although you can catch good deals on sandals out of pearson last minute)... I know that you are probably trying to plan this well in advance because it is a honeymoon, but understand that a small difference in list price of say a 2009 vacation does not really reflect the properties being near equal..

Chelle

No, Tower Isle is not open. I just assumed (perhaps incorrectly) that this honeymoon was being planned well in advance.

I just returned from the Riu last night and it was great and we loved it but we are a family of 5. For a honeymoon (or just romantic getaway), I would probably opt for Sandals or Couples also. I have never been to either but I would imagine its somewhat smaller and quieter.

I've never understood the facination for "New". By asking how old SDR is are you asking if the place is run down compared to the "new" RIU? Not at all..SDR just went through mega millions of dollars in renovations a few years ago. I stayed there in 2006 and it was incredable. As with all "older" resorts, somethings are bound to look aged. The tropics age things faster than you'd think. The RIU is directly next door to SDR and for my money I'll stick with the no-kids, & extremly personal service at SDR.

Of course, if I could afford it, I'd be at The Jamaican Inn in a heart beat!

Congrats on your Wedding and I'm sure which ever resort you pick for the Honeymoon, you will have a great time.

Tiffany

I wanted to mention the renovations at SDR as well. We were there in 2006 as well and I would not consider it dated at all. There is a nice new piazza and our room was very updated, the lobby is beautiful.

Sandals vs Riu are two completely different experiences. With SDR being couples only is more intimate and romantic. Also, no kids.

We love Sandals and have stayed at many. I personally wouldn't stay at an Riu. We like adults only and a more intimate atmosphere. SDR is very nice. It is our 2nd favorite of the Sandals we have been too, SWH is number one.