Refurbished Riu Negril unveils modern upgrades and new experiences
Published:Monday | December 16, 2024 | 12:07 AMJanet Silvera/Gleaner Writer
Western Bureau:
Having undergone significant transformation, the five-star Riu Negril Hotel is now featuring fully renovated rooms, luxurious swim-up suites, and exciting new offerings, including the American Country restaurant and the much-anticipated RIU Party events.
The resort property, which reopened earlier this month, had closed its doors for four months to carry out the extensive refurbishing which has now taken place.
Situated on the sprawling Bloody Bay beachfront, Riu Negril was one of the first Riu resorts to open in Jamaica back in 2004. With 600 rooms, the resort continues to offer a blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Among the enhancements, the hotel now boasts 28 swim-up suites, providing guests with exclusive pool access right from their accommodations. The newly designed interiors are bright and elegant, with furniture showcasing clean lines and a palette of natural and soft colours.
“Guests will be delighted by the new tropical-inspired lobby, which incorporates vegetation along with wood and stone accents that reflect the natural beauty and warmth of Jamaica,” stated a release from RIU’s headquarters in Mallorca, Spain.
“Culinary experiences have also been elevated, with eight restaurants now available on the property, including three new additions: the “American Country”-themed eatery, “Pepe’s Food” and the “Tiki Taco” station, which serves up authentic Mexican flavours,” the released added.
The resort has also introduced two new event and conference spaces, enhancing its appeal for business and social gatherings.
The revamped entertainment options include five newly renovated swimming pools, each tailored for different experiences: an activity pool, a quiet pool, a general-use pool, a dedicated children’s pool, and a pool featuring a water bar, which contributes to the resort’s impressive tally of six bars. Active guests can enjoy three brand-new pickleball courts, while thrill-seekers can look forward to the RIU Party events.
Starting December 19, the resort will host weekly Neon Party and White Party events at its theatre, open to guests of all ages staying at Riu Negril or the nearby Riu Palace Tropical Bay.
Located in the idyllic natural setting of Bloody Bay, the resort offers an ideal retreat for relaxation or adventure. Guests can indulge in water sports such as kayaking, surfing, sailing, and diving or explore nearby attractions like the Rhodes Hall Plantation hot springs, Seven Mile Beach, The Great Morass, and Roaring River.
RIU’s history in Jamaica dates back to 2001 with the opening of Riu Palace Tropical Bay in Negril. Since then, the chain has expanded to include properties in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth, with a portfolio that now encompasses seven hotels and 4,274 rooms across the island. These range from luxurious RIU Palace resorts to family-friendly properties, solidifying RIU’s status as one of Jamaica’s premier international hotel brands.