Formerly the Grand Lido San Souci, this property is one of Jamaica's oldest and more renowned hotels. It existed long before SuperClubs came in to manage the property in 1995 and will no doubt continue unruffled by SuperClubs' abrupt departure. There has been hardly a hiccup in the operation of this class act. This harmoniously haphazard resort's most distinctive amenity is a tepid mineral spring in a beach grotto, which provides the waters used in its spa program. This setting is unique enough that it was featured in the James Bond movie Dr. No.
The main building sets the tone with a subdued pastel-pink facade and enchanting wicker lobby where guests are greeted with champagne. Piano music plays softly in the lobby. From the lobby terrace, labyrinthine stairs cascade in all directions, spilling out onto a foliage-filled cove with a honey-hued beach backed by lush lawns. (Be warned, plenty of stair-stepping is required to get around this resort). Meandering stone pathways lead guests through a botanical museum of meticulously kept gardens.
Beachfront Palazzina serves mostly breakfast and luncheon buffets, with a spotlight on pasta. Romantic terrace dining features sea views, a complete wine list, and a moderately priced menu of seafood and Italian dishes. Bistro fare also keeps
the casually attired well-fed. The beach grill is a casual spot open noon-5 pm, and then becomes Bella Vista, serving Jamaican dishes 7:30-9:30 pm, when the live entertainment begins. The upstairs gourmet Italian Casanova requires both reservations and jackets for inside dining. A varied menu of marinated meats and succulent pastas swirled with fresh vegetables and tangy sauces makes this one of the most popular on-site.
After dinner, guests enjoy shows and dancing, although the piano bar has its devotees as well. The clever Balloon Bar is a chic and whimsical toast to balloonists, with finely crafted miniature hot-air balloons and baskets hanging from the ceiling. Carrot and celery juices are the mainstay drinks at Charlie's Spa Bar. A trio of other watering holes keeps the atmosphere lively, yet subdued.
The steep grounds demand some exertion, but an elevator drops to the beach-level spa. Here, the spring feeds a mineral pool and whirlpool, a grotto is strung with hammocks, and a clothing-optional beach eliminates tan lines (and any sense of inhibition). At Charlie's Spa (named after the hotel's resident sea turtle), rates include a half-hour massage, body scrub, manicure, pedicure, and choice of a facial or reflexology session—real perks, even for an all-inclusive. 
Although much of the shore is rocky, an excellent beach fronts the newer section of suites. Limited space, however, prevents leisurely strolls along the beach, since the surrounding rocks force walkers to turn around. A private massage table is in a small hut on a bluff with wonderful views of the sea, making guests feel they have escaped to a deserted island in the South Pacific.
The resort provides plenty of exercise with its two lighted tennis courts, a volleyball court, jogging track and large pool with swim-up bar. Nonmotorized watersports, even scuba diving, are included in the rates. The splendid 24-hour gym features workout stations, an open-air aerobics studio and a sauna. Although more sedate than a typical rah-rah Sandals, the roster of activities runs the gamut from diving lessons to reggae dance classes, and a giant chess set studs the lawn.
The conference room seats 80 delegates and can handle 150 people for receptions. Those searching for wireless Internet access must head to the area surrounding the game room to catch the spotty signal. Two computers proffer free access nearby. A gift shop sells the basic necessities but at a premium.
Accommodations, all 
spacious one-bedroom suites, are bathed in a genteel blend of white, pink and green. Shuttered windows add British-inspired residential appeal. In all are air-conditioning, tile floors highlighted by area rugs, phones, combination baths, safes, irons, coffeemakers, and private balconies or patios facing the sea. Paneled doors open to intimate sitting rooms fitted with posh sofas, TVs and minibars restocked daily. Most suites are in the three-story wing facing the beach and show a Mediterranean twist in decor. Pastel hues dance across the fabrics and balance well with the elegant wood paneling and burgundy accents found throughout. These have bleached-wood or rich mahogany furniture, CD players, king, double or twin beds on glazed-tile floors, and luxurious marble baths with whirlpool tubs, hair dryers and stall showers. Room service runs until 11 pm, although dining opportunities elsewhere on the property are available all night.
Minor deficiencies in the rooms such as rusty or musty baths and worn fabrics are the only noticeable problems needing improvement. Pets are not allowed on-site. The air of tradition, attention to detail and service-oriented staff contribute to the continuing success here. This stylish resort draws plenty of young couples among its mainly conservative guests.
