couples resorts » frequently asked questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GETTING THERE
- What documents do I need to enter Jamaica?
- How do I get through Customs, collect my baggage and get to Couples?
- What do I need to do to check in and check out of a Couples Resort?
GENERAL FAQ
- How much money should we bring?
- Is there a secure place to keep valuables?
- Are there medical facilities on property?
- What electrical current is used in Jamaica?
- Are there any gift shops on property?
- How much should we tip?
- What is the dress code?
- What watersports are included at Couples Resorts?
- What golf courses does Couples Resorts have available for its guests?
- Is scuba diving Included?
- How will we get from the Montego Bay (MBJ) airport to Couples Resorts?
- What kind of sun protection do we need?
- Where can we post our holiday experience and memorable pictures for others to see?
- Are there Spa facilities on property?
- Does Couples Resorts have gym facilities?
- Are there tours available off-site?
- Is there nude sunbathing?
- What are the restaurant hours?
- Are weddings included?
- When should we make our wedding arrangements?
- When do we meet the wedding advisor?
- What are the wedding sites on property?
- Are there ceremony passes for guests not staying at Couples Resorts?
- What documents are required to get married at Couples Resorts?
- Can we mail our required marriage documents and government fee?
- Can we renew our vows on property?
- We are honeymooning, do we get anything special?
- What are the check-in and check-out times for Couples Resorts?
- Does Couples Resorts accept singles?
- What is Couples' Hurricane Policy?
- Disclaimer
What Documents Do I Need to Enter Jamaica?
To enter Jamaica a valid passport is required (starting January 7th 2007). The expiry date must be at least six months after your return date.
Be sure to secure these documents before you arrive at your departure airport. Some airlines will not allow you to get on your flight without them.
UK citizens do not require a visa. Other nationalities should contact the local Jamaica Tourism Board office or visit www.visitjamaica.com to verify correct documentation needed.
How do I get through Customs, Collect my Baggage and get to Couples?
Your flight attendants will provide you with 2 short forms that you will need to fill out (also available once landed in Jamaica at Jamaica Tourist Board counter in Immigration hall.
- "White/Red" - Immigration form, one per person
- "White/Grey" - Custom declaration, one form per couple can be used if the couple has the same address and family name.
After leaving the aircraft proceed to the Immigration Hall. You will need to present required entry documents along with completed Immigration and Customs forms. They will give back the custom form (to be handed in when leaving the Customs hall) and a stub from the immigration form (to be handed in at the airport when leaving Jamaica).
Go downstairs and pick-up your luggage.
Provided you are only bringing in personal items for your vacation in Jamaica, proceed to Customs counter marked "nothing to declare") Hand in your Custom Declaration form.
After you exit customs go to The Couples Resorts Lounge (go straight to the end of the hallway and turn left). A Couples Resorts representative will be waiting for you.
Please enjoy a cold Red Stripe beer/soda/water while waiting for other passengers to clear Immigration and Customs.
Your shuttle will depart shortly. Your Couples Resorts representative will escort you to the car park. It is customary that an airport porter will bring your luggage to the bus. The porter is not a Couples Resorts employee. A USD$1 tip per bag is customary. Please Note: Couples Resorts has a no tipping policy. Acceptance of tips by staff is not allowed or expected.
Transfers are provided by JACAL Tours Company. Ask the driver to put on some Bob Marley music and ask him questions - they are very knowledgeable of the Island and enjoy answering your questions.
The ride to Negril is non-stop and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The ride to Ocho Rios is about 2 hours long, with one stop (rest rooms/drinks/food).
Your driver is not a Couples Resorts employee, tipping is permitted. [Please Note: Couples Resorts has a no tipping policy. Acceptance of tips by staff is not allowed or expected.]
What do I Need to Do to Check in and Check out of a Couples Resort?
Upon your arrival you will be welcomed with cold beverages and dampened face cloths.
You will be directed to the reception desk where you must hand in your Immigration stubs for safe keeping at the reception. This form will be given back to you on your check-out. When departing Jamaica, you will hand it to an out-bound immigration officer at the airport in the departure lounge.
Couples Resorts requires an imprint of your credit card and a deposit of USD$250 for incidentals and to supply a room safe box key deposit. [Each room at Couples is provided with a small built in safe] The $250 deposit will be returned at check-out.
You will also be asked to fill out a form with your returning flight information. The day before departure Couples Resorts will reconfirm your flight and will arrange your bus transfer to the Montego Bay [MBJ] airport. The shuttle departure time will be left in your room on your last evening at the Resort.
When you have completed your registration, you will receive your keys and a Couples Porter will move your luggage to your room.
WELCOME TO COUPLES RESORTS! TRANQUIL DAYS.INTIMATE NIGHTS... ROMANCE ALWAYS!
How much money should we bring?
Once you are at Couples Resorts, nearly everything is already included in the price you have paid. However, if you decide to experience the local attractions or wish to make purchases in our duty free shops, you will need money for souvenirs. The legal tender of Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar, but most larger shops accept US Dollars. Couples Resorts will be happy to exchange currency at the property.
Is there a secure place to keep valuables?
Every room and suite has an in-room safe deposit box for which a key will be supplied at check-in. We advise guests to place cash, jewellery, travel documents and any other valuable items in this secure place.
Are there medical facilities on property?
All Couples Resorts have a nurse's office with regular office hours. However, should a guest need medical attention outside of these hours, we have a doctor on call 24-hours a day. The guest will be responsible for an additional charge if the doctor is called or if a prescription is needed.
What electrical current is used in Jamaica?
Jamaica works on 110 volts, 50 cycles.
Are there any gift shops on property?
Yes, all Couples Resorts have shopping on property for souvenirs, alcohol, gifts and keepsakes. However, if you would like to venture to the local markets, Couples Resorts will be happy to get you there and back. Just check with the tour desk to make arrangements.
How much should we tip?
Couples Resorts has a strict NO TIPPING policy. Our staff is trained and required not to request, accept or expect tips since non-tipping is an essential part of the all-inclusive experience. Please do not think that you need to tip to get great service.
We sincerely appreciate your desire to reward our employees for their great service but ask that you please refrain from giving them monetary gifts. Acceptance of cash tips could cost staff to lose their jobs.
There are some situations where tipping may apply during your travels or where you may wish to express your gratitude.
- For Montego Bay airport luggage handlers, bus transfer drivers, and all off-site excursions (included and extras) tips are expected. However this does not include our Couples airport lounge staff.
- SPA personnel are employed by Couples Resorts - no tipping.
- Photographers are outside contracted services and tipping is at your discretion.
- Couples Resorts supports many local charities, schools, orphanages and hospitals. You may wish to bring some gifts for them but you should declare them at the customs and you should be prepared to pay duties on those items.
- You may choose upon departure to leave some small gifts for staff at the check out desk or in your room; please include a note stating that this is a gift if you do so.
- Do you want to really help staff members who have particularly impressed you? When departing please fill out our questionnaire where you will find a place to name your favourite employees. We highly regard these nominations when considering staff rewards and promotions.
What is the dress code?
Casual dress. We recommend shorts, swim-suits, t-shirts and resort wear. However, if you plan on experiencing our gourmet dining, men will need trousers, collared shirt and closed toe shoes and ladies are asked to wear dress trousers, skirt or dress. Additionally, if you plan on going horseback riding, bring a pair of trousers.
What watersports are included at Couples Resorts?
Couples Resorts includes an array of watersports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, water-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, kayaking. Instruction and guidance is available for all watersports. See the FAQs for each resort for more details.
What golf courses does Couples Resorts have available for its guests?
At Couples Resorts green fees and transfers are included. The day before, Guest Relations will issue your voucher. Bus departs around 8 am and 1 pm (please reconfirm). Please Note: In Jamaica caddies are mandatory and tipping is customary.
Couples Negril and Couples Swept Away:Negril Hills
The 18 hole par 72 course, measuring 6,333 yards, is distinguished by gently undulating fairways, elevated tees and greens, picturesque water hazards and lush tropical vegetation. Please note: caddy is mandatory at $14 per caddy for 18 holes; $7 for 9 holes. Carts are optional at $34.50 per cart for 18 holes; $17.25 for 9 holes. Club Rental: $18 per set (all rentals available in ladies and gents, left & right handed)
Couples Ocho Rios: Sandals Golf and Country Club
Caddy is mandatory at $17 per caddy for 18 holes; $12 for 9 holes
Carts are optional at $40 per cart for 18 holes; $25 for 9 holes
Club Rental: Precept: $25 - Callaway - $45 (all rentals available in ladies and gents, left & right handed). Shoe rentals (includes free socks) $16
Is ScubaDiving Included?
Yes, with the following conditions.
Certified Diver Programme
Dives are offered Sunday through Friday, deep dive in the morning and shallow in the afternoon. On Saturday morning we offer a two tank dive and no afternoon dive. The dives and gear are included with the price of your stay. We offer Night Dives for an additional charge. Consider upgrading your certification while you are visiting by taking an Advanced Course for an additional charge. Certified divers may dive once per day.
Non-Certified Divers
For non-certified divers complimentary Resort certification and one introductory dive is offered. Additional non-certified dives are $50 per person, subject to availability. The Resort Course is offered Monday through Friday at 9:00 am. Guests are asked to sign-up one day in advance. This is not a certification course.
Full Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Dive Master Certifications available for an additional charge.
Open Water Referrals
Our PADI Instructors can continue and complete any portion of the Open Water Course you may have begun at home for an additional charge.
PADI certifications, Advanced and Specialty Dives
Can be organised at an additional cost. Full Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver and Dive Master Certifications available for an additional charge.
All Divers
Please CLICK HERE to review the medical questionnaire for divers. All potential divers must review this questionnaire and visit their local physician, if necessary, to get the appropriate waivers, if any, before arriving at the resorts. The alternative is to visit a doctor in Jamaica to be cleared to dive. Expect the cost to be at least $100 if done in Jamaica.
Night Dive
Available at $50 per person. Minimum of 4 participants required.
How will we get from the Montego Bay [MBJ] airport to Couples Resorts?
Couples Resorts will supply ground transportation from the Montego Bay airport to the resort. However, you also have the option to fly on a small commercial aircraft from the Montego Bay airport to Ocho Rios (Boscobel) or Negril air strips and the hotel will provide transportation from the airstrip to the resort.
What kind of sun protection do we need?
The Caribbean sun can be very strong, so we recommend you bring plenty of protection (i.e.: sun block, sun glasses, hats & visors). However, if you forget we have these products available at our news stands & gift shops.
Where can we post our holiday experience and memorable pictures for others to see?
Couples Resorts has created a special section on our website for those who would like to share their experiences. Just join our Couples Lounge and let us know about your stay or read our quarterly newsletter.
Are there Spa facilities on property?
Absolutely. If you need to be rejuvenated, just call the spa and make an appointment for an array of massages, aromatherapy, facials, manicures, pedicures and much more. These services are available for a modest additional charge.
Does Couples Resorts have gym facilities?
For those who can't skip a workout... we have exercise facilities at all resorts. Couples Swept Away is home to the largest Sports Complex in the Caribbean with an Olympic style pool (25-meters), 10 tennis courts (5 hard, 5 clay) all lit for night play, a garden jogging track, world-class open-air gym and much more.
Are there tours available off-site?
Couples Resorts is the best value on the island and includes the widest array of off-site adventures. We include unlimited Golf Green Fees (cart and mandatory caddy - additional), off-site excursions including shopping tours, tours to local bars, catamaran cruises and the famous Dunn's River Falls tour & Horseback Riding in Ocho Rios. See detailed information for Couples Ocho Rios, Couples Negril & Couples Swept Away.
Can we nude sunbathe?
Sure, at Couples Ocho Rios there is a private island for just this. We will transport guests who wish to suntan au naturel on a small boat to the island. The island has a bar and beach grill facilities. At Couples Negril there is a small area designated for nude sunbathing. Couples Sans Souci has a separate beach for au natural sunbathing, there is a pool, Jacuzzi, bar and beach grill. Au naturel sunbathing is not permitted at Couples Swept Away. Due to the world-wide popularity of our resorts, it is possible you may encounter some topless sunbathers.
What are the restaurant hours?
You're on holiday, so why should you have a schedule for each meal? At Couples Resorts we offer 24-hour food service. You can even enjoy a continental breakfast in bed or on your balcony. Meal hours are posted at each restaurant, but we are sure you will not go hungry during your stay.
Are weddings included?
Yes, weddings are free at Couples Resorts for those wishing to get married on property. Included in your wedding is a ½ hour his & hers massage, a 2-tier wedding cake, a bottle of sparkling wine, the bridal bouquet and boutonniere, the ministers fee and a personal wedding advisor. A government processing, license and certificate fee of $200 is additional and mandatory.
When should we make our wedding arrangements?
Initial arrangements are with our wedding advisor in the UK who will confirm your wedding date.
Then the wedding advisors can be reached via email by filling our contact form at anytime after the wedding date and time has been reserved.
When do we meet the wedding advisor?
You should plan to meet with your wedding advisor the day after arrival to go through the details of your big day. It is best to make this appointment before your arrival to the resort.
What are the wedding sites on property?
It is your choice. You can get married on the beach or in a garden gazebo. Once on property your personal wedding advisor will help you find the perfect location and make your wedding a hassle free memorable event.
Are there Ceremony passes for guests not staying at Couples Resorts?
Family and friends (18 years and older) staying at a different resort may attend the ceremony by purchasing a ceremony only pass or half day or full day pass. There will be plenty of cake and sparkling wine for everyone. Payment for the passes will be collected upon their arrival.
- Ceremony Only Pass - USD $40
- Half Day Pass [10:00 am - 6:00 pm] - USD $75
- Full Day Pass [10:00 am - 11:30 pm] - USD $150
- Subject to the approval of the General Manager, children may attend wedding as guests for the ceremony and photographs only. A charge of USD $40 is required for each child. After the wedding ceremony and photographs the children must leave the resort.
What documents are required to get married at Couples Resorts?
The following documents will need to be received by the wedding department in Florida at least 30 days prior to the wedding.
- Notarised copies of your birth certificate AND passport or driver's license OR a copy of your passport. Notarised proof of divorce, or notarised copy of death certificate for widow must be included where applicable.
- You are required to be on property at least two (2) full business days in advance in order to finalise wedding arrangements and apply for a marriage license.
- Non-refundable government processing, license, and marriage certificate fee of US $200.
Can we mail our required marriage documents and government fee?
Send your documents to us by registered mail with the Government fee of US $200 (approximately £100). This fee may be paid by either cheque (made payable to Tropical Sky), international money order or a credit card authorisation by telephone. The payment should be sent along with the required legal documents to:
Tropical Sky
Weddings Department
151 London Road
East Grinstead
West Sussex, RH19 1ET
Can we renew our vows on property?
Couples Resorts offers a romantic Vow Renewal Ceremony for only US$150. Vow Renewal guests will receive everything we offer in the Wedding Ceremony with the exception of the massages and commemorative T-shirts.
We are honeymooning, do we get anything special?
The fairytale has begun and as a special congratulatory gift, we offer our honeymoon guests a complimentary bottle of champagne delivered to your room upon arrival, along with a ½ hour his & hers massage. Please confirm that the resort is aware of your honeymoon plans at time of booking and time of check-in. You must present proof that you were married within the past 30 days.
What are the Check-in and Check-out times for Couples Resorts.
Check-in is at 4 PM; check-out is at 12:00 noon.
Does Couples Resorts accept singles?
All rooms must be double occupancy unless traveling as part of a contracted group. In such an event, Single Occupancy rooms may be limited.
What is Couples' Hurricane Policy?
Please CLICK HERE to read the Couples hurricane policy.
Disclaimer:
All information assumes UK citizenship. Conditions may vary for other nationalities. Any references to time of day, day of week, availability of activity or cost of a particular item may be subject to change without notice. References to credit cards or debit cards are interchangeable.