Read up on all you need to know! Here’s a dozen questions that should sort you out just right.
WHEN CAN WE CHECK IN? WHEN DO WE HAVE TO CHECK OUT?
Officially, check-in is at 3:00 pm and checkout is noon. But we do our best to accommodate travelers in need of a nap-and those who want to stay with us until the last possible moment
WHAT’S UP WITH CONNECTIVITY?
The front desk can help you fax, copy, call, exchange money and more. There’s also a communal computer in the lobby where guests can surf all over and send email. Plus, the Media Room, Lobby, Restaurant, Spa, Jack Sprat and many rooms have wireless. All good.
WHAT’S THE 411 ON PHONES & TVs?
We’re big proponents of “unplugging,” while you’re on holiday at Jakes, but you’re more than welcome to give your friends, family and business colleagues our front desk number: (876) 965.3000. We’ll gladly pass on any messages as they arrive. If you’d like to place an outgoing call, you can also do that via the front desk. And, if you like, you can borrow one of our mobile phones, available at the front desk.
As for TVs, for your viewing pleasure, we have the ocean, but no TVs 🙂
CAN I FIND A BANK NEARBY?
Black River and Junction are the two biggest towns near Jakes. Approximately 40 minutes away by car, both are well stocked with banks and pharmacies. Cashing traveler’s checks, changing money and getting $500/day of cash advances can happen at the Jakes front desk. No worries.
WHAT IS THE ELECTRICAL CURRENT AT JAKES?
In Jamaica, the electrical current is 110 volts, 50 cycles. Standard U.S. plugs work without adapters (and don’t worry about bringing your hair dryer, we have them in every room!).
CAN I RENT ALL OF JAKES?
Yes, you can rent the entire resort for a big trip or family reunion! Call (876) 965.3000 and ask us all about it.
WHY A SALTWATER POOL?
We like the fact that it doesn’t require any harsh chemicals to stay clean. Instead, the water is “recycled” naturally each day, as it’s pumped to and from the sea.
I PREFER TO SWIM IN THE SEA…
Then you’ve come to the right place! There are four beaches within easy walking distance of Jakes: Jack Sprat, Frenchman’s, Calabash Bay and Old Wharf. Snorkeling up and down the coast is amazing and delicious picnic baskets also available upon request.
WHAT DO YOU OFFER FOR KIDS?
To begin, we have the most wonderful nannies. Kids will love them, and their parents will love them even more! For older kids, we have a full assortment of activities in the Games Room, as well as a television for watching DVDs. We also offer really great art classes for kids, which are both entertaining and educational.
WHAT’S THE CONNECTION BETWEEN JAKES AND “THE HARDER THEY COME?”
Perry Henzell, late husband of Jakes’ founder Sally Henzell, directed the 1972 film “The Harder They Come,” which is widely recognized as the classic, definitive Jamaican movie. Haven’t seen it yet? No worries! We screen the film every Thursday night in our Games Room, and it’s a big hit with guests.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE AT JAKES?
The average temperature is 85°F (30°C) and sunny, with a light breeze from the East. February is the coolest month, while July and August are warmest. Rain is usually brief, dramatic and followed by hours of heavenly sunshine. The warm sea is calmest from October through May.
WHAT IS THE LOCAL CURRENCY?
Jamaica is home to the JMD, otherwise known as the Jamaican dollar. Not that you need to worry about this. Everything at Jakes, and most other places, can be paid for in American dollars. Still, it’s nice to keep some colorful JMD in your wallet, should you want to stop for a jelly (coconut water) or a cup of fish tea while out on a drive.
