Samsara Hotel

By Donna from St. Louis, MO • Peaceful

Overall Rating: 6    • Value [8]

Samsara is a nice place to stay if you want to really experience Jamaica and not be "locked down" in one of those big resorts with tons of people everywhere. It's a small resort and doesn't have any activities; however, if you just want to relax and enjoy the scenery it's perfect. It is a bit run down and could use some improvements.

The all inclusive package is worth it if you ... [more]drink a lot and don't mind average food. Also, you can only eat for free during breakfast, lunch, and dinner hours. If you want something in between those hours, you have to pay. Also, there is no coffee or other drinks available before 8 a.m. If you want something to drink after 10 p.m., you have to pay. We went out to eat a few times while we stayed at Samsara so we could sample "good" Jamaican food. Most of the staff were friendly; however, there were a few "surly" people working in the restaurant. They offer a free shuttle to their sister hotel, Legends, which is on the beach. The cliffs didn't seem inviting to swim there unless you are more adventurous.

I would probably choose to stay at the beach next time. Overall, I enjoyed the stay at Samsara. [less]
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By Khola from Columbus, OH • Perfect for the peaceful vacation

Overall Rating: 8    • Room [5] • Service [8] • Value [8]

Samsara is perfect for the quiet secluded vacation. Not a lot of noise like the chain resorts nearby. Absolutely beautiful views to enjoy all day long and well into the evening. You can also enjoy live talented Jamaican bands playing at the bar on specific nights and many drink specials.

The rooms are basic, the staff is very helpful and friendly. If you are looking for a crow... [more]d of vacationers and the hustle and bustle that come with them, Samsara is not for you. If you want a peaceful, relaxing vacation with entertainment choices including their sister resort Legends and great Jamaican food, the I highly recommend Samsara.
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By Elizabeth Johnson from St. Paul, MN • Perfect Combination

Overall Rating: 8   

My best friend and I spent the best week of our lives at Samsara in the Cliffs (Negril) in November of 2004. I loved the peace and quiet at Samsara; not once were we assaulted by peddlers in the cliffs.

The waves crashing against the cliffs were powerfully awe-inspiring. I loved the short cliffs for jumping and the view (Also Ricks Cafe only a few km up the road offers higher cl... [more]iffs and even greater views). Samsara offered plenty of privacy for cuddling with sweethearts but also plenty of time for mingling at the bar. I loved the All Inclusive plan and the meals were the perfect mix of authentic Jamaican cuisine. It was great to try all of the native dishes I never left the table hungry. I also like the mix of buffet and service style meals.

It was the best of both worlds with the FREE shuttle running to their sister resort down on the beach (the all-inclusive plan is interchangeable at both Samsara and Legends). We spent most of our days down at Legends soaking up the sun on the beach, jet skiing, swimming, sun bathing, shopping, and of course drinking. The shuttle returned us FREE to Samsara at 4pm everyday just enough time to get cleaned up for dinner and start a relaxing evening in the cliffs.

Every night we sat out on the cliffs edge and watched the stars above and the waves crashing below it was MAGNIFICENT!!! If you sit there long enough (1hour+) your eyes will dilate enough to see the faint glow of the jellyfish under the water. I loved the laid back atmosphere of both Samsara and Legends, definitely not 5 star but I loved it just the way it was!!! We are returning to Samsara in February of 2006 and can't wait!!! [less]
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