The entrance to Couples Tower Isle is a portal back in time. Lined with Royal Palms on either side, one can almost imagine they’ve landed back in the golden age of Hollywood as they approach the entrance. It’s only when you’ve checked in and learned a little more about the history of this luxury all-inclusive that you realize you truly are walking in the footsteps of Hollywood legends.
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Couples Tower Isle is the OG all-inclusive—this is the resort that started it all back in 1949. Started by Abe Issa, the man they call Mr. Jamaica, this iconic resort has entertained the likes of Walt Disney, Eva Gabor, Debbie Reynolds, Errol Flynn, and many more. Time spent in the legendary piano bar, where pictures of famous visitors line the walls, one can’t help but absorb a little bit of the afterglow. I will admit, I felt rather legendary myself one night singing around the piano—but that may have been the martinis.
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Sixty-eight years later, this resort is not resting on its laurels. Still owned by the Issa family, and available through Sunwing Vacations, it is one of four Couples Resorts on the island of Jamaica, and has a devoted group of returning guests. Chatting with others at the resort revealed a couple that has been returning for 20 years after honeymooning there, friends who return year after year to connect, and a Jamaican born group that comes annually from their home in the United Kingdom. We even saw a couple who had matching tattoos of the Couples logo of intertwined palm trees on their arms.
It’s not just the guests who have sworn their eternal love either. Staff members are hopelessly devoted too. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet John, the British expat who’s been playing piano at Couples Tower Isle since 1985. Get him a drink after he’s done for the evening and be prepared to listen to one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. The heartbeat of Couples Tower Isle though is the Operations Manager, Ms. Bailey, who has been part of the Couples family for 16 years. For me, I think it speaks volumes when resorts have staff that have stuck around for the long haul; happy staff means happy guests.
Why You’ll Want to Check Couples Tower Isle Out For Yourself
That Island
Nothing says tropical getaway like a secluded island, which in is this case is just a short boat ride away. The catch though is this island is reserved for those that like to make sure all their body parts get tanned, so if you prefer to keep your swimsuit on you can admire it from the dreamy beach at Couples Tower Isle. Same amazing view, less risk of burning. The island is also used for weddings after 4:30 and I can’t think of a more idyllic setting to start your life together.
All-Inclusive Spa Suites
Couples Tower Isle recently added all-inclusive spa suites to the resort and yes, I can confirm that it’s heaven. If you’re a spa devotee like me then consider booking one of these rooms and taking advantage of all the spa services you can handle at the Oasis Spa. The Buddha Pool at the Oasis spa is the perfect place to let all your cares slip away.
The Food
Word to the wise; pack your stretchy pants. The food anywhere in Jamaica is consistently good, so to stand out you need to raise the bar. Couples Tower Isle achieves that with it’s six unique restaurants. Be sure to make reservations at Eight Rivers (lamb and tenderloin that melt in your mouth) and Bayside (delicious Asian fusion with an unbeatable view) upon arrival. Trust me, you do not want to miss out on these two restaurants. While resting on the beach during the day, don’t miss the Veggie Bar for custom smoothies (slip up to the bar above to add a little Jamaican rum – no judgement mon) and nosh on healthy snacks while watching the waves roll in.
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The Time Together
It’s not called Couples for nothing. My husband and I have been fans of Couples Resorts since 2006 when we first visited Couples Swept Away in Negril. Couples Resorts knows you’re there to spend time with your partner and focus on each other. We spent the week in a kayak for two, having a romantic dinner on the beach, singing along at a Piano bar, being spoiled at a spa, and listening to a musician under the stars. At the end of the week, we walked away rested and reconnected; exactly what you’re supposed to do at Couples Tower Isle.
Canadians can book Couples Tower Isle through Sunwing Vacations from over ten gateways across the country starting in November.
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