Midway through my week at Whistling Bird, I really expected to write a positive review of the experience. As the week drew to a close, though, some issues that were originally not so bothersome became like an itch that my traveling companion and I couldn't scratch. Would we visit again? It's hard to say.
We purchased the all-inclusive package, which included drinks and meals and the room, as well as a courtesy massage, but not airport transfers.
On our arrival in Montego Bay, Jackie (one of the resort contractor drivers) picked us up. Two hours later, as we walked through the gate of the resort, Barbara (the onsite manager) met and warmly welcomed us. Once situated in our room, we changed and headed for the beach. And that's pretty much what we did all week - all we wanted to do - sit on the beach, drink some rum drinks, toss back some Red Stripes and relax. We did a lot of that. Both Lilly (nights) and Ms. G (days) are fine bartenders, and know how to mix a fine drink, when they have the ingredients.
The biggest bone we had to pick with WB was the food, which is surprising considering some of the reviews on Trip Advisor. Without going into a lot of detail, you can eat much better (and much cheaper) at any of the surrounding restaurants within easy walking distance on the beach. I do not know why an attribute such as food service and preparation, (which was previously one of the strengths of WB), has been allowed to deteriorate. It was disappointing.
The one activity that we booked through the front desk was also an issue. We were scheduled for the activity at 1PM, the boat never showed up, and the staff didn't inform us of any problems until almost 4PM. We ended up rebooking and doing something else the next day.
It was almost like the entire staff was "unengaged" through our entire stay. My traveling companion and I are not hard to please, and rarely complain about service (particularly in a small resort), but something was definitely "off" during the week we stayed at WB.
Two words sum up our experience at WB - unrealized potential.





Value
Location (e.g., convenience, views)
Service





