So, you’re thinking about booking a vacation at a Sandals resort and maybe—just maybe—splurging on one of those upgraded butler suites. Let me stop you right there: Do it. I’ve had the pleasure of hopping from one Sandals or Beaches property to another over the years, but today, let’s talk about the crème de la crème of indulgence—those magical butler services that turn a vacation into a full-on lifestyle.
Let me back up a bit. In 2017, my family started a little tradition that would probably make most people raise an eyebrow: we take a family vacation in August to celebrate my parents’ anniversary. Romantic? Perhaps. Unconventional? Definitely. But the magic of it is that each year we choose a different Sandals or Beaches resort. From 2017 to 2020, we made this a tradition before COVID made us hit pause.
My parents? Oh, they didn’t hold back. They always went all out for the most luxurious room on the property, while my sister and I took the more practical, budget-friendly route—which, let me tell you, even the “basic” rooms at Sandals are still dreamy. But last year? Last year I decided to treat my fiancé, Kyle, to a surprise trip to Barbados. And this time, we went all in: Butler Suite, baby. Here’s why it’s worth every single penny.
1. Less to Do, More Time for Bliss
Let’s be honest: vacations are for escaping the everyday grind. I’m talking endless lounging, cocktails by the pool, and hours spent doing absolutely nothing. But when you book a Butler Suite? Oh honey, you’re elevating that experience to another level. Three butlers. A phone that connects you directly to them. Want a drink? Done. Prime seats on the beach? Handled. Jerk chicken at 3 PM? Say less. Dinner reservations, bubble baths…they do it all.
Yes, I could have done all of that myself, but why bother when you can live like royalty?
2. From Strangers to Friends
The butlers? They’re not just staff; they become friends. Over the years, I’ve bonded with so many of them, and guess what? I’m still Facebook friends with a couple of my butlers from St. Lucia. They’re just that special. I don’t know what it is—maybe it’s their warmth, maybe it’s the genuine care they put into their service—but it feels like you’re reconnecting with old friends. They remember you, they get to know your quirks, and by the time you leave, it’s not goodbye. It’s “see you next time.”
3. VIP Perks, Darling
Now, about those perks. First of all, yes, you get access to a Butler Lounge and the kind of VIP treatment that makes you feel like you’re on a red carpet at all times. My personal favorite? Being able to request things like top-shelf liquor, or in my dad’s case, butter pecan ice cream (because why not, right?) that’s waiting for you in your suite upon arrival. Oh, and restaurant reservations? Handled. Before we even stepped foot on the resort, our butlers had locked in reservations for every night.
It’s like they know what you need before you do.
4. Turn Down Service = A Little Slice of Heaven
Let me paint a picture for you: you’ve spent the day poolside, maybe took a dip in the ocean, and now you return to your room to find the lights dimmed, the bed turned down, slippers placed delicately by the bed, and fresh towels stacked like a spa. Housekeeping comes three times a day—once just for turn down service. It’s those little touches that make you feel like you’re in a movie.
The restocking of towels, toiletries, and mini bar is also part of the deal. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had to beg for fresh towels at other hotels, but not at Sandals. It’s all taken care of, effortlessly.
5. Your Own Private Guide
Sandals resorts are sprawling. Like, you-could-get-lost-on-the-way-to-dinner sprawling. But with butlers? That’s their problem, not yours. They literally come to your room and escort you to your reservations. It’s the little things, right?
And let’s talk about recommendations. Whenever we’ve wanted to venture off the property (though, let’s be real, I’m a self-proclaimed “lazy vacationer”—lounging is my cardio), our butlers have always had the best local tips. Whether it’s a hidden gem of a restaurant or an excursion worth leaving your hammock for, they’ve got you covered.
So, if you’re on the fence about booking that Butler Suite at Sandals, consider this your sign to do it. It’s more than just a vacation—it’s an experience, a vibe, a whole new way of living that you’ll never want to leave behind. And once you go Butler, there’s no going back.
