Leaving Jamaica is never easy. The lush flora and fauna. The hypnotizing teal water. The perfect beaches. However, there is a place, a haven, that makes your transition from paradise back into the cold, cruel world a little easier: Club Mobay.
(Club Mobay, Mobay Aiport, Jamaica, photo by: L. Mitchell.)
Club Mobay, located by Gate 9 at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, is a 11k square foot, air-conditioned underground refuge for travelers awaiting their departure – an escape from the chaos of security lines and the sweaty throngs waiting at the gates upstairs. You can relax, unwind or catch up on work in a stylish sanctuary where you can enjoy complimentary fare like fresh fruit, pastries, sandwiches, snacks, soup, sushi, tapas and patties. Best of all, you can take a seat, catch your breath while ordering complimentary (yet again) alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages from smiling staff.
The facility is divided into different areas: a culturally themed, sound-proof children’s play area and a quiet lounge for adults only. Along the walls, you’ll be treated to a visual history of Jamaica with black and white photography, stories of the early settlers, and other pieces of info that tell the tale of this blessed island.
Downstairs in Club Mobay there are bathrooms and shower facilities and the cherry on top: The Mango Spa, where you can get mini treatments like massages called “Morning Dew” for your back, neck and shoulders; a Heavenly Foot Bath; Reflexology along with mani/pedis and waxing, to name a delicious few.
(Club Mobay, Mobay Airport, Jamaica, photo by: L. Mitchell.)
The red lacquer bar on the top level is fun and has windows through which you can see the planes pulling up and departing, if you want to go up there and grab a drink. However, the calm of the lower floor is perfect for your pre-flight leisurely respite.
Here are a few more of the wonderful perks you’ll enjoy:
- Fast Track privileges through Immigration & Security.
- Unlimited WiFi and fully-equipped digital business center.
- Electronic games on Samsung Galaxy tablets.
- Free phone calls to the USA, Canada and UK landlines.
- Complimentary (there it is again!) access to VIBES smoking lounge on the main concourse.
- Magazines and daily local newspapers.
- Savings of $5 per person (US) and guaranteed seats when booked through your group planner (direct airport rate is $35 US).
It’s open 6 am to 10 pm, Monday-Sunday. You can buy a Club Mobay pass or buy a single Xticket for $30. Children (2 -12) for $15. Infants (under 2 years) are FREE.
Next time you are leaving Jamaica, make your way to the duty free shopping area (where the entrance is located) and chillax at Club Mobay. As the native folks say, it’s Irie Mon.*
*Irie Mon: to be at total peace with your current state of being. The way you feel when you have no worries.
