IN the lush embrace of the Caribbean, two souls embarked on a journey that would shape their lives forever. Julia and Thomas Routledge, a couple hailing from the United Kingdom, had their hearts set on a romantic escapade unlike any other.

Their tale began in May 1992. Newlyweds seeking to create an indelible memory, they chose the breathtaking Sandals Dunn’s River for their honeymoon.

Thomas, a military man, harboured dreams of crafting an unforgettable retreat for his beloved Julia. And so, they found themselves amid the serene beauty of the Caribbean shores.

As they arrived at Sandals Dunn’s River in 1992, the couple was greeted with champagne and a bag adorned with the resort’s branding, a prelude to the enchanting moments to come.

The memories they forged in those early days played a profound role in their love story. Their recollection of Julia’s sister’s playful confetti trick, which turned their honeymoon suite into a joyful explosion of colour, stands as a testament to the light-heartedness and camaraderie that filled the air.

Housekeeping, adorned with their warm smiles, transformed the confetti surprise from a slight inconvenience into a cherished memory, finding delight in tidying up the room.

Fast forward to 2023, Julia and Thomas find themselves back at the very place that set the stage for their everlasting love. The couple expressed their amazement at Sandals Dunn’s River for maintaining its ‘wow’ factor, but with a more laid-back, romantic vibe that befits their shared journey.

The resort’s evolution is evident in the culinary delights that grace their palates. From buffet-style meals in 1992 to a tantalising array of a la carte options today, the gastronomic experience has elevated to new heights. The jerk sausage, foil fish, pepper pot soup, and oxtail evoke memories of flavours past while introducing the couple to a new world of palate pleasures.

Julia noted that a particularly noteworthy transformation has been the emergence of luxury. While 1992 had no butlers, the resort’s modern charm now showcases the remarkable attentiveness of these professionals, who have mastered the art of creating unforgettable experiences.

Sandals Dunn’s River hides numerous treasures, waiting to be discovered. The Ocarina Rooftop Bar, a hidden gem, offers a breathtaking view of the world below. And for early risers like Julia and Thomas, the Blum Coffee Shop presents a delightful and unforgettable experience. Cared for by Edwin and Amoy, Sandals Dunn’s River was a beacon of comfort, serving warm brews on the beach while the sun kisses the horizon.

However, the true gems of the resort are its people. The cheerful, welcoming staff infuse life into the surroundings. The Lapidus Lounge and Bar, rich with historical context, becomes a time machine to the 1950s, connecting the couple to their past in a truly magical way.

Named after the visionary architect Morris Lapidus, the lounge and bar hold a deep connection to the glamour and charm of the 1950s, a bygone era of elegance and luxury.

For Julia and Thomas, the Lapidus Lounge and Bar serve as a time capsule and a bridge between the transformative experiences they had during their first visit in 1992 and their return in 2023. The lounge’s historical background adds another layer of depth to their journey, as they not only rekindle their personal memories but also immerse themselves in the collective history of the space.

The decision to return to Sandals Dunn’s River was a visceral one, a calling they couldn’t resist. It held a sacred place in their history as the setting of their honeymoon. Armed with their marriage certificate and Julia’s mother’s eternity ring, the couple renewed their vows on the same hallowed ground.

The most poignant change they encountered was the absence of the waterfalls by the pool, which is now replaced with new tributes to the river’s vitality throughout the resort. The theme, ‘Let Life Flow’, manifested in numerous waterfall areas, weaving a powerful thread that connected their present to their past.

Their return transported them back to the familiar embrace of home. The Sandals Select Dinner reunited them with fellow travellers, making them feel like part of a larger family. Memories from 1992 came flooding back, and the Emancipation activities highlighted Jamaica’s rich history, weaving together the past and present in a joyful dance of time.

The resort’s reopening successfully rekindled the magic of yesteryears. The dedicated staff ensured the experience remained exceptional.

For Julia and Thomas, Sandals Dunn’s River is now enshrined in their top three resorts, alongside Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals Royal Curacao.

When asked to sum up their 2023 experience, Julia and Thomas would echo the sentiment of “absolutely fantastic and wonderful new memories.”

Julia’s heartfelt gratitude extends to everyone who made their return so remarkable, from Deryk Meany and Melissa Clarke, to the managers, housekeepers, gardeners, and lifeguards. Natasha, their room attendant, and Fitzgerald, the lifeguard, emerged as stand out stars.

As the sun sets over the enchanting Sandals Dunn’s River, Julia and Thomas Routledge stand as living testaments to love’s enduring journey, where past and present intertwine and memories are skilfully crafted to last a lifetime, mirroring the essence of the resort’s guiding theme, ‘Let Life Flow’.