There was a time when singles,couples and even groups of like-minded adults could let go of their inhibitions and shed their swimsuits at the all-inclusiveHedonism III resort under the warm sun of Runaway Bay, Jamaica. Like its sister resortHedonism IIin Negril, this all-inclusive was one of those places couples either loved or hated.

Nude bathing waspermitted; children were not. The emphasis was on erotic travel and the environment encouraged unbridled sensuality both day and night. Whether it was the proximity of another Hedonism resort so close by, the general decline of the physical property, competition from theSandals Resortsof Jamaica (which are not clothing optional but offer private places to undress), or a return to propriety, Hedonism III closed in 2010 and the property has fallen into disuse.

One of the prettiest coastal townsin Jamaica, Runaway Bay isten miles east of Ocho Rios and easy to reach from there. Montego Bay lies to the west. And some of the best beaches in the Caribbean surround Runaway Bay, which is protected by a large tropical coral reef.

Part of Runaway Bay's attractionaside from the gorgeous scenery and pristine sandsis that it attracts fewer visitors than those other destinations. So your serene holiday alone together won't be overrun by hordes of tourists arriving on cruise ships. With them nowhere to be seen, aggressive vendors and ladies who offer to braid hair will ply their trades in bigger beach destinations where they disembark.

Runaway Bay won't dazzle you with things to do, but if all you want on a honeymoon or romantic getaway is a good hotel, perhaps a golf course, and clear turquoise water for swimming and aqua sports, it's worth considering for your next vacation destination.

Unless you join a tour, you will need to rent a car to visit these attractions. Remember thatdriving is on the left!

Where did that smiling, helpful hotel staff member learn to cook so well or anticipate your needs? Runaway Bay is also home to theHEART College of Hospitality Services, a schoolrun by the government to help young Jamaicans to develop tourismskills.

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Hedonism III and Runaway Bay in Jamaica