Swimming with horses, Half Moon Hotel
Swimming with horses at Salamander's Half Moon Hotel in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Time Off

4 Questions to Ask ­Yourself When Choosing a Resort

Sheila Johnson, CEO of Salamander Hotels and Resorts and self-made billionaire, has simple and direct advice.

BJT Staff
|
April 2026

1. Where do you want to go? Geography should be the primary driver in your decision-making process.

2. What do you want to do? Determine what type of vacation you want: golf, beach, spa, culinary or equestrian.

3. Who’s traveling with you? Their preferences should be a big factor in deciding where you go.

4. What outcome do you want? Do you want to leave relaxed? Invigorated? Or filled with knowledge? This is an aspect people often overlook when making vacation plans.


–Sheila C. Johnson, who cofounded the BET television ­network, is founder and CEO of Salamander Collection.

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