As 2020 sets in and our New Year’s resolutions are still top of mind, it’s time to take action and make them a reality. And with the resolution of “traveling more” being close behind the most popular resolution of dropping weight, it’s the perfect time to book an island getaway. Especially with the temperatures quickly dropping in the Hamptons and snow knocking on our doors, what better time than to escape for a weekend in the lovely Caribbean island of the Dominican Republic? In less than four hours from New York airports, this island can be your weekend playground.
Located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is an island oasis known for its beautiful beaches, welcoming locals and luxury hotels. Whether you’re looking to thoroughly relax and not lift a finger or you want to explore with your family in tow, Punta Cana can deliver. The island is popular for sailing, snorkeling and zip-ling, among other adventures with a myriad of tours to decipher. Capture a picturesque bird’s-eye view of Punta Cana on a private sightseeing helicopter flight. You’ll fly over white sandy beaches, lush tropical vegetation and take in every shade of cerulean over the clear waters.
The destination recently announced the Punta Cana Promise, a pledge from more than 50 properties to reaffirm their commitment to a set of security standards and safety guidelines. Travelers can feel at ease with highlights from the pledge like 24-hour security and medical assistance, global food safety management standards and all properties have met the tourism and hospitality regulations and guideline.
Two lavish all-inclusive properties that have aligned with these standards are the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real and the Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana. Both properties offer several restaurant dining options, pristine pools with swim-up bars, luxe spas and state-of-the-art fitness centers.
Couple’s Vacation
The Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana has an intimate peaceful setting with lush manicured grounds and a private beach overlooking the turquoise waters; perfect for a couple’s getaway. The massive hotel suites come with private butler service and 24-hour room service, obliging to your any whim. The hotel offers complimentary horseback riding, yoga, snorkeling and cigar rolling, to name a few of the popular perks available to guests.
While the on-property spa offers a hydrotherapy circuit, along with everything from couple’s treatments to a seasonal body treatment that uses local passion fruit to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the skin. After a day of fun in the sun or the spa, your hardest decision will be choosing which restaurant to dine at with your partner.
Family Vacation
In walking distance from Bavaro Beach, the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real is an appealing property for families, offering colossal pools surrounded by canopied daybeds and a water park kids’ club. While the kids are at the water park, adults can indulge in a variety of spa treatments or hit the spinning studio.
The spacious suites have living rooms and dining areas, along with whirlpool tubs and private terraces or swim-out suites. For on-property dining options, there are eight restaurants including a steakhouse and Asian-fusion eateries, to appease any palate. What else do you really need?
With three more months of winter ahead, Punta Cana makes the perfect destination to trade in the snow for sand! For more information, visit GoDominicanRepublic.com/Punta-Cana.
