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Paradise Awaits: Punta Cana

By Joseph A. Federico, 24 Nov, 2015

    In the heart of Dominican Republic, PuntaCana is the perfect location to get away from the humdrum of your busy everyday life.


    With its white sandy beaches, and friendly local personality, you cannot go wrong with a trip to Punta Cana. It’s in the heart of the Dominican Republic, and is the perfect location to get away from the humdrum of your busy everyday life. Punta Cana surely has activities to satisfy even the heaviest of travelers.

    Getting There

    If you are in the United States, there are not too many options to choose from when traveling to the paradise that is Punta Cana. If you are in the New York metro areas, LaGuardia or John F. Kennedy Airports are you safest bets. Besides, fares are decently priced this time of year, and as a matter of fact, flights are slightly shorter than average.

    Flying to and from the Manhattan, New York City area will take you about two to three hours maximum, without any stops. If you want to take your time, a one-stop flight may also be desirable.

    From Toronto, Canada, a flight from Toronto Pearson International Airport is not that expensive either. Flights from YYZ generally are about four hours. Air Transat and WestJet have the most bang for your buck, too.

    When you land in Punta Cana, you travel back to the 1960s, in the best possible way that is. Your jet lands outside of a humble airport, where you are greeted by friendly ladies in traditional garb; they place fresh leis on your shoulders, and send you on your way with a kiss on your cheek. That is just the beginning.

    Stay

    There are many reasonably-priced resorts in Punta Cana, most of which have all-inclusive options. This is recommended. You pay once, and do not have to worry about traveler’s cheques or carrying cash for the duration 
of your vacation. One of the best resorts is Melia Caribe Tropical.

    The layout of the grounds, private rooms, and even check in is very open. Breeze flows through windows effortlessly, and laughs waft freely. Your mini refrigerator is well stocked with alcoholic beverages for the taking, and fresh flowers await you at every corner.

    Every hour or so, after every resort event, the staff invites passersby to dance with them; this ups the anti on engagement and allows for guests to interact.
     

    Food & Enjoyment

    The restaurants range from traditional to international flares. Be sure to call at least a day in advance for reservations. For instance, at the French seating, you will find roast duck with plum sauce, escargot, and other treats 
at your fingertips.

    Another great feature of the resort is open breakfast times. Breakfast is usually served until about 11 am; it is served buffet style. The resort serves an omelet bar with a full 
line of toppings, fresh fruit, and even flan. Flan for breakfast? Yes!

    Take in the beach during the day, and go out dancing at night. There is a local discothèque within walking distance of all rooms; they play Hispanic music and top 
40 hits from back home.

    If you like to test your luck, there is also a casino by the restaurants. The Egyptian slot machines are a guest favourite. And hey, if you still are not satisfied with the nightlife, there are Broadway-esque shows that play nightly on the main stage.

    Some shows the cast and crew have performed are Les Miserables and Evita. They even anticipate crowd participation, so being your dancing shoes and singing voice. Do not forget that yes, even after these productions, the resort plays their favourite song, and invites guests to dance up on stage to 
round the night out.

    Drinks are divine. Cerveza, Spanish for beer, is served at all swim up pool bars, and might we suggest the melon daiquiri. Those are made from fresh melon grown on the property, and local alcohol. The daiquiri 
tastes like candy, so be careful; you can climb to cloud nine quickly.

    If you want a day to just relax – as if you have not already – take a walk down the beach. Vendors will be waiting for you, and are ready to take part in a friendly haggle. Homemade jewellery, clothing and dresses, shoes, and even miniature dolls and music CDs are sold from all walks of local life. Be sure to bring cash for souvenirs here; the American and Canadian dollar are accepted.

    Other shopping options outside of the resort area are the Palma Real Shopping Village, and the San Juan Shopping Center. Both tourist locations have shops that cater to all tastes. Luxury shopping for new clothes for your next vacation, or grabbing a generously portioned bite to eat will certainly occur at the aforementioned locations.

    If fine dining is what you’re seeking, and do not have time stop at a restaurant at the resort, head to the Gabi Club or Balicana Asian Food. Be sure to dress to the nines at either location. Drinks will flow freely. 
Bring your appetite.

    Have we convinced you to take a trip to Punta Cana yet? Get to booking, and let us know how you enjoyed it.

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