After a few cancelled trips, worried clients, and several misinformed media reports, I knew it was time to take a trip to the beautiful Dominican Republic and see firsthand what it was like.
When I received an offer from Karisma, I jumped right on the opportunity to see a highly requested resort of mine in person. I booked my ticket and secured my spot to further investigate for my clients.
Now, step into my experience:
Flying in, I gaze in amazement at a small glimpse of God's incredible creation. The colors of the outskirts of the Atlantic, from a deep cerulean blue to bright aqua leading into clear waters. The rugged highlands stretch inland and give the island texture.
Stepping out onto the tarmac, the thatched roof peaks of the airport are a small reminder that you are now entering paradise.
Arriving at my destination, Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana, the security guard checks with my driver to assure I have been granted access to the resort. Upon approval, we pull in and are greeted by bellmen who offload my luggage and offer me a cool hand towel.
After checking in, I’m off to explore.
The bellman loads the golf cart with my luggage and we are off to my suite. In my suite, I am greeted by a sweet welcome card from the resort, a bottle of sparkling wine, and some incredible chocolate cake pops. After snapping some pics of this delicious spread, I dig in.
First step: Google how to open a champagne bottle… Apparently the video I watched was not informative enough... because I still nearly took out the sliding glass door (Sorry Nickelodeon, I got this next time!!)
Second step: Wait. Who am I kidding? I already had one of the cake pops at this point and was ready for round 2. They were freaking amazing!
I poured myself a glass, changed into my bikini, grabbed my camera, ate the last cake pop, and headed to the beach.
Wait, no. That’s not right either… I think there was a refill in there somewhere. I don’t usually like champagne, but you better believe I was finishing this bottle before the end of my stay.
And, that I already googled where to find it in the States.
Ok, now it was off to the beach for me. I followed the signs indicating la playa (the beach) this way.
Along the way, I passed a lime green storm drain with a lid sitting crooked. I stepped on the lid to pushed it flat and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ theme song serenaded me from over in the nearby palms. Further along my walk I passed a pod of topiary dolphins.
And then, peaking past the infinity pool and the swim up bar, I see those clear turquoise waters of playa Uvero Alto.
Bali beds, lounge chairs, and a few palms line Nickelodeon’s beach. As my tunnel vision leads me to the water, I smell the delicious aroma of grilled steak shish kabobs and am pulled from my trance.
Karisma hotels are known for their Gourmet Inclusive food, and for good reason. The food never disappoints at their resorts. And believe me there are resorts out there that will leave you hungry. (This can be easily avoided by using a travel agent. We know the best resorts, even when working on a tight budget.)
After spending some time on the beach, taking pictures, and soaking in the beauty of Punta Cana, I head back to test out the pool at the swim up suite. Best upgrade ever when choosing a room category. How convenient is a pool right off your balcony?
After a quick dip in the swim up pool, it’s time to get ready for dinner.
At Verdello we indulge in some fantastic Italian cuisine. I chose the shrimp risotto and it did not disappoint. Our large table had nearly every dish on the menu and all of us were equally satisfied. For dessert we had a sampler of several desserts and made sure no crumb was left on the table. After dinner we head outside to the Gourmet Village plaza to enjoy the festivities in honor of Dominican Night at the resort.
There we enjoy a mojito bar, along with two other bars, Dominican dancers with live music, a popcorn stand and more. Time to grab some drinks, watch the dancers, and enjoy the gorgeous evening and delicious drinks. Next up, time to check out Vino Vino which has excellent wine choices as well as beer and liquor.
After hanging with the group we decide to call it a night and head back to our rooms. Once in my room I draw myself a bath with the aromatic salts provided, and indulge in one more of Nickelodeon’s relaxing amenities to close out the night.
It’s time for bed. Tomorrow will be another day filled with beaching, entertainment and drinks at the swim up pool bar, along with amazing food.
The only thing missing is my family here to enjoy it with me. As I drift off I think about coming here with my husband, eventually our future children, and sending my clients here for an unforgettably great vacation.
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