When people ask me if I have been on vacation since the pandemic began, I say no. If you ask my family, they would say yes - we went on a ski trip last winter. However, I consider vacation, and "a trip" two different things. In fact, by my standards, though we have traveled all over the world, we have gone on few vacations.
We love to travel, and half the fun for us is in the planning, the other half in impromptu discoveries along the way. We have never purchased "packages," stayed at all-inclusive hotels, or taken so much as a city tour. We thrive on forging our own path; figuring out new languages, currencies, transit systems, etc., which makes for quite the adventure, but not necessarily relaxation.
A recent stay at the the all-inclusive, "For Everyone," Meliá Caribe Beach Resort in Punta Cana, The Dominican Republic, showed me just what we've been missing out on. It reminded what a real vacation truly is. The resort had everything I could need or want and so much more. And the timing couldn't have been better. I'm pretty sure you could see the smoke seeping from my ears as my brain has been overheating from my motherhood balancing act. I was able to completely turn off the engine and let it cool for a few days. Knowing everything was paid for up front, not having to worry about the cost of meals and activities or any surprises, and having the fun literally brought to you poolside or seaside was incredibly refreshing. (Though bring lots of one dollar bills for tipping!)
Upon arrival at the Meliá Caribe, I was first struck by all the fragrances. It seemed each room followed the next with a different dose of tropical aromatherapy. We were welcomed with complimentary drinks and snacks as part of The Level, exclusive offering. We were then guided to our "rooms," which were really suites, inclusive of a king size bed, living area, dining area, kitchenette, and jacuzzi tub.
The Rooms
- In addition to The Level Two Bedroom Suite I stayed in, there are nine other spacious room configurations to meet any family's needs.
- The resort is huge with little trains and golf carts transporting guests all about.
- A butler is assigned to every three rooms or so, and is there to transport you as needed, and ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips.
After unpacking, I crossed the small path from my room to The Level pool. The pool has built-in lounge chairs, table tops, and canopies, making it ever so easy to enjoy a drink and read my book while submerged.
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The Pools
- In addition to The Level pool, there is a beachside adults-only pool.
- There is also a "For Everyone," family pool, with cabanas, a swim up bar, and fountains. Many parties and other activities, from crafting to painting, are held poolside.
- Splash Island Water Park is a kid's dream come true. It has slides for all ages, waterfalls, and spray features. The only downside might be trying to get your kids to leave it.
After the pool, I got ready for dinner on the beach and headed down a bit early. The sand felt like sugar between my toes. It was too tempting to resist laying out a towel and lying down at the water's edge. The water was as warm as the air, such that as I closed my eyes, it was difficult to detect whether it was a breeze or a wave washing over me. No spa treatment in the world was going to make me feel as relaxed.
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The Beach
- The Meliá Caribe Beach Resort sits upon Bavaro Beach.
- It is both long and wide with wind-swept palm trees sprinkled throughout.
- There are various cabanas, sling chairs, lounge chairs, swings, and umbrellas available to sit back and take in the views.
- Walk up to the Barefoot Bar for cocktails and snacks throughout the day.
- Borrow a complimentary paddle board or kayak at the water sports desk, or rent a small catamaran
- Play volleyball at one of the nets.
Lucky for me, as my growling stomach disrupted my moment of zen, dinner was being served on the beach. Dinner on the beach was exquisite. Beef carpaccio, potato leek soup, lobster with beef medallions, and a strawberry truffle. One of the criticisms of all-inclusive resorts, I have heard in the past, is of the food. It certainly wasn't the case at The Meliá Caribe Beach Resort. Everything I had over the course of four days was delicious.
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The Food
- There are 13 different restaurants of various cuisines, from traditional Dominican food to Vietnamese, buffets to first class, and table service.
- Any craving you may have will be satisfied!
- The fruit is unbelievably fresh and juicy.
- There are an additional two cocktail bars. I had some of the best cocktails ever on this trip. Piña Coladas, Coco Locos, Miami Vice.
- All the restaurants are impeccably designed, with incredible views.
- The grilled octopus at Alma was a favorite, as was the ceviche at Riviera.
- There is even O Grille at the Splash Island Water Park, making it easy to enjoy a family meal, or even a little couple time while the kids play.
- Even room service is included!
On my second day, we had a breakfast set for royalty. A bounty of fruit served as an edible centerpiece on our table, while omelettes and tortilla espanola were served, accompanied by a bottomless Bloody Mary/Mimosa bar. After breakfast, we took a tour of the resort. Midway through we had a picnic at The Family Tree. This is an area where the resort holds family picnics and other family activities. This could have been the Garden of Eden. It was so beautiful. A wooden swing hangs from the Family Tree, as they do from many trees around the resort. Adorable picnic scenes were laid out, and we enjoyed fresh melon and prosciutto.
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The Services and Entertainment
- There is never a dull moment at The Meliá Caribe Beach Resort. The resort has so many activities and events planned throughout the day, from pool parties and beach parties, to live performances in the lobby, impromptu flash mobs, and movie nights.
- Work off all the incredible meals at Yoga, Aqua Zumba, Water Volleyball, or head to the fully equipped YHI Moves & Wellness gym.
- They even have aqua bikes for an underwater spin class!
- Kids activities include treasure hunts and pajama parties.
- Send the kids, ages 8 months and above, to the Kids Zone for games, workshops, and more.
- Take part in a Silent Disco!
- Enjoy beauty treatments and massages at the YHI spa.
After our tour, we enjoyed a chocolate making class. I learned so much about how chocolate is made, and the different levels of quality, not to mention the ability to taste different products.
On my third day at the resort, we took a catamaran snorkeling tour with Bebe Catamaran. The ride out to the coral reef was a big on-board party. When we got to the reef, we were given our snorkel gear, and while some jumped into the water, others took the slide off the second deck. A colorful array of underwater species awaited us. The boat crew was in the water with us, feeding the fish and pointing out the various kinds. When we were finished snorkeling, we re-boarded the boat, resumed our dance party, and headed to a shallow, natural pool, to continue the party in the sea.
During your stay, you can book a wide variety of excursions like this one.
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The next day, after some final beach and pool time, it was time to depart. As I walked from the airport terminal to board my plane, a local band played lively music. This struck me as unique. You might expect this type of fanfare as a welcoming, but not a goodbye. It was like we were being given one last gift to carry with us on our long flights home. It was a perfect example of the attention to detail you can expect not only at The Meliá Caribe Beach Resort, but in the Dominican Republic.
The Meliá Caribe Beach Resort is the perfect destination for a multitude of vacation purposes, from family vacations, to family reunions, group vacations, a couple's vacation, or a girl's trip.
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I was hosted at Meliá Caribe Beach Resort to facilitate this review, but all opinions are my own.
