TrendyCurvy Travels: The Dominican Republic

If you’ve been following me on social media, you know that I recently took a much needed vacation to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Along with 10 of my friends, we traveled across the country and over the Atlantic Ocean to arrive at this beautiful Caribbean island. It was everything I expected it to be and more! Beautiful landscapes, delicious food, excellent customer service and amazing amenities. Here are the details on everything you need to know about my stay in Punta Cana.

Cover up: Simply Be | Sunglasses: Sorella Boutique

I did extensive research on resorts before booking because I’m the type of person that wants to know all of the details so that there are no surprises. If you are not familiar with Oyster.com, I highly recommend you use this site as a reference before booking your next vacay. They offer an unbiased, informative review of different resorts and provide plenty of real photos so that you can see what the resort really looks like. I decided on the Paradisus Punta Cana, which is an all inclusive resort located in the Bavaro area. The picturesque photos of this sprawling resort with bungalow style buildings, palm tree lined pathways and cabana hut beach umbrellas is what initially caught my eye. I wanted absolute paradise and this resort offered exactly what I was looking for. The grounds are even more beautiful than the pictures. With real flamingos and lavender vanilla scents as you walk through the front lobby and incense burning throughout the property, I experienced this resort with all of my senses.

Dress: INC International Concepts

The rooms were modern and spacious. We opted to pay a premium to get what they call the “Royal Service” which is an adults-only feature of the resort that includes bungalows that are close to the beach, a private lounge, adults-only pool, adults-only section on the beach and (wait for it) your own personal butler. Yes you heard me right. I had a butler at my beacon call for the entirety of my stay. Our butler made our dinner reservations for us, made our accommodations for transportation and provided us with everything else that we needed. The Royal Service also offered garden villa suites with your own private cabana area in your backyard.

The adults-only pool area and beach sections were my favorite. The cabana areas were amazing for a relaxing day with drink in one hand and magazine in the other. Plush seating, spacious cabanas and prompt service made this the ultimate recipe for vacation mode.

Swimsuit: Swimsuitsforall (similar)

Finally, I organized a private boat tour for the group which turned out to be the highlight of the trip. The boat company that we used was called La Barcaza. I highly recommend booking with them if you go with a group of people to the DR. They offer various packages that can include food, a DJ, decor, etc. based on your group’s needs. They provide transportation to and from your resort and are extremely professional and easy to work with. The boat was immaculate! It was two stories with the bottom level shaded by a white canopy and a wooden table set up for us to eat. The top level was open with plush half moon white seating to bask in the Caribbean sun.

Ok ladies now let’s get in formation!

Swimsuit: Lane Bryant | Wrap: Simply Be

We got the premium package that included an open bar, snacks such as fruit and little sandwiches as well as a full lunch with lobster tail, chicken skewers, fish, plantains and french fries. Everything tasted amazing and fresh! We also got the DJ for the full duration of the 4 hour cruise which was a major key (DJ Khaled voice)! He truly made the experience that much more fun. He needed no direction from us, spinning current radio hits from Beyonce, Rihanna and the like, taking it back to the 90s with classic summer anthems and even mixing in some reggae. We NEVER stopped dancing. The tour also included snorkeling and a trip to the “natural pool” which is 4 feet deep water that is miles away from the shore.

Cheers to an amazing trip! Until next time!