Sunrise is a particularly special time on the beach at Punta Cana’s (Dominican Republic) newly-renovated RIU Palace Macao resort, as the endless white sand gleams untouched, aside from the lapping of the turquoise ocean. It’s a perfect occasion to tap into your photography skills, meditate, go for a barefoot run, or simply shake off the margaritas from the night before with a dose of salt air – depending on the type of traveller you are. At the newly-renovated adults-only resort, you’ll find the best of all worlds for all types of travellers who desire a perfect all-inclusive vacation. If you want a low-key, private, and elite, full-service experience, you can have that. If you’d rather spend your afternoons clinking cocktails with new friends at a bustling swim-up bar, you’ll find that, too. And, if you’re in the mood to party your face off on a whole new level, well, that’s just a short shuttle ride away.
Perfect for these 6 types of travelers—whether all-inclusive frequenting or not:
All guests can have a completely different experience at RIU Palace Macao in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. For example, the luxury-only lounging set can enjoy their fresh margarita from the peace and quiet of an exclusive breezy beachfront cabana, and feel worlds away from the mid-afternoon beer pong sessions and loud music happening by the pool on the other side of the resort. The common denominators for all guests include upscale cuisine, a picture-perfect beach, and an endless list of things to do – from active offsite excursions and a waterpark, to beach volleyball or board games. The breezy Sunwing destination has it all.
But first, a glimpse at the RIU Palace Macao resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic:
1. For the elite-only traveller
For an elevated experience (you’re on vacation, after all), it’s worth every penny to upgrade to the Elite Club – especially if you’re in the market for a romantic escape with your partner. This takes your vacation to refined heights, with things like an Elite Lounge with a fully-stocked bar, prime room location (with a private slice of swimming pool), premium alcohol both in-suite and at the bars, and – perhaps best of all – a private section of beach that’s filled with peaceful cabanas and a private bar with amazing waitstaff. Furthermore, there’s also a specialty restaurant exclusively for Elite Club guests. Elite Club guests also enjoy added perks like in-room aromatherapy (a dreamy, newfound must-have), late check-out, and a welcome gift.
2. For the shameless partier
You have not been to a pool party unless you’ve been to a RIU Pool Party – trust us. Think: the region’s top DJs, costumed dancers, bendy balloons (they’re biodegradable), foam, beach balls, and elaborate face paint (keep your phone charged to capture this while it’s fresh). These epic afternoon/evening affairs are held in their own sprawling outdoor RIU venue, with massive swimming pools, lounge areas, and a snack bar. The RIU Pool Parties are held four times a week for guests of nearby RIU hotels feature a different theme, including the Jungle Pool Party, White Pool Party, Pink Pool Party, and 80s Neon Pool Party. Naturally, dressing the part is always encouraged. For those looking to keep the good times flowing late into the evening back at the resort, the sports bar is open 24/7.
3. For the foodie
Let’s be honest: all-inclusive resorts weren’t always known for their stellar culinary offerings. But that’s all changed – and RIU resorts are certainly no exception. At RIU Palace Macao in Punta Canada (Dominican Republic), diversity is the name of the game when it comes to mealtime options. In total, the resort features eight restaurants that offer artfully plated dishes and cater to a range of tastes and cravings, from Japanese to Italian. While the spot’s a la carte restaurants offer a distinctively special feel and taste (favourites include the lobster at the Steakhouse and the mushroom lasagna with truffle oil at Volare), the buffet certainly doesn’t feel like an inferior option. Constantly replenished with goodness and complete with many live cooking stations, it offers everything from fresh sushi and shrimp, to pizza and even a chocolate fondue. Times have also changed on the reservation front: guests enjoy unlimited, reservation-free dining in the resort’s specialty restaurants.
4. For the wellness seeker
The sleek wellness centre is an alluring draw for those who like to return home from vacation feeling better than when they arrived. Located a short distance from the front entrance of the resort’s lobby, at the neighbouring Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro (in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic), the welcoming Renova Spa offers massages, facials, a beauty salon and nail spot, steam rooms, and saunas. While the array of spa services costs extra, an appreciated perk of this spa is that all guests are welcome to use the water therapies – which include a large indoor pool and whirlpools – whether they book a service or not. Tip: bring your own towel, the spa doesn’t supply them. Of course, a simple sunrise walk on the beach can also work magic for one’s vacation wellness cause.
5. For the active traveller
In addition to a sleek, top-of-the-line fitness facility and uplifting poolside fitness classes, there are no shortage of ways to release energy and burn off those beach beers at RIU Palace Macao. This includes a range of non-motorized watersports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Nearby, guests also have access to tennis and a golf course (for an additional fee). Offsite excursions booked through NexusTours include things like a catamaran adventure, horseback riding, snorkelling, paddle boarding, and ziplining (to name just a few). Guests looking to channel their inner child can do so (free of charge) at the neighbouring Splash Water World waterpark.
6. For the avid all-inclusive guest
Those looking for your typical, well-rounded vacation that won’t break the bank (too much) can find it at RIU Palace Marcao, in Punta Cana (not Canada) Dominican Republic. It has all the basics covered: a perfect beach, great food, and a swim-up bar. The vibe around the pools is lively, with an adjacent poolside bar and games. The resort’s entertainment is quality (the karaoke is a blast) and an onsite club removes the need to travel too far to dance the night away. To switch up the experience, guests can take a short walk down the beach and easily access neighbouring RIU resorts (Riu Palace Bavaro, Riu Palace Punta Cana, and Riu Bambu), each with its own vibe (though, we admit, the RIU is our favourite).
So, if you’re looking for a sun-kissed escape – regardless of what type of traveller you are – head to Sunwing.ca and book this memorable vacation. All vacation packages include round-trip flights operated by Sunwing Airlines, round-trip NexusTours airport transfers, and the assistance of Sunwing representatives once you arrive in paradise. Now, it’s just on you to find a date that works best for you and your Caribbean companion(s).
