There’s just something about the color Caribbean blue... The sight of it fills my soul and recharges my entire body instantaneously, especially when lucky enough to view it in person, toes in sand, waves slowly rolling up on the beach while lounging in a private cabana. Being a mom, most of my vacations are go, go, go instead of slow, slow, slow—and do not involve a private cabana, sadly. So when I found myself in need of a MAJOR recharge, and in desperate need of some Caribbean blue, sun and cabana therapy, I decided to take a last-minute trip to the Dominican Republic. Many of my friends and neighbors are flocking to the “D.R.” as it’s called, for spectacular beach getaways, and the all-inclusive luxury. Royalton Bavaro seemed like the perfect place with Diamond Club concierge service, foodie-worthy restaurants, a luxurious spa, water and sailing adventures, and grounds that are stunning and expansive.
At first, I felt guilty not bringing my son, especially since the Royalton Bavaro is incredibly family- and kid-friendly and had tons of activities and amenities on the property he would have loved, such as the FlowRider stationary surf wave, a lazy river, mini-golf and pools galore. But after an hour, or four, on a private cabana and a group yoga session thanks to their Royalton Fit program on the beach, I was definitely getting into the first day of my “Mom Spring Break” as I was now calling it.
With recharge, relax, and rejoice as my three main objectives for these three glorious days, I vowed to partake in all the luxury and pampering possible at the Royalton Bavaro. A newer resort for the luxury Royalton collection, I decided to upgrade to the Diamond Club, because who doesn’t want their own swim-out suite, access to private pools, cabanas on the beach, special chef inspired restaurants (be sure to try the Brazilian steak house and hibachi!) and a private BUTLER? You can’t help but notice the pristine condition and modern touch to the Dominican flavor as you stroll past pools and beaches and places to stop and soak it all in around every corner.
RECHARGE
Thanks to my butler (yes, I felt happy to say that), I found out the resort had a world-class spa, The Royal Spa. Upon entering I was escorted out of the bright sun into what I can only describe as an interior hidden oasis - filled with private pools, a meditation lounge, and relaxation areas behind glass doors and greenery covered walls. Transported into a world of recharging, I was about to put their saying, “Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of being,” to the test. After being taken through the hydra-therapy stations in the indoor pool, and treated to a glorious time-stopping Signature Royal Massage and Nourishing Facial, I lounged by their ancient inspired indoor pool that became my personal Shangri-la fit for royalty.
RELAX
You know you’re in heaven when you can relax, nap, sunbathe or just stretch out on a beach cabana while watching the crystal blue/green waters of the Caribbean. And the Royalton Bavaro’s beachfront was exactly what I had been craving. Next to some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen, the soft white sand and I quickly became one on the quieter more private side. Hoping to unwind, I indulged in cabana-side drink service (hello, all-inclusive!) and watched the water roll in and out for hours while reading under a thatched umbrella. After my beach therapy, I wandered over to the Diamond Club only pool and cooled off while dipping in one of their private plunge pools. It was only day two of “Mom Spring Break,” and I already felt my tired soul coming back to life with all of the relaxing and recharging and the delicious fruity drinks and super accommodating staff all helping contribute to my state of bliss.
REJOICE
Wanting to soak up the sun as well as get out and see the area of Bavaro a bit, I booked with the help of my butler (yes—doesn’t get old, I promise) a catamaran day trip courtesy of Nexus Tours that included snorkeling, dancing and rejoicing in this beautiful part of the world. I snorkeled around giant coral reefs filled with amazing fish of all colors and quickly befriended the others on the catamaran where we were all led in dance by the super-friendly crew. I seriously didn’t want the boat to ever dock but was ready to take the celebration back to the Royalton to watch one of their wow-worthy nighttime shows and dance some more at the outdoor glow party on the beach they were having that evening. My day rounded out with a seafood dining experience featuring fresh caught fish, lobster, shrimp and ceviche the chefs prepared right there next to us.
My last morning would be spent walking up and down the glorious beachfront as I knew I’d shortly be saying goodbye to a slice of heaven (and my butler) at the Royalton Bavaro. I'd definitely be back and was overwhelmed with gratitude that I took this much-needed time to relax, recharge and rejoice. And next time … I might just bring my son with me—if he’s lucky.
