Travel: Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe, Punta Cana

After working 16-hour days all summer long last summer, we did like adults do and saved up some money. Not for a down payment on a house or to pay some boring bills, but to go on a week-long, all-inclusive vacation at the Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Once we stepped on hotel property, all our worries were forgotten and all we were worried about was getting to the beach and absorbing the Caribbean heat into our pasty New England skin. Although our room wasn’t ready when we arrived (we did arrive at 10am and check-in was at 1pm), we enjoyed the Club Premium lounge were endless snacks and drinks are provided while you wait. Walking around the hotel, we slowly took note of everything we wanted to do that week: beach, sand, beach, restaurant, food, beach.

Club Premium Lounge

Once in our room, we relaxed and dropped our luggage. This for us is the moment vacation begins – the moment once you’re in the comfort of your own hotel room and get to settle in for the week. Some travelers say vacation starts for them the moment they get on the plane, but not us. We’re all about hotel rooms.

And our room was gorgeously simple with great amenities that were replenished twice a day, with a night-time turn down service. At around 7pm, housekeeping delivers a sweet treat like cake bites, brownies, truffles, and fresh fruit; they also “turn down” your sheets so it’s easier to slip into bed. Double sinks and a rainforest style shower, it would become our home sweet home for an entire week!

Equipped with a coffee maker and mini bar, those were great to have but you know what was the favorite part of the room (which I have not ONE picture of?!): the jacuzzi on the balcony! Perfect way to end the day!

This state of the art spa center was our second home! It included an outdoor pool with water therapies that M. loved, hydrotherapy circuit, thermal swimming pools, sauna and steam rooms, a variety of showers, and a terrace with sun loungers. Seriously, a dream come true!

Deciding to treat myself during this week, I also booked an Algae Body Massage that was divine. Starting with a mineral scrub, the best part was being covered in a clay mask and then wrapped in plastic while she massaged my head. I was in HEAVEN. Finalizing with a relaxing massage and then being led to a gorgeous sitting area while you’re still in your robe – still in heaven. Tea and cookies are served while you relax with a warm beaded pillow on your shoulders. Definitely worth the $100 and something bucks!

Disclosure: Although the Bavaro Palace Deluxe was generous enough to upgrade us to “Club Premium”status, this trip was not sponsored by them. We’re sharing what we loved just because of that – cause we loved it!