Category Archives: Punta Cana

Punta Cana & La Romana – Closer than you think!

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Amstar dmc greeting us upon arrival in Punta Cana

Recently, I was able to enjoy firsthand the Dominican Republic’s stunning new Coral Highway (a.k.a the Autopista Del Coral) via Amstar DMC.  The highly anticipated Coral Highway just opened this past summer and more importantly connects the famous resorts of eco-rich La Romana to the lux beaches and resorts in Punta Cana.

It’s sort of random, because to me highways = traffic, but in the Dominican Republic, this four-lane highway brings the country so much closer together, culturally & economically.

Travel Tip: One of the best features of the new highway is that it cuts the drive from Punta Cana International Airport to La Romana down to about 40 minutes. This alone crushes the previous 2 hour drive and gives travelers more options when choosing a destination or airport in the Dominican Republic. I myself chose the Punta Cana airport and a La Romana resort … stay tuned for my next blog about Dreams La Romana.

 

Autopista del Coral

 

Coral Highway Facts:

  • The “Autopista Del Coral” highway has 3 bridges, which cross over the Chavón, Santa Clara and Duey rivers.
  • The highway begins just outside of La Romana, after the main entrance to Casa de Campo, but before the La Romana – Casa de Campo airport and ends at the Punta Cana International Airport.
  • Exits on and off of the new highway are located at La Romana, the La Romana – Casa de Campo airport, the entrance to Bayahibe – Dominicus, near to Higuey and at the Punta Cana International Airport.
  • 2 tolls along the road; the first at KM 18, just after Bayahibe and the second at KM 58, close to the Punta Cana International airport.
  • The “Autopista Del Coral” highway will have 4 lanes of traffic and is designed for cars travelling at a maximum speed of 110km/h or 70 mph.

 

My case in point – Getting from Punta Cana to La Romana Has Never Been Easier!

For more information about transfers while you’re in the Dominican Republic check out AmstarDMC

Autopista Coral via Amstar DMC
Autopista Del Coral via Amstar DMC
Amstar dmc greeting us upon arrival in Punta Cana

Don’t miss our End of Year Sale!

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Are you thinking – it’s almost 2013, the ball is almost ready to drop in Times Square, cold weather is on the way, and you still haven’t booked the Apple Vacation you have been dreaming about? Well there is no time like the present. Apple Vacations End of Year Sale has tempting vacation choices you will not want to pass up!

 

Apple Vacations – Riu Palace Bavaro Swim Up Bar

Apple Vacations End of Year Sale features prices up to 40% off at select resorts, and many resorts, even though they are not 40% off, still have some amazing rates!

To get the best pricing, look to early January departures and April (post Easter) departures as well.  Weekday departures are also typically less than a Saturday or Sunday.  End Of Year Sale rates are available nationwide, but the best rates can always be found on Apple Vacations charters or “value flights”. To see if we have a charter from a city near you click here.

 

Apple Vacations – Dreams Punta Cana

RIU Hotels and Resorts in Mexico, The Caribbean and Costa Rica and Dreams Resorts & Spas in Mexico and The Caribbean have some of the best offers for Apple Vacations’ End Of Year Sale. To see all the great End of Year Sale packages click here or call your local travel agent to book. When that first big chill hits this winter, you’ll be happy that you did!

 

 

 

 

Check out this cool video of our End of Year Sale!

 

 

 

Nuptials at NOW Larimar Punta Cana

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as told by Dani Laverty, Destination Wedding Specialist 

Couple: Kari and Neale

Wedding date: November 7, 2012

 

When the Kari’s mother, Christina (Chris), initially contacted me in March 2012 to assist her with planning her daughter’s destination wedding in Punta Cana, little did I know it would mark the beginning of a wonderful journey of not only planning the travel details for the wedding party of 16, but also what feels like a lifelong friendship.

Kari and Neale had already decided on the resort to host their special day by the time Chris reached out to me to begin the travel planning process.   I reached out to Now Larimar’s wedding coordinator, Cristina, in order to verify the resort’s availability.  Although there were a few minor hiccups when securing the ceremony date with the Punta Cana judge, as he is a very busy man with quite the jam-packed schedule, once the date and time was set, it was smooth sailing from there on out.

Over the 8 months of planning, the mother of the bride and I formed somewhat of a bond as we discussed travel and wedding-related details leading up to the big event.  From the purchase of Kari’s gorgeous wedding gown to the pre-wedding celebration party at home, Chris always kept me in the loop and shared wonderful pictures and stories that made me feel truly involved and connected to my bride and groom.  Fast forward a few months and it was time for Kari, Neale, and their closest family and friends to pack their bags and jet off to Paradise!  I anxiously awaited their return home mid-November so I could hear all about their trip.

Upon their return to reality, Chris shared all of the fabulous tales of their journey and described how the wedding and entire trip was nothing less than perfect.  Kari and Chris adored their wedding coordinator, Francina, who seemed to make everything happen just the way Kari and Neale requested without hesitation.  They met with Francina on Monday, two days before the ceremony, to confirm all of the final details of their ceremony and reception.  Francina arranged a rehearsal dinner the evening before the ceremony at “Capers,” Now Larimar’s delightful Italian restaurant, complete with personalized menus for the entire wedding group.  The wedding day came along with the sunshine, as every destination wedding couple hopes for.  Their quaint and simple ceremony was held on Now Larimar’s white sand beach, overlooking the rolling waves of the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea.  Following the “I do’s,” the festivities continued with a seated lovely reception dinner on Now Larimar’s Quiet Pool Deck.  Although it was a warm evening, the group kept their cool by standing with their feet in shallow end of the pool.  A highlight of the reception was when the groom’s brother, Neale, caught the bouquet!

Along with any wedding, especially one planned in another country, there are sure to be a few glitches and delays along the way.  But, even though the beautiful bride happened to spill her mimosa on her dress just hours before the ceremony, there were no “bridezilla” moments; the crises was averted, the gown was salvaged (and looked flawless), and everyone got a good laugh!  The wedding photographer even complimented Kari and Chris for not having a bridal “meltdown” in the midst of the debacle.  Chris commented that the photographer the resort provided was “outstandingly talented, climbed all over the sand and everything else in sight, was very personable and very professional,” and that she would highly recommend his services for any destination wedding in Punta Cana.

Working with wonderful brides, grooms, and their families, like Kari and Chris, is what makes my job so fun. I can’t even begin to describe the joy I experience when, after months and months of planning, I have  the opportunity to hear all about the beautiful details of the destination wedding, learn about the wonderful memories made, and see the gorgeous pictures when my brides and grooms return home.

 

Christine, Mother of the Bride’s, comments:

Describe the experience with your destination wedding specialist:

“Dani was like a gift from heaven. We felt so overwhelmed until we met her.  We feel like have made a friend for life!”

What was the most memorable moment of your destination wedding?

“Seeing all the relaxed smiles on my families’ faces as my son walked my daughter down the aisle” .

 

 

#BeachThursday – Top 5 Dreamy Beaches

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A common question I hear at Apple Vacations – Where is the best beach?

Sit back, relax and imagine warm, tropical breezes tickling your skin as I take you on a tour of the Top 5 Dreamy Beaches to go to on an Apple Vacation!

1. Bavaro Beach - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Named one of the top ten beaches in the world by National Geographic, Bavaro Beach is an immense stretch of beautiful white sand beach, dotted with swaying tropical palms and bordering along warm turquoise waters. Bavaro boasts a majestic coral reef for diving and other water activities.

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations - Bavaro Beach - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

 

2. Playa de Los Muertos – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta‘s golden beaches and indigo waters invite carefree bayside relaxation. The famous Playa de Los Muertos (“Dead Man’s Beach”) is named for a legendary story that this stretch of sand was a hub of pirate activity during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations - Playa del los Muertos - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

 

3. Waikiki Beach – Oahu, Hawaii

Waikiki is most famous for its beaches. With Diamond Head as your backdrop, the calm waters of Waikiki are perfect for a surfing lesson.

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations - Waikiki Beach - Oahu, Hawaii

 

4. Maroma Beach – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Often nominated as one of the best beaches in the world, Maroma Beach is Mexico’s most exclusive beach hideaway. Determined to preserve its ecological balance, Maroma is a world away from the Yucatan hot spots’ hustle and bustle. Set against 500-acres of lush jungle, the beach is a pristine stretch of sand slipping in the calm turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations - Maroma Beach - Riviera Maya, Mexico

 

5. Playa Tamarindo – Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Located in the northwest of the country on the Pacific side, Guanacaste is known for its beautiful beaches, incredible bird watching, excellent surfing and superb snorkeling.

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations - Playa Tamarindo - Guanacaste, Costa Rica

 

 

Family Vacation in Punta Cana

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It’s that time of year again for our annual family vacation.  I have vacationed in Punta Cana before and completely fell in love with the people and the culture in the Dominican Republic. Warm smiles friendly attitudes and a care free environment are the staples of Punta Cana and I was not going to chance losing that going elsewhere. The hardest part about planning an all-inclusive vacation with a family of 10, is choosing the right resort.  It’s a bit of a task finding a place that caters an age disparity that ranges 10 to 65 years old.

Set on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic in Punta Cana, this resort offers 13 different outdoor pools with gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea and a secluded lagoon.

With activities that range from arcades to casinos, The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino was really a ‘no-brainer.’  The moment we stepped off the Apple Vacations van and set foot on the property the whole family was blown away by the aesthetics of the place. Flashy, yet controlled; spacious yet completely decorated in rock memorabilia, the Hard Rock is really a sight to behold. All the rooms are full blown suites equipped with Jacuzzis, personal balconies and stunning views. It really has a way of making you feel like a rock star. Something tells me that’s exactly what they were going for.

 

 

The Hard Rock features luxurious accommodations, fine dining at nine restaurants, seven bars, thirteen pool with four swim-up bars, casino and spa.

 

The resort also offers a magnificent state of the art Spa and an elegant full service Casino. And when you're hungry, you'll have a choice of 9 different restaurants, wireless Internet service, a sports bar, 24-hour room service and much more.

The resort is home to 9 restaurants, 3 deli/snack bars, 15 bars, 15 pools, lounges/nightclubs, arcades, a spa, a casino, and a variety of shops.  Plenty to keep a large family like mine completely entertained. There are also a plethora of excursions available through the Apple representative on site.

 

When the sun goes down, Hard Rock knows how to rock. The fun has just begun. You can go check out a rock show, or bet against lady luck at the casino. Perhaps you want to test your own rock and roll voice at the Karaoke, dance the night away at the club, or sit, relax and have a drink at one of the many lounges. The possibilities are endless and so is the fun.

 

The majestic Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana brings the Palace brand of uncompromising, all-inclusive luxury to its newest destination - one of the most beautiful beachfront locations in the Caribbean.

 

This vacation reminded me why I love Punta Cana so much and why its growing in popularity as the years pass. With great people, great food, spectacular service, beautiful scenery and incredible beaches its not hard to see why Punta Cana is becoming THE place to vacation.  Don’t overlook this destination next time you are in need of a great vacation!

Happy travels…

Eagles land at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

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Part of my job at Apple Vacations is working with various media partners including radio stations and sports teams, and maintaining those relationships. I love this part of my job and I get to work with some really great people including Mike Quick & Harold Carmichael.

Philadelphia Eagles pro–bowl wide receivers, Mike Quick (#82) & Harold Carmichael (#17) are two local legends. They are both still very active in the Philadelphia sports community. Harold still with the team and Mike Quick can be heard on CBS radio in Philadelphia on Sportsradio 94 WIP.

Punta Cana is one of their favorite destinations, and Apple Vacations was able to send them there again this winter to Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana.

Harold called me upon his return and said it was the BEST trip he ever went on and the service at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana was the finest of any hotel he has ever stayed at! He said they spoil their guests so much is almost embarrassing, almost… And the beach was incredible. So much so he hardly left it during his stay. Secrets Royal Beach really won them over.

 

On behalf of my wife and myself, I would like to say thank you for one of the best vacations we have ever had. From the time we landed in Punta Cana, the first class services were awesome. The staff at Secrets Royal Beach made our stay very relaxing. The beach, the pool, dining, were all parts of a memorable experience for all of us. Thanks for arranging a fun vacation. Apple Vacations rocks!

 

So take it from Mike & Howard if you are looking for an amazing hotel with incredible staff and service, Secrets Royal Beach is the place!


Take a family Apple Vacation to Mexico or The Caribbean – It’s The Shore Without the Chores.

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OK, The Shore Without the Chores – You have heard Apple Vacations advertised it for years. A week in the Caribbean is less than a week at the shore, but no cooking, no cleaning, no laundry – just fun! Well, is it true?

I am a here to testify yes, yes it is! Yes, yes, yes!

Last summer, I needed something simple. I didn’t have a lot of time to plan.  So I decided to do a week at “the shore”.  It was against the grain of what I have preached for years, but I always loved the shore as a kid. So we’d do it.

I thought, well I’ll rent a beach house on “off – week” to get a break on the rent, and we’ll even get a place a few blocks from the beach.  We’ll go down over Easter and buy the ride tickets when they are half price. If I really think about it I can do it for a good rate.

What was I thinking??

The first  day after lugging a “cart” full of beach chairs, shovels, toys, umbrella’s, beach towels, beach bags, snacks, drinks and a child across 3 roads, I thought I may have made a mistake.

The second day when the fridge stopped working, and all of our groceries had to be tossed, I was again questioning my decision.

The third night when we paid over $40 for pizza and drinks on the boardwalk for dinner, I knew I was done.

Not to mention, why am I doing laundry and cleaning up on MY vacation?

Even with strategic planning, I had to admit, that a week in Mexico or The Caribbean would have saved us thousands! We advertise it on our flyer, based on a family of 4 and it could not be any more true.  For our family of 3, we did not make the correct financial decision.

A small one – week rental was $1,500.00. This was an OFF week in June and NON beach block.  $200 in groceries before we left (juices, water, bread, cereal, snacks) and another $200 once we got there.  Another $100 a few days later to restock after the fridge went bad.  I had to buy a beach Umbrella and 3 chairs before we left. $150.00.  I even had to spend $60 on sheets and pillow cases, because the bed sizes in the rental we did not have at home.  Lunch every day, the ice cream truck that drives to the beach, dinner out a few nights,  a night out for mom and dad, a babysitter, cab ride, boardwalk, gas, parking, mini golf,  snacks, drinks, rides, go carts, beach tags … it all adds up!

I honestly do LOVE the shore, luckily we live close enough we can do day trips. But for a family on a tight budget the better decision for us is right now is Mexico or The Caribbean. Needless to say, guess where I am going this summer? Mexico here we come!

Stay tuned to this blog the next few months as we feature some family resorts for you to consider this summer so you too can experience….The Shore Without The Chores. Sheets and pillow cases included.