If you can get a lime in your life, make a margarita – as the slogan says on the indoor margarita station.
And that’s a motto I quickly adopt, pouring myself another glass of freshly made Blitz cocktail, then taking it out and drinking it on my balcony, watching the gentle waves below.
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You wouldn’t expect anything less from the Margaritaville Island Reserve in the Dominican Republic.
But having your own cocktail station where you can make fresh cocktails without having to change out of your pajamas was just the beginning of the fun at this beachfront resort.
Located just off Juanillo Beach, in the sunny region of Cap Cana where the turquoise waters of the Caribbean meet the pure white sand, the 5-star Margaritaville is a haven for vacationers who love all-inclusive accommodation.
What’s more, Punta Cana Airport is just a 15-minute breezy drive away, making you feel comfortable even after a 12-hour flight from the UK.
This expansive resort features over 500 rooms/suites and 40 ultra-luxury Island Reserve Villas.
Yet, it still feels intimate thanks to its lush tropical surroundings.
It is cleverly divided into two areas.
Wave is family-friendly, with restaurants, clubs and activities catering to children.
Additionally, there are hammocks for adults only. This has a more relaxed atmosphere and a full bar.
No matter which section you’re in, you’ll be sure to soak up some sun, whether it’s by the giant pool or cozy cabanas surrounded by swaying palm trees.
When not laying out in the sun, the Paradise Room’s private balcony provided a peaceful escape.
And it was the perfect place to watch the sun rise over the ocean at 4am and enjoy a room service dinner with an unobstructed ocean view.
However, if you want to get the most bang for your buck, you’ll need to retreat from the balcony (and the 24-hour room service menu).
You will receive 2,000 points every day outside of meal times.
These can be redeemed at the on-site corner shop, which sells everything from wine and spirits to locally produced honey and traditional chocolate bars.
We also have authentic iced coffee, sandwiches, and desserts.
Then, get the in-room minibar. And that’s before tackling the resort’s 15 bars, coffeehouses and restaurants.
Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine at Frank & Lola’s, pan-Asian cuisine at Mon So Wi, and, of course, a buffet breakfast at The Boathouse, complete with a build-your-own margarita bar.
But my favorite was the adults-only rum runner, which had a DIY salad section where you could pop in while you waited for your main Caribbean meal.
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Afterwards, enjoy a cocktail at the Five O’Clock Somewhere Swim-Up Bar with swing seating.
However, after sipping on a few artfully mixed cocktails, remember to pay attention to balance.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the phrase “It’s 5 o’clock Somewhere”, coined by American singer Jimmy Buffett, has been wholeheartedly embraced throughout the resort.
But drinking isn’t the only activity here.
Many of my days began with lounging by the pool, followed by an energetic water aerobics class and salsa dancing in the afternoon.
There are many entertainment venues to enjoy in the evening.
Our favorite was the Punch Bar, where the Caribbean party continued until midnight.
Landshark Bar & Grill has DJs playing until the early hours of the morning.
If you’re looking to recharge after a night of tequila-fueled fun, head to St. Somewhere Spa, a tranquil oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the resort, with a variety of rejuvenating treatments, including Hydra facials and detoxifying body wraps. Available.
Or sweat it out for a night of shenanigans at Fins Up! Access to the fitness center with group classes or use of the tennis and pickleball courts are all included in the price.
There are also off-site activities for those who don’t mind paying a little more.
Includes scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and a round at a nearby golf course.
But I was swayed by the advice of an in-room cocktail station instead. “When Life Gives You a Rhyme”. . .
Oh, all right, I’ll make you another margarita.
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