Headed to Sint Maarten / Saint Maarten? Opting for a more home away from home feel? Skip the resort and book VIlla Chincherry in Point Blanche, Sint Maarten. The views are ones you won’t want to miss. See below a recap of my stay and don’t forget to mention Aishwarya sent you. 🙂
Book via the Airbnb listing Villa Chincherry.
*Please see disclosure statement for this post available as a link here.*
Happy June! Here to recap a luxurious escape at AVA Resort Cancun I just returned from. Nestled along the pristine shores of the Mexican Caribbean, AVA Resort Cancun offers an unparalleled all-inclusive experience. Designed for new and experienced travelers alike, the resort seamlessly blends luxury, adventure, and relaxation! Here’s a glimpse into my utmost perfect 3-night, 4-day stay at this tropical haven.
Just a 10-minute drive from Cancun International Airport (CUN), AVA ensured a swift and stress-free arrival. From my prior visits, I recall transfers to and from the airport being a while away. However, AVA resort’s proximal location allowed us to maximize the most out of our vacation. If you’re someone like me who schedules in short getaways, then that’s less time travelling and more relaxation! Upon landing, we were greeted and whisked away to the resort in a comfortable, air-conditioned, private vehicle. Upon arrival at the resort, a refreshing drink, cold towel and a warm welcome awaited. Check-in was efficient, with attentive staff guiding us through the process, ensuring we were settled into our oceanfront suite in absolutely no time! Dedicated member services took down our phone numbers to remain in contact for the duration of the stay. They handled our dinner reservations, excursions, jacuzzi, property questions and turn down service requests.
The Oceanfront King – Our Private Paradise
Our bell man guided us to our Oceanfront King, located in the South building. This suite was the definition of indulgence. Spacious and modern, the room featured floor-to-ceiling windows, a private terrace with panoramic sea views, a plush king-sized bed, a deep soaking tub, and a rainfall shower. High-tech touches included a smart TV, free Wi-Fi, and a personalized minibar. With 24-hour room service and a spa-inspired bathroom, our room became our serene sanctuary between all the adventures AVA had to offer. Panoramic views of the ocean could be seen from within the room. For a more jaw dropping view, step outside on to the spacious terrace that had a private hot tub. One major point to note about AVA’s room locations are that they all face the Bay and Ocean. So regardless of your room choice, all guests can enjoy the unobstructed views. As someone who has stayed in numerous types of accommodations. Partial Ocean views aren’t always guaranteed views of the Ocean.
All-Day Dining That Delights
After wasting no time settling in, we made our way to indulge in AVA’s culinary offerings. Which were said to be unmatched even before my arrival. As the early bird, my mornings began with coffee and pastries at Aroma CafĂ© and sit-down breakfasts with ocean views at Veranda. For lunch, we enjoyed international street food at Plaza MX, as well as delicious dips and shrimp bowls at Bayside Cafe. Dinner was an experience in itself. With 17 restaurants to choose from, like Copal for elevated Mexican, Black Iron for gourmet steak, Bao for Asian fusion, or Chez Moi for elegant French cuisine. The resort also has an impressive selection of bars, from relaxed beachside pool bars, to vibrant cocktail venues like Digit Bar and Cantina by Casa Jugadores, offering mixology, tequila tastings throughout our stay.
Pools, Cabanas & AVA Bay
Our days were spent lounging by one of AVA’s six stunning pools, including an adults-only pool with premium cabanas and dedicated service. Swim-up bars kept the drinks flowing, and daybeds offered the ultimate in relaxation. AVA Bay, the resort’s crystal-clear manmade lagoon, allows guests to go kayaking or paddleboarding, which I have never seen before at a resort pool but given its size, has ample space to do so. Service was impeccable with friendly, attentive staff ensuring umbrellas, beach towels and drinks were always ready to go.
Activities & Entertainment Galore
There was never a dull moment at AVA. With the strong Sun beaming down during our stay, we opted for some indoor shaded activities like The Alley bowling lanes and explored the resort’s boutique shops. The boutiques had such an assortment of stunning pieces that if one god forbid had delayed baggage. Then outfits, accessories and more were readily available. Evenings came alive with live music, immersive theater shows, and themed parties. Conveniently located on the property, Dez nightclub offered entertainment through the wee hours of the night. There were also arcades and escape rooms for teens and families, providing fun for all age groups.
Spa & Wellness Bliss
My last full day at AVA began with a scheduled 50 minute massage treatment and hydrotherapy. I was told I did not want to miss a visit to AVA’s expansive 90,000 sq. ft. wellness facility including their spa. I was guided through their sauna and steam room. Where a charcoal mask and cooling cucumbers were applied. Followed by hydrotherapy, switching from a cold plunge pool (which took me longer to get into, than I lasted in), to a steamy 36 degree Celsius pool with built in jet beds. The massage followed promptly after. My masseuse Erica was friendly, professional and attentive to my concerns and tailored the treatment accordingly. I left my Spa appointment feeling rejuvenated and I could not think of a more perfect way to end off the last day of my trip.
From breathtaking views and gourmet cuisine to nonstop entertainment and true tranquility, AVA Resort Cancun delivered an unforgettable luxury escape for us. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply in need of a break, AVA turns every moment into something magical.
I genuinely had the most indulgent and relaxing stay at AVA Resort and would not hesitate to recommend it to my loved ones and readers alike.
If you’re looking to book a trip, book your next Cancun getaway at AVA RESORTS.
I am back from my short, yet very sweet getaway to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. This was my first time in the Dominican Republic and I already can’t wait to go back to explore the other parts of the DR. Such as Santo Domingo!
This trip was booked last minute using the travel site cheapcaribbean.com. I’ve booked several vacations with them, so I knew exactly where to go when looking for flight and accommodations on such a short notice.
I took a very early flight Saturday morning, which got us into the DR in the late afternoon.
As a part of our booking, cheapcaribbean.com bundled together round transport to and from the airport. The transportation company they use is called Amstar. One of the most reliable and reputable companies in the country. We’ve taken them several times before and never endured any hiccups during our vacations.
Upon our arrival to the Now Onyx Punta Cana Resort in Uvero Alto. Which is about a 30 minute drive from the international airport. Hotel staff greeted us with a chilled cocktail and hot towels to get our 3 night, 4 day vacation started!
The resort was kind enough to upgrade my friends and I to the preferred suites, which was the closest building to the beach side.
We wasted no time in checking out their dining and drink options. First up was the Barefoot Grill. An outdoor dining experience that served up primarily grilled foods.
The pools at Now Onyx close at around 7 pm daily. So we had just under 2 hours in the pool on our first day, but loved every minute of it!
Before heading back to our rooms to get ready for the night. We booked our excursions for the following days, right from the resort lobby.
It might just be me, but when I’m on vacation. I have an increased appetite. So after heading back to our rooms from enjoying the pool, it seemed fitting to me that I get room service for while I get ready to head to dinner (lol) and a bar later that night.
Now Onyx provides 4 menus for their room service. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Late Night.
I ordered their chicken quesadilla and nachos. *Not pictured here because I was starving lol.
Our dinner reservations were at Spumante, an Italian restaurant located in the neighbouring resort, Breathless Punta Cana Resort and Spa. Golf carts are the means of transportation to and from resorts and are simply a call away.
Dinner was impeccable! I ordered their chicken penne in a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
Granted Now Onyx isn’t an adult only resort, it does have adult only areas, which are accessible to Preferred Guests. We had heard that their sister property Breathless Punta Cana Resort had amazing nightlife, so headed over for the remainder of the night.
One point that I cannot go without mentioning is that when you stay at the Now Onyx Resort, you gain access to nearby resorts as a part of their Sip, Savor and See program. Guests have access to all bars, pools, amenities and restaurants at the specified sister/nearby properties. Restaurants are however only accessible for dinner and require reservations.
The next morning, I was determined to be up at 5:30 am to catch the sunrise but because of the early start we had the day before, I couldn’t get up until 7:30 am.
However, the views from my balcony and the hot sun beaming down on me, was nothing short of perfection.
Breakfast this morning was at the Carnival International Buffet. My go to, was made to order omelettes, all of the tropical fruits I could get my hands on and some decadent pastries.
Our pickup for our first excursion was at 12 pm, so it gave us some time to enjoy the pool. As well as nice ice cold Presidente beers brought right over to the pool.
I had suggested doing a ‘party boat’, as I love catamarans and thankfully everyone was on board with the idea. This excursion involved going to the Marinarium. Where we would board a catamaran, do some snorkeling, swim with the sting rays and sharks. Then end off with some free time to float around in the shallow waters of the beach.
Also, you might ask, why there aren’t any images of the sharks or sting rays? Well for one, I am a novice swimmer and the rough waves in 40-50 feet deep water had me holding on for dear life lol. Also, to be noted, I don’t know why I wanted to swim with the sharks or sting rays in the first place because I am deathly afraid of both!! I touched the sting ray with one finger and had my eyes closed.
You will never be caught with an empty cup in the Caribbean. The bar service extends out even into the water, with a fully stocked bar in a floating tube!
The following morning we made our way to Coco Cafe, which offered heavenly coffee and treats. Before heading over to breakfast at the Carnival International Buffet.
Since it was Monday, a few restaurants on the resort were closed, so we opted to have dinner at the neighbouring resort. I was in the mood for some Asian delicacies and the Breathless Resort had availability at Silk City, a Teppanyaki table.
It was 8 pm by now but our night was only beginning, Pickup for our next event was at 8:30 pm. You can’t leave the DR without checking out Coco Bongo! A show and disco, all under one very lively roof! When I first heard the showtime, I was kind of shocked. 9 pm – 2:30 am. I really didn’t know if I could hang that long lol. From the moment I arrived to the moment I left, the energy remained constant. My favourite part of the show were the aerial performances.
Coco Bongo is about 30 mins from Uvero Alto. So after a night out, I naturally had worked up an appetite. Thankfully room service was available 24 hours and prompt even at 3:30 in the morning.
Our last full day in the DR consisted of waking up to a nice quiet breakfast spread in the comfort of our room.
I wanted to get my hands on some authentic Dominican gifts to bring back home with me. Hotel staff suggested that there was a strip of local shops right next to the resort. The walk over was less than 2 minutes and I’m so glad to have shopped there vs the touristy resort gift shops! The shop keepers were wonderful and very inviting. I left with gifts for loved ones and small tokens of appreciation from the shop keepers for giving them business.
Now Resort provides a complimentary shuttle to their select vendors. One of these vendors happened to be one, I had planned on visiting before I got to the DR, so I was happy to be able to check it out!
The shuttle brought us to an area where you can find authentic Domincican goods, such as cigars, rum, coffee, chocolates gifts and jewelry.
We first did the Don Lucas Cigar tour, which I enjoyed quite a bit.
The tour involves getting to see from start to finish, how a cigar is packed and rolled. All while enjoying a complimentary cigar that you are free to smoke throughout the entire tour.
Next up was rum tasting at Oliver, Rums for Connoisseurs. Take a seat in this relaxed bar setting and enjoy a variety of complimentary rum tastings based on your preference.
This next vendor, I was quite excited for. El Cibao is where we saw how authentic Dominican coffee is made. From raw coffee beans to the point where they are roasted and packed for sale. The aroma of strong coffee is one I will never get enough of!
Kokoa, was the second last stop. Where you can enjoy all of the sweet treats, from dark to creamy white chocolate and everything in between. As well as stock up on to take back home!
Our final stop was at Azul Mai. A jewelry store where you can find endless varieties of the local Dominican jewels. Larimar, which is a pale blue stone marbled with white and amber. I picked up a few pairs of earrings, which were all beautifully crafted.
Our final morning in the Dominican consisted of soaking up as much sun as we could! I may have gone a little over board since I ended up with a painful sunburn, but hey I don’t regret a thing!
I took my final walk along the beach before I headed back to the room to checkout.
If you’re interested in videos from my trip, they can be found in my Dominican Republic Instagram story highlights here.
I won’t forget this trip! Thank you Dominican Republic! See you next time!
I recently revisited a favourite food festival of mine;Â Taco Fest in Toronto! A 3 day festival that is held annually at Ontario Place. Today, I’ll be recapping my Taco Fest experience for you.
P.S. you’ll surely be hungry after this! View Post
Today, I wanted to share a travel diary of a weekend in the windy city: Chicago Food Edition. I have compiled a list of commonly suggested sight seeing places and restaurants as well as spontaneous finds. Keep reading to follow along on a Weekend in the Windy City: Chicago Food Edition last month. Look out for part 2 that will cover sight seeing and attractions. View Post
