If you’ve been quarantined at home with your partner for the past year, you’re probably eager to leave town, recharge and enjoy a change of scenery together.
Collette and Scott, the couple behind the popular travel blog Roamaroo, recently visited Dominican Republic for a romantic escape that was both rejuvenating and exhilarating. If you’re seeking inspiration for your own trip for two, read on to discover an itinerary inspired by Collette and Scott’s recent retreat to Dominican Republic.
- Start by checking into your preferred home away from home for the week.
Punta Cana’s sweeping all-inclusive resorts provide ample space to spread out on the beach or by the pool. Book a private villa, swim-up suite or even a room with your own private plunge pool—it makes the perfect romantic home base in Punta Cana and naturally lends itself to social distancing.
After you check in, enjoy a private sunset dinner on the beach for two, a relaxing couples’ massage or a lazy day together with your toes in the soft white sand while the waves lap at your feet.
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- Take a day trip to picture-perfect mountaintop views.
After soaking in some R&R at your resort, venture out on a one-hour trip to Miches, one of Dominican Republic’s most popular new destinations.
Once you arrive in Miches, take a journey on a four-wheeler to the top of Montaña Redonda. The bumpy ride is worth it once you reach the top of the mountain, where benches and swings overlook sweeping vistas of the ocean and lush valley below. Sip a cup of coffee at a mountaintop café or order a cocktail made with Dominican Rum to enjoy while you soak in the soaring views and take a selfie together.
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- Get active and enjoy nature at Scape Park.
Conveniently located in Cap Cana near the resorts and villas of Punta Cana, Scape Park is an adventure lover’s playground. The sprawling green space is home to Hoyo Azul, a turquoise cenote that invites you to dive in for a refreshing swim.
Other activities include hiking through the tropical flora of the botanical gardens, horseback riding, ziplining, ATVing, snorkeling, and exploring a vast underground network of caves and tunnels on the Iguabonita Cave Expedition.
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- Savor a taste of divine local goods.
If chocolate, fine cigars, coffee and traditional Dominican goods like crafts and jewelry are your love language, plan an afternoon together at the Mundo Auténtico shopping complex in Bávaro. This cultural epicenter includes four main shops with food, drink and smokes that exude the essence of the Dominican Republic.
The complex is home to the Don Lucas Cigar Factory, which offers free tours and a chance to puff on some of the finest hand-rolled cigars in the country. Afterwards, visit the Chocomuseo, where guided tours on the history of Dominican cacao include a delicious tasting of milk, white and dark chocolates made from local cacao pods. Some tours include a tasting of mamajuana, a local specialty drink made with rum, wine and a unique blend of bark and herbs—the locals say it’s an aphrodisiac.
After you’ve experienced cigars and chocolate, head to the Coffee Museum for a pick-me-up. Here, you’ll not only see, smell and touch real coffee beans, you’ll also learn how Dominican coffee is grown, harvested and turned into your favorite hot beverage. Then you’ll get to taste some. There are a variety of brews you can take back home to help you ease back into the grind.
Finally, be sure to visit the Mundo Autentico Shop on your way out to pick up a Dominican souvenir to bring home with you! From one-of-a-kind jewelry made from local larimar or amber to a Faceless Doll, you’ll find it all here. Learn more about some can’t-miss souvenirs here.
- Set off to a secluded island on a yacht.
Pick a day for a romantic expedition on the Caribbean. You’ll start with a drive west to Casa de Campo in La Romana, one of the most opulent resorts in the region. This luxurious property is also home to Teeth of the Dog, a world-renowned oceanfront course designed by Pete Dye—don’t miss the chance to sneak in some time on the green if you’re golfers.
From Casa de Campo’s marina, set off on a private yacht for secluded Isla Catalina. This undeveloped island is just a quick trip off the shore of La Romana and a perfect destination to disconnect from the stress of daily life, with powder-fine white sand, calm waters and thriving coral reefs that are great for snorkeling or diving.
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- Enjoy peace of mind with enhanced safety protocols.
Dominican Republic is one of the safest international destinations for your trip for two. The country has taken extra steps to ensure the health and safety of tourists and hospitality workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
All international travelers arriving on commercial flights and staying at a hotel are granted free health coverage for any medical care needed in the event of exposure to COVID-19, and viral antigen testing is also available. Please contact your hotel directly to inquire about their specific process or make an appointment. More info about coronavirus safety and precautions can be found here.
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- Take one last dip in the airport pool before takeoff.
Your escape from cabin fever and Zoom meetings doesn’t end when you arrive at the airport. Extend your quality time together by treating yourselves to a visit to Punta Cana International Airport’s VIP lounge. This luxe corner of the airport boasts an infinity swimming pool where you can take one last dip and watch the jets take off before catching your flight home.
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Check out Roamaroo’s vacation vlog from Dominican Republic to see their adventure in action.
What’s on your dream itinerary for a couples’ trip to Dominican Republic? Share your photos by posting to social media and tagging @godomrep.
