"Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make. So travel often and live life with open eyes and an open heart."
Edmonton (YEG) -> Punta Cana (PUJ)
April 2019
BelleVue Dominican Bay
Our stay at the BelleVue Dominican Bay in Boca Chica was the perfect blend of relaxation and fun! Located just a short walk from the famous Boca Chica beach, this all-inclusive hotel offered everything we needed for a great getaway. We loved lounging by the two beautiful pools, indulging in delicious meals at the on-site restaurants, and even dancing the night away at the beachside disco. With activities ranging from tennis and aerobics to watersports and horse riding, there was always something to do. Plus, it’s family-friendly, with separate kids' areas in the pools and a mini club to keep the little ones entertained. The BelleVue Dominican Bay truly gave us a taste of Caribbean culture and hospitality. BelleVue Dominican Bay is located roughly 4 blocks from the beach and 15km from the city of Santo Domingo and the airport.
(3 Star Resort***)
Boca Chica Bay
Boca Chica Bay is known for its calm, shallow waters and powdery white sand, making it one of the most popular beaches in the Dominican Republic. Thanks to the natural coral reef that creates a protective barrier, the bay feels more like a giant saltwater swimming pool, perfect for wading and snorkeling. You can walk out for hundreds of meters and still find yourself in waist-deep, crystal-clear water, surrounded by colorful fish and other marine life. It’s also a hotspot for local vendors, offering everything from fresh coconuts to handmade crafts, and dotted with lively beach bars serving up refreshing drinks.
During our stay, we found the bay to be incredibly beautiful and relaxing, especially on weekdays when the beach was quieter. We spent hours exploring the shallow waters, marveling at the ocean creatures swimming around our feet. However, we quickly learned that weekends brought a different vibe—Boca Chica became a lively hub filled with local families, music, and plenty of activity. While it got a bit crowded, it was also a fun opportunity to see how locals embrace their beach days, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the bay.
Saona Island
Saona Island was like a slice of paradise straight out of a dream. Located off the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic, this pristine island is part of the East National Park and is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees.
We were picked up early in the morning directly at our resort lobby, and then our Saona Island adventure began in Bayahibe, a charming little fishing village that felt like the perfect starting point for a day of exploration. We gathered on the beach, met our friendly guide, and got ready to board a sailing catamaran. As soon as we set off, the real magic began—sailing along the coastline of Cotubanama National Park, we were treated to stunning views of lush, untouched landscapes. With local rum in hand and the sounds of merengue and bachata playing, it was the perfect way to relax and soak in the beauty of the Caribbean.
After about an hour and 45 minutes of cruising through the turquoise waters, we arrived at Saona Island, and it truly felt like paradise. The white sand, swaying coconut palms, and crystal-clear water were like something out of a postcard. Our guide showed us around, pointing out where to find the bar with endless drinks, the buffet, and the cozy deckchairs and hammocks. We had a few hours to explore and enjoy the island, so we did it all—swimming in the warm waters, snapping photos, and sipping cool drinks under the shade of a palm tree. After a delicious beachside lunch, we took one last dip before heading back, recharged and full of unforgettable memories
