Club Med, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

I returned from a super vacation at the Club Med at Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. For those not familiar with Club Med, they are all inclusive resorts around the world. When started right after World War II, they were quite basic—many in tents without running water or electricity, nor keys to lock your door. They have come a long way, and now have most modern amenities, like telephone, TV [even CNN and a French channel], air conditioning, spas, all sorts of alcoholic beverages, internet and an international ambience with clients from all over the globe. The rooms here are suites with balconies and are nicely decorated, and recently renovated.

The club, or village as it is called, is very well organized, nicely landscaped, the beach is beautiful and full of palm trees that provide shade, and one can walk along it to the Punta Golf Course [where you can play] and onwards. The water is very warm and crystal clear and calm.

Punta Cana is a family club with petit and mini clubs for kids, with their own building, playground and pools. They’ll keep the kids all day, if you wish, or for any part of the day. The whole thing is very well-organized, with an excellent staff-kid ratio.

These villages are perfect spots to meet friends and/or family and relax hassle-free. All you have to decide is what time to take your meals and which activities to participate in. There are many water sports, land sports, dance classes, gym, pool, etc. Of course, you can just sit and do nothing. And those of you who would like to combine vacation and business, they are easy venues for small meetings (unless one wants to rent out the entire club).