I don’t typically opt for all-inclusives when I travel. Nothing against them, I’m just one save money on accommodation, so I have a bigger budget for experiences. In fact, my hotel booking privileges have been revoked after picking one too many duds to save a buck or two. That being said, heading to the Dominican Republic for a destination wedding at the Finest Punta Cana Resort was just what the doctor ordered.

 

The service was next level. From the moment we arrived, we were wanting for nothing. Hotel staff may be getting paid to be there, but they really did make us feel like family the entire duration of our stay. At the resort, we’re greeted with a glass of champagne and ushered to the private check-in area after a quick tour of the facilities. We were then guided to the Excellence Club Lounge, where we could graze over charcuterie and desserts until our bags were brought down to us. 

 

By the time we got to our room, I was totally onboard with this all-inclusive thing. The room itself came with its own jacuzzi tub and private pool, featuring a hammock and several lounge chairs, the perfect spot for a morning coffee. The room was potentially one of the nicest I’ve ever stayed at, but when the weather is 80 degrees and sunny, obviously most of the time was spent at the pool or private beach. 

 

We alternated our time between the two during the day and hit up a range of restaurants in the evening. In my limited experience, the food at all inclusives tends to leave something to be desired. I would say at this resort, the buffets were just okay, but the restaurants themselves were honestly not bad! The big stand out was the Tomahawk steak and the hibachi experience. I found myself constantly asking people if all this was really included, and it was, including the 24-hour room service, fully stocked snack bar, and food trucks throughout the resort where you could grab a snack any time of day.

 

Regardless of the amazing facilities at the resort, I do get fidgety on beach vacations, so when some of our friends suggested we do a snorkel and boat day excursion, I was all in. The jewel blue water did not disappoint and swimming in the ocean was a highlight of the trip.

 

All in all, I’d say the Dominican Republic is a great destination even if you just have time for a four-day trip. With a flight time of under four hours, it felt like a super easy way to get in a solid beach getaway. It’s also in the same time zone as the East Coast, so no jet lag. Sounds like a win-win to me.