1|THE ROOMS
Ocean Blue & Sand Resort is home to over 700 spacious suites
that are tastefully decorated in a contemporary style and located in a series
of three-story buildings, each encircling a charming Spanish-style courtyard. Rooms
can accommodate up to 5 people (4 adults + 1 child), perfect for larger
families who don’t want to book two separate rooms. There are also plenty of
great toiletries should you forget something at home, as well as FREE Wi-Fi and
room service from 11am to 11pm. Privilege guests can enjoy 24hr room service
and private concierge.
The property was revamped in 2013 and will be
refurbishing rooms throughout 2017. I stayed in a beautiful room in the
Privilege section, which featured a separate Jacuzzi, living room area and inspiring
pool and ocean views.
2|DINING
The first property in the Dominican Republic to offer
"No Reservation" dining, guests of Ocean Blue & Sand Resort can
enjoy the freedom to dine wherever they want. And with nine speciality restaurants, the
options are endless. Enjoy a night of Teppanyaki or opt for a romantic dinner
at Bluemoon (there is a dress code here). The market style main buffet
restaurant offers international cuisine and features 14 different theme nights,
perfect for guests that enjoy long stays. Privilege guests can dine at the oceanfront
Villa Marina for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
A hotel favourite is Mikey's Coffee offering a
selection of specialty drinks made using locally grown Dominican coffee beans,
Stash teas and an array of delicious snacks in a café style setting. It is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy
a fresh brew - in my case, with a little Rum!
Sports lovers can grab a quick bite and wash it down
with a cold beer at Overtime Sports Bar. If an important sporting event is
taking place during your stay, let the hotel know in advance and they will make
sure you don’t miss it! This is where I enjoyed eating French fries after the
evening shows and a night of dancing at the onsite club.
3|THE BEACH & POOLS
The hotel’s pastel-hued buildings flank two large pools
with beachfront access to the magical shores of Playa Bávaro, where you will
discover endless ways to spend your days. Swim, kayak, snorkel or unwind under
the shade of a palm tree. The choice is yours. To the left of the property find
the picturesque beachfront market that sells an array of local goods. It is a great
place to take a stroll, purchase keepsakes, or in my case, sit on the steps
after closing to watch the sunset.
Note: I should make mention that part of the beach underwent erosion during a major storm (it was rain season when I was there), but the property has been diligently working to return the beach to its former glory!
4|THE SPA
While the kids bowl, play tennis, learn archery or participate
in other fun activities under the watchful care of the Daisy mini and teen
club, mom and dad can head over to the Despacio Spa Centre. Relax in the warm sauna
before enjoying a restorative treatment. I had the "Tonque
Hidratacion," a combination massage and facial using the exclusive Babor
skin care line from Germany. Babor is one of the top 5 skincare lines in the
world, and after my facial I can understand why! The spa offers an array of treatments
and services, including the popular fish pedicure.
For the couple who craves pure seclusion and pampering,
the spa offers a private section where couples can enjoy a massage, hot tub and
dinner under the stars. How's that for a truly memorable and romantic experience!
5|THE EXCURSIONS
Enjoy an amazing day of fun with Runners Adventures. Go
zip-lining, ride horseback in vibrant tropical landscapes, visit a local
village, dine on a traditional Dominican meal, feed Squirrel Monkeys, and so
much more!
At the spectacular Anamuya Mountain Range in Higuey, I
visited the home of Maria to learn about the local production of chocolate
(purchased by Nestle) and Arabica coffee beans, as well as locally grown
fruits, fauna and flora. My favourite experience was hands down feeding the
monkeys while they jumped on my head and arms.
The amazing supermoon as seen in Punta Cana. The image on the left was captured by my friend Linda Morehouse - spectacular!
A special thank you to the wonderful staff at Ocean Blue & Sand Resort who made sure my stay there was a pleasurable one. Click on the link to book yours!