Last November I attended one of our industry conventions with my previous boss, Ali Phillips with Engaging Events by Ali, to Indianapolis, IN for the ABC Annual conference for wedding planners and industry vendors. It was, without a doubt, one of the best networking events that I have ever attended. To top off this incredible conference, they even had a drawing for some amazing prizes, one being a trip to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. I have never even won a game of Bingo, but just as I was saying goodbye to the wonderful people at the event, I heard my name announced as the winner of this amazing trip!
Still surprised by my luck one year later at the end of wedding season, my husband and I found ourselves off for a one week stay at the NH Royal Arena a Luxury all inclusive resort. Although the trip started off rough (my luggage somehow missed the flight and the next ten flights after that), we were greeted with smiling faces and cocktails as we waited to get to our room. After checking out the resort, I informed Ryan that I wanted to spend much of the vacation reading (Emily Giffin and the one and only Drew Brees; Coming Back Stronger) and sipping umbrella drinks while listening to the crystal clear waves roll across the white, sandy, adult beach.
[showtime]
For the people like me who love to relax, my plan would be perfect, but not everyone can sit still and enjoy themselves very long. My husband asked, “Since we don’t have any excursions planned, do you think we will get bored?”
Clearly opposites attract. Even though Ryan loves to be active, and I like to relax; this vacation was perfect for the both of us. Each day Ryan and I started the day with one of many activities: a yoga class, a dance lesson, sand volleyball, wind surfing, snorkeling, a painting class, a food carving class, and more! When finished with the activities, we got to relax my way. In the evening, I really enjoyed getting all dressed up for one of the many different restaurants the resort offered. My favorite was the Asian restaurant; the chef actually prepares the food for a group of people , it was such a treat! After dinner we often went to the evening activity scheduled for the night. Without a doubt in my mind, the Michael Jackson show was my favorite; these guys can dance!
Of the many places I have seen and explored, I can honestly say that this is by far one of my favorites. This is five-star customer service from the cooks, to the entertainment staff, to the property itself, and it will not be forgotten when choosing our next vacation. I highly recommend NH Royal Arena in Punta Cana for those who are looking for a vacation, destination wedding, or honeymoon.
Admittedly, we were skeptical going into the trip due to Hurricane Tomas, so a special thanks to Orlando and Akon from the resort for giving us an amazing trip that we will not forget; we truly enjoyed your entertainment every minute we were there (even when it rained)!