A Dominican Honeymoon
This last week was an absolute blessing. After 6 crazy months, Adam and I were finally able to enjoy our honeymoon on a beautiful, sandy beach in the Dominican Republic. We knew we wanted to go on a honeymoon, but we were unsure if wanted to spend the money. We could have used what was gifted to us on our wedding day for so many other things, but after speaking to several married couples, we came to the conclusion that it was necessary to reconnect and relax after planning a wedding for a year and a half. There isn’t a doubt in my mind that this wasn’t the right decision, and I am so thankful that we were able to cherish this time together.
After doing some extensive research on different countries and resorts that we could visit, we booked our vacation at the Hideaway at Royalton All-Inclusive Resort in Punta Cana. This resort was gorgeous, the service was amazing, and the views were out of this world. The people there were incredibly friendly, talkative, and always willing to help (especially our wonderful butler, Rodvel!)
There wasn’t a shortage of fun activities to do there. We spent a lot of time at the beach playing cribbage, learning how to boogie board, and taking long walks along the coast (yes, I am still in awe at how romantic and cheesy this was!)
We had the opportunity to spend a day at one of the several excursions offered in Punta Cana. We went mudding on dune buggies out to a blue lagoon to go swimming, then to a preserved 1960’s Dominican village where we learned about (and sampled) coffee, cigars, and mamajuana (no, not marijuana). While learning about their coffee and cigars was cool, Adam and I both thought the mamajuana was really interesting. Mamajuana is a traditional Dominican infusion of several different herbs and spices, honey, red wine, and spiced rum. It is believed to be medicinal and can be used to ease headaches, joint aches, and help with digestion, among many other ailments.
Once the tour of the Dominican Village was complete, we went back to the rental facility to enjoy a traditional (and fantastic) Dominican meal. After that, we went on a guided horseback tour through the jungle. You guys, I was in pure bliss. I haven’t ridden a horse in years, but man did everything come back to me! Despite the fears I had of snakes in the jungle, I was completely calm. The best part about this entire experience was being able to experience it with my honey! He had never ridden a horse prior to this, and he did such a great job! He even said he thought he bonded with his horse by the end! But don’t worry you guys, I already asked. I still can’t get a horse lol.
The next day was dedicated to relaxing and reconnecting with each other. We experienced hydrotherapy, a salt scrub, a facial and ended it with a massage. Following that, Rodvel set up a private four-course dinner on the beach. There was something so soothing and magical about hearing the waves crash while sipping on red wine and savoring the bold flavors of beef tenderloin. This was an incredible experience that we will never forget!
The best part of this experience for us is that we could do all of the activities that I listed above, or none of them. There were so many things that were offered that we declined. We had the freedom to take the time to relax and reflect whenever we wanted or needed it. There were times where we just walked around the resort or laid on the beach just to talk and connect with each other. It was super easy to leave our phones in our room and just enjoy each other’s company (which is why I don’t have a million photos on this blog post hehe).
The people at the Royalton resort really made a point to make this trip special to us, and we are really grateful we chose them to celebrate with. I cannot stress this enough. If you are on the fence about taking a honeymoon, please do it. If you would like my unsolicited advice, I would suggest you take a minimum of a five-day honeymoon, go big if you can swing it, and take it sooner rather than later. You will not regret having that time to destress with your honey and to celebrate your commitment to each other. You only get one life, so don’t forget to live.
