One of the world’s greatest exotic places is The Caribbean. However, The Caribbean has many islands and each of them has its own characteristic. In this article, we will talk about one rocking exotic place that offers many amenities and its name is also popular, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana.
This venue can be found in Bavaro, Punta Cana, The Dominican Republic where guests are welcomed by friendly valet attendants. Here the guests will feel a warm welcome even inside their rooms where they can open the door and see a big comfortable bed, and a balcony that overlooks the ocean with a courtyard.
The Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana like any Hard Rock hotel it goes around music-theme. In addition, there is no lack of A-list appeals too, which are a huge casino, a first-rate spa, and a room service menu. The whole hotel is all about VIP treatment and the place offers rockstar suites that have big whirlpool tubs and minibars as standard. The cherry on the top is the white-sand beach right at your doorstep.
Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana
The hotel has such a long list of activities that it needs more than two days in order to get the rocking experience you seek. In addition, besides the long strolling beach the resort has 11 whopping pools. There is a saying that if you spend your time near the sea, you get hungrier. When you need to refuel, you can choose from nine restaurants and 15 bars, or you can choose the 24/7 room service. Each restaurant seems to have its own theme, from the Caribbean culinary to Brazilian dishes, and from pizzeria to a steakhouse.
The Cherry On The Top
Besides sunbathing and relaxing, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana is like a piece of Las Vegas on Caribbean soil. The lobby is a massive atrium-style which leads to everything the hotel can offer, from a giant casino to a classy spa that gives musical therapies. Other activities you can enjoy are tennis, football and golf.
You will notice that the suites you choose to stay in have royalty rocking names, like Rock Royalty Caribbean Junior Suite that come with a balcony or a terrace, depending on your preferences. Each of these suites come with a Whirlpool Bath where you can get a whole load of extras. These suites come with VIP check-in where you have your own personal VIP Beach, an assistant, ironing service, full-size bath products, and others. Not to forget that one of the best parts of these suites is that you can have access to a 24-hour digital service while you’re away.
Besides, when it comes to entertainment Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana has maybe the hottest casino in the Caribbean. It is also home to the best action in the Dominican Republic with its 45.000-square-foot size. The casino features more than 40 unique tables and more than 450 slot machines. In addition, the casino is known for its Poker Room with Texas Hold’em. Other games that can be played are blackjack, craps, roulette, and many more known table games titles.
Last Words
In other words, this 1770 room hotel will delight you with its beach on pristine white sands that stretch for 121-acres along the Macao Beach. The hotel is all about Hard Rock all-inclusive with a Vegas-style casino, which is the largest in the Dominican Republic. The lavish hotel also features a nightclub, the Oro nightclub where you can have the party of your dreams. Guests will be delighted to be welcomed by 11 expansive pools, four swim-up bars, and a lazy river. And let’s not forget about the resort’s nine restaurants that have gourmet dining options. The whole property features more than 65.000 square feet and it also has a meeting space for flexible events.
Choosing the perfect holiday destination for you and your friends, family or partner is a challenging task. Everyone’s dream destination is different, and their preferences are based on varying criteria. Furthermore, while some places are more suited for young couples, other are family-friendly instead. Fortunately, you have plenty of resources to help you choose.
This A Jamaican Experience article goes as far as to debate the ultimate destination battle being that between Jamaica and Mexico. The two have the same peak seasons, namely mid-December to mid-April, and tourists choose them for similar reasons. But if you’ve been considering going Jamaica this year, here’s what you need to know beforehand.
Beaches
It’s no secret that many people visit Jamaica for its stunning beaches paved with fine, white sand and breathtaking scenery. Furthermore, the entire island benefits from clear, turquoise-colored waters all along its coasts facing the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Therefore, regardless of what part you choose to visit, it will most likely have a great beach nearby.
The best destination to meet this purpose is Negril, a small resort town located in the western part of Jamaica, in the Hanover and Westmoreland parishes of the country. The Montego Bay Airport is nearby, making it as accessible as it is lovely. And if you’re looking for the best of the best, put Seven Mile Beach on your radar.
If you’re heading east, make sure to check out Boston Bay Beach. This location is an excellent choice if you want to sunbathe or catch some waves, but also if you’re after the best jerk food that money can buy on Jamaican land. Its authenticity is something that’s hard to replicate, which is why you should visit this area if you have the chance.
Culture
As Westerners, there is nothing more prominent that we associate with Jamaican than the Rastafarian religious belief system. Based on the coronation of King Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia in 1930, this movement became a pivotal element of Afro-Caribbean philosophy and gave birth to important customs and traditions. Still, the vast majority of Jamaica is Christian.
If you’re interested in witnessing a slice of culture unfolding before your very eyes, Kingston is the place to be. The Bob Marley Museum is a great choice for any reggae lover or pop culture enthusiast out there because it showcases essential aspects of the beloved artist’s life and times.
In addition, it’s located in the house where he lived and recorded from 1975 until his death in 1981, which adds a certain mystique to the entire experience. The prevalent themes in his work have to do with the Rastafari way of life, out of which reggae music was born. Nevertheless, Jamaica is much more than that.
It’s a colorful and vibrant country full of interesting things to try or just observe. No matter which part of it you choose to visit, you will surely have something to learn from the experience.
Cuisine
A big part of the tourist experience is indulging in a country’s traditional cuisine. And when it comes to Jamaica, you’re in for a number of deliciously spicy treats. Jerk chicken is one of the countries largest exports, but this recipe is also applied to meats such as pork or even goat. Rum is also a big part of the food and drinks culture of the country.
From a traditional point of view, papaya,maize, potatoes, and peanuts have been the central elements to many Jamaican dishes through the years. Then, the Spanish colonization of the territory brought along local influences, and Creole, African and Caribbean touches also made their presence felt through time.
Conclusion
Before you visit Jamaica, it’s important to decide where you want to go, and what you want to see. This will help you decide where to go. But regardless of the region, make sure to try the delicious cuisine and drinks that the local restaurants and bars offer. This is what turns a good experience into an amazing one.
Less than an hour from Penn Station by Long Island Rail Road, the city of Long Beach presents a vibrant local alternative to the Hamptons and the Jersey Shore. While many think of the NassauCounty spot as a “beach town,” Long Beach welcomes a variety of year-round special events that enrich the community for both visitors and residents alike. With the beautiful Atlantic Ocean serving as its backdrop, this family- friendly beach and boardwalk destination retains a rich history and landmarks.
“There was a time where Long Beach was a great place for college kids to move to after they graduated. The West End bars were crazy party spots for young kids to be wild and drink. Once they got over that part of their life they would move out to a more family-friendly town somewhere else,” began Mark O’Connell, drummer of influential rock band Taking Back Sunday and Long Beach resident since 2005. He continued: “That’s not so much the case anymore. It seems as though younger crowds are moving to the area to raise their families because it’s an amazing place to live.”
In the case of Anthony Dalto, the Long Beach blogger behind the popular Sea By The City blog, a failed attempt at a day at the beach led to his discovery of the city. “In 2007, we came to the beach for the day and it rained,” he explained. “My wife and I decided to look at open houses for fun and we caught the Long Beach bug: ‘Wow, we can live near the beach. That’s sounds crazy, but let’s do it!'”
Photo: City Of Long Beach
What makes Long Beach great will of course be different from person to person. For O’Connell, it’s the “riding bikes on the boardwalk, people playing beach volleyball or soccer or football or whatever on the beach.” For Leah Rosensweig Tozer of Engel & Völkers Long Beach, “it’s the people who live here” as her neighbors and friends “make this place have the best vibe anywhere on Long Island.” Ian Danby of The Cybernet Place LLC loves that you can “walk and cycle everywhere,” and that you “really can have a beach resort with a city feeling and just 45 minutes from New York City.” Jennifer Montiglio, owner of Ooh La La — commends its “great shopping, restaurants, and many healthy activities” that run all year. Fran Adelson of Douglas Elliman — who serves on the Long Beach Chamber Of Commerce alongside Tozer, Danby and Montiglio — moved to town over 30 years ago seeking “a suburb with a city vibe” and especially enjoys all the “different kinds of people, religions, ethnic diversity, [and] economic diversity.”
“What makes Long Beach a great place is that it’s bustling with activities and events year round,” agreed New York State Senator Todd Kaminsky, a Long Beach resident that graduated from Long Beach High School. “Whether it be our family-friendly New Year’s Eve bash in the ice rink, Irish Day & Parade in October, the Long Beach International Film Festival, the Annual Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash, the local Scavenger Hunt, our Annual Fall Festival, or kicking back to watch a movie on the beach, there is always something fun going on.”
Photo: Long Beach Chamber Of Commerce
One of the attractions mentioned by Senator Kaminsky, the Long Beach International Film Festival, recently hosted its fifth annual edition. “This is an event that we look forward to every summer,” said City Manager Jack Schnirman. “It truly epitomizes the Long Beach Life.” Notable attendees over the years have included athletes (e.g. UFC champion Chris Weidman, Raging Bull inspiration Jake LaMotta), actors (e.g. Burt Young from Rocky,Grey Gardens star Daniel Baldwin), musicians (e.g. Joan Jett, Dee Snider), chefs (e.g. Barret Beyer from Hell’s Kitchen, Danny Gagnon of Top Chef) and comics (e.g. Joey Kola, Rob Magnotti). Last year featured the world premiere of the Talib Kweli documentary Prisoner Of Conscious, Live From Brooklyn, of which the rapper was in attendance. The Long Beach International Film Festival is not just a destination for movies, as it also includes Taste On The Beach, a gathering of select food, wine and craft beer vendors along the Atlantic Ocean with live musical performances as the soundtrack.
Beyond that festival, the beach area is full of visitors all year. The boardwalk has a bike-share program called SoBi Long Beach, which launched in April of this year, as aided by the boardwalk’s bicycle-only lane in its center. Towards its center is The Allegria Hotel — where a pilot for the TV series Civil was recently filmed for TNT — a full-service oceanfront hotel including the high-end bar and restaurant Atlantica. Those seeking quick serve fare can also find a food truck area known as the Shoregasboard, kiosks including Riptides 11561, Beach Local Cafe and Gentle Brew Coffee Roasters, and the West End’s Overlook At The Beach. Beyond eating, walking and cycling, there are two bocce ball courts, a mini-golf course, a trapeze school, and an Escape The Room-style truck. Not only are there several fireworks shows in Long Beach each year, but the ability to see the Rockaways, Coney Island and New Jersey’s Highlands from the boardwalk means catching neighboring light shows.
Photo: Long Beach Chamber Of Commerce
As a small city, Long Beach is a hub for gatherings related to all interests. There are athletic events (e.g. Annual Larry Elovich 5K Fun Run / Walk, Michelle O’Neill Volleyball Tournament), festivals (e.g. Long Beach Music Festival, Folk-2-Funk Festival, Long Beach Jazz Festival), parades (e.g. Irish Day Parade, Electric Light Parade), gatherings (e.g. Long Beach Farmers Market, Fall Festival, Car Show, Historical Society Arts & Crafts Fair), and promotions (e.g. Restaurant Week, Merchants Week). The City Of Long Beach Municipal Ice Arena — where the New York Rangers used to practice, as did 2016 NHL draft pick Charles McAvoy — is home to the North American 3 Hockey League’s Long Beach Sharks.
Beyond hosting entertainment, Long Beach has been the source of it for nearly 100 years. It was the setting for parts of both the novel and the movie version of The Godfather. It is the setting of the Robert DeNiro and James Franco film City By The Sea, although production actually took place in Asbury Park, New Jersey. It is mentioned in another DeNiro feature, Taxi Driver, and the James Patterson novel I Funny. Joan Jett, a long-time resident, produced a music video for “Change The World” around the boardwalk’s Franklin Boulevard entrance. Episodes of NBC’sThe Blacklist and the USA Network’s Royal Pains were filmed in-town in recent years. The 2011 Quiksilver Pro was held on the local beach, of which legendary surfer Kelly Slater was a part.
Photo: Melissa Andreev
Billy Crystal, who grew up in Long Beach, talked about the area in his Broadway hit 700 Sundays. He remains active in the community, helping to fund the Long Beach Ladders to Success program earlier this year. Photographer and painter Chuck Close is a local, also keeping a studio in Long Beach. Other natives of the area include top music industry executive and producer Rick Rubin, WFAN host Mike Francesa, ABC’s Wide World Of Sports creator Edgar Scherick, Hal Kanter — who had written and/or directed for Bob, Hope, Jerry Lewis, and Elvis Presley — and former Avenged Sevenfold and Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy. If legend is to believed, Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, and gangster Arnold Rothstein all called Long Beach home for decades.
When it comes to dining options, there is no shortage of options or opinions out there. Anthony Dalto recommends Gentle Brew Coffee Roasters, New American spot Lost And Found, and Italian hub Grotto Di Fuoco. Leah Rosensweig Tozer leans towards Japanese restaurant Himawari and the Cuban cuisine of Corazon De Cuba. Ian Danby likes the Thai food of Chaba and the offerings of Lola’s Kitchen And Wine Bar. Jennifer Montiglio recommends the crepes of Fresco Crêperie & Café and also Gino’s Of Long Beach. Mark O’Connell agrees on Gino’s and adds, “If you ever come to this wonderful city, make sure you get a Grandma Pie. It’s unbelievably good.” Local resident and surfer Larry Feldman is a big supporter of another Italian spot, Saverio’s Of Long Beach, noting: “Saverio’s offers several homemade Bosco family recipes, a wonderful healthy selection, and traditional Italian dishes upon request.” For smoothies and other healthy options, this author recommends Bob’s Natural Foods, which came to Long Beach over 40 years ago, whereas the Long Beach Hotel – another great lodging option beyond the Allegria – offers up a spectacular, value-oriented Sunday brunch. Those seeking further dining options are still within 15 minutes of such, including Island Park’s Peter’s Clam House, which has been around for over 75 years and recently hosted Amy Schumer, and Lido Beach’s Marvel Frozen Dairy, a local staple for 65 years.
Although City Council President Len Torres was quick to point out that “the NRDC and Fox News recently published an article stating that Long Beach has the second cleanest beach in the entire United States” and that its boardwalk has been spotlight by Newsday as “the number one destination on Long Island,” he too echoed that the city has no shortage of year-round offerings. “With countless amazing shops and restaurants, there are endless options to satisfy everyone.”Long Beach also proves distinct as a city by having its own app for iOS and Android, the Long Beach Response mobile app. Torres noted, “Whether you are looking for a calendar of events or simply want to submit a question to City government, Long Beach Response has got you covered.” For more info on this essential destination, click on over to www.longbeachny.gov.
Downtown Magazine was recently the guest of Mr. John Kern’s dazzling beach home located on Palm Island, one of the four small islands that comprise Little Gasparilla Island. Hidden nicely just to the southwest of Grove City, in Charlotte County, sit these four small islands, recognized by many, as one.
Little Gasparilla Island was once separated from Palm Island, Don Pedro Island, and Knight Island. A storm in the ‘60s united the passes, and now all four are connected and called LGI. Along with neighboring Boca Grande, Sanibel, and Captiva, these islands compose what some call the Gulf Island chain. Unlike the other three islands in the chain, Little Gasparilla Island is not accessible by a bridge, and this is what makes these four islands very unique and special. In fact, the only way to reach the island is by water, taxi, or ferry. The $55 round trip ticket, offered by The Palm Island Transit to Palm Island is the only way to reach this incredibly beautiful land mass with your car.
Little Gasparilla Island exemplifies the term “unique.” Some 7 miles of immaculate white sand beaches with no paved roads and no traffic (unless you consider golf carts traffic) make up this natural land mass. If isolation and solitude are what you desire, this is your destination. In fact, the entire island is littered with beautiful beach houses and just one single condo. Furthermore, no commercial establishments can be found on the island, so plan on bringing your own groceries with you.
Photo: Courtesy of floridastateparks.org
Once here, you will experience nothing but paradise. The island is home to numerous species of birds such as white herons, ospreys, egrets, white pelicans, and a multitude of shorebirds. As you traverse the island by foot or golf cart, you will encounter numerous sea shells of all sizes. Needless to say, the South Florida tropical breeze will be a constant, as will the magnificent blue sky and consistent wave action. Evening will present you with a spectacular sunset, one that you will never forget.
If fishing is your fancy, the opportunities are endless. Kayaking is quite popular here as there are numerous mangrove islands to explore. You will find simply going for a nature walk satisfying on this beautiful island retreat. Personally, I discovered just relaxing with a cold beer and great company was the best option. If you are unable to unwind here, then you do not know the meaning of the word relaxation.
Photo: Courtesy of floridastateparks.org
So if your next vacation to Florida encompasses relaxation, a return to nature, escape from traffic, and multitudes of people, then Little Gasparilla should be on your list. It is the natural Florida and a locale you will never forget.
Cars honk, alarms sound, people chatter away…sometimes it’s essential to escape the hustle and bustle of city living. Too busy for a full-length vacation? We understand. That’s why we’ve chosen the top five beach hot-spots that are just a drive away from home. So pack your car and take your pick; come Monday you could be tanned, well-rested, and ready to get back to business!
1. Water Mill. The rolling hills of Water Mill are simply gorgeous. Green and lush, the grass grows around the array of astonishing mansions and deep blue Atlantic waters. It is a town rich in history just waiting to be uncovered. Take a stroll along the beach at Water Mill and be sure to check out the first watermill ever built in NY. It resides on a forty-acre lot, put there back in 1644 by Edward Howell. For dinner be sure to book your reservations at Robert’s, ranked #1 restaurant in Water Mill on tripadvisor. Rustic yet elegant, Robert’s Italian Cuisine is the perfect end to a relaxing day in Water Mill! Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 24 mins.
2. Southampton. The beaches of Southampton are the perfect place to get back in touch with nature! The waterfront views are amazing, and make for the perfect place to spend the day in your boat. And for the weekend, treat yourself to some top-notch Bed and Breakfast at A Butler’s Mansion. Famous for it’s lovely furnishings and gourmet menu, A Butler’s Mansion is a great place to come back to after a relaxed day in Southampton. And if you just need a place to sit down and enjoy a lunch or dinner, then come by Little Red and taste some American Cuisine in a laid-back environment. Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 17 mins.
3. Westhampton: Westhampton is your relaxation headquarters this summer! Wake up and grab one of Goldberg’s famous bagels and coffee for breakfast before heading to spend a day on the beach…or out golfing and working on your tennis game. Either way, Goldberg’s sandwiches and bagels are known by many to be the best – and totally worth the carbs! And the Westhampton Country Clubfeatures one of Long Island’s most beautiful golf courses for any lovers of the sport. There’s loads to do in Westhampton for the family with various hobbies! Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 7 mins.
4. Mill Neck. Mill Neck is the place to be if you want a weekend filled with scenic strolls and fine dining. If you’ve got furry friends to travel with, then be sure to treat them to a walk through Shu Swamp. This beautiful place of trees, water, and grasses is vibrant in the summer and rustic as the season changes to Fall. For some great dining experiences, check out the Heirloom Tavern or Wansuapona Musu (if you’re in the mood for something a bit different!) Both places have earned great reviews and great reputations by providing customers with a quality experience, part of which being a fun yet romantic ambiance. Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour, 10 mins.
5. Bridgehampton. Bridgehampton is the place to be for those in the pursuit of great style and great seafood. Stop for a bite at Almond, a quaint place with stylish decor and quality French cooking. Almond offers guests all foods from Escargot to Mussels and other savory dishes. And if you’ve got the time and Bridgehampton has peaked your interest, then educate yourself! The history of all of the Hamptons is so rich and ready to be discovered by you and your family. Stop by the Bridgehampton Museum if you ever get yourself off the beach and delve into centuries of hidden treasures on Long Island. Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours, 30 mins.
What is your favorite summer Caribbean vacation hot spot? Jamaica? Turks and Caicos? Or Anguilla? Well, you may have to rethink you’re ideal destination for a sandy beach and clear water, because Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a luxury vacation dreamland with across the board comfort.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines islands feature exclusive, tropical getaways offering a variety of amenities, while not breaking the bank. SVG is located in the Caribbean Sea between Grenada and St. Lucia, and is made up of a chain of small exotic islands stretching southward across turquoise and blue waters. Garnering a lot of attention is Mustique Island, a part of the alluring 32 island archipelago.
Tobago Cays Boats | Credit: Kay Wilson
DOWNTOWN caught up with Nubia Duvall Wilson, who has been to Mustique numerous times, for the inside scoop about SVG. Wilson is a luxury travel expert with a distinguished travel background. She has represented Bacardi in Travel Retail and luxury hotels and destinations around the world since 2008. Since 2003, Wilson has traveled to more than 40 destinations globally and lived in Taiwan for two years.
“It is an area of the Caribbean that isn’t your typical go to destination. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is where you feel isolated,” Wilson said. “The islands aren’t over developed, they are very lush, small and each island is different, so you have many options, which is nice. You get a more peaceful experience.”
Port Elizabeth | Credit: RPM Media
These islands and cays are renowned for their natural beauty, abundant sea life and many different options to accommodate their versatile visitors from all over the world. This favorable vacation destination is set to have a sharp increase in tourism with the building of the Argyle International Airport which will replace the existing ET Joshua Airport, and is expected to open in early 2015.
The new and improved airport will offer nonstop international jet service from North American and European gateways, increasing flights into SVG. Aside from the airport increasing access to these paradisal islands, the infrastructure and eco-friendly activities have been immensely re-constructed. Two new deep-water seaports were recently built, one exclusively for cruise ships in mainland St. Vincent.
In addition, the opening of 15 tourist sites are ready for excursionist’s enjoyment after restoration. The awe-inspiring activities include waterfalls, beaches, parks and botanical gardens to choose from. If you think that sounds great, a state-of-the-art marina is being built on Canouan Island and it’s expected to be the most outstanding marina in the Caribbean, accommodating 300 yachts and 6 mega-yachts.When thinking about these extravagant arrangements, there are also grand hotels and resorts for a place to rest your head in comfort.
Wilson recommended three great accommodations for your trip to paradise: Palm Island Resort, owned by Elite Island Resorts, has recently been renovated into an eco-friendly and green private island. This luxurious, all-inclusive resort just added four large suites. To access the island, guests take a complimentary 45-min air transfer from Barbados to Union Island then an 8 min boat ride to the resort.
Also, the wonderful Bequia Beach Resort is on eight acres of tropical gardens overlooking Friendship Beach. This five-star hotel includes 41 suites; featuring an expansive penthouse, three two-bedroom villas with private pools, three bungalows and 11 rooms. Buccament Bay Resort is an all-inclusive property where you can receive soccer and tennis coaching, and also includes the Pat Cash Academy and Liverpool Football Club Soccer School.
SVG is perfect for travelers looking to discover the undiscovered Caribbean. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are a concealed gem in the Caribbean perfect for the enterprising traveler. SVG offers all the amenities needed for a serene and tranquil vacation.
