Five Days in (Modified-for-Safety) Paradise

Last week I had the opportunity to travel to Capa Cana, Dominican Republic with Playa Resorts.

I was accompanied by over 35 other travel advisors for our three-night stay at the Hyatt Zilara. Obviously, as well all know, travel is a little bit different nowadays, but we are adapting to it and so are the airlines, airports, transfer companies, and resorts.

Starting off my resort vacation in style (and a mask).

The journey started off with an early departure from Chicago’s O’Hare airport. Masks are now required in all airports throughout the U.S. and hand sanitizer is provided throughout the airport. It was eerily quiet in America’s (normally) 3^rd busiest airport, but easy social distancing was welcome. American Airlines does not currently block the middle seat, but with the plane only about 30% full there was no issue spacing out. The morning “flew” by with a quick stop in Charlotte before landing in Punta Cana. All staff I encountered throughout the day were clad in masks and many in gloves as well. It was a quick 15 minute ride from Punta Cana to Cap Cana with my masked transfer driver.

It wasn’t until arriving into my room at the Hyatt Zilara that I was finally able to take off my mask—a welcome refresher. The Hyatt resort complex is made up of the Hyatt Zilara (adults only) and the Hyatt Ziva (family oriented), adults are able to enjoy the amenities of both properties. Each room is spacious with beautiful views. I was housed in the lead-in resort view category and pleasantly surprised by its spaciousness, including a large balcony overlooking the pools and ocean in the distance.

Hyatt Zilara

Playa Resorts are known for their impeccable service and hospitality, but the staff at both Hyatt Cap Cana properties really went above and beyond. Even though every staff member was wearing a mask, I felt their warm smiles coming through. Additionally, thanks to the Playa Resorts Stay Safe Promise, major safety protocols have been implemented throughout every resort. From hand sanitizing stations to socially distant sun beds, they have really thought of everything.

My stay at Hyatt Zilara was an absolute delight with the staff being the major highlight. There was never a point in which I felt unsafe or not well taken care of. With a maximum of 30% capacity, the resort will always have room to space out and make yourself comfortable.

Hyatt Ziva

On to the Sanctuary Resort and Spa

From Hyatt, I ventured to the Sanctuary Resort and Spa, a luxury adults-only resort boasting Spanish Colonial architecture and world-class dining. Being a part of the Playa Resort brand, they followed the same rigorous safety protocols without taking away from the exceptional architecture and feel of the resort.

My fresh-feeling room was situated ocean front with impeccable views and a large balcony jacuzzi to enjoy when I felt like being especially socially distant. With a walk-in closet, spacious bathroom, and living room I never felt short on space in my room. Each guest room at the Sanctuary is bright, airy, and unique to its certain part of the resort.

The true highlight of the Sanctuary came with their restaurant dining. Although, their buffet option was well presented with glass barriers and windows for the staff to serve you safely, the Blue Marlin and Cappriccio restaurants stood out. The Blue Marlin is located directly on the water and totally open air for guests to enjoy their fresh seafood by the ocean. I was also able to enjoy dinner at the Cappriccio (reservations required), a beautifully decorated restaurant featuring Italian favorites from pastas to caprese. A true fine dining experience for those looking for a special night out in the comfort of the resort.

It was a true pleasure visiting Cap Cana and experiencing the Hyatt Zilara/Ziva and Sanctuary resorts. Playa Resorts has really set the bar very high when it comes to their safety procedures and every guest visiting these resorts should leave home with peace of mind knowing that they will be well taken care of with safety and hospitality as the number one priority!

If you’d like to book your own resort vacation at any Playa Resort, call us! Our expert team of travel agents can take care of all the arrangements, so you can focus on much-needed relaxation! Contact us today.

(written by Hannah Nowicki)