As travel advisors, we're always on the lookout for the best destinations and resorts to recommend to clients. Recently, Lisa Wainwright with Coasters & Castles Travel had the incredible opportunity to attend a FAM trip to Punta Cana—one of the most sought-after tropical destinations in the Caribbean.
Punta Cana has long been a favorite for vacationers with its picture-perfect beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant local culture. From exploring the stunning accommodations to discovering hidden gems, she'll share insider tips, must-do activities, and everything you need to know to plan the perfect getaway to Punta Cana.
I was recently invited to “ALGs Vacations Pros on the Go” event in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. I was there to represent Coasters & Castles Travel and bring home with me lots of valuable information about the island, new resorts, excursions for my clients, etc.
I was personally staying at Dreams Royal Beach. There were other agents staying at Secrets Tides, Iberostar, Riu, and Sunscape. There were 150 agents in total in Punta Cana for this event.
This event was a great way to see the island, do ALG training, connect with agents all over the United States, and also learn from each other on our processes and tips about being a travel advisor!
The FAM trip (familiarization trip) took place Wednesday, Sept 18-22nd. We all arrived Wednesday and once we got settled from the airport into our rooms I was welcomed with chocolate treats and a chilled bottle of champagne! What a lovely surprise.
Once I did a quick unpacking it was time to begin our evening! We met at 5pm that night and immediately got to work touring Dreams and Secrets Royal Beach. Dreams is the family friendly property while next door at Secrets there’s no one under 18 allowed. We also had a a cocktail hour with a beautiful violin player followed by lovely dinner at Bluewater Grill. They served us a variety of appetizers and desserts and we all picked our main entree. I selected the Scallops & Shrimp and it was very good! After a long day of flying and resort tours, I was ready for an early bedtime so I could be ready for Day 2!
Day 2 started out by all 150 agents meeting at Secrets Tides for trainings, site inspections, group photo, lunch and bingo! (Which I won!!!! Out of all 150 agents!!) Then it was onto a photography with our iPhone sessions, and more. We also did a very special give back to the community event. We packed up food for orphanages and school backpacks for school age kids. That was really awesome to know we did some good while we were there for the island.
Secrets tides is the newest property we saw and it is stunning! I would highly recommend this property for a luxury trip!
That night we went back to Dreams and had our own time that evening. Many of us ate at the Portofino Preferred restaurant close to our rooms and it was very good! I had lamb and it was awesome! We were all tired but took the shuttle to the main lobby to go see the Circus show that night and we did a little silent disco before we turned in for the night.
Saturday was our big day of multiple site inspections and lots of walking. The humidity was around 70% and it was hot! Wonderful but hot!
Day 3 was site inspections of Dreams Macao, Hard Rock Punta Cana, Bahia Principe Esmeralda and Ambar Adults Only. These properties couldn’t have been more different.
Starting with Dreams Macao you get an immediate wow factor as the view from the lobby automatically had everyone mouth the words “wow”. Stunning! Beautiful rooms, little and big waterpark, zipline and Rockwall (which I believe are an extra fee) would keep most kids busy. The beach was perfect tan sand and no sargassum. The infinity pool in front of the beach looked like a magazine and pictures probably don’t do it justice. I wouldn’t hesitate selling this property.
Hard rock was our next stop and if you want a property that is large and has it all this one is for you! Ton of restaurants, multiple pools. Whatever vibe you are looking for; party, quiet, you name it!
An awesome kids club (ages 4-12 with trampoline & kitchen, slide and ballpit), some extras like bowling, a casino, Rockaway Bay Water park, golf, spa, etc. The rooms are beautiful and spacious and the beach was lovely as well! We saw a Caribbean Sand Suite and the 2 bedroom Rock Royalty room.
Participating in this fam trip not only expanded my knowledge of the area but also reinforced the importance of firsthand experiences in crafting unforgettable trips for my clients. Seeing the beauty and diversity of Punta Cana up close has equipped me with insights I can't wait to share.
I’m so grateful I was able to attend this wonderful opportunity in Punta Cana and can’t wait to come back with family and friends!
If you’re considering a getaway to this stunning destination, the travel advisors at Coasters & Castles Travel are here to help you navigate the options and find the perfect fit for your needs. Let’s turn your dream vacation into a reality!
Meet the editor Lisa!
I have worked in the travel industry for nearly 7 years, and I enjoy planning each
vacation as I would plan my own. One of my main goals is to take the stress out of my clients planning, so that they can focus on making memories with their loved ones!
Lisa Wainwright is a Senior Travel Advisor with Coasters & Castles Travel.
Ready for a tropical family vacation?
Contact Lisa at Lwainwright@travelcnc.com or follow her at Facebook Coasters & Castles Travel - Lisa Wainwright or Instagram lisalovesvacayplanning.
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