6 getaways that are more than sun and sand
While soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach is a perfect getaway for many of us, if you’re looking for more than beach relaxation on your next tropical escape, read on! From exploring new cities to underwater adventures, we’ve rounded up six tropical getaways suited for travellers who want to venture away from the palapas and pool bars.
For the underwater explorers – Bonaire
Discover the deep blue on a diving adventure in one of the world’s top scuba diving destinations - Bonaire! The island is home to some of the globe’s most famous dive sites, from sunken shipwrecks to spectacular coral reefs and exotic marine species including parrot fish. Buddy Dive Resort makes it easy to explore the underwater world with its very own five-star PADI dive centre on-site and a range of dive package options. Choose from several Dive & Drive options that include car rentals, air tanks and the assistance of a dive master (for certain packages).
For the kids at hearts - Orlando
Book a family getaway to Florida, where the kids – and kids at heart – will have a blast exploring all that the Sunshine State has to offer. Your Sunwing package includes airfare, hotel accommodations and car rental so you can explore Florida at your own pace, whether you want to visit the sunny shores of Daytona Beach, the marine life in St. Pete’s/Clearwater or the theme parks in Orlando. Choose from a wide range of accommodation options that are great for families travelling together with a variety of inclusions and amenities. Larger families or groups can stay in a vacation home, with a seven-seater minivan included. Or if you’re looking to explore the theme parks, Hard Rock Hotel® at Univeral Orlando® includes early park admission and Universal Express Unlimited ride access.
For the wellness fanatics – Runaway Bay, Jamaica
Find your Zen at the tranquil Jewel Paradise Cove Beach Resort and Spa. This adults only resort takes vacations to a whole new level with its wide variety of wellness-focused activities including yoga, water aerobics and more. Year round, vacationers can look forward to an on-site gym, a state-of-the-art spa, a walking trail and a healthy juice bar. Guests can also book their vacation during the resort's twice-yearly Yoga & Wellness Retreats led by leaders in the yoga industry. Guests can participate in a range of yoga classes for all experience levels from beginners to experts, in addition to special talks on holistic nutrition. Classes include meditation, Pilates, Reiki, Yoga for Life and more!
For the foodies – Riviera Maya
If gourmet culinary experiences are at the top of your vacation must-haves list, El Dorado Seaside Suites, A Spa Resort by Karisma is the perfect resort for you. This foodie-favourite resort in the Riviera Maya offers a range of experiences centered on gourmet cuisine. You can even take a cooking class where you’ll learn how to make local dishes with ingredients sourced from the resort’s own green house. When you’re not cooking up a storm, enjoy a delicious range of dining experiences through the resort’s Gourmet Inclusive® Experience – including unlimited à la carte dining and 24-hour room service for breakfast in bed or late-night cravings.
For the adrenaline junkies – Costa Rica
Does your dream vacation include adrenaline-pumping experiences? Get your heart racing and explore the lush Costa Rican landscapes with Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica’s exclusive PH Excursions. There are several experiences to choose from including the exhilarating Mega Combo Buena Vista tour where you’ll get to zipline high above the treetops and the Pura Vida Circuit excursion where you can tour the Poas Volcano and cross over hanging bridges. After a day of exploring the exciting landscape, this Hollywood-inspired resort offers an ideal contrast with luxurious accommodations to help you unwind.
For the city seekers – Panama City
Explore a fabulous new city on your next vacation with tropical climates and sunny skies! Panama City is the modern chic capital of Panama that’s home to a picturesque waterfront and is home to one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World: The Panama Canal. From shopping at duty-free boutiques to wandering the historic streets of the Casco Viejo quarter, your days will never be dull when exploring this vibrant city. You can easily visit Panama City on a day excursion from Riu Playa Blanca, when you can kick back and relax by the sparkling pool after a day of city exploration.
