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Living la vida local with these must-try cultural experiences down south
Don’t ever be accused of being basic again – at least when it comes to your fall and winter all inclusive vacation (anytime or anywhere else, that’s your prerogative). When at home, enjoy all the Pumpkin Spiced Lattes you want, but don’t limit your getaway to ‘the usual’. Make the most of your time in the tropics and add a shot (pun intended) of local culture to your stress-free vacay. Don’t worry, we’ll make it real simple for you – read on for how your next escape down south can stand out from the rest and have your socials looking like a Bourdain-esque adventure!
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Feel the pull of Acapulco
Nestled along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Acapulco is opening up to Canadians this winter from Toronto and Montreal, offering travellers stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife and, of course, a rich Mexican culture to make any winter vacation extra caliente!
To dine for: If you’re a fin, sorry fan, of fresh seafood, you have to try Acapulco’s Pescado a la Talla, grilled fish marinated in a mix of chilies and spices to give your palate a kick in the tastebuds.
Can’t miss events: In February, Carnaval takes over the streets of Acapulco with colourful costumes, parades and more. What better way to experience a destination’s culture than a party?!
Sights to see: Add some drama and (good) tension with the La Quebrada Cliff Divers – an incredible performance that’ll have you at the edge of your seat.
Where to stay: Stay between the beach and all the action the area has to offer on your Acapulco all inclusive vacation at Princess Mundo Imperial. Featuring stylish amenities like Bali beds on the beach and a lagoon-style pool equipped with a waterfall and grotto bar, plus enjoy access to two neighbouring resorts. With so much to see and do, you’ll be exhausted – good thing they offer spa services!
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Plan to be amazed in Panama
Panama, specifically Panama City, is a dynamic blend of history and modernity from the iconic Panama Canal to the colonial architecture of Casco Viejo – and all the things you love about paradise like beaches, bevvies and more.
To dine for: This may surprise you but one of Panama’s most popular dishes is sancocho, a traditional chicken soup – it’s basically a big, steamin’ bowl of love.
Can’t miss events: Dance to the beat of your own drum – or should we say trumpet. Heat up your winter vacation with a well-timed visit during the Panama Jazz Festival in January.
Sights to see: Explore the past and present with a tour through the historic Casco Viejo District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Biomuseo, a museum dedicated to the biodiversity of Panama, designed by Frank Gehry.
Where to stay: Exclusive for Sunwing Vacations travellers, Gran Evenia Bijao Beach Resort is a beautiful boutique property with a little somethin’ somethin’ for all ages! Kick back by the pool, chow down on some Mediterranean and Teppanyaki cuisines, and maybe squeeze in a couple rounds at the Bijao Golf Club ($) nearby.
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Up to the plate, it’s Puerto Plata
We’re not going to wax poetic about the beaches, weather and water conditions in the Dominican Republic – they’re on full display when you’re on a Puerto Plata all inclusive vacation. But there is so much more to this oasis than what you see on the surface!
To dine for: It doesn’t get more Dominican than La Bandera Dominicana, a dish made of rice, red beans and stewed meat accompanied with fried plantains and salad. Literally translated as “The Dominican Flag”, if you’ve got a taste for paradise, put this on your must-try list.
Can’t miss events: Get your groove on and celebrate like a local at the ADN Bachata World Festival, happening in January 2025, with live music, Bachata classes and shows and the Global Bachata Championships.
Sights to see: Change your perspective during a cable car ride up Mount Isabel de Torres and enjoy panoramic views and botanical gardens at its summit. More intrepid travellers can hike, jump and slide through the 27 Charcos de Damajagua, a series of waterfalls tucked away in the jungle.
Where to stay: Experience the beauty of your destination that goes more than sand deep at Emotions by Hodelpa Puerto Plata, the largest beachfront property within the Dorada Resort Complex AND the host for the ADN Bachata World Festival!
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Vacays in Jamaica are no joke
But it’s all smiles once we touchdown for our all inclusive vacations in Montego Bay! The island of One Love has plenty of warm fuzzy feelings to go around – not to mention stunning shorelines, impeccable island vibes and a culture as inviting and laidback as a reggae ballad.
To dine for: Catch us outside with a plate of jerk chicken, the island’s quintessential dish made up of a hot blend of spices slow cooked over pimento wood. Surely that gets you going, too?
Can’t miss events: If your tastebuds are as tantalized as ours, there’s more where that came from with the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival taking place in November! Over 60 of Jamaica’s best chefs will put on seven signature events, highlighting the best of the island’s cuisine.
Sights to see: The beaches are a must, no doubt but why not chill out with a slow and steady rafting experience down the Martha Brae River? Or, perhaps take a journey though the island’s history with a visit to Rose Hall Great House, a sprawling colonial estate.
Where to stay: She’s elegance and taste – she’s Hilton Rose Hall Resort and Spa. This resort has it all, from an on-site water park to poolside wait service, kids and teen clubs, a white-sand beach and modern accommodations. Talk about Montego Bae…😉
Turn your winter getaway into a cultural expedition and get great perks when you book early like $0 down and 0% interest – oh yeah, now you’re interested!
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