Known for its beautiful beaches and elaborate resorts, Punta Cana now offers a luxury resort specifically designed to take vacationing in the Dominican Republic to a new level. The newly opened Paradisus Palma Real combines a prestigious Caribbean setting with world-class facilities that are attracting attention, even in this favorite destination city.

Located on Bavaro Beach, about three hours from Santo Domingo, Punta Cana is served by one of the busiest and the better-connected airports in the Caribbean. Only 25 minutes from airport, the Paradisus Palma Real is at once reachable and removed from city bustle. Surrounded by vibrant tropical gardens, lush mangroves, and one of the most breathtaking white-powder beaches in the region, the facility offers the tropical paradise its name promises.

Paradisus Palma Real boasts 554 luxury suites, with terrace or balcony and all the comforts of the hotel’s plush surroundings. The resort spotlights its “Royal Service” option, 102 Suites and two oceanfront Presidential Suites that feature Sol Meliá’s renowned European five-star pampering.

Guests have their choice of the hotel’s six restaurants, serving cuisine from around the world. The array includes the International Buffet, a la carte restaurants offering Mediterranean, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines, and the Market Grill’s exquisitely prepared continental fare. Drinks are served at a swim-up pool bar and the Lobby Piano bar, two favorites among the six bars onsite. To round out an evening, vacationers can take advantage of the Casino and the city’s many live shows.

Recreational facilities available at the hotel include three outdoor pools set in magnificent gardens and terraces. Nearby are non-motorized water sports, and diving for PADI certified divers are easily arranged. For the less adventurous, there are four tennis courts, a gym complete with fitness trainer, an onsite jogging track and beach jogging, spinning, aerobics, daily Yoga, Tai-Chi and Pilates sections, kite surf clinics, horseback riding, bicycle excursions, and board games.

Golfers flock to the Cocotal Golf and Country Club, with its World Class Championship Golf Course designed by José Pepe Gancedo. The international team of the Sol Meliá Golf Academy offers professional lessons, and each stay at the Paradisus Palma Real includes unlimited green fees and golf equipment available for rent.

For relaxation, the Signature Spa frames a “Live the Water Bliss Experience” in a two-story full service environment with an extensive and elaborate array of treatments. Guests think of the spa as the symbol of the luxury, leisure, and pampered stays that are the overriding theme at the Paradisus Palma Real, providing an ideal new alternative to the Caribbean vacationer in search of a “royal” experience.