The Trip That Started It All: Punta Cana

Sunny skies, sandy beaches, and unlimited drinks have all the elements for a good time. What turns this good time into an unforgettable event is celebrating your little sister’s destination wedding with 30 friends and family members. This was my first official trip and with a start like this, it’s no wonder I fell in love with travelling. This trip held a lot of firsts for me and it checked off a few bucket list items before one was officially written.

• Travel to another country
• Get a passport stamp
• Go on a group vacation
• Stay at an all-inclusive resort
• Swim in the ocean
• Smoke a cigar
• Drink from a coconut
• Ride in a dune buggy

Set a Goal, Make a Plan, and Watch it Happen

As happy as I was to hear of my sister’s engagement, I was ecstatic at the chance to see another country. Thankful that my sister and her husband-to-be, gave everyone more than a year’s notice to save the date; it allowed me to put a budget in place and save for the upcoming event. Next, I started the process to get my first passport. This was easier than I thought and I had it in my hands in two months’ time. Remembering how new it felt as it made crackling sounds when I opened it, all I wanted to do was fill it with stamps. I started to dream of the places I would go and the things I would see, but I needed to take one step at a time… or rather one trip at a time.

It was hard to save the money, working with a limited income. Doubts clouded my mind, questioning my ability to pull it off. Making this work was not only important to me, but also to my little sister. I was her bridesmaid after all. Sticking to my budget, I finally reached my goal. It is such a rewarding feeling when you are able to meet an objective and make it happen.

The Resort:

We stayed in a lavish Adults-Only Resort called Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium, which offered a stay at one resort and play at all four option. The three sister resorts are; Grand Palladium Palace, Grand Palladium Bavaro and Grand Palladium Punta Cana. Our suites are tucked behind the beach and the main resort pools, but the rooms are worth the walk. These oversized embellished suites are clean and comfortable. I never expected such luxury, in fact; this hotel suite still ranks number one in all my travels.

The Wedding:

The outdoor beach wedding was simply stunning surrounded in bright tropical flowers that were highlighted by the chosen fuchsia wedding colour theme. White folding chairs faced a gazebo and gave comfort to the guests. But no one was sitting as everyone watched the bride make her way down the long path to her husband-to-be. Beautiful in her white strapless floor-length gown, she carefully made her way in her blue kitten heals, as we all stared in awe. I felt the warmth from the sun, heard the waves from the ocean and witnessed my little sister get married through a few tears.

We were all whisked away by “train”, the resorts shuttle service that takes you to all four hotel locations. We enjoyed a delicious meal offered at the Mexican restaurant; La Adelita, before making our way back to the beach for the reception. The happy couple finished their first dance, then invited the rest of us to join them. The sandy beach was our dance floor and the moon provided the ambiance as we danced the night away to the newlywed’s favourite songs. It was a night to remember and one I will never forget.

Elise Robbins

My name is Elise, I am a Bucket List Blogger, who inspires and helps others complete their own adventures by sharing my experiences and recommendations.