Imagine a Shaman, versed in the ancient ways, cleansing your energy and opening your spirit to meditation, while visiting a secluded cenote in the Riviera Maya. Or strolling with a local who will welcome you to their unique part of the world and share with you the best kept secrets of Punta Cana. One-of-a-kind, soul-searching experiences, access to some of the most fascinating historical sites, the opportunity to connect with people from the nearby towns and villages, all within easy distance from where you are. 

Photo courtesy of Paradisus Playa Del Carmen

Of course, there’s plenty of white sand and sunshine, but this is a chance to go beyond the beach to where the heart of the community lives. From indigenous cuisine to cultural traditions, the choice of happenings at an oceanside resort will spark curiosity and satisfy a traveller’s quest for an authentic journey. This is the evolution of the all-inclusive resort, transforming the way travellers experience this popular vacation option, where guests can experience their own idea of paradise. This is the Destination Inclusive® Luxury Experience. 

Photo: Paradisus La Perla

This experiential concept goes beyond the superior luxury resort offering and provides a deeper dive into the region’s cuisine and culture with enriching experiences exclusive to guests. In the Dominican Republic at Paradisus Grand Cana and Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort; and in Mexico at the Paradisus Cancun, Paradisus La Perla Adults Only Riviera Maya and Paradisus Playa del Carmen Riviera Maya.

Canadians hold a special place in their hearts for both the Dominican Republic and Mexico. If your heart is set on Punta Cana, set sail on a private catamaran from Paradisus Palma Real to a private beach, where the magical properties of the ocean are revealed. 

Nurture a sense of giving back; be motivated to leave a place better than when you arrived. Voluntourism is alive and well at Paradisus by Meliá, where responsible travellers with a passion can help build awareness of sustainability and community. Learn more through an immersive experience that gives the chance to enhance a vacation through volunteer initiatives. Meet and learn more about the area’s artists and craftspeople. The activities will revolve as the seasons change in consultation with expert local curators.

Photo: Paradisus Palma Real

“At Paradisus by Meliá, the destination plays a key role in creating a genuine adventure,” said Susanna Mander, Global Director of Brand Marketing for Paradisus by Meliá.

” We are so excited to provide guests the opportunity to discover the infinite pleasures of a vacation like nothing they have ever experienced before. These new offerings give our guests the chance to discover secret corners, enjoy authentic cuisine, meet local artists, and explore local destinations, providing a deeper understanding of their special culture.”

Book the resort’s exclusive The Reserve, an unparalleled  only oasis with exclusive check-in and personalized concierge service for everything from dinner reservations to bespoke destination activities outside of the resort, with adults-only zones right through the resorts, private pool and beach area and, of course, the fabulous exclusive suites and luxe amenities. Paradisus La Perla adults-only resort in Playa del Carmen has just revealed a new look, with more than 40 renovated suites in The Reserve. Each features details and design that i inspired by the resort’s surroundings, engaging the guests with a true sense of place. The dining options, from casual to culinary top tables, have all been elevated as well.

Photo courtesy of Paradisus La Perla

Who better to partner with luxury resort collection Paradisus by Meliá than Transat, one of Canada’s largest tour operators, to offer a travel experience of distinction, inspired by regional surroundings to best share exclusive encounters, and better show off the people, places and natural beauty of the destinations? When you book a vacation package with Transat and Paradisus by Meliá, you’ll have the best in hospitality and royal service, celebrity chef inspired gourmet cuisine, wellness and nature, golf and watersports  — endless possibilities  — and a resort complex that has been designed to be one with the destination. 

It really will feel like you’ve finally found paradise.