While Canadians may have rung in 2018 with temperatures colder than Mars, looking forward to a new year of travel and adventure makes it all worth it. Sunwing wants to help Canadians plan their next getaway by uncovering a few of the top trending sunny “must-visits” for 2018. From brand-new developments, to family-friendly properties, they all have one thing in common – they’re hot enough to thaw winter blues.
#1: Slice of Paradise – Riu Dunamar The recently-opened Riu Dunamar is perched on a heavenly stretch of sand in Playa Mujeres Beach in Mexico—an area known for its uncrowded beaches and laid-back vibe. You’ll feel as if you’re on your own secluded paradise. Spend your days relaxing by one of the five pools, taking a thrill ride at the onsite water park (RIU’s first waterpark in Mexico!) or indulge yourself at one of the property’s gourmet specialty restaurants. |
#2: Surf’s Up, Dude! – Royalton Bavaro Resort and Spa The brand new Royalton Bavaro Resort and Spa in Punta Cana gives guests an exciting taste of the Pacific West Coast in the Caribbean with a thrilling new FlowRider surf machine. Set on one of the most famous beaches in the world, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at this family-friendly resort, including a sprawling lazy river, kids and teen clubs, varied dining and nightly entertainment. |
#3: Dive into the blue – Plaza Beach Resort The Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire is a world-class diving destination and the newest addition to Sunwing’s winter vacation lineup. The largest all-inclusive resort on the island, Plaza Beach Resort, is an excellent base for divers and snorkelers alike. It features a five-star PADI dive centre where you can arrange to explore the colourful marine life of the deep blue – from rare corals and angelfish, to stingrays and turtles. |
#4: Mayan Discoveries – Hotel Xcaret Mexico Style and nature meet at Hotel Xcaret Mexico in Riviera Maya, where the surrounding lush jungle has inspired many of the resort’s luxurious amenities, including a state-of-the-art spa carved out of rock formations and jaw-dropping infinity pools overlooking rivers and the ocean. For some added adventure, the resort also offers unlimited access to six Xcaret Experience Parks where you can swim with dolphins, zip-line across the jungle, swim in a Mayan cenote and much more. |
#5: Pacific Beach Retreat – Krystal Grand Los Cabos Located on the Pacific coast in the popular vacation destination of Los Cabos, Krystal Grand Los Cabos was recently renovated to now offer guests an elevated five-star experience. Relax by one of the property’s four pools, including a sparkling infinity pool, or spend your days lounging on the beach admiring views of the unique desert scenery and the Sea of Cortez. |
#6: Romantic Escape – Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana As Punta Cana is famed for its picturesque and romantic sugar white sands, it seems fitting that the newly-opened Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana is a must for any adult only getaway. Leave the kids at home and enjoy gourmet dining, relax on a beach lounger with a cool drink in hand or enjoy afternoon hors d’oeuvres by the pool as you work on your tan. |
#7: Tee off in Style – Resort Mundo Imperial Tucked away in the exclusive Riviera Diamante district of Acapulco, Mexico—known for its stylish boutiques and world-class golf courses—Resort Mundo Imperial offers something hung for every family member, including a perfect place to tee-off, as well as enough family-friendly fun for little ones and those young at heart. Kids will have a blast at the resort’s exciting wave pool while parents sip on cool margaritas at the new Papagayos Beach Club. |
#8: Island Vibes – Royalton Negril One of Jamaica’s newest luxury resorts, Royalton Negril combines a stunning property on one of the island’s best beaches with an array of amenities to suit guests of all ages. The resort offers reservation-free dining at gourmet restaurants, a Sports Event Guarantee™ and an onsite splash pad with water slides (sure to be a big hit with all ages) and much more. |
#9: Cuban Charm – Iberostar Bella Vista Arguably Canada’s favourite Cuban beach destination, Varadero remains a trending destination for travellers year after year, especially with new resorts opening yearly. One of the destination’s newest properties, Iberostar Bella Vista, is located on Varadero’s famous white sand shores and has something for everyone. Families will love the recently-added Premium Family Rooms that can sleep up to five people and the dragon-themed kids water playground. |
#10: Island Gem – Royalton Saint Lucia Set in the picturesque bay on Saint Lucia’s northern shoreline, Royalton Saint Lucia combines a wealth of amenities for guests of all ages with sea kayaking, an opulent spa, cooking classes and more. Children will love the splash park, extensive pool complex and complimentary kids and teen clubs, while couples will appreciate the wide range of premium bars and specialty restaurants. |