April 28, 2021
Pack, Go, Relax: The Easiest Summer Vacation You'll Ever Plan
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 4 MIN. SPONSORED
Imagine if the light at the end of the tunnel turned into a Caribbean sunset? Dreams can become a reality this summer for those looking to satisfy their wanderlust. Many travelers are setting aside multi-country, on-the-go itineraries. Instead, focus on one pristine destination that has it all: comfortable accommodations, plenty of dining options and activities, and the coveted chance to gaze at the blue ocean instead of the blue light from your computer screen.
Club Med has been at the forefront of all-inclusive resorts for more than 70 years, continuing to innovate and refine its offerings for savvy travelers who want to immerse themselves in a destination without the hassle of step-by-step planning. The Caribbean has long been a hot travel spot for U.S. travelers because of its accessibility, gorgeous weather and rich cultural history.
The coming months still hold a certain level of uncertainty. "When summer rolls around, many tourists will undoubtedly remain drawn toward flexible cancellation policies," Daniel Guttentag, director of the College of Charleston's office of tourism analysis, told USA Today. But consider that barrier gone with Club Med's free cancellation policy. For new bookings made on or after May 18, 2020, guests can receive a full refund should they need to cancel their stay (up to 15 days before the anticipated travel date) for stays on or before December 16, 2021.
Ready to pack that swimsuit and head south? Check out some of our favorite sun-kissed Club Med resorts for a long-overdue getaway:
Club Med Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
On a 2,000-foot stretch of beach, Club Med Punta Cana welcomes all travelers to relax and reconnect with their loved ones at this tropical oasis. The adult-only Zen Oasis area features a lagoon pool with private cabanas and in-water chaise lounges, dedicated beach area, and deluxe rooms with rainfall showers.
Families aren't left out of the perks, though! Those traveling with little ones can take their experience to a whole new level with the Exclusive Collection Tiara Space, featuring an oceanfront infinity pool, full-service poolside bar, breakfast room service, and Concierge service. Experience serenity at its finest and savor breakfast on the oceanfront terrace of the Indigo Beach Lounge restaurant to witness breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Caribbean Sea.
And while France may be an ocean away, the luxe L'Occitane Spa whisks visitors away to Provence services like the iconic lavender treatments inspired by the French countryside, which you can experience in an oceanfront outdoor palapa! Go sailing, kayaking, or SCUBA diving, or if you want to explore the local area, take a day trip to Santo Domingo or a zip-line adventure through the rainforest.
Club Med Turkoise, Turks and Caicos
One of the more progressive islands in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos has more LGBTQ protections than many of its neighbors. The newly redesigned, adult-exclusive resort is the ideal spot to do nothing or do it all – you decide! Travel with a loved one, spouse or group of friends, and take advantage of the brand new infinity edge pool, outdoor main bar, redesigned reception area, new Deluxe rooms with balconies and the guest favorite open-air restaurant – Sharkies Grill and Beach Bar the perfect place to end the day, watch the sunset and unwind with your feet in the sand.
Ready to explore the island? A kayak ecotour explores mangrove channels and an iguana sanctuary, while a sunset cruise lets the crew do all the work while you take in the breathtaking sunset. Dive into the destination at one of the world's top diving spots when venturing out on a "seafari" expedition to discover life under the sea at Grace Bay Beach, named multiple times by TripAdvisor and the World Travel Awards as one of the world's best beaches.
Two other terrific resorts worth checking out include Club Med Cancún and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic. Click here to read more about these exciting destinations.
Peace of Mind
There's more to consider these days when booking a vacation than simply, "Where do I want to go?" Savvy travelers are looking for safety protocols, reasonable cancellation policies and stress-free environments. Club Med checks all the boxes:
Emergency Assistance Program – All guests traveling before December 31, 2022, will receive coverage for emergency medical expenses during their stay, including those related to COVID-19.
Club Med Safe Together Protocols – Implemented in all of the brand's resorts as they reopen, including those in Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean, these newly enhanced hygiene and safety measures were developed through recommendations from the World Health Organization, local health authorities, and the advice of an International Scientific Committee comprised of a specialized team of doctors and professors.
PCR + Rapid Antigen Testing – As required for re-entry into the United States from international destinations, Club Med offers complimentary Rapid Antigen COVID-19 tests on-site. PCR testing is also available at an additional cost.
Low-Density Design and Occupancy – Club Med's open-air, low-density resorts are surrounded by nature and feature multiple low-rise buildings spread across 50 acres (equivalent to approximately 38 football fields). Each resort is currently operating at a limited capacity to enable social distancing and exclusivity.
Ready to travel? Visit clubmed.us.
Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.