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These inspiring museums offer more than just a culture fix — their top-notch gift shops are filled with exclusive merch and artist-inspired gifts as unique as the exhibits themselves.
With the growing interest in astrotourism, travelers are going the distance in search of dark, star-strewn skies. Use your RCI membership to leave the city lights behind, and consider packing these travel-friendly picks for an extra-memorable stargazing experience.
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Each week, Travel Steals spotlight hand-picked deals on resorts, hotels, cruises, and more—sometimes up to 70% off the other guys’ sites. We’ve done the digging and price-checking, so you don’t have to.
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Standout Museum Shops from Around the U.S. > Stargazing Essentials > 6 Delicious Reasons to Visit Hawaii this Year > See the Winners of This Year’s RCI Green Awards > There's a Cruise for That >
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An Arts-and-Culture-Filled Weekend in Savannah, Georgia > Dear RCI > Last-Minute Summer Getaways > Explore Puerto Plata’s Natural Bounty and Historical Riches >
RCI Magazine is published quarterly by RCI. ©2025 RCI, LLC. All rights reserved. CORPORATE OFFICE 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32821 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kylee Krizmanic PROJECT EDITOR Allison Vancura GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ruby Pierce CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Austin Cannon, Erin Gifford, Gary Thompson, Karla Walsh COPY EDITOR Diane Penningroth RCI EDITORIAL TEAM Anna Reinert, Leslie Johansen, Jenny Rains To Our Subscribers: The annual subscription cost of RCI Magazine is $109USD or $143CAD for RCI Weeks® members and $134USD or $176CAD for RCI Points® members. Send your renewal together with your name, address, telephone number, email address, and RCI member ID to: RCI Magazine Subscriptions, P.O. Box 2099, Carmel, IN 46082-2070. For address changes, subscription inquiries, or cancellations, call an RCI Travel Guide. RCI Weeks members, please call: United States: 317-805-8000 or 800-338-7777 Canada: 800-338-7777 (English) 800-527-5219 (French) RCI Points members, please call: United States: 317-805-9941 or 877-968-7476 Canada: 877-968-7476 (English/French) No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from RCI, LLC (or its affiliates). RCI Magazine® and Design and RCI® and Design are trademarks of RCI, LLC (or its affiliates), and are registered in countries throughout the world and may not be used without permission. For editorial and advertising inquiries, email magazine@rci.com. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial advertising matter and accepts no responsibility for advertising content or the damage tht may arise from these advertisements. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the return or unsolicited manuscripts or art. Unsolicited manuscripts and art will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage and envelope. In no event shall such material subject this magazine to any claim for “holding fees” or similar charges. Merrill #022022400.
From the shores of Myrtle Beach to the stunning Riviera Maya and beyond, Holiday Inn Club Vacations® offers over two dozen resorts with all the comforts you love: spacious villas, private kitchens, in-room laundry, and resort-style amenities.
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No matter where you're headed, RCI connects you to more destinations, more ways to stay, and service that makes every trip feel like a one-of-a-kind experience. In this issue, discover your perfect cruise, explore enriching cultural treasures, and let local and global flavors tempt your senses.
While the breathtaking beaches and wildlife might be the main draw for most who book a trip to the stunning islands of Maui and Kauai, you could plan a whole trip centered around feasting your way through these Hawaiian islands.
This year marks a significant milestone for the 14th Annual RCI Green Awards. For the first time, RCI's sustainability recognition program honors outstanding properties across three global regions.
It’s time for an escape, and the world’s oceans and seas are more than willing to help you get away. You can choose from island-hopping, chillier climates, or historic ports farther east. Take this quiz to decide which cruise is right for you.
Just like the city’s famed Spanish moss, creativity sprouts all over Savannah. Enjoy a weekend getaway that’s rooted in fine arts, rich culture, and long history.
In the Dominican Republic’s north region, Puerto Plata’s colonial vestiges, picturesque swaths of Atlantic coastline, and lush landscapes will rejuvenate your mind and spirit. Savor all facets of this sun-drenched island when you stay at an all-inclusive resort, with amenities that exceed your every expectation of a beach getaway.
WEEKLY STEALS WORTH PACKING FOR
It’s the value of your RCI® membership on full display: unbeatable prices, more vacation flexibility, and access to destinations where timeshare hasn’t gone before. From last-minute getaways to full-on cruise adventures, there’s a travel steal for that. Check back weekly and steal your next deal before it’s gone!
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one-of-a-kind summer
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If artist Georgia O’Keeffe ran Etsy, here’s what you’d find: cow skull paperweights and bandanas, spiral brooches, and floral desert prints pretty enough to transform your hallway into Ghost Ranch.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Tiffany fans, rejoice. This Orlando-area museum shop sells exclusive items, such as mini Tiffany lamp ornaments, tea towels, fashion scarves, and even eyeglass cases with signature designs.
Winter Park, Florida
Bring home handcrafted katsina dolls from one of the country’s largest collections, plus explore museum-quality Navajo rugs, richly embroidered textiles, and beautiful turquoise jewelry.
Phoenix
The Peanuts gang’s all here — find them on luggage tags, iron-on patches, coaster sets, and even dog bone-shaped mints to bring a bit of nostalgic charm into your everyday life.
Santa Rosa, California
MoMA’s design store is a dream for aesthetes. Pick up Yayoi Kusama-inspired sculptures, a Henri Matisse Swatch watch, and MoMA-exclusive barware — even a toilet brush that’s somehow chic.
New York City
It’s where modern art meets unexpected finds. Think Andy Warhol color-changing mugs, Chicago-centric gifts, and stylish tees — such as one that states “Proud Museum Person” for that culture-obsessed friend.
Chicago
Shop “Chocolate City” tees, Sweet Home Café cookbooks, and Sheila Bridges-designed scarves and totes, all carefully curated to reflect the museum’s cultural heritage.
Washington, D.C.
Where to Stay
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Stargazing tech is pretty cosmic. Case in point: an app that can chart constellations and planets in real time, find astrological events, and even simulate celestial activity (like meteor showers) 100,000 years into the past or future. Use it to make observations and share findings, too.
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Membership has its perks. See even more stars thanks to travel deals from RCI.
This eye-catchingly colorful telescope fits in your pocket for excursions of all types, including stargazing and bird-watching. Bonus: if you’re into nature photography, the tube’s 32-mm lens is smartphone-camera compatible. Line up the lens with your camera and snap or record. TIP: Don’t want to spring for a personal telescope? Rent one from a local astronomy club near your vacation destination.
For hands-free lighting on dark, rocky trails, consider using a headlamp rather than your phone’s flashlight. This model can be tilted up or down to effectively illuminate your surroundings, and it’s lightweight, water resistant, and rechargeable — perfect for travel.
Stargazing is about to be way more comfortable (bye, neck strain!). This lightweight, high-back chair gently reclines and includes a removable headrest for maximum comfort while you enjoy nature’s magic show.
Even the desert can get chilly at night. Pack a pair of weatherproof, touchscreen-friendly gloves to keep hands warm and dry while browsing your stargazing app and charting the constellations. This soft, mid-weight design also features a wristwatch opening.
Hawaii is the top pineapple-producing state in the U.S., harvesting about nearly half of the country’s pineapples. Learn about these sweet-tart fruits at their origin during a Maui Pineapple Tour in up-country Maui. Guests can walk through fields as they study up on the growing cycle and cultivation techniques — and taste fruit picked on the spot. Your parting gift: a Maui Gold pineapple, packaged for airport transfer.
While the breathtaking beaches and wildlife might be the main draw for most who book a trip to the stunning islands of Maui and Kauai, you could plan a whole trip centered around feasting your way through these Hawaiian islands. Both are swimming with ono (delicious) culinary adventures that are worth writing home about. Here’s a shortlist of can’t-be-missed experiences.
No visit to Maui is complete without a drive along the scenic, windy Hana Highway. Come prepared or book a driver — this journey often involves stretches of single-lane roads and 620 curves. (Some of them are quite tight.) But the voyage is well worth it for the rushing waterfalls, glimmering plunge pools, verdant rainforests, and dramatic rock and sea vistas you’ll witness along the way. It’s best to take your time, and the ultimate pit stop is at Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread (mile marker 16), where you can savor a loaf of Sandy’s famous-since-1983 warm, fresh-baked banana bread.
Open since 1973, this picturesque family-owned restaurant is often booked out for weeks in advance. Mama’s Fish House is situated right on the beach, so you can savor stunning sunset views alongside the freshest catches. Mama’s works directly with local fishers and features the day’s best on their ever-evolving menu. Start with an order of macadamia nut crab cakes, opt for the catch of the day (which may be mahi-mahi, ahi, kanpachi, or opakapaka), and save room for Liliko'i Crème Brûlée.
A staple in the state since the mid-1800s, shave ice arrived with Japanese immigrants who came to work on sugar and pineapple plantations. As the name implies, this refreshing treat is made with a base of finely shaved, rather than crushed, ice. The powdery consistency resembles fresh snow, which is what you’ll probably be in the mood for after a sunny, hot day at the beach. Swing by JoJo’s Shave Ice in Waimea for a taste. Here, proceeds from your refresher help fund free camps for Hawaiian youth. Try the #10 with pineapple, papaya, and passion-orange, plus a scoop of macadamia nut ice cream.
Ballpark fare meets island eats at Puka Dog along Poipu Beach Park. This award-winning establishment has been serving Hawaiian-style hot dogs for 25 years, and their distinct structure and standout toppings draw visitors from near and far. Instead of a traditional hot dog bun, your grilled Polish sausage or a veggie dog is stuffed inside a long Hawaiian sweet bread roll. Amp up the island energy with your choice of fruit relish: mango, pineapple, papaya, coconut, banana, or star fruit. No matter which you choose, be sure to finish things off with Aunty Lilikoi’s Hawaiian mustard.
Polynesian, North American, and East Asian cultures combine in this distinctive Hawaiian comfort food. Plate lunches — which include a main protein, rice, and a macaroni salad — are available at food trucks, drive-ins, and sit-down restaurants across the islands. Find one of the best at Kilauea Fish Market, a cute cottage tucked behind the Kilauea Plantation Center. Indulge in a fan favorite: Hawaiian Chilli Pepper Pork, marinated in a spicy sesame-soy-ginger sauce and served with dipping sauce, plus rice and macaroni salad, of course.
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Club Wyndham Smoky Mountains Resort in Sevierville exemplifies operational sustainability through comprehensive transportation and habitat conservation initiatives. The property has pioneered electric vehicle adoption with two EVs and four charging stations, implemented natural pest control through bat habitats, and engaged the community via their Adopt-A-Road program. Their partnership with Keep Sevier Beautiful demonstrates how resorts can contribute to environmental preservation while enhancing guest experiences.
Each year, the RCI Green Awards assesses properties based on several key criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and community engagement. These award recipients are leading the way in sustainable initiatives, but many more are being implemented at RCI’s resorts worldwide.
Tennessee, United States
Massanutten Resort impressed judges with its commitment to energy efficiency through innovative snow sports and renewable energy initiatives. The property retrofitted 200 ski-slope lights with LED technology, saving 150,000 kWh annually, and implemented low-energy snowmaking equipment to increase efficiency by 80 percent. Their substantial investment in solar technology includes three photovoltaic arrays totaling 1.6 MW, with a 2,700-panel system providing 23 percent of their indoor WaterPark's energy needs.
Virginia, United States
WorldMark Victoria earned recognition for waste-management initiatives that blend education with practical sustainability. Their Kids Scavenger Hunt highlights sustainable transportation options, while their 2024 composting program provides green waste bins in every unit and staff area, using biodegradable bags for city collection and processing.
British Columbia, Canada
NORTH AMERICA AWARD RECIPIENTS
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Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit's comprehensive sustainability education initiative successfully trained 97 percent of hotel staff in environmental stewardship during 2024. This property-wide approach has improved multiple systems, including solar water heating, biodegradable cleaning products, beach cleanup, and composting — while harmoniously integrating environmental practices with community support initiatives.
Nayarit, Mexico
Hotel Xcaret Arte's innovative Ecological Orchard Gastronomy program cultivates chemical-free herbs and citrus fruits for its restaurants. This garden reduces food miles and enhances authentic Mexican dining experiences, demonstrating how luxury hospitality can honor cultural heritage while advancing environmental stewardship.
Quintana Roo, Mexico
Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya impressed judges by replacing traditional electric systems with wind-powered extractors. Their strategic partnership with the Sustainability and Climate Change department of Solidaridad demonstrates regional environmental leadership and sets a new benchmark for responsible tourism.
Latin AMERICA/Caribbean AWARD RECIPIENTS
Sunset Harbour Club's waste-reduction program combines digital processes, plastic alternatives, and innovative recycling. Their approach includes paperless registration, in-room water filtration systems, and a partnership with Precious Plastic to transform bottle caps into fundraising products. Their commitment to education through weekly guest activities and staff training creates a property-wide culture of environmental responsibility.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Sterling Munnar's Save the Sparrow conservation initiative demonstrates active contribution to biodiversity preservation. Their six-month campaign installed 50 sparrow nests and bird feeders, increasing the local sparrow population by 25 percent. The resort conducted educational workshops reaching over 500 stakeholders and collaborated with three conservation organizations, showcasing how nature-focused initiatives can engage guests, staff, and local communities.
Kerala, India
Los Amigos Beach Club excelled through water conservation initiatives adapted to Mediterranean climate challenges. Their approach combines rainwater collection, native-plant landscaping, and water-efficient fixtures. Judges were particularly impressed by their partnership with We Are Water Foundation and their inaugural fundraising Walkathon, setting new standards for tourism in drought-affected regions.
Malaga, Spain
EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST/ AFRICA/ASIA PACIFIC AWARD RECIPIENTS
RCI is a global community dedicated to fostering the exchange of innovative ideas across diverse cultural and geographic boundaries, and the RCI Green Awards program was specifically designed to highlight emerging trends in sustainable hospitality. The 15th Annual RCI Green Awards application process will open in Fall 2025.
RCI Green Awards
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Rum Zapotec rug Alaskan Native artwork A soccer jersey
A B C D
A beach where I can sunbathe and splash in the turquoise water A restaurant where I can sample the best regional flavors Into the wild! I want to see a bear or moose A city walking tour, so I can learn as much as I can
Soft, white sand beneath waving palms Rocky bluffs and ancient ruins Glaciers Centuries-old cities
3 nights 5 nights 7 nights 10 nights
All! I'm a hands-on traveler, and planning gets me in the right mindset.
Most. I am comfortable planning but appreciate some extra support.
Minimal. The fewer decisions I have to make, the better.
None. Plan it for me, please!
10 nights
7 nights
5 nights
3 nights
Centuries-old cities
Glaciers
Rocky bluffs and ancient ruins
Soft, white sand beneath waving palms
A city walking tour, so I can learn as much as I can
Into the wild! I want to see a bear or moose
A restaurant where I can sample the best regional flavors
A beach where I can sunbathe and splash in the turquoise water
A soccer jersey
Alaskan Native artwork
Zapotec rug
Rum
itinerary
Get the lay of this historic, romantic city on a 60-minute orientation with Savannah True History Tours. A former National Park Service ranger provides a fascinating overview of all things Savannah, including the town’s beautiful old homes and more than 20 park-like town squares with pedestrian-friendly layouts for delightful strolls. You’ll also get the scoop on restaurants, nightlife, and other top Savannah attractions. The company offers specialized tours too. Stroll through Forsyth Park, more than 30 acres on the edge of the downtown historic district. The park holds a memorial to the Spanish-American War, the Garden of Fragrance, the roughly 300-year-old Candler Oak tree, and plenty of the city’s signature Spanish moss. It’s also within walking distance of historic sites, such as the Mercer-Williams House Museum and The Old Sorrel Weed House Museum & Tours, and is the setting for a year-round Saturday morning farmers market.
Afternoon
Forsyth Park
For a dinner of refined Southern comfort food, follow the crowds to The Olde Pink House, a carnation-color mansion filled with dining rooms in the heart of the Savannah Historic District. Built in the late 1700s for one of Savannah’s early cotton brokers, it later served as a bank and as Union Army military headquarters after the siege of the city. Start with the restaurant's famous skinny cheese straws, fried green tomatoes, or Lowcountry she-crab soup, then try their beloved crispy scored flounder with apricot shallot sauce. Before meals, locals grab a drink at the basement bar, Planters Tavern.
Evening
The Paris Market
Dinner can be at Cha Bella, a farm-to-table American Italian place that relies on what’s available within a day’s drive of the restaurant — they don’t use freezers, microwaves, deep-fat fryers or commercial food suppliers. The changing menu might include seared grouper, white shrimp risotto, or Low-Country puttanesca. Later, wander back down Broughton Street for dessert at legendary Leopold’s Ice Cream. It’s next door to the Trustees Theater and its big SCAD sign (the theater is a host for the SCAD Savannah Film Festival).
For lunch, head south of Forsyth Park — and south of the border on your culinary compass – to Bull Street Taco, known for locally handmade organic tortillas. Dine outside with a street taco combo. After lunch, shop on Broughton Street, a stretch of antiques stores, upscale boutiques, and national retail names. Browse The Paris Market, a trove of worldly treasures inspired by the open-air markets of France; The Posh Loft, a locally owned source of timeless and trendy women’s fashions; and the Gutstein Gallery, a retail gallery owned by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
Watch people pass by on Abercorn Street as you linger over breakfast (served all day) from an outdoor table at classic Clary’s Cafe. Favorites include crab cakes Benedict, Georgia pecan pancakes, and the Elvis — French toast stuffed with peanut butter and bananas. The Telfair Museums, which include three buildings, focus on different aspects of Savannah history and culture. The Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters paints a stark contrast between the 1800s lifestyles of the upper-class Owens family and their enslaved workers. The more modern Jepson Center & Telfair Children's Art Museum buzzes with traveling art exhibits and interactivity. Telfair Academy is a mansion-turned-museum showcasing paintings, architecture, sculpture, and printmaking. It houses Sylvia Shaw Judson’s Bird Girl statue, seen on the cover of the popular novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
Morning
Wormsloe State Historic Site
Choose your adventure! Take a day trip to Tybee Island, a laid-back beach community about 30 minutes from downtown Savannah. Relax on beaches, go kayaking, join a dolphin tour, rent a bike to explore the long stretches of coastline, and climb the historic lighthouse for a panoramic view of the region. You could also visit Wormsloe State Historic Site, a former plantation established in the 1730s by Savannah’s first settlers that was maintained by enslaved people. The site preserves the ruins of the city’s oldest structure. It’s also famous for the hundreds of Spanish moss-covered oaks that line both sides of a road, creating a canopy more than a mile long — and an iconic photo op. Or you could check out Savannah’s Starland District, an eclectic hub inhabited by families, SCAD students, and working creatives. The homes and buildings there emanate an artistic vibe, as do hip galleries, studio spaces, cafes, and coffee shops. Starland Yard is a star of the culinary and entertainment scene. Enjoy food and drinks from one of their three built-in kitchens (pizza, sandwiches, and Mexican fare) or a rotating lineup of local food trucks. There’s often live music on Sunday evenings.
Get on board for Sunday brunch at The Grey, a restored 1938 Art Deco Greyhound bus terminal that now takes diners on a memorable ride through the contemporary Southern cuisine of chef Mashama Bailey. Typical choices include oysters, crab fritters, quiche, fried chicken with hoecakes, buttermilk biscuits and gravy, and fish and grits with creole gravy.
Uncover Savannah's charms on your next visit.
What are the top three reasons a member should book their travel early?
More options: By booking early, members can secure their preferred travel dates, accommodations, and flights, especially for popular destinations and during peak travel seasons. Waiting until closer to the travel date can result in fewer choices, limited or no availability, and at times higher prices. Stress-free planning: Booking early gives members more time to plan and adjust their trip details without the pressure of last-minute decisions. This can lead to a more relaxed experience in the lead-up to the trip. Exclusive deals: Many airlines, car rentals, and tour packages offer early-bird specials or promotions. Early bookers often get access to these exclusive deals, ensuring the best selection of flights, or packages at competitive rates. Did I mention we are a one-stop shop and you can book all of these through RCI?
Getting answers about your benefits is easy: just ask! Arm yourself with advice from RCI’s expert Travel Guides so you can travel smoothly — and memorably.
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You’re in for a treat! There are SO many ways to uncover amazing deals. First, if you’re signed up for promotional emails, keep an eye on your inbox — exclusive offers land there first. Next, head over to RCI.com and explore the "Offers" section. You’ll find incredible savings on resorts, hotels, cruises, and more, all tailored to help you get the most out of your membership. Want more? Follow us on social media for flash deals, travel inspiration, and limited-time promotions you won't want to miss. And here’s a pro tip: Speak to an RCI travel guide — use the live chat option on RCI.com or give us a call. We’d love to chat about the best current offers just for you and maybe even find a hidden gem you didn’t know existed. Your next adventure might be one call (or click!) away!
Where can I find all the current offers available to me?
— Ashley Mattox, RCI Marketing Manager Since 2024
RCI Travel Steals are our hottest weekly offers on resorts, hotels, cruises, and more. We do the legwork, comparing prices across top travel sites, to bring our members the best value. When we say it's a steal, we mean it’s the lowest price out there. Whether you're craving a last-minute escape or planning a seven-night cruise, there's a Travel Steal just for you. Why do members love Travel Steals? · Guaranteed lowest prices compared to major travel sites · Flexibility to vacation your way — your dates, your pace · Unique destinations, including places timeshare hasn’t reached Ready to score a Travel Steal? You can find Travel Steals at the bottom of the homepage on RCI.com after logging in. Need help? Use the Live Chat feature on RCI.com or give one of our friendly Vacation Guides a call — we’re here to help you book your perfect getaway!
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Summer can pass by quickly, but there’s still time to schedule some much-deserved relaxation. You don’t even need a full week to feel refreshed. A few days on a cruise will deliver you to soft, sandy beaches, or you can unwind beneath sunny skies at an all-inclusive coastal resort.
Beach-Hopping Cruise
Coastal All-Inclusive
OR
Time to set sail for the tropics! If you’re in need of a quick getaway, board Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas and visit the on-ship spa during a three-night trip that stops in Ensenada on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Or relax by the pool as MSC Cruise’s MSC Seascape makes the four-night journey from Miami to the Bahamas before visiting MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Have an extra night? Relax during a five-night voyage in the western Caribbean aboard Carnival’s Carnival Valor and walk the seaside promenades during ports of call in Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico.
Read More: There’s a Cruise for That
Book one of these last-minute summer escapes — or pick from thousands of other voyages — available at RCI.
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Read More: Explore Puerto Plata’s Natural Bounty and Historical Riches
Remove all the stress from your trip planning by vacationing at an all-inclusive resort, where almost all the food, activities, and amenities are covered under one fee. In Cancún, the beach at All Ritmo Cancun Resort & Waterpark Lifestyle is mere steps from your room, along with opportunities for Jet Skiing, mini golfing, and windsurfing. Visit the on-site spa at AI Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic before playing a few hands at the resort’s casino. For an adults-only getaway, book a room at Breathless Cabo San Lucas Resort & Spa. Want to upgrade your waterfront stay? Enroll in the resort’s Xhale Club, which includes a welcome cocktail, nightly petit fours delivery, and a butler service.
Puerto Plata boasts the largest and best-preserved collection of 19th-century Victorian architecture in the Caribbean. Independence Square is anchored by St. Philip the Apostle Cathedral and a gleaming two-story Victorian gazebo. Ascend the spiral staircase for panoramic views of the square, filled with vendors selling trinkets on tables and costumed street performers. Just off the park, with its pink-coated benches, bicycle, and lanterns, nearby Pink Street would make Barbie blush with pride; this narrow alley is actually a memorial to Bianca Franceschini, an Italian immigrant who championed Puerto Plata as a global tourism destination. Umbrella Street is another photogenic spot, where more than 170 kaleidoscopic umbrellas form a canopy overhead. Street performers, monkeys, and parrots add to the spectacle. Gain an appreciation of the production process for local delicacies, including chocolate and rum. During visits to Del Oro Chocolate and Macorix House of Rum, you’ll learn how these delicacies are created and distributed during Constructed in 1577 along the western side of the Malecón, a pedestrian-friendly oceanside pathway, Fortaleza San Felipe was originally built by the Spanish as a defense against pirate attacks. This early colonial structure served primarily as a prison for much of its history, and it is now a historical site open to the public. The entrance fee includes an audio guide, which offers more detailed information about the fort's past. The Dominican Republic’s northern region is nicknamed the Amber Coast, due to the sizable deposits of honey-hue amber mined in Puerto Plata and nearby Santiago. See displays of some of the oldest and most impressive amber fossils in the world — including a lizard that’s millions of years old — at the Amber Museum, located within an opulent, mint-color Victorian house on Calle Duarte. Learn about the fascinating role amber has played in trade and have some hands-on fun: Watch how authentic amber becomes blue or green under a UV light. In the basement, see the life cycle of the Dominican cigar, from planting to packaging, during a tobacco tour. In the gift shop, pick up amber baubles and cigars. FUN FACT: When Jurassic Park was in production, the movie asked to purchase the piece of Dominican amber containing the mosquito referenced in Michael Crichton’s story from the museum. (Yes, this plot point was based on fact!) Rather than sell the artifact, the museum traded it for unlimited logo rights and international usage and updated its logo to more closely resemble the movie’s.
Zip down natural waterslides, plunge into turquoise pools, and hike through the jungle at the Damajagua Waterfalls, one of the province’s star attractions. (There are 27 waterfalls in all, though you’ll only visit a handful of them during a guided tour.) Upon entrance to the park, a guide will take you on a trek through forested trails and flowing streams until you reach the lower falls. These cascades spill into a series of pools that visitors can take a refreshing dip in. You’ll be outfitted with a safety helmet and life vest before the journey, but wear athletic clothing or a bathing suit, plus closed-toed shoes you’re comfortable getting wet and muddy.
The island’s diverse ecosystem is on full display at Isabel de Torres National Park, located southwest of the city. The Teleférico Puerto Plata, the longest cable car in the Caribbean, is currently under construction, so to reach the mountaintop you’ll need to travel by car. The ascent takes about 30 minutes, and the aerial views of the Atlantic coastline from the top of Isabel de Torres, which rises 2,600 feet above sea level, are remarkable. See the Christ the Redeemer statue and take a few minutes to meander through the adjacent botanical garden, where cacao and coffee trees grow wild, before descending the mountain.
Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Club at Puerto Plata offers a stress-free escape, where on-site restaurants, bars, and spas, plus private beaches, excursions, and activities are all designed to elevate your stay. While different membership levels offer varying access to exclusive beach clubs, restaurants, and amenities, the majority of services are included in the all-inclusive package pricing. Embrace the ease and convenience of having these amenities at your fingertips.
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From aboard his ship in 1492, Christopher Columbus saw Mount Isabel de Torres looming above the shoreline, shrouded by silver mist, and named the area Puerto Plata, or “Silver Port.” With its prime placement along the country’s north coast, modern-day Puerto Plata is one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, made easily accessible via two cruise ports and a local airport serving the region. The area is a wonderland for water play, summoning kitesurfers and wakeboarders to its frothy waves, and respite-seeking travelers to beachside cabanas and catamarans. And beyond its pristine beaches, the city center pulses with energy, featuring live music, rum and chocolate tastings, museums, and color-splashed streets.
Budget a full day for sightseeing and experiencing the city’s cultural riches. Most attractions are close together and can be experienced during a walking tour. If you’d prefer to ride in style, consider a tour with Puerto Plata Classic Cars and zip around the city’s notable landmarks in a cool vintage vehicle.
CRUISE CONTROL: The area is home to two major ports, Taino Bay Puerto Plata Cruise Port and Amber Cove. The cruise crowds arrive almost daily, docking first thing in the morning and departing by mid-afternoon. Keep this in mind when booking tours and excursions.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: You’ll need a valid passport, plus an e-ticket to enter and exit the Dominican Republic.
AIRPORTS: Gregorio Luperón International Airport is just 15 minutes from the city center. Cibao International Airport in Santiago is about a 1.5 hour drive from Puerto Plata. We recommend using a car service or shuttle if flying into this airport versus renting a car, as traffic is heavy and unpredictable for even the most experienced drivers.
LANGUAGE: Spanish is the official language, though English is widely spoken.
CURRENCY: Plan to use cash outside of the resort. The Dominican peso is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted; bring small bills, as you’ll likely receive change in pesos.
LOCATION: Northern coast
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All-inclusive resorts are a popular choice throughout the Caribbean, offering excellent value and an undeniably appealing vacation experience. When you book an all-inclusive stay, you can truly relax and enjoy your island getaway, knowing that all the details are taken care of.
Awesome Accommodations
No matter your party size or budget, the resort’s fully furnished lodging options with dining spaces and kitchenettes will make you feel right at home. If you’re traveling with friends or as a family, consider booking a standalone villa with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, plus a private pool and outdoor kitchen, for extra comfort and privacy.
The resort’s culinary repertoire includes on-site restaurants, bars, and snack spots, each with its own unique menu and atmosphere. Enjoy the convenience of all-inclusive dining, with breakfast, lunch, dinner, late-night snacks, à la carte options, and drinks all included in your stay. If you prefer to relax in your own space, select membership packages offer the option of a private chef who can whip up breakfast in your villa or host a poolside barbecue for your group.
Restaurants that Cater to Every Vacation Craving
Peace and pampering await you at Yin Yang Spa, which has two locations at the resort. You’ll need to pay for treatments like pedicures, hot stone massages, and detoxifying body masks, but the spa space is at your disposal and includes access to a steam room, hot tub, gym, and adults-only pool with an organic smoothie and snack bar.
Rejuvenating Spa Experiences
There is so much to see and do on property, you may find little reason to leave it. During the day, play pickleball, paintball, tennis, mini golf, and archery while children play at the kids club. At night, follow the impressive replica Umbrella Street to the open-air Colosseum for complimentary live music and dance performances. (The Michael Jackson Tribute show is a fan favorite.) There’s even a sports bar where you can try your luck at casino games and lounge with a freshly rolled cigar. If you do wish to explore beyond the resort, the booking office can arrange a variety of off-property excursions for an additional fee. These include dune buggy adventures, catamaran tours, horseback riding along the beach, and guided tours of Puerto Plata.
All-Ages Activities and Programming
The resort's sophisticated lounges and exclusive golden-sand beaches overlooking unobstructed ocean vistas are postcard-pretty. Find your perfect spot under the sun, whether it's in a private cabana, a relaxing hammock, or an infinity pool, then relax and watch the waves gently roll in. When you're ready for a bite or a refreshing drink, enjoy freshly made sushi right on the beach or visit one of the inviting bars.
Private Beaches and Beach Lounges
Ready to find your own slice of paradise? As an RCI Member, you have access to knowledgeable RCI Travel Guides to help you plan every aspect of your vacation.
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Enjoy island time your way in Puerto Plata, where sunny skies and shimmering coastline are just the beginning.
You don’t need a long time to have a great time. This three-night Celebrity Cruises voyage aboard the Celebrity Reflection stops in Key West, Florida, before sailing to the sandy shores of Bimini, the westernmost islands in the Bahamas. Kick back with a beach read or set out onto the water for snorkeling or deep-sea fishing. Later, head to Hemingway’s Poolside Rum Club for a taste of the Caribbean.
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Aboard the Enchantment of the Seas, this five-night trip from Royal Caribbean floats along the Yucatan Peninsula. In Costa Maya, visit the Chacchoben Ruins, where guides offer insight about the temples’ ancient Mayan ceremonies. After you arrive in Cozumel, take a ferry to Playa del Carmen for lunch at Axiote Cocina de Mexico, which serves modern Yucatan favorites tasty enough to earn a Bib Gourmand award in the Michelin Guide.
This cooler escape along the Alaskan panhandle is a nature-lovers delight. This trip aboard Holland America Line’s Zaandam lasts seven nights, highlighted by a cruise through Glacier Bay National Park. Bring the binoculars to admire the stunning ice flows, mountainous backdrop, and wildlife in the water: harbor porpoises, sea lions, and otters. But the ultimate goal? The sight of a breaching humpback whale.
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