See the Caribbean from two different sides
Enjoy beautiful seafood, sunshine and fascinating history away from the party crowds at these sun-soaked beachside resorts in Mexico and the Dominican Republic
There’s more to the Caribbean than the pinpricks of paradise dotted along its eastern fringes. Its warm waters also lap against the beaches of Central America, lending the western end of the Caribbean its own unique flavour, infused with Latin influences and spinning tales of explorers, buccaneers and galleons in the golden age of seafaring.
On an all-inclusive British Airways Holidays break to the western Caribbean you can bask on a shoreline backed by jungle and studded with Mayan ruins around Akumal, or soak up centuries of history in the Dominican Republic, where palms cast long shadows on the sand.
In either case, your break will come with warm waters, fish-thronged reefs and acres of golden sand. And staying allinclusive means thinking less about the bill, and more about which pool to lounge by, or which restaurant to dine in.
DIVE INTO THE MAYAN WORLD
The adults-only Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya places you on the doorstep of Tulum – perhaps the most perfectly sited of all the ruined cities along the Riviera Maya – on a bay frequented by rainbow reef fish and green turtles. The Mayan world gets a nod in the architecture, with framed fabrics and stone-clad buildings that pay subtle homage to Tulum’s waterfront castillo.
Inside, rooms feel lavishly tropical, with crane-flower colours, woven grass and natural timber, plus enormous balconies facing a garden of palms that melts into a gorgeous white-sand beach. Also, with the world’s second-largest barrier reef just offshore, watery activities are big here. Meanwhile, elegantly designed restaurants showcase diverse Mexican, Asian and European flavours.
TROPICAL SECLUSION
East across the brilliant blue, Dominican Republic has a more classically Caribbean flavour, but here too are Spanish influences, from merengue rhythms to Mexicantinged menus.
Spilling back from the idyllic beach at the southern tip of the island, Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana, pictured above left, moves to its own tropical beat beside a strip of palm-framed sand.
While guests can enjoy all the anticipated all-inclusive perks, there are no other resorts on this cove. A short stroll leaves you surrounded by sand, sea and silence.
EXCLUSIVE PREMIUM PERKS
For families, it’s all about activities – snorkelling, an impressive water park, plus kids’ clubs with a games room and cinema.
Sample cuisine from local producers to Mexico, via America, France, Italy and Asia – the fresh seafood here is outstanding. The Preferred Club suites have elevated amenities, including an upgraded mini-bar, bath amenities and pillow menu, and are located in premium locations, often with exclusive restaurant and beach areas.
All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and come with a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your all-inclusive holiday now with a low deposit at ba.com/inclusive-collection