by bitsofthewilliams | Aug 3, 2024 | REVIEWS, TRAVEL
It’s been a few months since we came back from Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort and we are definitely missing it there. We flew West Jet and transfers to and from the airport to Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort was done by Nexus Tours which was included in our vacation package.
Let’s delve into the wonders that await at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort.
If you are like us and are seeking the ultimate tropical escape where luxury, adventure, and relaxation intertwine seamlessly? Look no further than Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort, nestled along the pristine shores of the Dominican Republic. This idyllic haven isn’t just a resort; it’s an experience, promising an unforgettable retreat for families and I can tell you that we enjoyed every minute spent there.
A Welcoming Oasis:
As you step into Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort, you’re greeted with warm smiles, lots of “Holas” and a refreshing tropical breeze. The resort’s design blends modern elegance with Caribbean charm, creating a welcoming atmosphere that instantly puts you at ease. Lush gardens, palm-lined pathways, and stunning ocean views set the stage for a truly magical getaway. Upon check in, hubby and I were offered a glass of champagne while Nate and Sophia indulged in the famous slime drink. Check-in took about 20 minutes and we were then taken to our room.
Luxurious Accommodations:
Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort offers a range of accommodations to suit every preference, from spacious suites to luxurious villas. Each room is thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring modern amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re lounging on your private balcony or sinking into a plush king-sized bed, relaxation comes effortlessly at this tropical paradise and I say that knowing how hard I am to please.
We selected the Nest Swim up suites this visit and it was the perfect size and comfort for our family of four. See video below for a quick room tour.
Exploring Aqua Nick at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort
Nate and Sophia was most excited about Aqua Nick, the thrilling water park at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort. Whether you’re soaring down thrilling water slides, splashing in interactive play areas, or simply lounging by the pool, Aqua Nick promises an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.
Splash into Excitement:
As you enter Aqua Nick, you’re greeted with the sound of laughter and the sight of splashing water – a sure sign that fun awaits around every corner. This expansive water park features a variety of attractions and experiences that promise to delight guests of all ages.
Thrilling Water Slides:
Get ready to scream with delight as you plummet down the thrilling water slides at Aqua Nick. From high-speed twists and turns to gentle slopes and splash zones, there’s a slide for every thrill-seeker child at this water park.
Interactive Play Areas:
For younger guests, Aqua Nick offers a variety of interactive play areas where they can splash, slide, and explore to their heart’s content. Let your little ones unleash their imagination at the Splash Pad, where fountains, sprayers, and water jets provide endless hours of fun. Or watch as they conquer the obstacles at the Water Play Structure, complete with slides, climbing nets, and tipping buckets.
Relaxation and Refreshment:
After all the excitement, take a break and unwind in one of Aqua Nick’s many relaxation areas. Lounge in a cabana by the pool, sip on a refreshing cocktail at the swim-up bar, or indulge in a delicious snack from one of the poolside cafes. With plenty of seating options and shaded areas, Aqua Nick is the perfect place to kick back, relax, and soak up the Caribbean sun.
Beaches & Pools
The pristine beaches, with their soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports. With its vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere and luxurious amenities, the resort’s pools and beaches ensure a memorable and enjoyable stay for everyone.
Gastronomic Delights:
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort. The resort boasts a diverse array of dining options, each offering a unique blend of flavors and culinary delights. Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast buffet at Zest which host the character breakfast, where you can indulge in fresh fruits, pastries, and made-to-order omelets. For lunch, head to Sugarcane which was our go to, a beachfront grill serving up mouthwatering burgers, wraps, and seafood specialties.
The dining scene at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort is as diverse and exciting as the destination itself. From fresh and flavorful breakfasts at Zest to gourmet burgers at Burgrs pH, there’s something to satisfy every craving and palate. Whether you’re seeking beachfront dining, Asian fusion flavors, or a cosmic culinary experience, Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort has you covered.
Zest: A Fresh Start to the Day
During our stay, we went to Zest for the character breakfast and it didn’t disappoint. We were served with a side of ocean views and tropical vibes. This vibrant restaurant offers a tempting buffet spread featuring an array of fresh fruits, pastries, cereals, and made-to-order omelets. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, Zest has something to satisfy every palate. Sit back, relax, and savor the flavors of the Caribbean. This was an additional charge so please keep that in mind.
Wok Wok: An Asian Fusion Feast
Craving the bold flavors of Asia? Look no further than Wok Wok, where traditional Asian dishes are given a modern twist. From savory stir-fries to aromatic curries, the menu at Wok Wok is a celebration of Asian cuisine at its finest. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes inspired by Thai, Japanese, and Chinese flavors, expertly prepared by talented chefs using the freshest ingredients. With its inviting ambiance and delectable offerings, Wok Wok is sure to transport your taste buds to the streets of Asia.
Sugarcane: Buffet Dining at its Best
For a taste of Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a beachfront backdrop, look no further than Sugarcane. This laid-back grill offers a relaxed atmosphere where guests can dine al fresco while soaking up the sun and sea breeze. From juicy burgers to flavorful wraps and fresh seafood specialties, Sugarcane has something for everyone to enjoy. Sip on a refreshing cocktail or mocktail as you take in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, making every meal at Sugarcane a memorable experience.
Burgrs pH: Gourmet Burgers with a Twist
Calling all burger lovers! Burgrs pH is your go-to destination for gourmet burgers that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. This trendy restaurant takes the classic burger to new heights with creative flavor combinations, premium ingredients, and innovative toppings. Sink your teeth into juicy beef patties, crispy fried chicken, or flavorful veggie burgers, all served on freshly baked buns and accompanied by a variety of delicious sides. With its chic ambiance and mouthwatering offerings, Burgrs pH is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts of all ages.
Spacewalker: Dining Among the Stars
Step into a world of futuristic dining at Spacewalker, where cosmic-inspired cuisine meets out-of-this-world ambiance. This unique restaurant takes guests on a culinary journey through the cosmos, offering a menu of intergalactic delights that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. From cosmic cocktails to celestial desserts, every dish at Spacewalker is a work of art that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re dining with family or friends, Spacewalker promises an unforgettable dining experience that is truly out of this world. Don’t forget to book your reservation for Spacewalker. It won’t disappoint.
The Sweetery
The Sweetery at the Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort is a candy lover’s dream come true, perfect for guests of all ages. Nestled in the heart of this lively, family-friendly resort, The Sweetery offers a tempting variety of treats, from gourmet candies and artisan chocolates to whimsical desserts inspired by your favorite Nickelodeon characters. Its charming, colorful setting exudes joy, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth and create delightful memories. Whether you’re enjoying a rich pastry or picking out candies, The Sweetery adds a sprinkle of sugary magic to your resort experience.
Relaxation and Spa services:
After a day of excitement and adventure, unwind and recharge at the resort’s luxurious spa. Indulge in a soothing massage, rejuvenating facial, or invigorating body scrub, all performed by skilled therapists using locally sourced ingredients and ancient healing techniques. We opted to get our hair braided this time and Soph chose to get pink braids which she was ecstatic about.
Exciting Activities for All:
Adventure awaits around every corner at Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort, where guests of all ages can partake in a myriad of activities and experiences. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea with a snorkeling excursion, explore the lush landscape on a guided nature hike, or embark on a thrilling zip-lining adventure through the treetops. This time around, we decided the stay at the resort and enjoy all that it has to offer since it wasn’t our first time on the island and have done most of the excursions.
For the little ones, the resort offers a variety of kid-friendly activities and entertainment options, including the Nickelodeon Experience. Here, children can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters, participate in slime-themed games and activities, and even enjoy character breakfasts and meet-and-greets. Be sure to check out my blog on the character breakfast for more details.
Club Nick
The resort provides endless entertainment and creative activities, the club features themed play areas, interactive games, and character meet-and-greets with beloved Nickelodeon stars like SpongeBob SquarePants and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. With a dedicated team of friendly staff, the Kids Club offers a safe and stimulating environment where young guests can explore, learn, and make new friends. From arts and crafts to outdoor adventures, the Nickelodeon Kids Club ensures a fun-filled, memorable experience for every child.
Meanwhile, teens can hang out at Snick Lounge, a dedicated space featuring video games, pool, and other cool activities to keep both kids and parents happy.
Overall, Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort is a true gem in the heart of the Caribbean, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation. From luxurious accommodations and gastronomic delights to exciting activities and rejuvenating spa treatments, every moment spent at this tropical paradise is sure to be filled with memories that last a lifetime. So why wait? Start planning your dream getaway to Nickelodeon Punta Cana Resort today and experience the magic for yourself!
We can’t wait to visit the other properties and tell you all about it.
xoxo
Barb Williams
by bitsofthewilliams | Jul 16, 2023 | PARENTING
Summer is a time for kids to relax, have fun, and make the most of their break from school. However, it’s also important to keep them engaged and entertained during these months. To help you plan an exciting and fulfilling summer for your kids, we’ve compiled a list of ideas to keep them busy and active. Let’s dive in!
Outdoor Adventures: Take advantage of the warm weather and encourage outdoor exploration. Plan trips to local parks, beaches, or hiking trails. Let your kids discover the wonders of nature, engage in imaginative play, and soak up the sun while keeping active.
Arts and Crafts: Spark your child’s creativity with arts and crafts projects. Set up a dedicated art space at home with supplies like paints, crayons, colored pencils, and paper. Encourage them to create masterpieces, build sculptures, or even start a scrapbooking project.
Science Experiments: Foster their curiosity by conducting simple science experiments at home. Create a volcano eruption with baking soda and vinegar, make a homemade lava lamp, or grow crystals. These hands-on activities will entertain and educate them simultaneously.
Cooking and Baking: Get your little chefs involved in the kitchen. Let them help prepare simple meals or bake treats like cookies, cupcakes, or pizzas. Not only will they have fun, but they’ll also develop valuable life skills in the process.
Reading Adventures: Encourage a love for reading by creating a summer reading challenge. Set reading goals and provide incentives for completing them. Take regular trips to the library to discover new books and create a cozy reading nook at home.
Gardening: Teach your kids about nature and responsibility by starting a small garden. Let them choose the plants, dig in the soil, and care for their little patch of greenery. It’s a hands-on learning experience that fosters a love for nature and an understanding of the environment.
Sports and Games: Organize backyard Olympics or create a neighborhood sports league. Encourage friendly competition and teach them the importance of teamwork. From soccer and basketball to relay races and scavenger hunts, there are endless possibilities to keep them active and engaged.
Day Trips and Excursions: Plan day trips to nearby attractions like amusement parks, zoos, or museums. These outings provide opportunities for new experiences, learning, and family bonding. Research local events and festivals happening during the summer and explore your community’s offerings.
Summer Camps: Enroll your kids in summer camps tailored to their interests. Whether it’s sports, arts, coding, or nature exploration, there’s a camp for every child. These programs provide structured activities, new friendships, and a chance to develop skills in a fun and supportive environment.
DIY Projects: Encourage hands-on learning by engaging in DIY (do-it-yourself) projects. Build a birdhouse, create a homemade kite, or construct a fort using recycled materials. These projects promote problem-solving, creativity, and resourcefulness.
Movie Nights and Theater: Set up cozy movie nights at home with popcorn and blankets. Alternatively, attend local outdoor movie screenings or summer theater productions. It’s a chance to introduce your kids to the magic of cinema and live performances.
Volunteer Work: Instill a sense of community and compassion in your kids by involving them in volunteer activities. Whether it’s helping at a local shelter, organizing a charity drive, or participating in a beach cleanup, these experiences teach empathy and the importance of giving back.
Remember, summer is a time for kids to relax and enjoy themselves, so make sure to balance structured activities with plenty of free time for unstructured play and relaxation. Allow them to explore their interests, discover new hobbies, and have the freedom to be creative. By providing a mix of engaging activities, you’ll keep them busy, stimulated, and happy throughout the summer months.
by bitsofthewilliams | Jul 14, 2023 | PARENTING, TRAVEL
The sun is shining, school’s out, and the possibilities are endless – it’s summertime! The season of adventure, exploration, and making unforgettable memories has arrived. To make the most of this exciting time, it’s a great idea to create a summer bucket list for your kids. A summer bucket list is a collection of activities, adventures, and experiences that your children can look forward to and check off as they accomplish them. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through crafting the ultimate summer bucket list for kids, ensuring they have a summer filled with excitement, joy, and lifelong memories.
Explore the Great Outdoors: Encourage your kids to embrace nature and embark on outdoor adventures. Hiking through scenic trails, camping under the stars, building sandcastles at the beach, or exploring local parks are excellent ways to connect with the beauty of the natural world.
Dive into Water Fun: Beat the summer heat with an array of water-based activities. Whether it’s swimming in a pool, splashing in the ocean, or visiting a water park, make sure to include water fun in your summer bucket list. Don’t forget to teach your kids to swim or try out new water sports like kayaking or paddle boarding.
Engage in Creative Pursuits: Nurture your child’s creativity by including various artistic endeavors on the bucket list. Let them try their hand at painting, drawing, or sculpting. Organize a DIY craft project, write and illustrate their own storybook, or even learn a musical instrument. Encouraging creativity sparks imagination and helps them develop new skills.
Embark on a Culinary Adventure: Introduce your kids to the joys of cooking and baking. Include activities like making homemade ice cream, organizing a backyard BBQ, or trying out new recipes together. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about healthy eating, kitchen safety, and the joy of preparing meals for loved ones.
Explore Local Attractions: Take advantage of the summer break to explore your local area. Visit museums, historical sites, zoos, or botanical gardens nearby. Research local events and festivals happening during the summer and mark them on your bucket list. These adventures not only entertain but also provide educational opportunities.
Connect with the Community: Instill a sense of social responsibility and community engagement in your kids. Include activities like volunteering at a local shelter, organizing a donation drive, or participating in a community garden project. Such experiences foster empathy, compassion, and a sense of giving back.
Get Sporty: Encourage your children to get active and try out new sports. Whether it’s joining a summer sports camp, playing mini-golf, learning to ride a bike, or mastering a new skill like skateboarding, the summer is an ideal time to explore various physical activities.
Plan a Family Adventure: Involve the whole family in planning and experiencing an exciting adventure together. Whether it’s a road trip to a national park, a beach vacation, or a visit to a theme park, spending quality time as a family creates cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
A summer bucket list for kids is a roadmap to an exciting and fulfilling summer break. By including a variety of adventures, experiences, and creative pursuits, you can create a summer filled with joy, exploration, and growth. Remember to involve your children in the process, allowing them to contribute their ideas and interests to the list. So, grab a pen and paper, sit down with your kids, and start brainstorming the ultimate summer bucket list. Get ready to embark on a summer of adventure, fun, and memories that will be treasured for years to come.
by bitsofthewilliams | Apr 9, 2021 | MONEY
Who is ready for some warm weather? Yay, summer is fast approaching. We sure can’t wait for outdoor activities and beach picnics. While this is the time for summer vacations and long road trips, it’s not always the most affordable many.
Did you know that approximately 74% of people in the US have said that they’ve gone into debt to pay for a vacation? Everyone wants to have a good time but it comes with a hefty price tag. I’m not here to say that you shouldn’t go on a vacation or splurge a little, I’m just here to offer some super easy tips that can help you achieve those goals.
Remember saving money isn’t just a summer thing, it should be a year round goal and there is no better time like NOW to get started if you haven’t.
Don’t worry, it’s not so bad to get in the habit of saving. You have to be disciplined. Fear not, I’ve got some really simple tips that you can do to kick those summer savings into gear. Let’s get it.
HERE ARE 10 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BUDGET FROM BURNING UP THIS SUMMER.
EASY SUMMER MEALS ON THE GRILL – There are so many benefits to cooking outside when the weather is warm. My favorite is that the meals are very simple and it’s food that your family will enjoy. Whether you’re using gas or charcoal, rely on grilling as a fun, social, and energy efficient way to cook in the summer. One of our favorites are burgers and hotdogs and our kids prefer that any day over any fancy meals.
UTILITY BILLS – This one ties in beautifully to what I stated above. By cooking outside, you avoid heating your kitchen during the summer and making the air conditioner run more than necessary. Also, I don’t know about you but I turn the light switch on every single time I enter the kitchen. I don’t know why but it’s just one of those nagging habits. By using the natural sunlight, it lowers light bulb usage in your kitchen and that means lower electricity bills every month.
CABLE – This should be a no brainer for anyone trying to lower their expenses. We pay about $180 for our cable/internet each month. If you ditch the cable, you can put that $50-$80 straight into a savings. That is up to $320 that you can save for four months while the weather is warm. By not having the urge to sit and watch TV all day, you will get into a routine of being outdoor more and will in turn feel so much better and save some extra cash. You can always rejoin in the winter when we all tend to hibernate.
SELL UNUSED ITEMS – Who doesn’t love a good garage sale. I know I do but unfortunately for me there isn’t much going on in my area. Find the things in your home that you no longer need and arrange for a garage sale or even list them on your local facebook marketplace or craigslist. Most likely, you will get them sold online but I personally love a good old fashion garage sale. If you get along with your neighbours, collaborate with them and do a neighbourhood sale. It will be fun and exciting not to mention a good time for each other to catch up and make some cash.
HOME WORKOUT – I’m going to say this one out loud. You do not need a gym membership in the summer. There is so much to do that you can keep active with. Ugh just the thought about being in a smelly gym full of sweaty people. In the winter, a gym membership is a great way to work out when you can’t go for a walk or run outdoors. One problem we all have is that we don’t use it nearly as often in the summer. Cancel your membership and take advantage of the warm, beautiful weather. Recreation centres usually have free swim hours. Take long walks, go for hikes or just go for a long bike ride. Think of alternative ways to get your move on. This is where you can say that whatever activity you are doing outdoor, it will be fun and free.
GROUPON DEALS – Have you ever heard of Groupon? I remember when I first checked them out. I purchased so many things like laser hair removal deals and even booked hotel stays for the family.I’ve never had a bad experience and to this day I would still get the emails and I would always take a look to see if anything interests me. They offer a wide variety of deals whether you are looking for home decor, spa services and even travel. There are so many local deals that you can find that will help.This is a great way to not have to spend money on full priced things.
STAYCATION – There is nothing more exciting than planning a vacation. Trust me, I love the entire planning process.One thing you have to be honest about is whether a vacation is in your current budget. Remember you do not want to put yourself in more debt and have everything spinning out of control. Having a good time doesn’t necessarily means you need to be in a different country. Explore your city like a tourist. Find a spa nearby that adds to your vacay mood and plan a few things that you can do locally. Trust me, you will feel so much better knowing that you didn’t spend what you didn’t have. Think smart.
REPURPOSED USED FURNITURE – Don’t rush to retire your old furniture just yet. Sometimes we buy things just because we like the idea of having something new in our homes.Some things just need a little sprucing up. In the summer time, people are always putting furniture out, if you happen to see something that interest you, grab it. The best part is that you can just refinish this piece outside in your garage or heck in your backyard. Use your imagination and get creative. .
FEED THE LAWN YOURSELF– Ask yourself, what is it that the professionals do that makes our lawn so nice in the summer? Well they use high quality products for one and they follow a structured plan for the up keeping. Instead of paying a hefty price for someone to come by and take care of your lawn, head on over to Lowes or Home Depot and get yourself what you need. There is no reason you can’t do the same job without paying for it. It isn’t an everyday thing where you might not have the time. Do your research and feed your lawn yourself.
PLANT A GARDEN– Skip the part where you go and spend a lot of money at the grocery store to buy your fresh herbs and vegetables. Instead, opt for planting and growing your own. We freeze our excess herbs that you can use at a later time.
I hope these money saving tips have helped you to save some money with little to no effort on your part.
