The Sublime Samana Resort is in the Dominican Republic and is characterized by its lush greenery and jungle-like setting, all between fine-sand beaches. It really combines the best of both worlds—forest retreat and beach fun. The hotel, not only luxurious but a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World elite, gives you seven acres of property with a canal of pools, reaching over five hundred feet.

The greatest joys of the experience might well come in hearing the soothing sounds of ocean waves hitting the shore, or the gentle misty breeze. Onsite dining features poolside meals with the special catch of the day entrees from Beachside Grill. Bistro is the nighttime dining restaurant, serving local produce. While it’s hard to imagine something more dramatic than long courtyards and carefully constructed pools of water blending into the stunning art decoration, there is still plenty to say about the hotel rooms themselves. These suites and casitas offer modern and spacious comforts, private balconies with ocean views, and five-star amenities with master bathrooms.

While you may have seen some great spas in your time, try a rustic-style spa made with palm wood, cane, and straw! This style of construction helps the spa to mix in with the natural colors of the resort. Rain showers, rain massages, and modern beauty treatments—all the while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean—sounds like the perfect start to a Dominican Republic vacation.