Celebrity design duo Colin and Justin in Punta Cana
It's been a busy year for design duo Colin and Justin. Earlier this year, the celebrity couple took some time to relax and rejuvenate on a romantic getaway to The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana with Sunwing. We caught up with Colin and Justin after their vacation to chat about their time away and their top travel tips.
First things first – how was your vacation?
Blimey – it was fantastic! We REALLY enjoyed our time at the resort and we left with some amazing memories. The staff attention level was stellar; all those lovely people who looked after us went the extra mile to make sure our vacation was memorable and thoroughly relaxing. We felt indulged at every turn.
What were your accommodations like?
We stayed in one of the beautiful One Bedroom Suite Swim-Up rooms that were spacious, luxuriously appointed and decorated in a neutral and relaxing palette. The small bar area provided somewhere where we could prepare drinks, and with space for in-room dining we could opt to dine ‘at home’ whenever we needed time to work or simply chill. Comfy sofas and a large flat screen TVs were welcome details, as was the huge shower area, separate bath and enough storage to make light of all our suitcase contents. And yes – we bring LOTS of clothes when we go on vacation!
It’s no secret that you have impeccable design taste; what did you think of the resort’s décor?
We love modern hotel styles with lots of white; it’s super fresh and uplifting. Everything at The Grand Reserve is super well looked after. There’s an exciting international vibe that reminded us of chic hotels we’ve visited in other parts of the world – it actually felt very ‘Miami’ in terms of aesthetics. Interesting wall art and sculptures dotted every surface and it all felt super well-composed and high-end. One day, we would love to design a resort or some aspects of a popular holiday destination and The Grand Reserve would provide plenty of inspiration if we ever get round to fulfilling that ambition!
What’s your favourite memory from your vacation?
We loved the clear blue skies and the people! We visited during the off-season, so it was a little quieter than it might be in full season – and that suited us perfectly. That said, we made so many new friends over dinner, cocktails and by the pool. People seem to visit Punta Cana because it’s a destination for easy memory making, friendly times and no pressure.
What did you enjoy most about Punta Cana?
The food at the hotel was really, really good – a mixture of Dominican specialties, French, Italian and international cuisine. And we liked the mixture of à la carte and buffet venues; whatever our mood, there was something to meet our expectations. We truly feel that hotels like The Grand Reserve actually redefine the whole idea of all inclusive. The gastronomic offerings were just as good as the fine dining restaurants in Canada, America and Europe. And so much food was prepared fresh to order at the various stations.
Can you share your top travel tips with us?
Plan everything in advance. Check out excursions prior to departure, book on-site restaurants when you arrive and don’t be afraid to familiarize yourself with hotel staff. After all, they’re there to make your vacation as memorable as possible! And, finally, make sure to indulge without going crazy.
What is one thing you can’t travel without?
Colin – Justin.
Justin – Colin. And LOADS of books. We each read at least one title a day.
Who decides where you go and how would you classify your vacation style?
We make all our travel decisions together. We love relaxed holidays poolside, with the promise of great service in beautiful hotels. If there’s a beach within a short distance (as there is at The Grand Reserve), then it’s even better. We like to keep flying time to around six hours, if possible, for short breaks of a week or so – that’s why the Caribbean makes so much sense for us. Easy access from Toronto is super important. And did someone say good bar staff? Talented cocktail mixologists? We’re in!
How important is disconnecting from technology to you while on vacation?
We tended to limit ‘tech checks’ and email scanning to morning, afternoon and the end of the evening. Gotta live in the moment too – huh? But as we travel the globe, we love sharing our adventures, and with so many beautiful vignettes - and such great Wi-Fi across the resort - it was easy to take our family, friends and fans along for the ride!