Today’s social media obsessed travelers want immersive experiences. They want convenience and comfort. They want something that’ll make everyone in their feed totally jealous. But there’s one thing they want above all else: great food. Food has become the main focus of a good itinerary. Travelers are making the authenticity and quality of meals a priority, rather than an afterthought. And while all-inclusive resorts are not generally known for having great culinary programs, two resorts in Punta Cana and Riviera Maya have developed into bona fide culinary destinations. From dedicated culinary weeks to cocktail lessons, Barcelo Bavaro Beach Resort and Barcelo Maya Beach Resort offer exceptional programming sure to catch the eye of the foodie traveler.
Locally Inspired Drinks
Barcelo Bavaro Beach Resort boasts a cigar and rum lounge where guests can pair these locally made delicacies. Club Premium guests receive a bottle of Dominican Rum Imperial in their room upon arrival, complete with a cocktail kit and recipe. All rum amenities combined, Barcelo Bavaro is the perfect destination for a rum getaway. Barcelo Maya Beach Resort includes a bottle of Xtabentun in their welcome amenity for Club Premium guests. This anise liqueur, made in Mexico’s Yucatan region, is the main spirit in “Maya Coffee,” a boozy cocktail
Festival Gourmet & Culinary Week
To celebrate local flavor, Barcelo Maya Beach Resort and Barcelo Bavaro Beach Resort host annual events focused on the region’s culinary heritage. These weeks are packed full of activities, including tastings, cooking demonstrations, gourmet dinners and mixology classes.
Cooking Classes
Some travelers don’t just want to enjoy their meals. They want to learn the chef’s secrets. A couple times a week guests can participate in classes led by the chefs at both properties, drawing influences from the region. Guests can also try their hand behind the bar for cocktail lessons. These culinary lessons are complimentary, as part of the all-inclusive programming. There’s even a cookie making and decorating activity for kids in the property’s Barcy Kid’s Club.
Tyler Wilcox : July 19, 2019