Grand Hotel Bavaro

The Grand Hotel Bavaro: the clue is in the name. This place really is grand, a luxurious beach front palace with multiple swimming pools and chateau-style interiors. Outside, you’ve got three sinuous freeform pools, twisting and curving between palm sprinkled lawns and sun terraces, one with a swim up bar and one featuring a giant galleon which is actually a disco. This is an adults only property – you’ll find double day beds on the beach and by the pool, while the interior of the hotel is decidedly sophisticated, with a full-size casino and a two-storey ocean-front spa. Further activities include a PADI dive centre, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, wind surfing, tennis, archer, shooting and golf at the on-site course (some local charges).

When it comes to dining, you’ll feel spoilt for choice. The main buffet restaurant is airy and elegant and there are four a la carte options, along with five bars. The accommodation is equally as impressive – classically styled suites with air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, bathrobes, whirlpool and balcony. The Grand Hotel Bavaro is 20 kilometres from Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.