punta cana Tag

For those who’ve never been, the Dominican Republic may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a Caribbean vacation. One stay at the stunning Equity Estates home nestled in the heart of the lush and luxurious Arrecife Estates within the Punta Cana Resort & Club may change your thinking. 

Located on the easternmost point of the island, affectionately nicknamed the Coconut Coast, this upscale, gated community is a tropical haven best known for its beautiful beaches, swaying palms, and clear, turquoise water. It’s also home to amazing golf courses, including the award-winning La Cana and Corales clubs, and a wide variety of year-round sports, recreation, dining, and eco-adventure options.  Almost anything you might need for an unforgettable Caribbean vacation – from horseback riding and kite surfing to spa days and nature trails or an elegant dinner out – is just a short golf cart ride away from the home 

With so many amazing things to do, it might seem impossible to fit it all in. Fortunately, our Destination Manager, Chelsea, has put together her top recommendations for three perfect days in Punta Cana and is available to create the best itinerary for your vacation.  

 

Day One: Sun, Sport, and Relaxation 

Kick off your stay in Punta Cana with a morning visit to the Oscar de la Renta Tennis Center for match playing, drills, or a private lesson. Just minutes from the residence, the center offers clay, Har-Tru, and natural grass courts along with a pro shop, snack bar, and world-class instructors. Let us know your preferences and we’ll take care of the reservations for you. 

If you’d rather hit the links than the tennis courts, let us book a morning tee time for you at the renowned La Cana Golf Course instead. Named the “number one course in the Caribbean” by GOLF magazine, this 27-hole course, designed by P.D. Dye, features three nines, including 14 holes with amazing ocean views. Our residence is located right on the sixth hole, and this is a convenient and must-visit course for any golfer visiting Punta Cana.  

After a morning out, head back to the house for a little lunch and leisure. Your Local Host will make sure the kitchen is stocked with your favorite foods so whipping something up is a breeze. Take your lunch on the private outdoor patio or by the pool, where you can rest, relax, and swim surrounded by lush, tropical greenery and a view of La Cana’s golf course.   

“One of my favorite things about this home is the lushness of the outdoor space,” says Chelsea. “You feel like you’re in the jungle with all of the great outdoor areas to hang out and relax with family and friends.” 

When you’ve had enough pool time, take the golf cart to the gorgeous La Cana Beach Club for a beachside afternoon. Explore the beautifully designed clubhouse and outdoor areas, enjoy a refreshing beverage (or two) at the bar, or let us book a facial for you at the popular onsite Six Senses Spa, which features open air treatment rooms. Cap it off with a walk along the beach or time spent lounging by the water. 

In the evening, Chelsea suggests having a private chef come in to prepare a lovely, personalized dinner for you in the home’s large kitchen. Enjoy a refreshing passionfruit and mango daiquiri and an appetizer of local empanadas while the chef prepares Punta Cana ceviche, roasted Dominican spice rubbed chicken, cassava gratin, and a baked coconut dessert for your dinner. 

 

Day Two: Explore and Enjoy 

For day two, grab the golf cart and spend the day exploring some of the resort’s amazing amenities. How about learning to kitesurf in the morning with lessons at Kite Club Punta Cana, located next to the Playa Blanca restaurant? Or horseback riding on the beach?  

For lunch, step inside Playa Blanca to enjoy a menu of fresh, local seafood, grilled meats, and refreshing drinks. Or head over to the lovely Mare restaurant at the La Cana Golf & Beach Club for internationally inspired, wood-fired pizzas, salads, seafood, and more.  

“You can’t go wrong with either of those options,” says Chelsea. “They both have excellent food and offer open air and outdoor dining with gorgeous views of the water.” 

In the afternoon, head over to the 1,500-acre Ojos Indigenas (Indigenous Eyes) Ecological Park and Nature Reserve, located at the westernmost side of the resort community. Here you can follow a series of trails through a tropical forest that showcases the natural beauty and cultural history of the island, visit an onsite petting zoo or sugarcane exhibit, and even take a dip in one of the reserve’s private, freshwater swimming holes. 

After a day out, some quiet time back at the residence may be needed. Enjoy more time by the pool or relax with a good book before getting ready for dinner.  

For the evening meal, let us make reservations for you at Bamboo, the AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant located at Tortuga Bay. They offer a unique menu of fusion dishes blending locally sourced ingredients with a Mediterranean influence. The décor is elegant but comfortable, with a dining room designed by Oscar de la Renta.  

Alternatively, you can stay in and let the food come to you. Punta Cana now offers delivery service from all of the best restaurants within the resort. Let your Personal Travel Concierge take care of the arrangements for you. 

 

Day Three: Party Boat, Shopping, and Fine Dining 

For the final perfect day, Chelsea recommends getting up early and heading out of the resort and onto the water for a family-friendly boat excursion.  

“A half-day trip on the Margaritas boat is a must-do when visiting Punta Cana,” says Chelsea. “They’ll pick you up in the morning for your trip and you’ll spend about three hours boating along the Bavaro coast, reef snorkeling, and swimming in a natural pool before heading back. Drinks, music, and snacks are provided, and the boat even has a slide at the back for guaranteed fun.”  

If shopping sounds like a good way to follow up a fun-filled boat trip, check out the Galerias at Puntacana Village or BlueMall Puntacana. Both are near the airport, just minutes from the residence, and feature retail shops, a variety of dining options perfect for a quick lunch with warm, welcoming service. 

With a few hours left before dinner, you may choose to play another round of golf – this time at Corales – visit the spa or Golf & Beach Club again if you prefer.  Whatever you choose, your Personal Travel Concierge is happy to make it happen for you. 

For dinner, Chelsea recommends La Yola. This elegant, AAA Three Diamond Award-winning restaurant is modeled after a fishing boat and rests above the sea at the Punta Cana Resort Marina. They are known for their fresh Mediterranean and Caribbean dishes and seafood, as well as their magnificent water views.  

“It’s the best restaurant inside the resort,” says Chelsea. “And a great way to wrap up three perfect days here.” 

 

At Home in Punta Cana with Equity Estates 

Nestled within the lush, tropical landscapes, explore one of Equity Estates’ two luxurious villas in Punta Cana. Our 4,000+ square foot Equity Estates villa boasts a light-filled layout featuring open-air and thatched-roof stone walkways lined with greenery and water features.  Equity Estates’ second villa has five bedrooms, 7,000+ square feet, a private pool, and a Jacuzzi.

Both of these homes are perfect for a relaxing stay in the Dominican Republic.

Your visit to Punta Cana with Equity Estates can be the Caribbean vacation you’ve been dreaming of – whether you’re looking for a relaxing trip or one that’s filled with activity; whether you’re traveling with friends and family or in need of a quiet, couple’s getaway. We can help you make it happen. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to  schedule a call. 

 

Nestled high in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Aspen in the winter is a dream for skiing and other outdoor sports, boutique shopping, eating, or simply sipping a hot toddy by the fireplace and relaxing.

With Equity Estates, the possibilities are endless. We interviewed our knowledgeable Destination Manager for Aspen to create a perfect three-day itinerary. There is so much to do in this fabulous destination!

Day One: Explore a Winter Wonderland

For downhill skiing or snowboarding, there is nothing better than starting with Aspen Mountain, known locally as “Ajax.” Catch the Gondola in the village, a short walk from your Equity Estates home. Lunch on the mountain or at the base. Aspen’s Roaring Fork Valley boasts four ski mountains, each offering something for skiers of all levels: bowls, steeps, groomers, or gentle slopes—you don’t have to decide ahead of time as all resorts use the same lift ticket.

Another option for today, allow us to hire a snowshoe guide or rent cross country skis for a different perspective of the area. There are 90 kilometers of free trails in the Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System. Take a lesson or guided tour through the beautiful rolling hills and aspen groves of the Owl Creek Trail, the North Star Nature Preserve, or take in stunning vistas of the majestic Elk Mountains. Your private concierge will arrange equipment rental and reserve your guide at the Aspen Cross Country Center (ACCC). Afterwards, relax in the ACCC lounge with a hot drink or head into Aspen Village for the perfect snack or lunch.

If you prefer to explore on your own, sans guide or teacher, trail system maps are available at the Center or online and your concierge will plan a picnic lunch for you from Meat & Cheese Market, a local favorite. Located in the heart of Aspen, the market offers take away or dine in. Soups, salads, sandwiches, charcuterie boards, and desserts, OH MY! Cocktails, wine, and beer may also be ordered to go if the restaurant is not currently seating.

Afterwards, walk around Aspen Village and warm up with a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate at Victoria+co. This Australian style cafe is part coffee shop, part bakery, part wine bar. This local gem also serves hot breakfast and hot lunch. For a family style take out dinner, your concierge can pre-order the house specialty, Thai Green Curry.

Your concierge will arrange dinner reservations for Cache Cache, which is viewed by many as the best restaurant in Aspen. The food is unpretentious and delicious—try the Alaskan King Crab appetizer and choose from the restaurant’s over 6000 bottles of wine. Or for the Italian lovers, try Acquolina Trattoria and Pizzeria. A local favorite, savor the minestrone on a cold night. They have a full menu of salads, pastas, and entrees, too. Your concierge can arrange reservations or for dinner delivery if you prefer a night at home for a cozy movie night by the fireplace.

Day Two: Dogsled through Snowmass Backcountry

Ski at Snowmass in the morning and let us plan an afternoon or twilight dogsledding adventure with Krabloonik for a unique Aspen experience. Eight husky sled dogs guided by an experienced musher will pull you through the backcountry for an exciting and peaceful journey. Afterwards have a late lunch in their dining room or head back to Aspen for a bite or happy hour.

A modern Aspen Landmark since 1889 at the height of the town’s silver boom with its Old West vibe, J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome remains the town’s social hub, where local skiers rub elbows with socialites over craft beers, vintage-inspired cocktails, and Aspen’s best burger.

Tonight, dinner reservations at Steakhouse No. 316. Red velvet curtains and leather booths create a warm atmosphere on a snowy night, and they offer a full steak menu with many seafood and fowl options. Or rather, enjoy a five-star dinner in the comfort of your home and allow us to arrange for a private chef. Your concierge will work with you to select the perfect menu including wine pairings. Investors rave about this feature of traveling with Equity Estates.

Day Three: Shop ‘til You Drop and Go for a Sleigh Ride

Aspen offers unique, world class shopping. Spend the day wandering through town in search of treasure, that special statement piece, home decor item or gift.

Shop high end fashion consignment, many pieces are brand new with the original tags at The Little Bird. Discover top of the line Western wear and accessories at Kemo Sabe. Design your own statement piece—custom boots, hats, or buckles— or buy off the shelf and have them brand your initials on the item. The store has something for everyone and is a must-see destination in Aspen. You will not be disappointed. The Daniels Antiques collection is eclectic and to wander the store is an adventure through time and taste. Admire museum-quality antiques and rarities that are 50 years or even a century old. The owners specialize in Swiss Black Wood forest carvings. Inventory also includes French industrial clocks, contemporary art, custom aviation furniture, luxury barware, Louis Vuitton, and 20th century curiosities.

Hit the slopes or town in the timeless style of Gorsuch Ltd. Shop fur boots, luxurious cashmere, wool favorites, and performance wear. Shop Pitkin County Dry Goods for contemporary clothing, one of Aspen’s top retail destinations. This 50-year locally owned business has a loyal customer base from all over the world and when you stop in you will see why. The selection of men’s and women’s fashion is unique and stylish.

Come for the people watching and truffle fries, there is no better seat in town for lunch or cocktails than Ajax Tavern. Warm up with spiced cider or mulled wine at this hot spot, loved by locals and out of town visitors. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain and next to Silver Queen Gondola, this is the spot. Sit outside year-round thanks to their sunny tented, heated patio and during the winter season, they offer dinner and a movie. The cauliflower au gratin will not disappoint. Or if you’re interested in the St. Regis Aspen Resort, then drop in at the Mountain Social Bar & Lounge for handcrafted cocktails and light fare with views of Aspen Mountain.

Let us plan dinner and a sleigh ride for you at Pine Creek Cookhouse for the experience of a lifetime. Beautiful Percheron horses pull classic wooden sleighs to dinner in the nearby Ashcroft Valley. Guided by cowboys, your 20-minute sleigh ride takes you through the aspen trees with breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains on your way to an elegant cabin. Feast on rack of lamb, pistachio crusted caribou, and barbequed flat iron steak. The menu changes daily.

At Home In Aspen with Equity Estates

Equity Estates recently invested $275,000 to upgrade the interior and exterior of our four-bedroom Aspen residence. This has immediately added to the residence’s value and the feedback from our investors is they love it. The spacious living room and open floor plan allow for the entire family to comfortably gather around the fireplace for a cozy night in after a day of skiing or other winter adventures. Have a movie night or choose from a selection of games and prepare dinner in your expansive chef’s kitchen. Your private concierge will arrange reservations for activities and outings, meals out or meals in. She will even pick up your groceries to ensure your kitchen is stocked with all of your favorites from the local market. If preferred, she will hire a local private chef to experience the famous Aspen cuisine in your home.

Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable Aspen experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.

Your Aspen adventure awaits!

If the allure of stunning white sand beaches, warm cerulean water and laidback friendly islands is beckoning you, put the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) on your next destination list. Now more than ever, many of us are yearning to travel somewhere beautiful where we can recharge, enjoy time with our family and leave the daily stressors behind. Many destinations are off-limits to visitors due to the pandemic, but the TCI is welcoming U.S. visitors.

As of January 4, 2021, there are no quarantine requirements, lockdowns, or curfews. Visitors aged 10 and older only need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test within five days of arrival, have medical insurance and answer an online health questionnaire. Restaurants, shops and attractions are open (some with reduced capacity and mask requirements). And unlike many tropical destinations that require several hours in the air and multiple airports, the TCI is a short two to three-hour flight from many airports along the U.S. Eastern Seaboard.

Turks and Caicos

Day One

The TCI beaches are the #1 attraction here, so from either residence, our DMs suggest easing into your stay by simply walking out your door, and you’ll be on a spectacular beach in moments. At either residence, you can settle into a comfortable deck chair next to an infinity pool and admire the beach sand-free— or dig your toes in the sand and take a dip in the warm, crystal-clear tropical ocean. When lunchtime rolls around, choose from several friendly, tasty beachfront restaurants such as Da Conch Shack or Omar’s Beach Hut. Both establishments have tables right on the beach, so no need to change out of your swimsuit!

Since the world’s third-largest barrier reef borders the island chain, our DMs say the TCI’s second-best attraction is its fantastic snorkeling and diving. Spend the afternoon cruising with Caicos Dream Tours and let its friendly, capable crew take you to remote beaches and snorkeling spots — or if fishing is on your agenda, you’ve come to the right spot! The TCI is a renowned bonefish and deep-sea fishing destination. If you happen to visit a few days after the full moon, another option is to book a Glow Worm Sunset Cruise with Sun Charters. Each month this spectacular phenomenon happens when bioluminescent sea worms carry out a mating ritual by swimming in circular patterns about an hour after sunset.

For dinner, our DMs suggests Seven Restaurant’s private dining experience where you can dine on or near the beach — or indulge in their private Tasting Room five-course, paired wine experience. If French/Italian cuisine sounds appealing, head to the Michelin-starred Provence by Eric.

Sea Turtle

Day Two

If you’re interested in learning to scuba dive or you’re already certified, the TCI offers exceptional diving, and our DMs recommend a private charter with Dive Provo. Another option they like is a trip with SNUBA Turks and Caicos, a shallow water diving hybrid between scuba diving and snorkeling. You don’t need a certification or wear cumbersome gear — you can swim among the spectacular sea life as you breathe through a specialized mouthpiece attached to air tanks that float on the surface.

Once your morning adventure ends, it’s time to refuel. For a tasty lunch, look no further than Cocovan’s food truck (run by the fabulous team at Coco Bistro). Sit at one of their outdoor picnic tables as you enjoy their fantastic fish, steak or falafel tacos and “Big Mac” egg rolls. After lunch, explore Provo’s remote wetlands via private kayak tours with Big Blue Collective. They also offer standup paddleboarding trips, kitesurfing and other adventures. For a more relaxed afternoon, lounge by your pool or the beach until it’s time for “sundowners” (sunset cocktails)! For dinner, let The Kissing Fish Catering Co. prepare and serve you a fabulous feast in the comfort of your residence. If you prefer to dine out, this talented group also runs Bay Bistro, a wonderful oceanfront eatery where you can dine at a private table directly on Grace Bay Beach. For late night fun, head to Casablanca Casino and try your luck at blackjack, roulette, poker or slots.

Day Three

Horseback riding is a fun adventure anywhere, and doing a private ride with Provo Ponies offers an extra perk — in addition to a scenic beach ride, their horses love to wade into the ocean! The well-trained, friendly horses carry you safely into the shallow water, allowing you both to cool your legs off a bit. You’ll have worked up an appetite on this unique adventure, so for lunch, our DMs say head to Bugaloos Conch Crawl, a lively beachfront restaurant with daily live entertainment and outdoor games. They even have tables sitting in the shallow, calm water so you can cool your feet as you eat.

After lunch, grab one more chance to admire the TCI’s underwater paradise on your own or take a guided snorkel trip at Coral Gardens, a well-marked snorkel trail just offshore from the Coral Gardens Resort. You’ll likely see gliding sea turtles, scores of tropical fish and maybe even a barracuda. Keep an eye out for Jammin’ Gelato’s ice cream cart that cruises up and down the beach serving delicious, unique flavors. If you’ve had your fill of water adventures, end your third day with a relaxing spa treatment from one of the TCI’s many luxurious spas.

No beach vacation is complete without a sunset cruise, so let Island Vibes Tours take you on a private luxury cruise and sip rum punch, champagne, beer or wine as you watch the glorious sun sink under the horizon. For dinner, our Destination Managers say Coco Bistro is a must. Dine under swaying palms and cozy lighting as you sample some of the TCI’s best local cuisine.

Thompson Cove

Not One, But Two Fantastic Homes

Best of all, you have two fantastic Equity Estates’ residences to choose from — a luxurious four-bedroom penthouse condo and a fabulous six-bedroom private villa. The expansive 4,500-square-foot penthouse overlooks Grace Bay Beach, which frequently lands on “Word’s Best Beaches” lists. Fifteen minutes away sits Thompson Cove, a divine 7,500-square-foot beachfront home boasting six equivalent master suites with private terraces, a splendid infinity pool and vast amounts of living space. We interviewed our Destination Managers, who, along with our Local Hosts, are ready to help you plan a much-needed, fantastic getaway to the TCI’s primary island, Providenciales (aka Provo). To help you get started, here are their suggestions on how to spend three perfect days in this idyllic island paradise.

Equity Estates can help make your visit to the TCI a delightfully unparalleled experience. If you’re already an investor, your Personal Travel Concierge is ready to assist you with arranging a memorable vacation here.

If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.

We are thrilled about our new partnership with The Eden Club!

Our new partnership with The Eden Club will allow Equity Estates investors unparalleled access to legendary St. Andrews, Scotland—including the storied Old Course. Investors will enjoy high-end accommodation on the grounds of famed Pittormie Castle while checking off the courses on every golfer’s bucket list. Though the courses of St. Andrews are arguably some of the best in the world, our portfolio boasts many other incredible destinations for golf enthusiasts. Continue reading below to discover our top picks for golf within our portfolio.

Cape Town

With its splendid natural surroundings, cool ocean breezes and rolling hills, it’s no wonder why Cape Town is the golf mecca of South Africa. Many of the fairways that dot this city are both visually stunning and technically challenging, making them a favorite of both local and international golf enthusiasts. Our residence in Cape Town is set on the grounds of the five-star Arabella Western Cape Hotel and Spa, surrounded by outstanding beauty and home to a championship golf course by the same name. Arabella Golf Crouse is set on the banks of the largest natural lagoon in South Africa and offers a world-class golf experience, complete with 18 meticulously crafted holes. This course regularly attracts professional players and celebrities from around the globe.

Hilton Head

When most golfers think of Hilton Head Island, the signature RBC Heritage event surely comes to mind. This small island is home to more than 400 golf holes, making it a very popular vacation destination since the 1950s. Spring is the perfect time to play a few rounds, when the weather is ideal and the azaleas are blooming. Our beachfront residence offers stunning Atlantic views and a very close proximity to many courses including Harbour Town Golf Links within The Sea Pines Resort. Harbour Town is one of the most celebrated courses on the PGA tour, making it the perfect place to put your game to the ultimate test of finesse.

Punta Cana

Punta Cana was established as a golf destination when Teeth of the Dog opened in the 1970s, but newcomers within the last decade on the island’s eastern shore have cemented its reputation. One of these is La Cana, located within the Punta Cana Resort & Club. Our expansive home in the Punta Cana Resort & Club overlooks the signature 12th hole known as “island green” and offers unparalleled access to this renowned course. Additionally, Punta Espada and Corales—arguably the best seaside golf experiences throughout the entire Caribbean—are both located just a short golf cart ride away from our residence.