Our day in Amber Cove started with a walk down one long pier, ending not in beach towels but at the glittering gates of the Diamond International bazaar. Duty-free deals sparkled under the tropical sun—jewelry, rum, cigars—but our sights were set beyond the trinkets.
We boarded our shuttle and rolled into the heart of Puerto Plata. The drive was eye-opening—roads alive with motion and texture. Motorbikes zipped past like dragonflies, often carrying entire families (helmet optional, apparently). The traffic was a symphony of honks and swerves, negotiating around potholes, street vendors, and piles of roadside garbage that spoke volumes about daily struggle beneath the island’s postcard exterior.
Then we reached the gates of Lifestyle Serenity, a walled compound guarded like treasure. And once inside? Paradise.
🦩 Inside the Resort Walls: A Feast of Comfort
The contrast was stark and jarring—outside, grit and hustle; inside, glitter and grace.
- White sand beaches melted into calm turquoise waters, framed by swaying palms.
- Pink flamingoes strut around like they owned the place (and honestly, they might’ve).
- Pools stretched wide, including one with a sunken swim-up bar—the kind you dream about in a hammock.
- Lunch? A full-blown feast. Grilled meats, tropical fruits, rich stews, and icy cocktails under shaded cabanas.
While sipping something fruity at the bar, I met a man spinning tall tales—claiming to be an agent for Michael Jackson and Prince. 🙃 Suuuuure, buddy. His charisma was almost convincing…until the third rum punch loosened all logic.
😅 The Almost-Missed Bus Moment
Time slipped past like sand through toes. I lingered too long in paradise and very nearly missed the return bus—dashing through flamingo-land like a sweaty, sunburned action hero in flip flops.
