In this Cary Spotlight Issue…

💭 Spotlight Hook Trivia

🧭 International Travel: Hello, Punta Cana!

🧭 Cary Local Bucket List: Find Your Rhythm at Downtown Cary Park’s Dance Celebration

😋🍴 Discover Cary (East & Drink): Boteco do Brazil

😀 Meme of the Day

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🏛️ Support Local Businesses

Question: Which famous artist signed his paintings with his first name only?

(Answer at the bottom of the newsletter.)

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Hello, Punta Cana! A Five-Day Tropical Escape Awaits in the Dominican Republic

Welcome to Punta Cana — where every sunrise seems painted just for you and every wave sings the sweet song of island life. Over the next five days, you’ll dive into the warm Caribbean waters, lounge on endless stretches of soft white sand, and discover the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the Dominican Republic.

Whether you’re craving pure relaxation, thrilling adventure, or a bit of both, this itinerary is your golden ticket to living the island dream. Pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sense of adventure — paradise is calling! Here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:​

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Bliss

• Afternoon:
  Touch down at Punta Cana International Airport and feel the tropical air kiss your skin. After a breezy 20-minute transfer, check into your all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel. Popular options include Excellence Punta Cana (luxury adults-only) or Meliá Caribe Beach Resort (family-friendly).

• Late Afternoon:
  Drop your bags, slip into your beachwear, and head straight for the sand. Spend your first few hours unwinding on Bávaro Beach, often ranked among the best beaches in the world.

• Evening:
  Toast your arrival with a tropical cocktail and savor a beachfront dinner. Many resorts offer live merengue music — don't be shy about joining in!

Day 2: Snorkeling and Island Adventure

• Morning:
  Book a catamaran tour to Isla Saona, a postcard-perfect island off the coast. Swim in crystal-clear natural pools, spot starfish, and snorkel vibrant coral reefs. Many tours include a fresh seafood barbecue lunch and drinks.

• Afternoon:
  Relax on the island beaches or explore the sleepy village of Mano Juan, known for its turtle conservation efforts.

• Evening:
  Return to Punta Cana and enjoy a relaxed dinner. If you have energy, check out Coco Bongo, a spectacular nightclub and show experience that’s pure sensory overload (and tons of fun!).

Day 3: Jungle Adventures and Cenote Swimming

• Morning:
  Time to swap your flip-flops for adventure shoes! Book a buggy excursion through the lush Dominican countryside. Drive through mud puddles, visit a local coffee and cacao farm, and swim in a hidden cenote (natural freshwater sinkhole).

• Afternoon:
  After cleaning up, head to Scape Park for ziplining, cave exploration, and a swim in the famous Hoyo Azul, a stunning turquoise waterhole set at the base of a towering cliff.

• Evening:
  Opt for a quieter dinner night — perhaps enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach under the stars, a service many resorts offer if reserved in advance.

Day 4: Culture, Shopping, and Relaxation

• Morning:
  Visit Altos de Chavón, a replica 16th-century Mediterranean village perched above the Chavón River. Browse local art galleries, boutiques, and soak up the beautiful architecture.

• Afternoon:
  Return to your resort for some well-deserved downtime. Book a spa treatment — a beachside massage with coconut oil is highly recommended!

• Evening:
  Stroll along the beach at sunset and savor a special Dominican dinner. Look for local specialties like mangu (mashed plantains), mofongo, or fresh-caught lobster.

Day 5: Sunrise Farewell and Departure

• Morning:
  Rise early to catch one last breathtaking Punta Cana sunrise. Savor a leisurely breakfast by the sea — fresh tropical fruits, strong Dominican coffee, and all the views.

• Late Morning:
  Depending on your flight time, squeeze in a last swim or some souvenir shopping at local markets for Dominican rum, larimar jewelry, or hand-rolled cigars.

• Afternoon:
  Head to the airport with sandy toes, a sun-kissed glow, and a heart full of island memories.
  

Learn about more family trips built for adventurers of all ages.

G Adventures is the leader in small group and solo travel for 30 years, they know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides. Check out the Online Deals: The Whole World is on sale! Shop Travel Deals

Just curious…

Tell us how you’d spend your dream day in Punta Cana? 👇

Travel Guides - Here are two comprehensive travel guides to help you plan your trip.

• Punta Cana Travel Guide – Lonely Planet
  Lonely Planet offers trusted, detailed tips on where to stay, what to do, when to go, and cultural insights that go beyond just beaches. Perfect if you want a mix of relaxation and local exploration.
  

• Punta Cana Visitor Guide – PuntaCanaTraveller.com
  This site is dedicated only to Punta Cana. It’s packed with real-time updates on excursions, restaurant recommendations, best beaches, and insider tips. It even has advice on transportation and avoiding tourist traps.

Cary Local Bucket List: Find Your Rhythm at Downtown Cary Park’s Dance Celebration

There’s a rhythm moving through Downtown Cary Park this spring — and it’s one you won’t want to miss. On Tuesday, April 29, the Park will transform into a celebration of movement, music, and pure joy with the International Day of Dance Festival, hosted by Graceful Expressions.

Throughout the day, visitors can step into free workshops designed for every age and ability level. From a lively senior dance class and preschool storytime sessions to contemporary dance, K-pop tutorials, and even choreography inspired by the hit musical "Wicked," the schedule is packed with chances to move, learn, and have fun.

The energy builds throughout the afternoon, with playful activities like dance-themed free play on Frantz Square Lawn and surprise pop-up performances across the park. As the sun sets, the Great Lawn Pavilion comes alive with community group performances featuring African dance, K-pop, Argentine tango, Brazilian arts, and more. The evening wraps up with a dance party open to all — no experience required, just bring your best moves and a big smile.

It’s a full day dedicated to the universal language of dance, and it’s completely free and open to the public. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just want to sway to the music, there’s a spot waiting for you on the dance floor.

Good to Know:

• 📍 Location: Downtown Cary Park, Academy Pavilion, Frantz Square Lawn, Great Lawn

• 📅 Date & Time: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 | 10:45 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

• 💵 Admission: Free!

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Family Info: Not a drop-off event — parents and guardians must stay with their children

• 🦽 Accessibility: Downtown Cary Park offers inclusion services; complete the accessibility form if needed

Check the full event schedule here: International Day of Dance Event Details

Whether you’re stepping into a beginner’s class or cheering on local performers, the International Day of Dance promises a celebration where everyone can find their rhythm.

Boteco do Brazil

Boteco do Brazil is one of the local food places nominated by Cary Spotlight’s readers for our Discover Cary project. If you had a chance to sample their food, feel free to share your opinion below.

Boteco do Brazil in Cary, NC, offers an authentic Brazilian dining experience with traditional dishes like picanha and coxinha, complemented by live music and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of a classic Brazilian boteco.

Check out their menu on their website: Boteco do Brazil

Address: 4214 NW Cary Pkwy, Cary, NC 27513 | Get Directions | Order Online

Do you have a
favorite place to eat in Cary, NC?

We want to hear about it! Cary Spotlight readers are always on the lookout for delicious local gems, and your recommendation could be the next must-try spot in town. Whether it’s a cozy café or a brand-new restaurant with flavors worth sharing, let us know!

Share your favorite finds and help fellow food lovers explore the Cary’s dining scene.

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