By Rajesh Chintaman
“Staycations” have all but replaced vacations in these times of pandemic and hassle-full travel. But vacationing at home was not exactly what I would call restful. My “to do” list was growing longer, and the stress of pandemic living was taking a toll. The idea of a staycation without any strings or worries seemed like a good option.
The criteria for this ultimate plunge into staycation life included absolutely no cooking (tricky, because I am a vegan), I should feel like I am in a totally different locale, zero schedule for anything, completely at my leisure.
My search led me to Sonesta Ocean Point Resort – the five-star, adults-only, all-inclusive resort. I had never stayed at an all-inclusive resort, having viewed them as overpriced and gimmicky, let alone stayed at one on the island I call home.
Reservations made – the choice was for a sunset suite for two with a direct view of the sun-kissed horizon. (Another option was a swim-out suite. On the list for next time).
The merit of a staycation immediately became evident – stress-free packing, no need for passports or flight to catch (also no lengthy mask wearing on a flight).
The car stowed in the parking lot. The check-in process was a breeze, and glasses of champagne and cool scented towels were provided. Masks required during check-in and getting your temperature scanned are some of the new health protocols that take place with the new PureCare program.
Breaking the “PureCare” seal on the suite’s door signaled the official start of the staycation. What the heck did people do on a staycation? We were at home … in a different place. Getting into robes and sitting on the balcony overlooking the pool and the Caribbean Sea did the trick, along with some plane spotting. If you are into aviation this is a premium spot to ogle planes heading into the airport.
Needing a snack, it was time for room service. Vegan options found. The 24-hour room service, the view, and the general ambience of Ocean Point quickly took us away from the reality of still being at home to a true vacation feeling.
Dinner time. The only debate was dine-in or head to Azul, the resort’s elegant signature restaurant. The five-course dinner was delicious (bonus: no dishes to wash). On learning my preference, the chef presented vegan offerings not on the menu. He even made hot sauce for me (I got a little to take home. I added it to some post-staycation meals to prolong the memories).
Let’s pause here to log the first night’s sleep in the king-sized bed.
The next morning was perfect for a room service breakfast feast. Yes, there was journey (or johnny) cakes on the menu. With absolutely no need to plan anything or go anywhere in particular I ensconced myself in the deep sofa, put my feet up and thought: no to-do list, so much do-nothing time.
The call to do some yoga came and I managed to get some stretches in. There’s also the Serenity Point Gazebo overlooking Maho Bay, tranquil for solo, or couples, massages or indoor spa indoor treatments.
After a sumptuous lunch at Azul (menus change daily), we claimed a hammock. The weather was very cooperative with the right amount of sunshine and cool breeze wafting off Maho Bay. Feeling safe and completely at home, a nap swiftly came. More explorations (chased Lady Luck to Casino Royale in Maho Village) and relaxation followed the nap, including pool time in one of their three pools (The Edge Pool with its man-made beach perched cliff-side, the Point Pool with perfect plane-spotting views, and the swim-out suite guests have their semi-private pool), cocktails atop the Sunset Lounge + Bar and another five-course dinner at Azul.
The evening was capped with wine sent up by the front desk, even though a well-stocked bar was included with the suite, and a warm bath in the huge bathtub.
The following day brought none of the usual stress of flight times and possible overweight baggage. There was sufficient opportunity to mull over breakfast at Azul, lounge by The Edge Pool, and take one last soak in the tub before heading back to reality.
If there was ever a time I clearly understood the Italian phrase “dolce far niente” (sweet idleness), this staycation was it. The transition from still being at home to pure relaxation was seamless and complete. And it continues to linger until the next (hopefully soon) staycation.
Now back to remembering my wallet. There was no need for that at Sonesta Ocean Point Resort – the all-inclusive element had it all covered!
Craving your own bit of dolce far niente? Sonesta Ocean Point Resort* has a special offer for island residents. Call 546-6222 to make a reservation and make sure to use promo code “RESIDENT” and mention this article.
*The adjacent family-focused Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa will reopen on October 29, 2020, and will also offer the Staycation special. Guests of Sonesta Ocean Point Resort will also have access to the family resort with the Stay at One, Play at Two program.
