Romance Lovers Reading Retreat ~ October 9 - 14 in Punta Cana

Oct 9 - 14, 2026

The Setting: Secrets Tides Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Picture this: sunshine on your skin, the sound of the ocean in the background… and a book you can’t put down.

No work. No responsibilities. No interruptions.

Just you, your TBR, and a community of readers who get it.

This retreat is designed for romance lovers who want to truly unplug and read, whether that means lounging beachside all day, joining our cozy Romantics Reading Parties by the pool, or sneaking in “just one more chapter” before dinner.

Wake up slow. Read often. Connect when you feel like it.

Share meals and laughs with new bookish friends, or take a table for one and stay wrapped up in your latest fictional obsession. There’s zero pressure and plenty of space to just be.

If you’ve been craving time to yourself (and your books), this is it.

Ready to turn the page?

Spots are limited and booking closes May 22 - don’t miss your chance to escape.

Hosted & curated by the Hopeless Romantic Books team and Chapters & Chill Travel

a woman laying on a beach chair reading a book
  • The Itinerary

    Day 1 : Arrival + Welcome (Friday, Oct 9th)

    Flight from Toronto (YYZ) --> Punta Cana

    9:00 AM - 1:25 PM

    Arrival + Group Ground Transfer

    Settle into your room, freshen up, and take in your first glimpse of paradise.

    Afternoon --> Free Time to Arrive Softly

    • Unpack, and explore the resort
    • Grab a cocktail, dip in the pool, or head straight to the beach
    • Start your first "vacation read" moment

    Late Afternoon --> TBR Debrief & Introductions

    • A relaxed, low pressure meet & greet.
    • Share what you're currently reading (or excited to start), meet fellow romance readers, and ease into the retreat vibe.

    Evening --> Welcome Dinner

    • Our first event together, good food, great conversation, and the beginning of new bookish friendships.

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    Day 2 : Settle Into the Rhythm (Saturday, Oct 10th)

    Morning --> Breakfast at your Leisure

    Slow start, hit the buffet, or have a coffee with your book on the balcony.

    Optional Morning Activity

    • Join a yoga class or an ocean walk

    Late Morning --> Romantics Reading Party

    Uninterrupted, quiet reading time by the pool or beach.

    Afternoon --> Lunch and Free Time

    • Continue Reading
    • Try snorkelling or pickleball
    • Relax in the spa or hydrotherapy areas(additional fee)
    • Nap, guilt-free

    Late Afternoon --> Golden Hour Reading

    Another cozy reading block as the sun softens.

    Evening --> Dinner + Resort Entertainment

    Join the group or do your own thing - followed by optional live shows, music or a quiet night with your book.

    3 outdoor pools, open 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, pool umbrellas - Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only (Punta Cana)

    Day 3: Creativity + Connection (Sunday, Oct 11th)

    Morning -> Breakfast + Optional Morning Activity

    Enjoy another slow morning, hit the buffet, join an optional yoga class or dive into your book.

    Late Morning --> Romantics Reading Party

    Another uninterrupted reading block with your new bookish friends.

    Afternoon --> Lunch + Free Time

    • Continue Reading
    • Join in on a resort activity
    • Take a walk with your toes in the sand

    Mid Afternoon --> Book Bedazzling Workshop

    A fun, creative break; decorate your current read or Kindle and connect with other attendees.

    Late Afternoon --> Free Time or Reading

    Enjoy the resort activities or read poolside the choice is yours.

    Evening --> Dinner + Resort Entertainment

    Join the group or do your own thing - followed by optional live shows, music or a quiet night with your book.

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    Day 4: Rest, Reset, Repeat (Monday, Oct 12th)

    Morning --> Slow Breakfast + Optional Movement

    Join yoga, hit the gym or opt for a stroll along the beach. Or simply jump into your book on your private balcony with a coffee.

    Late Morning --> Extended Reading Block

    A longer uninterrupted session to fully sink into your book.

    Late Afternoon --> Reader Rest Moment

    Optional quiet journaling, reflection, or simply more reading.

    Evening --> Dinner + Casual Book Chats

    An easy, optional hangout to share favourite reads so far.

    Aerial view - Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only (Punta Cana)

    Day 5: Final Chapters (Tuesday, Oct 13th)

    Morning --> Breakfast + Optional Movement

    Join yoga, hit the gym or opt for a stroll along the beach. Or jump into your book on your private balcony with a coffee.

    Late Morning --> Final Romantics Reading Party

    One last dedicated group reading session - finish that book or start more!

    Afternoon --> Lunch + Free Time

    Soak up your final full day in paradise however you want.

    Late Afternoon --> Free Time

    • Pack and prep for departure
    • Relax and read
    • Enjoy the beach

    Evening --> Farewell Dinner

    Celebrate the week - share your favourite reads, moments and connections.

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    Day 6: Departure (Wednesday, Oct 14th)

    Morning --> TBR Tackle Brunch

    Join the group for one last cozy reading session over coffee and breakfast

    Late Morning --> Free Time + Check out

    • Finish packing up those loose items
    • Check out of the resort
    • Gather in the lobby for our return transfer

    Ground Transfer to Airport (Time TBD)

    Flight from Punta Cana (PUJ)--> Toronto (YYZ)

    2:45 PM --> 7:15 PM

    white airplane flying in the sky during daytime
  • Retreat Pricing (per person in CAD)

    Secrets Tides Punta Cana

    Jr. Suite Tropical View

    Free minibar, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace - Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only (Punta Cana)
    Shower, rainfall showerhead, free toiletries, hair dryer - Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only (Punta Cana)
    • Double Occupancy (shared room with 2 double beds): $2,022 CAD per person
      (Price is per person, based on sharing a room with another guest. Bring your book bestie, partner or join the rooming waitlist if you are coming solo)
      • $350 nonrefundable deposit due at booking
      • Remaining balance due July 24th
    • Single Occupancy (private room with 2 double beds): SOLD OUT
      (Enjoy your own private space for the full retreat experience)
      • $350 nonrefundable deposit due at booking
      • Remaining balance due July 24th

    **If you would like an upgraded room please email melissa@chaptersandchilltravel.com for current pricing.

  • What Your Retreat Includes

    This isn't just a trip - it's a fully taken care of escape where all you need to do is show up ... and read.

    Your Package Includes

    • Roundtrip flights (1 checked bag included per person)
    • Group airport transfers (seamless arrival and departure)
    • All-inclusive luxury accommodations in a Jr. Suite Tropical view at Secrets Tides Punta Cana
    • All meals & drinks (yes, cocktails too!)
    • All taxes and fees included in CAD

    From the moment you leave home until you return, everything is handled, so you can fully unplug and sink into your books.

    Aerial view - Secrets Tides Punta Cana All Inclusive - Adults Only (Punta Cana)

    Included Resort Experiences

    When you’re not deep in a romance novel, the resort offers endless ways to relax, recharge, or play, completely included in your stay:

    Entertainment & Social Vibes

    • Live shows and nightly entertainment
    • Themed nights
    • Dance classes
    • Sports bar & nightclub

    Relax & Rejuvenate

    • Sauna rooms
    • Fitness centre
    • Daily yoga classes
    • Full-service spa spaces (services available at additional cost)

    Stay Active (if you want to!)

    • Snorkeling
    • Introductory scuba lessons
    • Pickleball
    • Aqua aerobics
    • Beach & water volleyball

    Whether you want total solitude with your book or a little fun in between chapters, you’ll have the freedom to choose.

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    What’s Not Included

    • Tips & gratuities for resort staff
    • Travel insurance (strongly recommended – cancellation & emergency medical)
    • Optional excursions
    • Airline seat selection & additional baggage fees
    • Specialty dining experiences or premium resort activities
  • How to Book

    Ready to join us to read uninterrupted in paradise?

    1. Click Book now.
    2. Fill out the booking form for everyone in your room. Please ensure your information matches your passport EXACTLY.
    3. Melissa will contact you within 24 business hours to confirm availability (spots will be accepted based on the order received.)
    4. Once availability has been confirmed you will receive an email with a link to authorize your deposit. Please note the deposit must be received within 48 hours or you risk loosing your spot. Your spot is NOT confirmed until we have received the deposit for your room.

    If you have any questions at all please contact our travel agent partner Melissa at melissa@chaptersandchilltravel.com

    Spots are limited...Book now to secure yours!

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  • FAQ's

    Can I come alone?

    Absolutely - many guests will be arriving solo. You have the option to book a solo room or join a waitlist to be matched with a roommate.

    This retreat is designed so you can be as social (or as tucked into your own little reading world) as you want. Whether you’re chatting over dinner or spending the day with your book and a cocktail, you’ll feel completely at ease.

    Do I have to participate in group activities?

    Not at all,  everything is optional!

    Join in when it feels fun, skip it when you’d rather read “just one more chapter.” There’s no pressure to do anything except enjoy yourself.

    What are “Romantics Reading Parties”?

    Think: your dream reading environment, but better.

    These are quiet, dedicated group reading sessions by the pool or beach. Everyone brings their book, settles in, and reads - together, but in your own world.

    No small talk. No interruptions. Just pure, uninterrupted reading time.

    What kind of books should I bring?

    Your TBR is finally having its main character moment.

    Bring whatever you’re excited to read - romance is the vibe (of course), but all genres are welcome - whatever you’re currently obsessed with. That said… you’ll be surrounded by people who understand the importance of a good book boyfriend 

    Pro tip: bring options. Your reading mood will change.

    Can I choose my roommate?

    Yes!

    If you’re booking double occupancy, you can room with a friend.
    Traveling solo but open to sharing? We can match you with another reader.
    Want your own quiet space? Single occupancy rooms are available.

    What airport do we fly from?

    This package includes roundtrip flights from Pearson International Airport in Toronto (YYZ).

    If you’re traveling from elsewhere, reach out and we can explore options for you.

    Are payment plans available?

    Yes - because we love a flexible plotline.

    A deposit secures your spot, and the remaining balance can be split into scheduled payments, just let Melissa know if you would like to make additional payments to break up the cost.

    What is the cancellation policy if I cancel?

    All bookings are subject to supplier cancellation policies:

    • Your deposit of $350 per person is NONREFUNDABLE
    • 59 - 22 days prior to departure 50% of the total package cost per passenger including taxes, fees and surcharges.
    • 21 days or less prior to departure --> 100% of the total package cost per passenger including taxes, fees and surcharges.

    We highly recommend travel insurance (including cancellation and emergency medical coverage), so you can book with peace of mind. If you don't currently have a preferred provider let us know when booking and we can help provide some options.

    What happens if Hopeless Romantics cancels the retreat?

    If we are not able to meet our minimum booking requirement for the group you will be notified by May 22nd and will receive a refund of your deposit, minus a $50 admin fee.

    What should I pack?

    Think cozy, breezy, and beach-ready:

    • Swimsuits & cover-ups
    • Lightweight outfits
    • Sandals + something a little dressy for dinner
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, a good tote
    • And of course… your books (or fully loaded Kindle)

    Will there be Wi-Fi?

    Yes - but consider this your invitation to disconnect from everything… except your current read.

    How many people will be attending? 

    This is an intentionally intimate retreat with limited spots available. Currently we have 32 spots reserved for the group. If we meet that amount we may split the group into groups of 8 - 10 based on reading preferences.

    Small group = more space to relax, read, and actually enjoy the experience.

    Is this a party trip?

    Think less spring break, more slow mornings and late-night reading sessions.

    There is entertainment and nightlife at the resort if you want it, but the overall vibe is relaxed, cozy, and book-first.

    What makes this retreat different?

    This isn’t a jam-packed itinerary or a go-go-go group trip.

    It’s a thoughtfully curated escape for readers who want:

    • uninterrupted time to read
    • a beautiful, calming setting
    • and a community that gets it

    No pressure. No expectations. Just books, sunshine, and your next favourite story.

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Your Advisor

Melissa McMahon

Chapters and Chill Retreats

TICO: 50028184

CLIA: 00048261

IATA: 96189811

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melissa@chaptersandchilltravel.com

519-503-2901