Dreaming of the Caribbean but don’t know where to start? The Dominican Republic is the perfect starting point. It has something for everyone, being the second largest and most diverse Caribbean country, you will be spoilt for choice. Beautiful beaches, tick! Activities for all, tick! Easily accessible, tick! Lifelong travel memories, tick! Adventure, relaxation, luxury Dominican Republic Villas and rejuvenation all await you here.
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Explore Santo Domingo
The capital throngs with life, history and chilled beach vibes. The city was first seat of Spanish Rule in the Americas. The Zona Colonial is the beating heart of the city and has received the UNESCO World Heritage status for its historic importance. With some of the oldest buildings in the Western hemisphere, these sit along the cobbled streets, lined with cigar shops and monasteries.
It’s not all history though – the nightlife in the city is booming! If you are lucky enough to visit during February’s carnival you will not be disappointed, Santa Domingo has the largest celebration in the nation. Join the party and dance your night away to the Latin beats.
Embrace Nature
Experience the natural beauty of this nation. They have the most varied landscape of any Caribbean nation and care very much to protect their landscape. With 25% of the land and shoreline protected as national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries.
Coming to the Caribbean – the beach will be a high priority and the Dominican Republics’ 1,300km of pristine coastline is hard to beat! The most popular are tropical beaches of white sand, palm trees and glossy, clear water ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or watching the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
The coast is also home to over three to five thousand humpback whales that return annually from January to March. Come see these magnificent creatures in their finest. A memory to cherish for a lifetime.
Isla Saona is renowned for its untouched beaches. The whole island is a protected nature reserve, located just off the coast of Punta Cana. Swaying palm trees, white sandy beaches, this is the Caribbean paradise of your dreams at easy reach.
For another opportunity to explore an untouched part of the Dominican Republic explore the protected nature reserve the Indigenous Eyes Ecologic Park in Punta Cana. It features several freshwater, aquamarine lagoons that are the perfect place for a refreshing swim amongst the turtles. Also in the park is a number of cultural exhibits, petting zoo, and an iguana habitat.
Feel like a little adrenaline? Try the Hoyo Azul (Blue Hole) Zipline Adventure. The Hoyo Azul is a natural sinkhole filled with crystal clear water – it is dreamlike! Before your refreshing swim in this stunning water, fly over the Cap Cana Forest zipping through the trees. It will get the body pumping before rejuvenating yourself in this tranquil natural wonder.
Luxurious Resorts
Experience true luxury at it’s finest in one of the Dominican Republic’s outstanding resorts.
Casa de Campo is the original resort in the Dominican Republic, opening 50 years ago and has been a favorite since for discerning travelers who relish the exclusivity of this gated community. Celebrities such as Bill Clinton, J-Lo, Beyonce and Jay Z, and Messi are some of the well-known names that Casa de Campo has hosted. The activities and are top class and the stunning amphitheater in Altos de Chavon has seen world-class performers dazzle the audience from its opening in 1982 with Frank Sinatra to Andrea Bocelli to Elton John all gracing the stage.
Punta Cana Resort is a wonderful resort to indulge in the finer things in life. With 3 miles of magnificent white sand beaches set on 15,000 acres of land. The choices of how to spend your time, ranging from their spectacular spa treatments, dining at one of their top restaurants, world-class golf courses, water sports or perhaps some tennis. So easy to get to also! Just a fifteen-minute drive from Punta Cana airport until you reach this idyllic setting.
Golf
A dream location for golf enthusiasts! With some of the most spectacular courses in the world. Experience Corales Golf Club it’s set alongside the cliff side for incredible views as you tee off. It’s also home to the PGA Tour Event. Or try your swing at La Cana Golf Club, a 27-hole course and relax after in La Cana Beach Club, designed by Oscar de la Renta.
In Casa de Campo you have three courses designed by Pete Dye. However, it is the Teeth of the Dog course that is the most desirable course. It has also held the title of the best golf course in the Caribbean. The choice of golf courses in the Dominican Republic are world class. Truly a golf lovers paradise.
Indulge in the local produce
The Dominican Republic is known as the gastronomical capital of the Caribbean. With so much wonderful produce the choice of indulging the Dominican way couldn’t be more appetising.
There are tours, tastings, and numerous opportunities to stock up on some of their well-known produce -chocolate, coffee and cigars, there’s something for all tastes!
If you are looking for a setting of incredible beauty, stunning beaches, a unique history and culture with influences from 16 other countries, hospitable people and a memorable time the Dominican Republic is the ideal destination for you.
About Carson Derrow
