Destination Spotlight: Dominican Republic
Located in the Greater Antilles region of the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is one of the world’s most popular tropical destinations. The picturesque island has been a favourite amongst Canadian travellers for decades and is known for its breathtaking beaches, world-class golf courses and lush landscapes.
With so much to see and do across the island, it can be hard to narrow down what Dominican vacation is best for you. To help you get started on planning your future getaway to this tropical oasis, we put together the ultimate travel guide for the Dominican Republic with the best excursions, resorts and more.
Tee off on world-famous golf courses in Punta Cana
While Punta Cana is most known for its gorgeous white-sand beaches, it’s also home to some of the Caribbean’s top golf courses. When you’re not soaking up the sun on pristine stretches of sand you can tee off on greens designed by some of the sport’s legends including Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Nick Price. The area even hosts a major PGA Tour event every year, the Corales Puntacana Resort and Club Championship!
Where to stay: The adults only Hideaway at Royalton Punta Cana is conveniently located by two popular golf courses, La Cana Golf Club and Punta Blanca Golf Club. When you’re not practicing your swing you can lounge by one of the numerous pools with convenient poolside wait service or test out the water slides at Royalton Splash Punta Cana Resort and Spa next door.
Learn about the island’s fascinating history in Santo Domingo
Did you know that the Dominican Republic is home to the oldest city in the Americas? Santo Domingo was founded in the 15th century when it was discovered by famous explorer Christopher Columbus and its historic district is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book a guided tour with Sunwing Experiences to learn about the city’s history from the experts as you stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Colonial Zone, visit the first cathedral in the Americas and explore the iconic Alcázar de Colón.
Where to stay: Santo Domingo is just a short day excursion away when you stay at Riu Palace Bavaro. The top-rated luxury resort offers plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun when you’re not exploring the island’s capital, from themed parties to non-motorized water sports. Plus, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to the rest of the RIU Punta Cana complex throughout your stay!
Hang ten and catch a wave in Cabarete
The coast of the Dominican Republic is a haven for water sports’ lovers and Cabarete outside of Puerto Plata offers some of the best kitesurfing and windsurfing conditions in the Caribbean! The area’s steady waves, warm waters and rolling waves attract professionals from around the world – it even hosts numerous competitions like the Cabarete Kite Festival and Master of the Ocean. Learn how to surf at one of the numerous kitesurfing and windsurfing schools along the beach or kick back, relax and watch the professionals perform tricks on the waves.
Where to stay: When you’re not testing out the waves, you can test out the water slides at Riu Republica’s adults only water park – the only one exclusively for guests aged 18+ in the Caribbean. After racing down the monster slides, head to the sprawling pool complex to soak up the sun with your favourite refreshing drink from the swim-up bar.
Explore majestic mountains in Puerto Plata
It’s not all about the beach in the Dominican Republic! Puerto Plata, located on the island’s north coast, is known for its mountainous landscapes and picturesque terrain. One of the best ways to admire the area’s natural beauty is on a cable car ride up Mount Isabel de Torres – you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding hills and the magnificent coastline. Another great way to explore Puerto Plata’s exotic landscapes is on an excursion to Damajagua Waterfalls, where you’ll ride through the jungle on a safari truck before hiking through caves, rivers, natural water slides and rushing cascades.
Where to stay: Keep the fun going back at Royalton Bavaro Resort and Spa. This beachfront resort offers activities for every vacationer, from the FlowRider® surf simulator ($) to the kids splash pad and winding lazy river. You’ll enjoy Royalton’s signature All-In Luxury® experience throughout your stay including free Wi-Fi throughout the resort, reservation-free dining at gourmet restaurants, world-class service and more.
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