Dominican Republic

As a cheap destination, this place is absolutely fantastic. I would say it is very important to get your hotel right on this island, as in some areas the sea is just too rough to swim, or the sand is very deeply shelving so not good for the little ones.

I stayed at the Sol De Plata Hotel in Sosua and although the hotel was excellent in every way, the beach left a lot to be desired. I don't generally venture in to the sea though so this didn't really bother me.

The people here are very friendly and nothing is too much trouble. I went quad biking and horse riding whilst in the Dominican both of which were fantastic. The quad biking was an eye opener as you get to see how the locals live and go past the school etc... which was lovely but also very sad to see how poor they are, but they still all walk around with a huge smile on their faces!!

I wouldn't hesitate to return to the Dominican for a break, although would probably from recommendation stay at the Iberostar Costa Dorada as it has fantastic reviews.