Dominican Republic: Blue skies, beautiful beaches & the beat of the bachata
SETTING OFF IN STYLE
I’ve got used to kicking off my holidays in the most relaxing way possible, so – after my private transfer car dropped me off at Gatwick - I checked in and made my way to the Lounge. Access to this conveniently gave me fast-track through security – all very calm and civilised. I do like the Clubroom at Gatwick, and it’s nice to enjoy a little Champagne, while reading the papers and enjoying a bacon sandwich. As the Clubroom website says "Clubrooms provides the ultimate jet set departure with its hosted table service, hot seasonal dishes freshly prepared in the kitchen, and a wide range of wines, beers and spirits. It’s a tranquil retreat with a personal service to match."
I flew out with British Airways, going out Premium Economy to Punta Cana, and in Club Class on my return journey. There was a good range of TV and films to help the 8-hour flight pass by quickly.
HELLO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC! WHAT DO YOU OFFER?
PICTURE-PERFECT WHITE SAND BEACHES
For many, the main reason to visit this destination are its beaches. The beaches are amazing – think white, soft sand between your toes as you walk along the wide stretches of beach, dotted with palm trees. The clear waters of the Caribbean which lap the sand are also beautiful – lovely blue and turquoise colours. All bathed in sunshine too.
Most resorts cater to a particular niche market: families, honeymooners, adult-only, golfers or the spring-break (aka lively) crowd. So, you need to pick your hotel carefully.
The East Coast boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. If you’re intent on chilling out on a beach and doing not much more than relaxing in the sun, large, all-inclusive resorts ensure that all holiday details are taken care of.
Punta Cana has beaches and balnearios which face both the Caribbean and Atlantic, and it has been a popular tourist destination since the 1970s. The 62-mile (100km) stretch of coast where the Caribbean meets the Atlantic offers pearly-white sand sprinkled with thousands of coconut trees. The resorts are like mini self-contained cities offering different dining and nightlife options, a variety of water sports, and good facilities for deep-sea fishing and golf.
Bavaro is situated on the famous Costa del Coco (Coconut Coast) and known for its six miles (10km) of pristine, sandy white beaches and shimmering crystal waters. There are plenty of all-inclusive resorts for full-on fun, along the coastline. Or maybe you prefer something more exclusive or boutique to truly escape, while still being near nightlife and restaurants.
La Romana is one of the most visited regions of the country. A visit here makes Isla Saona and Catalina Island accessible. Isla Saona, the larger of the two, is part of the Parque Nacional del Este, with mangrove forests, white-sand beaches and turtle sanctuaries. Catalina island is an occasional destination for cruise ships on Caribbean routes.
GOLF DESTINATION
Thanks to its idyllic weather, it is possible to play golf almost all year, with the tropical breeze providing the occasional challenge! If you’re looking to improve your handicap, enjoy the challenge of courses that have been designed by professional golfers, all with the sun on your back. There are some luxury golf resorts which might be just want you want. At the Casa de Campo, the main attraction must be the resort’s five golf courses. Travelling golfers from around the world flock to Casa de Campo to tee off on the famous Teeth of the Dog. Designed by golf supremo Pete Dye, this super-scenic championship-standard course is sure to inspire a great game whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Plus test your swing at a range of other courses including The Links, Dye Fore Lagos, Dye Fore Chavon and Dye Fore Marina.
PREFER TO BE MORE ADVENTUROUS?
Although stretches of pristine tropical beach have been bought and developed into all-inclusive resorts, the Dominican Republic has lots to offer beyond its glorious beaches and all-inclusive resorts. Why not explore off the beaten track to discover unspoilt tropical paradise in the Dominican Republic, with its waterfalls, mountains, mangrove lagoons, fishing villages and colonial towns.
Take a trip to the Reserva Ecologica Ojos Indigenas (Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve). This forest reserve has twelve freshwater lagoons, five of which visitors can swim in. Or enjoy a self-guided hike.
Discover the East National park (Parque Nacional del Este) located to the southeast of Dominican Republic which constitutes one of the most beautiful parts of the country. The park houses more than 500 species of flowers and 300 of birds, with large areas on the beaches where it is possible to dive on the coral reefs full of manatees, dolphins and other numerous sea creatures.
Santo Domingo, officially Santo Domingo de Guzmán, is the capital and largest city in the Dominican Republic. It has buildings that date to the 1500s – that’s older than Havana. Take a walk around its colonial neighbourhood, declared World Heritage by UNESCO in 1990, and explore its architecture or take a ride in the picturesque Chu Chu Colonial, the little train that offers guided tours.
RETURNING HOME IN STYLE
All too soon, I was drinking my last Pina Colada and packing to return home. Again, a private transfer to Punta Cana airport made things very comfortable for me. Going through Security was a bit harder – long queues in the heat. British Airways currently don’t have a Lounge at the airport - however, a new VIP lounge has opened, and it accepts various cards.
Soon I was getting into my BA Club seat, and settling down for a lovely dinner, film and then a good sleep in the flat bed. It was even sunny when we landed at Gatwick. However, not quite the sunshine of the Caribbean. I’ll be back there soon.
If you’d like to know more about this destination, just call me on 020 3432 2510 for a friendly chat. Or send an email to me at brian.telfer@travelcounsellors.com