Dominican Republic
Occupying the eastern half of the Caribbean’s second largest island is the historic, it was the home of the original European settlement in the Americas, vibrant and energetic Dominican Republic. Relax and unwind on the spectacular beaches of white golden sand, swaying coconut trees and crystal blue waters with colourful reefs perfect for snorkelling, scuba diving, windsurfing, boogie boarding and kiteboarding, make the Dominican Republic popular with sun worshippers. Take it the lush mountains and quaint colourful villages or you can take in the 16th century cobblestone streets of the capital Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone where you can shop for exotic rums, cigars, amber jewellery and distinctive local art.
Punta Cana is now well established as an upmarket destination for discerning travellers. It’s an idyllic honeymoon location but is also a firm favourite amongst families, couples and friends seeking a tropical holiday where space, fun and tranquillity can all be found in perfect balance.
The island cuisine is takes its inspiration from native Antillean and Creole recipes mixed with light spices and coconut sauces, fresh seafood is a firm favourite and some of the local dishes have to be tried as they are delicious often combining meat, shrimp or conch mixed with a tomato sauce with garlic, olives, onions and cilantro. The Dominican Republic has more restaurants than any other Caribbean island so will certainly be spoilt for choice not only in Santo Domingo and around Punta Cana but you’ll also find that the barbeque shacks offer a great choice of seafood and meat dishes and drinks that you will stumble across during a wander down the beach or whilst exploring the area.
But you really will be spoiled for things to see and do. Here are just a few of our suggestions to get you started
ESSENTIAL DETAILS
Time Difference - GMT - 4 hours
Flight Duration from UK - Approximately 11 hours
Currency - Dominican Republic Peso
Language - Spanish is the main language but English is psoken in most hotels
Visas - British passport holders do not require a visa however you will need a tourist card. They cost £10 approx and take up to 2 weeks to process. You mustalso have at least 6 months remaining on your passport on your date of return
Things to See and Do
Saona Island Catamaran Cruise
Experience the Caribbean at its very best. Enjoy a leisurely cruise aboard a spacious catamaran to Saona Island where you will find picture-postcard beaches, coconut palms and crystal clear turquoise waters - perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
Bavaro Splash Adventure
This fantastic adventure offers the chance to drive your own two-seater speedboat James Bond-style across the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
Monster Truck Safari
The powerful Monster Truck fears no terrain taking you through rivers, streams and through the Caribbean countryside to areas out of reach of regular tour vehicles.
Santo Domingo City Tour
Follow in the conquistador’s footsteps and explore the oldest city in the Americas. Funded by the Spanish, Santo Domingo was the first capital of the New World and here you will find the first cathedral, the first paved street and the first court built in this region.
