Holiday in the Dominican Republic, home to the tallest peak in the Caribbean, merengue dancing, luxury resorts and a real wealth of outdoor activities from horseback riding along deserted beaches to windsurfing the trade winds that filled Caribbean pirates’ sails. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat on the Samaná peninsula or to be in the thick of luxury in Punta Cana, Travelbag’s got your 2018 Dominican Republic holiday sussed.
With more than 250 miles of superb golden coastline, it is little wonder that the Dominican Republic is becoming the Caribbean holiday destination of choice among travellers.
By being substantially larger than many of its Caribbean counterparts, the Dominican Republic offers a broad selection of dream locations from which to enjoy the Caribbean holiday of your choice, whether you’re seeking a romantic escape or something to appeal to the entire family.
The Dominican Republic is an adventure, whether you're choosing from more than 1000 beaches along the north, west or south coasts, venturing inland to explore volcanoes and lakes, or discovering shipwrecks and coral underwater.
Key Highlights of the Dominican Republic
If you would like to know more about Travelbag’s excellent tailor-made holidays to the Dominican Republic, call us on and speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable travel experts.
A lush part of the world, it is the miles of golden coastline that have put the Dominican Republic on the map. Many go for the beach resorts though there is a lot of geographical diversity and colonial architecture to enjoy inland.
If you are going to one of the luxurious all-inclusive beach resorts then, aside from swimwear, there isn’t a great deal that you need. So with your beachwear and cover-ups in, with sunblock and after sun, make sure you have a couple of pairs of flip flops with casual shorts and t-shirts in there. You should get beach towels when you are there so that’s another thing you don’t need to worry about.
In the evening it gets a little cooler but you only need pants and sweaters made from light materials to give you a little protection. There aren’t many mosquitos but it is always good to cover up as much of your body as possible.
If you are going outside of your resort then a lot of things will be sorted for you but comfortable shoes and a day bag will probably be useful. Finally, being inside a resort, things can be overpriced or difficult to get so it is recommended to carry a decent toiletry bag.
With a tropical climate, the Dominican Republic has year-round warm temperatures but two seasons: dry and wet. While the thermostat might not change very much, the rain gauge does.
The dry season is the peak tourist time in the Dominican and this runs between December and April. There is plenty of sun and a comfortable heat that stays around the mid to high 20s each and every day, morning and evening.
Temperatures rise slowly during these months and when it comes to the wet season from May through November it is very warm – but also humid. The amount of rainfall varies across the country but it can be an uncomfortable time in paradise. August and September are months when the country is on alert for official hurricane season.
by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates
Graced with beaches, mountains, colonial landmarks and rainforests, the Dominican Republic stands out as one of the Caribbean's most diverse islands. It's also one of the friendliest, with Dominican hospitality being as notable as the landscape. Located on the eastern half of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti to the west, the Dominican Republic attracts more tourists than any other Caribbean island and boasts the region's largest economy as well as the Caribbean's most extensive subway system. Famous for perfect beaches, plentiful all- inclusive resorts as well as lively nightlife, this island offers something for every type of traveler.
The Dominican Republic stretches along the Caribbean coast with an array of sites to visit and events to experience. However, we will focus on the island's most visited towns of Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerta Plata and La Romana.
The bustling capital of Santo Domingo is a great place to start your visit. As the oldest city in the New World, this dynamic metropolis provides lots of culture as well as history. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Zona Colonial and check out the first street, first military structure and first cathedral in the Americas. Many of the colonial buildings are well preserved and are open for tours and some are in ruins but a walking tour, either organized or self-directed, is a great introduction to this influential Caribbean city. Take sturdy shoes, sunscreen and water to help navigate the uneven, sun-soaked streets and don't miss Plaza Espana a lovely courtyard lined with restaurants and sidewalk cafes. At night, head to the Maleco'n, a tree-lined promenade filled with nightclubs and restaurants that hug the coastline. Sample the national dish of sanchocho, a rich stew of meat, corn on the cobs, starchy tubers and spices. The spirited music and dancing of merengue and bachata are national past-times (followed by baseball) so be sure to visit a club and learn a few steps.
On the eastern tip of the island, Punta Cana draws scores of young tourists ready to join the town's party-focused activities. Nicknamed the Coconut Coast, the area is crammed with all-inclusives for every budget and offers a host of adventurous excursions, including zip lining, wind surfing, kayaking and sailing. Note that Punta Cana is on the Atlantic coast so waves can be a little rough for diving and snorkeling. Lolling about golden sand beaches is the highlight for the area, as well as golfing on the various golf courses that blanket the town. Key outings include walking the 11 winding, foliage-adorned paths at the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve Trails and zip lining on Anamuya Mountain. Punta Cana is the ideal spot for those who just want to enjoy a beach retreat and unwind with a laid back itinerary.
For holidaymakers interested in a little bit more than sun and sand, Puerto Plata, a charming port city on the island's north coast, serves up an impressive blend of surf and sophistication. Less crowded than either Santo Domingo or Punta Cana, Puerto Plata gives visitors the chance to relax on beautiful beaches in relative peace. Known as the kite-boarding and windsurfing capital of the world, adrenaline fans can grab lessons from a local and have a go at riding the waves or head to Damajagua to view (or climb or jump) the stunning 27 waterfalls. For more serene pursuits, the region's capital, also called Puerto Plata, holds a vibrant cultural fest every June at the Fuerte de San Felipe and there's also the Amber Museum, dedicated to the country's prized resin and cigar factories to tour.
On the sugarcane topped southeastern coast, La Romana lures travelers with unspoiled natural beauty. Pearly sand beaches edged with coral reef make it a swimmers dream but the area is also noted for its extensive cave system. Take a scenic horseback ride along the countryside of this former fishing village and head to Fun Fun Cave in Hato Mayor, which is filled with Taino Indian petroglyphs and stalactites. A visit to the Mediterranean village of Altos de Chavon is mandatory in La Romana, where the 16th century replica sits atop the Chavon River, beckoning to explorers. The cobblestone streets showcase artisan shops, Mediterranean restaurants and a sprawling, 5,000 seat Roman style amphitheatre that has hosted international pop stars including Shakira and Sting.
Tips for making the most of your Dominican Republic holiday include learning a bit of Spanish and being aware of local customs. Although English is widely spoken in resort areas and in Santo Domingo, if you want to venture outside the tourist spots, a few Spanish phrases will go a long way. Wearing skimpy clothing, including shorts above the knee and shoulder baring tops isn't encouraged in churches and other formal places. Dominicans are warm and welcoming people, smile and be open to learning as much as you can about their lovely island.
The duration of your stay is more than 60 days, but don't worry that's fine. We just want to make sure you get the best possible price.
To book this Long Stay Holiday please call one of our specialist advisors
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