Renowned for its swim-up bars, flamingoes, calamari samplers, and on-call wedding planners, this republic of love goes beyond the call of party-central duty thanks to its secluded string of deserted islands and calm, quaint seaside villages. Soothe any left-over stress from pre-aisle jitters with a body wrap of cane sugar and seaweed before dousing your skin in the juices of pineapple and coconut - this little gem of the Caribbean is all about basking and relaxing.
the romance
A 16th century Mediterranean village comes alive on the grounds of Casa de Campo thanks to the manifested fantasy that is Altos de Chavon. Replete with cobblestone walkways, galleries, museums, and a 5000 seat stone amphitheater, every whim is within reach. Adorn yourself in local jewels of amber or larimar before perusing the Chavon River over dinner and golden rum aperitifs.
Other top-necking spots include:
The glittering regions of Punta Cana and Puerto Plata – resort-away in a four post canopy bed and private balcony
Costa Dorada beach located on the North Coast
Saona Island – reached by lulling catamaran, enjoy a luscious spread of hammocks, beach barbecues, and beach volleyball matches
the scenery
Fields of sugar cane glisten in the baking sun as coffee, fruit, and chocolate plantations are harvested into the evening. Palm-lined shores, cloistered caves, and bustling markets are filled with the calls of bird song and barterers. Wild olives and orchids bloom with the burst of a Sunday shower while hot earth is blanketed with the shade of regal Hispaniolan mahogany, West Indian cedar, and American muskwood.
the attractions
Dominican must-see sights are make for some vibrant eye-candy – celebrating a seize-the-day mantra and a shop-till-you-drop mentality. At the snappy Barcelo Bavaro casino, take in live dancing with Tropicalissimo - a Las Vegas-inspired spectacle chockfull of salsa, merengue, and bachata beats.
For some exquisite daytripping, be sure to scout out:
Los Haitises national park and The Parque Nacional del Este which includes the 3 islands of Saona, Catalinita and Catalina
The Damajaqua Cascades (27 Waterfalls)
The Museo Joyeria for an exhibit on how the islands infamous turquoise stone, larimar, is created
the adventure
Surf camps, ranchos, horseback riding, and guided eco-tours are just some of the fun and fabulous ways to sober up from an umpteenth pina colada. Swim with dolphins off of Saona Island, or engage in a Dominican Outback Safari. The region is agua adventure paradise – be sure to snorkel among the coral, try a bout of parasailing, or dive head-first into a scuba-diving expedition for the more experienced.
the secrets
Along with such hordes of five star resorts, come spa treatments like no other. Try a rejuvenating body scrub, hot stone massage, or deep tissue facial – all along the mirage-like setting of Cabarete or Kite Beach. Nosh in an elegant dining room of an old English estate overlooking jasmine grounds and organic crops.
For more hush-hush pit-stops, try:
The Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, 600-acres of preserved land that is home to tropical forests, lagoons, iguanas, fish, and rare feathered friends
The Palma Real Shopping Center – the best spot for uber-chic boutiques with unbeatable price tags
before you go
What to Expect
Dry Season: October through April are quite warm (18-28°C/66-83°F). Although there is little rainfall during these months, strong winds are common in the evenings.
Wet Season: May to November are hot and humid (23-30°C/73-86°F). Heavy downpours are typical during this time of the year, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
Clothing
Light and loose clothing is recommended. Remember to pack raingear if travelling during the rainy season.
Currency
The Dominican Peso. The U.S. Dollar is also accepted by most vendors.
The Lingo
Spanish
Documents
A valid passport
Local Delicacies
La Bandera: The island’s national dish is composed of stewed goat meat, red beans, rice, salad and plantains.
Comida Criolla: A stewed chicken meal popular amongst the locals
