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The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular beaches for Americans heading abroad this winter.
Boasting miles of sugar-white sand beaches fringed by turquoise waters and a vibrant resort zone lined with luxury hotels, this is the place to relax after a long and demanding year. It’s a must-visit destination for vacationers looking to treat themselves to a little luxury.
Being a tried-and-true hotspot, you might think that its trendiness would start to fade at this point, but in reality, DR (as it is commonly called) It is expected to be the best year ever. Records were set and 11.5 million guests were expected.
2023 was already a record-breaker, hosting 10 million people at the time.
So why is it so popular even after all these years?
So… have you heard of Punta Cana?
The main reason the DR is attracting the attention of millions of Americans this winter is, of course, its bustling tourist destination, Punta Cana, the second-best location in the Caribbean after Cancun, Mexico. The fact is that there is a resort town. international crowd.
Between picture-perfect beaches and affordable hotels with adult-only zones, water parks, and shopping options, a vacation in Punta Cana is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families. Guaranteed fun for everyone. little children.
This season, some of the top-rated five-star hotels that won’t cost an arm and a leg include the Grand Bavaro Princess ($181 a night), the Hideaway at Royalton on the Bavaro Strip ($198), and adults-only hotels. Ubero Alto Royalton Chic ($172).
Great all-inclusive service
Let’s be honest, as great as the beaches and lush natural surroundings of the Caribbean are, the biggest draw of Punta Cana, and the DR as a whole, are its top-notch all-inclusive resorts.
Americans work hard here to earn an average of 11 paid vacation days per calendar year. When they think of traveling abroad, it’s no wonder it’s a hassle-free vacation with everything you need from check-in. I’m checking out.
Luckily for them, the DR is essentially synonymous with luxury and relaxation, with numerous wellness havens dotted along its pristine coastline and beautiful, state-of-the-art facilities everywhere you go. There is a property.
We’re talking about a lagoon-style oceanfront pool, a private beach, spa facilities perfect for relaxing, and excellent service from a staff that treats you like royalty. It’s not cheap at all. I’ll be back for a week and will be back soon. At least $1,204, but worth every penny.
There are many other resort towns to choose from.
Although Punta Cana is the island’s busiest town, home to all of the most famous resorts and will undoubtedly be quite crowded in high season, there are countless other more laid-back destinations to choose from. If it’s the beach you’re looking for.
A seaside hamlet straddling a quiet bay, Cabarete is full of authentic seafood restaurants and B&Bs. Just north of town, Encuentro is a popular surfing beach. If you’re a foodie like us, the best Spanish tapas are the ones at YALLA. .
Directly facing the Caribbean Sea, Bayahibe is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the DR, with soft sand, gentle crystal-clear waves, and colorful coral reefs lapping at the shoreline, making it especially great for snorkeling.
Don’t forget Puerto Plata and its landmark Playa Dorada. Playa Dorada, as its name suggests, is a dreamy stretch of golden sand. Stays here start from just $107. Or try the closest up-and-comer, La Romana. An idyllic Mediterranean getaway on this side of the pond.
DR is rich in culture!
La Romana is not only a world-class beach zone, but also a highly underrated cultural gem. Set on a picturesque riverfront, Altos de Chavón is a recreation of a 16th-century Mediterranean village filled with artisan shops and Instagrams. -Ready corner.
Catalina Island, south of town, has pristine beaches and growing coral reefs that have not yet been ravaged by large-scale development. History buffs won’t want to miss snorkeling around the wreckage of infamous pirate William Kidd’s ship. It sank in the 17th century.
And the country is steeped in history, from the walled Colonial Ciudad of Santo Domingo, the first European settlement in the Americas, to the vast Santiago de los Caballeros, with its 16th-century fortresses and whitewashed ramparts. There are many cities that have one. Cathedral.
DR’s resort zone is completely safe
The Dominican Republic is becoming increasingly popular with tourists due to its unique coastal landscape and culture, as well as the surprisingly high level of safety in its tourist destinations.
While larger cities like Santo Domingo and Santiago are at higher risk due to gang activity, the beaches of Punta Cana, Bayahibe, La Romana, and Puerto Plata are all great spots for tourists, especially if you’re staying on resort property. Completely safe.
As the US State Department claims, the DR is officially a Level 2 destination, meaning Americans should simply use “extra caution” when vacationing on the island. means. Still, like in Jamaica, they don’t hesitate to visit.
Learn more about DR’s efforts to keep tourists safe amid the crisis in neighboring Haiti.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are those of the author alone and not of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any organization included in the post.