Dominican Republic Beach Holidays
The Dominican Republic has established itself as a firm favourite for British holiday makers. Many Brits now flock here throughout the year for the stunning beaches, dramatic scenery and amazing luxury hotels. This area has a reputation for being the most affordable Caribbean destinations and this is very true. Affordable here does not mean basic though, most hotels here are 4 or 5 star complexes which are really resorts in themselves.
These resorts are large and attractive with many having direct beach access and amazing swimming pools. Most of the hotels cater very well to the needs of family groups with many having excellent children's clubs and play parks as well as shallow pools for children.
All inclusive is the way to go here and many hotels offer 24 hour all inclusive packages, this means that it is possible to arrive without any spending money at all and have a very enjoyable holiday. Most hotels here have a good selection of places to eat and drink. Some hotels have as many as 10 different restaurants and offer a range of cuisines such as Italian, Chinese, Mexican and traditional American style Buffets.
There are also usually many bars to choose from including sports bars, show bars and piano bars. On an all inclusive package most drinks, snacks, mini bar drinks and even room service may be included as well as a range of activities including some water sports.
The Caribbean was once seen as a very expensive and luxurious destination and although it is undeniably luxurious it does not have to cost a lot and many people find that it actually costs less to come here on an all inclusive basis than to go to Europe on a seemingly cheap self catering holiday. With the recent exchange rates favouring the Euro, eating out on holiday in Europe can be rather expensive and even self catering can prove costly in some resorts. Here once you have booked your stay almost everything is included and you do not need to worry about spending money. All inclusive is incredible value for money. Cocktails, ice cream, pool side snacks? What ever you want, you can have without worrying about the cost.
The Dominican Republic is a really beautiful country and there are many things to see and do here. There are 5 main resorts here each offering something different.
Punta Cana and Bavaro on the east coast are probably the most popular destinations. This is really two resorts in one which stretches round the east of the island meaning that the beaches will differ with some being golden Atlantic beaches and some being white Caribbean sands. This area is really stunning and is made up of large hotel complexes. This is a developing area and It is not recommended that guests leave the hotels at night without a guide here but the resorts are very safe and with so much to do there will be no need to search out alternative nightlife.
Playa Dorada in the North is lapped by the Atlantic meaning that the beaches here are golden sands but still very beautiful. This resort is smaller than Bavaro but has a more intimate feel. This is a quiet area of the Dominican Republic and many guests here do decide to explore the areas outside of the hotels. Indeed tourism makes up the majority of income for people her and so foreign visitors are made very welcome in the shops and bars here.
The smaller southern resort of Bayahibe is set on a stunning Caribbean beach. The white sands and calm waters here are what make many tourists choose this area. This area is less developed and has just a few large hotel complexes.
There are many wonderful excursions to enjoy in the Dominican Republic. Safari Tours are popular and allow you to both see the stunning countryside and visit Traditional Dominican Villages, schools and shops. Santa Domingo is the capital city and many tour operators offer trips here to soak up some culture and indulge in some shopping.
Saona Island is one of the most popular trips. This full day excursion will take you by, bus and then by boat to the stunning island of Saona. Here you can enjoy a beach BBQ, unlimited rum and also swim in the calm blue waters. If you are lucky you may also see and even get to hold a giant star fish. Quad biking and Zip line excursions are also available and a must for adrenalin junkies.
These are just a few of the many trips you can enjoy here and of course with so much to do in your resort you may never feel the need to venture out!
