Dominican Republic Vacations

The DR is part of the second-largest island in the Caribbean, Hispaniola, which it shares with the impoverished country of Haiti. The DR side of the island is Spanish-speaking, and has enjoyed a relatively stable government for decades. Tourism has fuelled recent development.

Punta Cana, on the island's eastern tip, has long beautiful beaches, and several resorts popular with families. This side of the island is on the Caribbean sea.

The North Coast has choppier seas but is popular for surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, and offers some nice opportunities to leave your resort and get out'n'about.

The town of Cabarete is "best in the world" for kiteboarding; many expats have settled here for sports, and the town is comfortable for tourism.

The capital city of Santo Domingo, meanwhile, is the oldest European settlement in the New World, and is on the south coast; the lavish Casa de Campo resort is nearby.

The white sand beaches of Punta Cana; mountain ranges with horseback riding, river-rafting, and waterfalls; friendly people, carnivals and festivals, and merengue, a catchy dance that every tourist learns.

Also, important: the DR is the least expensive spot in the Caribbean for all-inclusive resorts. The budget-minded can find value-priced getaways; others can find luxury at a higher price but still a very good buy.

This is still a "less-developed country", so even at a resort, think about health precautions. Be wary of tap water (even for brushing teeth) and raw fruits and vegetables. Check with your resort about its water supply and food preparation practices.