Dominican Republic
All You Need To Know

Dominican Republic (East)

"Relaxing in the Dominican Republic is a way of life, interrupted only by whispering palms and lapping waves."

“Baked in glorious sunshine, the Dominican Republic forms a heady mix of lush landscapes, colonial architecture and stellar beaches. With whispering palms and turquoise seas, this is where the spirit of Latin America meets the tropical shores of the Caribbean .”

Caressed by the waves of the Caribbean Sea, the south and east coasts of the Dominican Republic truly are the more elegant edge to the island. In contrast to the bustle of the north, here you will find the only decision you need to make is whether you want to spend your day strolling along the wide white sands of this superb coastline, unwinding under the whispering palms leaves, or being pampered at your hotel. The options here are endless and time seems as laid back as the lifestyle.

Bayahibe, on the south coast, is where golden sand beaches are scattered along the shore, lapped by the clear seas of the Caribbean , while rolling hills and mountain ranges provide the breathtaking backdrop. This charming fishing village is steeped in history and situated near to the Eastern National Park , which offers some of the best snorkelling in the Dominican Republic .

On the east coast you can find Bavaro, where a spectacular natural coastline boasts soft, white beaches, graced by crystal clear waters, making it a haven for sun worshippers, and those who want to get away from the hectic pace of everyday life.

The beauty of the south and east coasts lend the areas a natural elegance, and this has seeped into the resorts themselves, with the large All Inclusive complexes offering you everything you could desire in impressive and stylish settings. Soak up the blend of merengue and reggae music from various after dinner retreats and capture the character of the Caribbean night. Much of the evening entertainment can be found on your doorstep at your hotel, and if you feel adventurous there are a number of quaint restaurants in the south and local cafes in the east where you can get a further taste of the calm and enticing Caribbean lifestyle. Sample a generous measure of the local rum while you watch the sunset over Bayahibe, or enjoy some of the popular Spanish cooking influences the island has to offer in Bavaro. The natural retreats of both the south and east coasts are for those wanting a luxurious escape to a tranquil life in a country of unspoilt appeal..

Dominican Republic (North)

"With its tropical climate and glorious beaches dotted with elegant palm trees, it's no wonder that this enchanting island is so greatly admired - especially by British holidaymakers."

“From tropical hillsides dotted with rickety shacks to crumbling Spanish haciendas, the Dominican Republic is a stunning Caribbean jewel with a Latin American beat and makes for a beach holiday with a difference.”

When Christopher Columbus first discovered the island dream that is Hispaniola , he claimed that it surpassed the rest of the world in terms of natural beauty. Today, the Dominican Republic as it is now known, is still as enchanting as ever. Golden beaches wrap themselves around the Caribbean 's highest peaks and rivers race down through exotic tropical forests to emerald seas.

A laidback Caribbean lifestyle and a Hispanic passion for partying mingle and merge along the northern shores of the Dominican Republic . From Bahia Maimon along the coast to Sosua, resorts have emerged so the carnival atmosphere has a backdrop of natural beauty, with the golden sands that fringe the rugged coastline and lead down to the clear, warm waters of the Atlantic . Whether you're a sun seeker or a water baby, you'll find what you need, with worldclass water sports, coral reefs to explore and soft sand to recline on. It's no wonder that most Thomson guests rate their holiday experience good to excellent.

What the Dominican Republic lacks in frills, it makes up for in friendliness. As it is a developing country, the cuisine is simple and the nightlife is relatively unsophisticated, but the energy and enthusiasm of the people put more developed places to shame. Sample some of the local spirit at one of the many festivals held throughout the year, or simply sip some of the local rum. The resorts are geared towards the European guest, with the All Inclusive packages on offer widely recognised as the best value for money in the Caribbean .

Aside from the facilities in the resorts, the island's natural attractions are well worth exploring, including the Jarabacoa Mountains , where you can pit yourself against nature's might with a whitewater rafting excursion.

The Dominican Republic – where the colourful character of the Caribbean comes to life.

Dominican Republic (South)

“Flaunting paradise beaches and sultry merengue clubs, chill out in the sun and shimmy through the night in the Domincan Republic - the Caribbean island with a Latin American twist.”

The Dominican Republic is a seductive mix of Latin American flavour and Caribbean colour. Vibrancy, natural beauty and unbelievable beaches make the island an intoxicating place that you'll find difficult to leave. In contrast to the bustle of the north, the only decision you'll have to make on the south and east coasts is whether you want to spend your day strolling along the wide white sands of this superb coastline, unwinding under the whispering palms leaves, or being pampered at your hotel.

The capital, Santo Domingo , is a place full of vitality. Its roots lay in two of the most rhythmic and vibrant cultures on earth, Latin American and Caribbean . The city is brimming with history with enough colonial sites, architecture and museums to keep you going all holiday. It was a stop off point for the conquistadores on their way to the New World and retains a distinct Hispanic style. Away from the urban hubbub there are an array of spellbinding beaches to be found. Fine, white sand, in contrast to the golden north coast, characterises this coastline. You will have the luxury of choosing between high class resorts such as Punta Cana and the peace of Bavaro and Bayahibe.

Wining & Dining

The cuisine here is an interesting mix of Caribbean and Latin American that mimics the cultural fusion of the Dominican Republic . Rice, kidney beans and fish are a staple of such dishes as 'el moro' which combines them in a stew to tasty effect. You can't beat the fresh fruit that a tropical island dishes up, including juicy pineapple, delicious coconut and fresh mango. These can be incorporated into some spectacular rum based cocktails. It wouldn't be a proper Caribbean holiday without a barbecue on the beach - hot chicken and a cold 'Presidente' beer with the sun going down. Simply perfect.

Shopping

Caribbean markets are always a colourful thrill and you'll be able to find plenty of stalls selling local produce in Santa Domingo. Brightly coloured local art is for sale at the markets, on the beaches, in the shops or at the hotels. Be sure to distinguish between imitation Haitian pictures, which can be colourful but not worth much, and original work by Dominican artists. Fresh coffee grown on the mountain slopes is great value, and can be bought everywhere.

Highlights

Highlights offer endless opportunities to discover, wonder, relax and enjoy - here is a selection... Saona AdventureA great opportunity to experience one of the south's most stunning islands, but before travelling across the turquoise blue waters to Saona, you will be making a stop at the truly unique artists' village known as Altos de Chavon, then onto speedboats that will whisk you across to Saona for lunch and relaxation, before returning in style on board a catamaran. One not to be missed! (About £76-£85 prebookable with a deposit of £20 from both resorts)

Monster Truck SafariJourney through the Dominican countryside on a fabulous 8-wheel drive open truck! This trip takes you through rivers and across open country with stunning scenery. Step inside a Dominican house and experience how most rural people live. Stop for a riverside lunch and take a dip in the cool waters – a great way to chill out! With an

open Dominican bar all day this is a popular and fun day out. (About £58-£61 from both resorts)

Aqua SafariZoom across the waves and brilliant turquoise waters, feeling the wind in your hair. Remember to hold on tight and keep your eyes peeled for the occasional dolphin as the speedboat whisks you away through the waters of the Eastern National Park ! There you can relax on a beautiful beach. With a buffet lunch, you'll then set off to shallow

waters for a spot of merengue in the waves. (About £47-£57 from both resorts)

Helicopter FlightThe ultimate way to see Bavaro and Bayahibe for 30 minutes, with a bird's eye view of the coastline, hotels, crystal clear seas and lush vegetation. You can also communicate with the pilot via headset as he gives you the tour. (About £83.50 pre-bookable with a deposit of £20)

Whitewater River RaftingHigh in the Dominican Alps of Jarabacoa, the remote rivers take you on the most exhilarating experience you'll have in the Caribbean . Enjoy this chance of a lifetime on the rapids with all the protection you'll need as you don wet suit and head gear. This is for swimmers only. Go for it! (About £87 from Bayahibe only, pre-bookable with £20 deposit)

Ocean World - Swim with DolphinsTake the chance of a lifetime to swim with or encounter bottle-nose dolphins. Oceanworld also offers interaction with sea lions, sting rays and a swimmable reef to snorkel in and see the tropical fish. An adventure not to be missed! (About £207 pre-bookable swim package with a deposit of £20)

Please note that you are strongly advised to pre-book the excursions named. Limited spaces are available once in resort, so book early to avoid disappointment.