The Dominican Republic is a nation on the island of Hispaniola, part of the Greater Antilles archipelago in the Caribbean region. The western third of the island is occupied by the nation of Haiti, making Hispaniola one of two Caribbean islands, along with Saint Martin, that are shared by two countries. Both by area and population, the Dominican Republic is the second largest Caribbean nation. Susie visited teh Dominican republic and sampled some family-friendly hotels, whilst also having the chance to try out an exhilirating zipwire ride
I flew to this beautiful island in the Caribbean to visit several hotels In Punta Cana and test excursions, such as Baravo splash (speedboats along the coast to a snorkelling platform); an outback safari to see the plantations and wildlife, as well as the two-hour zipwire experience (a very professional set up with 12 lines, culminating with a 1000m line to the finish. Amazing views of the very lush countryside.)
Dreams Palm Beach in Punta Cana is a spacious property with three pools and a great beach. All hotels in this group have a teen activity centre and explorer clubs (three to 12 year-olds). Dreams Punta Cana was very popular with families, with a pirate ship into a pool and facilities for teenagers (such as a bucking bronco and archery).
Secrets Sanctuary is a gated development in the Dominican republic, with a championship golf course, marina and restaurants. This is definitely for those that want five-star service with low-key entertainment. The hotel is for adults only, so ideal for couples and honeymooners, with a choice of bars and restaurants. The Love Bar is designed like a chapel and is great for weddings or blessings. The all-inclusive food was excellent, with silver service.
My final hotel was Zoetry Agua, which is quiet and luxurious. Sited at the end of the Punta Cana resort, you are able to walk for three hours along the beach. It also has a bounty of Endless Privileges (all inclusive), no check-in or check-out time, and luxurious suites with complimentary massage. The hotel prides it self on its culinary and spa experiences – a place to completely unwind in a tropical location. The food is excellent and the management organise activities (e.g.cigar rolling or cocktail making), and, if children are in residence, will offer to babysit to give parents a night off. Heaven!
Susie’s Top Tips
- Best time to go: UK winter (summer is hot and humid with rain
- Ideal destination for: Couples, families
- Favourite food: Tortillas & tequilas
- Hotel to watch: Zoetry
- Must do: Snorkelling, day trip to capital Santo Domingo, zipwiring
