Dominican Dreaming

Are you dreaming of a tropical vacation as the weather gets cooler?  Have you considered the Dominican Republic?  The non-stop flight from Atlanta is just over 3 hours and then you are in paradise with beautiful white sand and turquoise waters.  The people are so friendly, the weather is wonderful and there are many resorts to choose from.   ​

One of our favorite areas of the Dominican Republic is the Cap Cana area.  The Cap Cana beaches are more exclusive and upscale.  Its coastlines and proximity are considered by the Billfish Report the #1 spot in the world for fishing and deep-water diving.  The marina there has been the scene of world-famous fishing tournaments and has become a popular destination for those who enjoy a record-breaking fishing trip. The last time I went on a fishing charter there we caught two white marlins, a swordfish, and several mahi-mahis.   

Some of our favorite resorts in this area are the Sanctuary Cap Cana and Secrets Cap Cana. Both of which are all-inclusive adults only resorts just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana airport.  They have sophisticated Caribbean furnishings, gourmet dining, top shelf spirits, 24-hour room service, and a world class spa.  This area is near the unique pleasures of Cap Cana and their marina as well as the Punta Espada Golf Course designed by Jack Nicklaus.  A third property to note is the Hyatt Ziva.  This is an all-inclusive paradise for the whole family.  They have infinity pools, 12 different dining options, swim up suites and great activities for families with children.  

We would consider several luxury resorts to be in a class by themselves.  Eden Roc Cap Cana, a Relais & Chateaux property, is one of the most luxurious properties in the area.  Its price point certainly hints at the luxury it offers.  Many suites have their own pools, and the service is impeccable.   

​Tortuga Bay, which was designed by the late Oscar de la Renta, is a resort that offers multi bedroom villas and a multitude of facilities for guests of all ages.  You can explore miles of white sandy beaches, 2 seaside championship golf courses, and a Six Senses Spa.  It is all on an ecological reserve with natural springs and provides endless water sports.   
Another very popular resort that offers villas as large as 5 bedrooms and is very family friendly is Casa de Campo.  They provide golf carts for each villa which makes it easy for families to get from place to place around the property.  They have camps for the kids and professional nannies and babysitting services are provided.  Families can enjoy activities like horseback riding, relaxing by the pool and sitting by the beach.  Access to 3 of the most famous golf courses in the world is provided when you stay here - including Teeth of the Dog - ranked the #1 golf course in the Caribbean and #27 in the world.  The Dominican Republic is a golfer’s paradise, and it is evident in the airport where you see MANY people with their golf clubs in tow.  

A more moderately priced property that is well situated on one of the best beaches in Punta Cana is the Paradisus Palma Real.  If you are not traveling with children, you need to book the Reserve All Adult Section, that includes top shelf liquors, a specialized restaurant, butler service and a private adult only pool and 24-hour room service. If you are traveling with children, there is a special entertainment park located adjacent to the resort called Katmandu Park.  It is the first theme park of its kind located in the Dominican Republic that brings the story of the Hidden Realms to life through family friendly attractions.  There is a shuttle from the hotel to the park that runs daily.   

Most recently Jacki and I had the pleasure of attending a supplier conference in Punta Cana and were treated to an unusual excursion that we loved.  It was the Dr. Fish Boat Spa.  It started with a fish pedicure before boarding, then once we boarded, we went from station to station for our relaxation treatments.  It began with a yoga class, then a massage and a coffee-corn flour scrub, shower, a tethered floating experience in the ocean, and a foot bath to release body toxins, and a nice lunch with wine. It was a 4-hour experience that I will not forget soon!  
There are MANY water sports, ATV, zip-lining excursions to choose from.   

One of the only downfalls with the Dominican Republic is that they are not well-versed in English.  Those of you who have Spanish speaking skills will have the best experiences.  Butlers, waiters, and staff members are very limited in their ability to understand your requests. One morning it took Jacki ten minutes to request two pots of coffee with milk.  They kept thinking she was requesting popsicles!  Note to self- brush up on Spanish before returning!