With 1,000 miles of coastline, cultural excursions and endless activities make for a can't-miss winter escape

Record low temperatures have put this winter on track to be the coldest in the last decade. With seven weeks until spring, now is the perfect time to plan a winter getaway to Dominican Republic.

Offering over 1,000 miles of coastline, secluded white sand beaches, luxurious lodging, incredible cuisine and action-packed activities and excursions, Dominican Republic is the perfect place for a winter retreat.

“From the sunny shores of the Caribbean to the colourful charming streets, Dominican Republic’s warm and hospitable people help solidify our place as the premier destination to recharge from the winter cold,” said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. “Our nine distinct ecological zones, pristine beaches and glorious climate offer something for travellers of all interests looking to escape to Dominican Republic, even if just for the winter.”

From whale watching in Samaná to aquatic play in Cabarete, Dominican Republic’s diverse destinations and activities are sure to revive any snowbird.

Ecotourism operations are inaugurated in Cayo La Farola, Samaná - The cooperative de Pescadores Espiritu Santo and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources inaugurated ecotourism operations on Wednesday in La Farola Cay, in the Bay of Samaná, within the Marine Mammals Christmas Refuge and adjacent to the islet Cayo Levantado.

“Visitors to Cayo La Farola can enjoy a viewpoint to watch whales without having to travel by boat to the high seas, as well as an attractive path, will also have the possibility of snorkelling to the coral nurseries that the cooperative maintains on the shores of the Cayo,” the promoters said.

The initiative is the result of the search for the Cooperative de Pescadores Espíritu Santo to diversify its sources of income in a sustainable manner, with the purpose of reducing pressure on the fishing resources of the Bay of Samaná. “This fishermen’s cooperative has received assistance and support from the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, and the German Cooperation for Development, GIZ; through its DABIO Program, for the construction of a whale watching platform and an ecological trail in Cayo,” the Cooperative said.

Barahona Pearl of the South - Bio-diverse Barahona is one of the best kept secrets of Dominican Republic. Often referred to as “La Perla del Sur” (The Pearl of the South) and “Maravilla Natural” (Miracle of Nature), Barahona is located on the southwest Coast of the country and remains one of the last frontiers for tourism.

Made up of amazing natural beaches, unspoiled waterfalls, and rugged ranges of mountain pine, the area offers eco-friendly expansions that preserve the rare biosphere, specifically the Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve, which was added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2002.

Barahona was founded in 1802 and gained recognition as a fishing and agricultural town, famous for its large plantations and vast collection of coffee and sugar fields. The area is home to some of the top coffee plantations in the country, which originated from the Spanish colonists who brought the plant to Hispaniola in the 18th century. Barahona coffee has been internationally recognized as “Denominación de Origen Café de Barahona,” an esteemed honour that endorses the unique characteristics and quality of coffee from this region.

The pristine nature and flawless union between the beautiful unspoiled beaches and the majestic mountains of Barahona encourage eco and adventure tourism. The area boasts the largest saltwater lake in the Caribbean, a spectacular panoramic highway with a vista-lined coast and a dry forest of plants that lay near the green land cultivated with the best fruits.

The area’s boutique and family-friendly hotels integrate the natural elements of the area. Both offer unique ecological experiences throughout the lush surroundings and incorporate local goods into their restaurants and eco-friendly spas. The following guide to Barahona includes descriptions of its biodiversity, immaculate beaches, that await you!

Whale watching in Samaná Bay

Samaná is recognized for unique experiences and its world-renowned whale-watching opportunities are no exception. Just as thousands of guests who escape to Dominican Republic each year in search of warmer temperatures, the same goes for the nearly 1,500 to 2,000 humpback whales that migrate to Samaná Bay to mate in the bay’s warm waters and nurse new-born calves.

Experience the annual phenomena by tour boat or on land at the observatory in Punta Balandra. The official whale-watching season runs from mid-January to March, with guided tour boats available if whales are in the bay.

Let your adrenaline flow in Cabarete

For adventure-seekers eager to learn a new skill and live like the locals, Cabarete is a must visit on their Dominican journey. Located on the north coast of the country, the beachside community is internationally known as the Kiteboarding Capital of the World. Countless hours can be spent on the water testing Cabarete’s tranquil, yet challenging beaches. Beginners can sign up for a kiteboarding class to spend a few days learning the popular sport.

More interested in watching from the side-lines? Grab a spot and watch local and international athletes display their surfing, kiteboarding and stand up paddle boarding (SUP) skills. Each year, aquatic athletes from all over the world head to Cabarete for Master of the Ocean – the only water sports celebration featuring windsurfing, surfing, kitesurfing and SUP. The event showcases athletes as they conquer the wind and waves competing in all four disciplines to be declared, Master of the Ocean. The 16th annual festival will be held February 24, 2018.

Mark your territory along the 1,000 miles of sparkling coastline

If you’re considering a trip to Dominican Republic, you likely have your sights set on dipping your toes in the water and relaxing in the sand. With 30 beaches in Dominican Republic accredited by Blue Flag for meeting international environmental and safety standards, sun-seekers will find it hard to experience the azure waters and peaceful golden sands in one visit.

Punta Cana and Bávaro are famous for their white-sand beaches and water sport offerings. From sailing to snorkelling, the beaches offer endless opportunities for travellers and families in search of an all-inclusive excursion.

In the south-eastern corner, La Romana offers the ultimate in luxury escapes, making it a popular destination for international celebrities. Explore the islands of Catalina and Saona, located a few miles off the coast. The private beaches are the perfect way to spend a peaceful day sunbathing, snorkelling or playing in the sand.

For those in search of a local beach experience, Boca Chica and Juan Dolio are the places to be. Located just minutes from Las Americas International Airport in Santo Domingo (SDQ), the quaint cities beckon beach bums. On most weekdays one can practically have the beach to themselves, but during the weekend, the beaches are filled with locals wading in the crystal blue waters and dining on fried fish and twice-fried plantains.

Celebrate culture in the Colonial City

The Dominican Republic Carnival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be at the top of any traveller’s bucket list. Celebrated every spring, weekends are filled with parades, events and competitions and more. The long-awaited finale is the National Carnival Parade held along the Malecón of Santo Domingo that brings together typical carnival characters from around Dominican Republic to troop in colourful sync, creating an unforgettable live show.

The culture doesn’t stop there, as Santo Domingo is the most animated, cosmopolitan city in the Caribbean. Every traveller is encouraged to sneak away from our luxurious white sand beaches for at least a day and explore the Colonial City. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the city overflows with beautiful architecture and rich history.  Explore the historical cobblestone streets lined with modern and traditional shops as well as incredible gastronomic options. Holding the unofficial title as the Gastronomy Capital of the Caribbean, we recommend you arrive on an empty stomach.

Tee off at one of the country’s 86 ocean view holes

Haven’t gotten enough of our ocean views? Perfect. With seven golf courses offering 86 holes on or overlooking the ocean, the Dominican Republic truly is the Golf Capital of the Caribbean. If you’re in the north coast, be sure to reserve a tee time at Playa Dorada in Puerto Plata. In addition to the pristine greens azure-blue waters, golfers also may be able to spot a humpback whale on its trek to Samaná Bay.

Along the East Coast golfers can enjoy world-class courses, most within minutes from the beach, allowing for a tan line and tee time all in one day. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy breath-taking views of the Caribbean and its emerald fairways, including Corales Golf Club, home to the 2018 PGA Tour this March 19-25, in addition to Punta Espada, celebrated by GolfWeek as the best course in the Caribbean and Mexico. Another must-see is Casa de Campo’s duo of Pete Dye designed courses, to name a few. With 26 courses to choose from in country, there is a course for any liking.

Dominican Republic’s year-round perfect climate and endless activities makes planning a winter escape to paradise look like a walk in the park. To learn more and begin planning your winter getaway, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com

About Dominican Republic
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical and paradisiacal country boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers and beaches.

Known for our warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich cultural experiences like music, art and festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue, amber and larimar.

Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike.  Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism’s official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

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For further information on the destination please contact: Esther Smith: pr.uk@godominicanrepublic.com Tel/fax: 01962 711239 – Mobile: 07768901197 - Website:  www.godominicanrepublic.com – high res photographs – www.drsmartlibrary.com