Dominican Republic is much more than beaches
Dominican Republic Tourism minister David Collado used a Toronto visit to remind travel agents of his country’s many beach options while quickly adding that he doesn’t want his country to be viewed as a beach destination alone.
“The Dominican Republic is much more than sun and beach,” he told a May 12 audience that was treated to performances of Dominican music, with tourism authorities eagerly promoting different Dominican musical genres, such as merengue.
Tourism authorities like to promote ecotourism opportunities in one of the Caribbean’s larger countries; historical sites in the capital of Santo Domingo, the oldest continually inhabited European city in the Americas and which is home to the Colonial Zone, which features Spanish colonial structures dating back centuries. The restored zone attracts large numbers of tourists and has received UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
But Collado also pointed to his country’s many beach resort destinations, among them Miches, found on the northeast coast, which tourism officials promote as both a beach retreat and an ecotourism destination.
Among resort companies that have established a Miches presence are Iberostar, Bahia Principe, Dreams, Viva Resorts by Wyndham and Secrets.
Tour operators that offer the destination include Air Canada Vacations, which labels Miches “the Dominican Republic’s best kept secret. Unique beaches set on undulating coasts partner with scenic mountains and rivers straight out of your dreams. Miches is home to many of the D.R.’s greats, with over 48 km of beaches as well as the country’s largest waterfall, as well as a loyal population of leatherback sea turtles and humpback whales vacationing year after year to lay eggs and raise their young.”
But Collado also noted the Dominican Republic also has many long-running resorts, including La Romana’s Casa de Campo, a large upscale retreat that has hosted the likes of Colombian singer Shakira and includes among its amenities four golf courses.
Collado — who labelled his country a “beautiful paradise” — noted seasonal whale-watching is available in Samana, found on the north coast, and his homeland is determined to safeguard its natural attributes. “We preserve and protect.”
Collado said the Dominican Republic is a safe country with a welcoming people and noted his homeland has long been involved in tourism, becoming “an expert in hospitality.”
Collado also noted predictions of several years ago that travel agents were becoming a thing of the past, adding that agents continue to play a valuable role. “How wrong (those who predicted agents’ demise) were,” he added.
Meanwhile, Laura Di Nardo, Viva Resorts by Wyndham business development manager for Ontario, and who turned out for the Toronto presentation, welcomed Collado’s visit to her city.
“I was especially pleased to hear the minister highlight that the Dominican Republic is much more than just a beach destination,” she said. “While the country is certainly known for its beautiful coastline and resorts, it also offers incredible culture, history, gastronomy, nature, and authentic local experiences that deserve recognition. It was encouraging to see this broader perspective being emphasized, as it reflects the diversity and depth of what the Dominican Republic truly has to offer travellers.”
Viva Resorts by Wyndham currently has six all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic: Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham, Viva Dominicus Palace by Wyndham, Viva V Samana by Wyndham, Viva Tangerine by Wyndham, Viva Heavens by Wyndham and Viva Miches by Wyndham. The properties are in Bayahibe, Puerto Plata, Samaná, Cabarete, and Miches.
Rajiv Calpakam of Toronto agency Direct Travel also welcomed the update.
“The presentation highlighted how the Dominican Republic continues to strengthen its position as a premier luxury travel destination,” he said. “The minister showcased the country’s remarkable growth in high-end tourism, with globally recognized brands such as the Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, and The St. Regis, reinforcing its global appeal. “In addition to attracting luxury travellers, the Dominican Republic offers a wide range of experiences for the regular and everyday traveller. From all-inclusive resorts and family-friendly beaches to cultural heritage sites, adventure activities, and affordable accommodations, the destination caters to all segments of the market.
With year-round warm weather, crystal-clear waters, diverse attractions, and a vibrant culture, the Dominican Republic continues to stand out as one of the most versatile and welcoming destinations in the Caribbean.”
