The Dominican Republic still welcomes Czechs, even without a negative test for Covid! The stay is affordable for everyone
"It is safe to say that the Dominican Republic is a great destination for a family holiday. There are plenty of hotels with water parks and not only children have always something to do here, but there is something for everyone. There are all kinds of hotels here - the offer will satisfy not only families but also very demanding clients and low budget travellers, and those who want to be away from their children can use adults only hotels," says Andrea Řezníčková, spokesperson for the Invia travel agency.
In addition, this country is very modern, safe and civilized. "In autumn, the Dominican Republic is a surfer's paradise thanks to the wind and big waves. The main season here starts at the end of November, however we have been organising tours since the beginning of October. A nine-day stay in a five-star hotel with all-inclusive prices ranges between 30 and 40 thousand crowns, while with the Invia travel agency customers can get it from 33 thousand crowns," adds Řezníčková.
Where to go?
The Dominican Republic is located in the Caribbean and occupies two-thirds of the eastern part of the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago. It is bathed by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south, so you can be sure that you will find a crystal clear azure sea. It is possible to travel here all year round, as the temperature is virtually unchanged, with temperatures of over 30 degrees in summer and around 28 degrees in winter.
The capital is Santo Domingo, whose colonial zone is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In fact, it is the oldest city in the New World, where you will find the first cathedral, university and hospital in the Americas. There are also over 300 museums, galleries and many cultural events. The city is also renowned in the Caribbean and Central America for its gastronomic offerings.
Punta Cana: The most beautiful beaches in the world
The most popular resort is probably Punta Cana in the east of the island, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea and has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world - Bavaro Beach is often in the top 10. " If you get tired of lazing around, you can take a trip to one of the theme parks to swim with dolphins, zipline through the exotic vegetation or take a hot air balloon ride. There are also perfect conditions for scuba diving and golf tournaments," says Andrea Řezníčková about local activities.
Boca Chica.
If you don't want to travel too far with the kids, stay in Boca Chica, which is a short drive from Santo Domingo International Airport. Here, too, you'll find beautiful white sandy beaches, coral reefs and lagoons with turquoise water. However, be aware that many locals, Santo Domingo residents, come here on weekends to enjoy their leisure time. That's why you'll find plenty of entertainment even after dark - there are a number of restaurants, discos and bars right on the beach, proving once again that there's something for everyone in the Dominican Republic, regardless of age.
It's generally very lively in the Dominican Republic, so if you'd like to find a rather quieter corner from which to venture out for fun from time to time, remember the town of Juan Dolio. But you won't be bored here either - during your holiday you can try a scuba diving course or attend a baseball game at Tetelo Vargas Stadium.
A journey into nature and history
Where to go? La Romana is known as the City of Sugar, as it's home to extensive sugar cane plantations, which until recently were the island's main economic resource. Along the way, visit the artistic village of Altos de Chavón, which is actually a perfect replica of 16th century colonial villages, giving you a nice idea of what life was like back then.
"However, nature lovers will also enjoy the Dominican Republic. I recommend the Parque Nacional del Este (Eastern National Park) and the famous coral islands of Saona and Catalina. They are home to many endemics, with a total of 572 plant species, 53 of which are endemic, and 60 bird species nesting here permanently. During a boat trip, it is possible to see dolphins frolicking in the open sea," says Řezníčková.
Samaná Peninsula
The greatest natural wealth, however, can be found on the Samaná Peninsula in the north-east of the country. Tropical rainforests, turquoise seas and endless groves of coconut palms make this a true Caribbean paradise. It is said that Christopher Columbus even stopped here on his way to the New World. Samaná has long been a deserted place. The first inhabitants came here from the Canary Islands in 1756. For a time, it was also a haven for pirates who attacked passing ships from here. Later on, the peninsula came into the possession of Napoleon Bonaparte and was also occupied by the American army. Its varied history and the intermingling of European and African cultures have made Samaná a unique place with a distinctive culture.
