In 2004, after the sale of our house, we found ourselves with some extra money and a need to take our family on a much deserved holiday.

Knowing that we only wanted to go somewhere safe, somewhere warm, and somewhere affordable, we quickly polled friends and a travel advisor and chose to go to the Dominican Republic. Puerto Plata was the destination airport and we had booked all-inclusive, including transfers to the resort and back to the airport. This was all that we knew when we took off.

So why did I share a family travel story with you? Because I wanted to show you that no matter what your level of experience, you can travel almost anywhere and be just fine. Not only will you be just fine, but you will likely have the most amazing time and have some of the best stories to tell to friends and family upon your return home.

Since that trip in 2004 we have been back to Dominican Republic many, many times, and even lived there for a year. We have also been to so many other amazing destinations and I am not sure if it is because, of the old saying, “You Never forget Your First Love.” Or if it is just something that seems to fit, like a comfortable sweater in the fall, but Dominican Republic has remained one of our top favorite destinations ever.

Dominican Republic has arguably the most diverse topography in all of the Caribbean. While driving in Dominican Republic one can start at a sandy beach and arrive in a cool, mountainous town that is sitting over 500 meters above sea level in under three hours.

The country’s coastline covers over 1,600 kilometers, and more surprisingly, Dominican Republic is flanked by huge mountain ranges, and it is home to the Caribbean’s highest peak: Pico Duarte, sitting at 3,087 meters.

Come for more than the Beaches


Have you ever seen cloud forests? Dominican Republic is filled with ambling cool rivers, waterfalls, offshore caves shrouded in thick rainforest, or pine forests with near zero temperatures, and dry cool breezes.

TOP Things that we love to do in Dominican Republic

Paradise Island – Paradise Island is by far the best snorkeling we have ever experienced. The fish and the coral, only a few feet away, as you bob along watching the under-world life all around you. This is not one of those, “let’s take you out to the middle of the ocean in rough seas,” excursions. You can spend the day on a powdery-white sand island surrounded by turquoise waters & coral reef and makeshift rattan huts. The size of the island depends on the time of the day and season and wind.

Shopping in Santo Domingo – If you like to shop, you will want to be sure you book a trip to the Capital. Santo Domingo feels alive with sounds of voices, Latin music blaring from every Colmado and car, and the bustling city energy, that is only found in large centers and commerce. Here is where you will find Agora Mall, which is claimed to be one the largest malls in the Caribbean.

Zona Colonial - It is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the Americas. The area has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Wikipedia

Zona Colonial is like stepping into a story book, set in times forgotten. With the brick heritage look of the era, and architecture, which is surprisingly well maintained, you can feel like a Lord or Lady as you sip tea in a colonial restaurant, and afterwards wander the streets in awe of this amazing trip back through time.

Casa De Campo - Altos de Chavón is a re-created Mediterranean style European village found atop the Chavón River in La Romana, Dominican Republic. Wikipedia

Altos de Chavón and the amphitheater draw visitors to the area in droves. The amphitheater hosts some of the biggest names in music to perform. Visitors come for posh and elaborate weddings and celebrations, family vacations and holidays. Altos de Chavón is a must see on your visit to Dominican Republic.

Malecon (Spanish for Pier or Jetty) – There is nothing better than spending the day at the Malecon. With all of the colorful casitas, the smell of food being cooked, Latin music blaring from every possible place, good people sharing stories and rum drinks, you will find your happy place. There is no need to dress up, but put on a smile as you will meet some amazing people and spicy characters and isn’t that what travel is all about?