The lush islands of the Caribbean make the ideal vacation destination. This part of the world offers a warm climate, beautiful beaches and thriving communities. One part of the region that has been seeing an influx of travelers is the Turks and Caicos islands and the Dominican Republic. The Turks and Caicos lie a short distance off the coast of Hispaniola. The Dominican Republic occupies one half of this island. Many travelers choose to combine a visit to both places in a single trip. It's easy to explore places like Santo Domingo and Punta Cana then fly or cruise to Grace Bay for further fun. Both places are happy to welcome guests from the United States. There are many direct flights from major American cities all year long. Cruise ships also stop in each place as a destination or as part of a longer trip.
Hotel Accommodations to Love
One of the best things about visiting the Dominican Republic and the Turks and Caicos islands is there are so many places to stay. The Puntacana Resort & Club offers a unique opportunity to enjoy some of the best accommodations in the region. They are the sole AAA 5-diamond hotel in the entire country. It's ideal for honeymooners or anyone looking for a romantic getaway. The Casa de Campo at La Romana is one of the most famous resorts in the country. There's a dozen restaurants on site and three world class golf courses. A local airport offers lots of easy connections to the capital. Sublime Samana at the beautiful Las Terrenas offers a serene destination and the chance to get away from it all in a highly secluded setting. It's right on the beach for plenty of fun in the sun. Turks and Caicos also have lots of places to stay. Head to The Palms Turks and Caicos for a sophisticated place devoted to sampling the many pleasures of the area. Another option is the Inn at Grace Bay. Directly next to the ocean, it's also located near the island's many shopping and delightful cultural attractions.
Exciting Activities For Travelers
Visiting the Dominican Republic and Turks and Caicos means lots of time to spend in the warm and sunny climate all year long. Travelers who love animals can begin with a visit to the Monkey Jungle and then try the Zip Line Adventures. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the native creatures. See them from above with a zip line down the jungle. If your interests lie below the waters, spend a week with the weeklong whale encounter offered by Row Adventures. They're at the Sanctuary for Marine Mammals where the focus is on conservation and education. People looking to experience the coastal waves should go kiteboarding in the small but lovely town of Cabarete. The Macao Beach Surf Camp in beautiful Macao Beach offers further opportunities to hone surfing skills. Turks and Caicos is also another place for wonderful adventure. Try a snorkeling cruise from Grace Bay. It's a half day on the water and below it. A visit to Smith's Reef is another way to get to this underwater world. It's easy to get here from nearly any place in the Turks and Caicos.
Incredible Sights For Any Visitor
Planning a trip to this part of the world is a joy. There's so much to see and do. No visit to the Dominican Republic is complete without a trip to the capital of Santo Domingo. The Zona Colonial lies at the heart of town and offers shady squares, cathedrals and plenty of chances to shop. Beach lovers should head right to the Coconut Coast. Miles of pristine beaches like at the country's southeastern tip are just waiting for travelers. Historic Santiago de los Caballeros is the nation's second largest city. With settlements that date back hundreds of years, it's a well-preserved place to explore the nation's beginnings. La Isabela Bay is another place to further explore regional history. It's the site of the first settlement in the Americas that remained permanently. There's a placid beach with gentle waves and excavated ruins to see in person. Turks and Caicos offers lots of other wonderful places to explore. The Bight Reef is easy to access as it is right near the Coral Gardens resort. There's dozens of little caves with brightly colored fish that can be seen up close. Little Water Cay makes an easy trip from the mainland to see the island's iguanas in their natural habitat and go snorkeling in the warm and lovely waters right next to the island.
