Dominican Republic

Like many islands in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is home to a number of stunning beaches but it’s not all about the coast for those who are looking for a top class HOT Holiday in the sun.

One of the largest islands in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has long been a popular option for people looking to enjoy a high quality break away from home.

A major selling point is the weather, with the island benefitting from plenty of sun throughout the year and average temperatures running into the late 20s.

There is the chance of encountering rain during the wet season but even if there is a short, sharp shower, it won’t dampen the enjoyment of spending time on an island that is one of the most diverse in the Caribbean.

When it comes to the beaches, some of the best are to be found around La Romana and in the area around Punta Cana, which sits on the Eastern tip of the island.

Here, you’ll find more than 30km of stunning sandy shores that are some of the most spectacular to be found anywhere in the Caribbean – never mind in the Dominican.

Expect to find coconut trees swaying in the breeze and crystal clear waters that are so inviting, it will be difficult to decide whether to lie back and top up your tan, or to head into the ocean for a refreshing dip.

As with many of the other islands in the region, there is much more to the Dominican Republic than the beaches.

Head inland and you’ll be able to explore vibrant rainforests and large mountain peaks – such as Pico Duarte, which is one of the highest peaks to be found across the Caribbean islands.

A visit to the capital city Santo Domingo should also feature highly on your list if you decide to visit the Dominican Republic, largely because it will provide some fantastic opportunities to explore and embrace the other side of the island.

Here, there is a range of different buildings that reflect the colonial nature of the city, such as the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor - which sits within an area that is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are also various markets within the city as well as a range of bars and restaurants, so any desire to grab a bite to eat or to indulge in some retail therapy will be covered.