A Quick Intro to the Dominican

Popular for its resorts, golf courses and sandy beaches, the Dominican Republic is the second largest Caribbean island after Cuba.

Punta Cana is the most popular place to stay in the Dominican, since it has its own airport and plenty of resorts to choose from. Bayahibe is good for diving and has some lovely white sandy beaches, while La Romana has an upscale vibe and is popular with celebrities.

If you want a stress-free vacation where you don’t have to take your wallet out, then the Dominican is a good choice, since there are so many all inclusive resorts. With good food, unlimited drinks, powdery white beaches and excellent snorkeling, I wouldn’t blame you if you don’t make it off your sun lounger.

However, if you do, I’d suggest visiting Santo Domingo, which is the country’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic center is filled with cobbled streets, colonial buildings and architectural wonders that date back to the 1500s.

Hop on the Chu Chu Colonial train for a 45-minute tour of the city and visit the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor, which is the oldest Church in the Caribbean. End your day by strolling the Malecón at sunset to enjoy the sea views and people watching.