Beyond Punta Cana
Photo: Dominican Republic Tourism Board
If one were to ask in a crowded room, “Who’s heard of Punta Cana?” nearly every hand would go up. It’s the leading destination in the Dominican Republic, famous for its over 30 miles of white-sand beaches and the all-inclusive resorts lining those shores. With subsections to fit all travel styles, from Bavaro to Cap Cana to Uvero Alto, it’s become a default vacation spot for many Americans looking for a high-value, high-convenience beach escape.
But for those who prefer to march to the beats of their own drummers, travelers who like to be in the know or off the mainstream, the popularity of Punta Cana may be exactly why the Dominican Republic may not be on their list. Which is why we’re introducing lower-profile Santo Domingo and Miches as reasons to reconsider this island nation as a dream destination for authenticity-seekers, experiential travelers, and early adopters.
Miches
Part of what’s become affectionately nicknamed the Emerald Coast, framed by golden sands and lush mountain landscapes, this emerging destination has become an ideal alternative for adult and family travelers looking for a more secluded experience.
Sustainable development built around ecotouristic philosophies means much of the destination’s natural beauty is left untouched and surprises await in the most unexpected quarters. For instance, Montaña Redonda has become quite known for its panoramic swings, which overlook 360° views of the coastline and Laguna Limón. Down in that lagoon, birdwatcher delight in excursions that will fill up their Merlin app, and at Pozas de Caño Hondo, visitors can literally immerse themselves in nature in natural pools. Plus, there’s the Parque Nacional Los Haitises, a day trip worth taking for its mangroves, limestone mogotes, caves, and Taíno rock art.
Visitors can also get a taste of real Dominican culture in Miches as well. Remote until recently, rice has been grown there for some time, and visits to these fields to learn about regional agricultural production are an enriching way to spend a day. Same with Casa del Coco, where guests can learn about coconut oil and local coconut-based products.
Best of all, at this point in time, vacationers can enjoy all of these below-the-radar attractions without sacrificing comfort or luxury. In the past few years, stunning resorts have joined the coast, including Secrets® and Dreams® Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort & Spa, Viva Miches by Wyndham All-Inclusive, and more, available through ALG Vacations®.
Santo Domingo
It’s funny that while Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, it’s not always top of mind for travelers to the country. However, history and architecture enthusiasts should strongly consider visiting this city, if anything, for its UNESCO World Heritage Colonial Zone. Its 16th century cobblestone streets – including the first paved street in the Americas, Calle Las Damas – are lined with museums, boutiques, and restaurants and lead up to landmarks like the oldest European military structure in the Western Hemisphere, Fortaleza Ozama; the oldest cathedral in the Americas, Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor (Catedral Primada de América); and a beautiful plaza.
Plaza Espana is only one of the many great gathering places in Santo Domingo. Puerta del Conde, Columbus Palace, Columbus Lighthouse, and the Santo Domingo Malecon on George Washington Avenue, lining the Caribbean Sea, are all popular for leisurely breaks.
But just because it’s a city doesn’t mean there aren’t natural features as well. Aside from the obvious views of the sea, the National Botanical Garden, Mirador Sur Park, and Los Tres Ojos National Park, which features underground caves and clear lakes to explore.
And of course, staying in the city is easy. Hotels like Catalonia Santo Domingo on the boardwalk, JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo, Kimpton Las Mercedes by IHG, and El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel are all sold through ALG Vacations® for easy booking. Head to ALGVacations.com to book today and save up to $650!
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