Forecasts for a Harsh Winter Drive Increased Interest in Dominican Republic Travel

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, Oct. 27, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- With the 2017 Farmer's Almanac predicting an exceptionally cold and snowy winter for the Northern Plains, Midwest, Middle Atlantic and Northeast this winter, the sun-soaked weather in Dominican Republic is calling sun seekers planning an escape from the cold. Winter retreats in Dominican Republic range from luxurious spa days to heart-pumping active adventures, but all come with the promise of rejuvenation and some much-needed vitamin D.

"In Dominican Republic, relaxation can mean much more than a day at one of our world-class beaches," said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. "From yoga workshops to water sports to bird watching, no matter how you prefer to unwind, Dominican Republic has the perfect winter vacation to suit any traveler."

Yoga getaways combine mindfulness and adventure

Yogis say "namaste" to Dominican Republic's adventurous north coast -- a hub for kitesurfing and ATVing and also a beloved haven for yoga and wellness buffs. Several hotels and resorts around Cabarete, in the Puerto Plata province, offer yoga classes or even dedicated week-long yoga getaways. Set your intentions while keeping up with your practice along the vibrant coastline. The area is replete with active travelers, and ample opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding and stand-up paddleboarding. For an added adrenaline rush, take up a tour operator on a cliff jumping, canyoning or rappelling adventure. These activities are certain to fulfill the mind, body and soul.

To the northeast in the lush Samaná Peninsula, travelers come to connect with nature: yoga escapes, organic spas and meditations are plentiful, as are adventures into the area's surrounding waterfalls, hills and protected natural reserves. Visitors to Samaná can discover remote, untouched beaches accessible only by a friendly fisherman's boat -- the perfect setting to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and arrive at inner peace.

Reconnecting with Mother Nature

For a tranquil getaway, Dominican Republic's many miles of unspoiled nature and nine distinct ecological zones provide respite from northern winters for hikers, bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Many visitors are surprised to learn that some of Dominican Republic's central regions are characterized by a cool, mountain climate. The municipality of Constanza, nicknamed the "Switzerland of the Caribbean," is bordered by four national parks as well as the Ébano Verde Scientific Reserve, a spectacular hiking destination. The parks and nature reserve throughout Constanza offer more than 600 different species of flowers and plants and more than 100 different types of birds.

Nearby Jarabacoa is set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop in the Cordillera Central range. The area is home to picturesque waterfalls, including Salto de Jimenoa and Salto Baiguate (often explored on horseback). Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean at 10,125 feet (3,087 meters), is accessible from Jarabacoa through two- to four-day trips where travelers can take in astounding panoramas from the top. For less rigorous exploration, a nearby garden hosts Dominican Republic's first butterfly exhibit. The region is home to lodges and accommodations that offer a unique taste of rural life in Jarabacoa.

Beach retreats, spa luxury and cosmopolitan hotspots

World-famous and most recently frequented by jetsetters like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Marc Anthony, Lupita Nyong'o and numerous international supermodels, La Romana's coast in the southeastern corner of the country provides a luxurious, private escape. Offering warm azure waters and peaceful golden sands, the area's luxury resorts and designer golf courses are a favorite hideout of celebrities and tourists looking to rejuvenate and unwind.

Punta Cana, the crown jewel of Caribbean beach destinations, does not disappoint. A seemingly endless list of resorts offers all-inclusive luxury alongside affordable options to suit any type of traveler, with hotels ranging from family-friendly to opulent. Many resorts feature on-site spas where guests can book relaxing treatments just steps away from their rooms, or even an ocean-side massage along the picture-perfect white sand beaches.

Escape to Santo Domingo, the capital of Dominican Republic and the country's most cosmopolitan city, for an unforgettable experience that brings together old-world charm and modern amenities. Relax in a local cigar club to experience one of Dominican Republic's fine cigars with a rum drink in-hand, or shop from high-end brands such as Armani Exchange, Massimo Dutti and Carolina Herrera. It's impossible not to fall in love with the Colonial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site characterized by cobblestone streets that date back to Christopher Columbus's arrival to the island at the end of the 15th century.

Ready to plan your winter escape to Dominican Republic? For more information on warm-weather attractions and destinations in the country, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

About Dominican Republic
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our lush tropical and paradisiacal country boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,575 km) of coastline, 250 miles (402 km) of the world's top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers and beaches.

Known for our warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other, featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich cultural experiences like music, art and festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue, amber and larimar.

Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike.  Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism's official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.

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CONTACT: 
BVK Public Relations for DR Ministry of Tourism
Annie Holschuh, US PR Director
(414) 247-2140 / [email protected]

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SOURCE Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

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