Who could resist a trip to Punta Cana and its 48 kilometers of white sandy beaches?! A stay in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic offers the opportunity to dive, swim, and have fun in the crystal clear waters of paradise. This resort area lies in the southeast of the country and has welcomed millions of tourists. Between water sports, sun tanning, and the discovery of a culture with deep roots in the Caribbean basin, a Punta Cana resort is an obvious choice!
Those seeking relaxation have already adopted the long beaches of Punta Cana where all kinds of activities take place. Take, for example, scuba diving and observing the underwater world, volleyball (a great opportunity to meet others), hang gliding to trigger primal sensations, and even swimming with dolphins for magical and memorable moments. The beach is the perfect place to unwind and relax on deckchairs in the shade of a natural parasol, sipping skillfully-mixed cocktails. Among these wonderful beaches, try out the Playa de Arena Gorda, the Playa de El Cortecito, and the Playa Bavaro.
The beach is not the only centre of fun and activity since excursions from Punta Cana are possible ... and certainly recommended. The hardiest will head for the trails to explore in detail the incredible range of local flora and fauna. Pay a visit to Manati Park which is home to many animals, dolphins, and specimens of rare plants. Both children and parents will enjoy climbing, iguanas, majestic tigers, and very elegant pink flamingos!
A trip to Punta Cana is also about strolling the streets in search of bargains and souvenirs. The most popular shopping is usually done at Galerias Punta Cana, a Mediterranean-style, open-air shopping centre. Another area with fabulous shops: the Palma Real Shopping Village whose name is enlightening. For a little less upmarket shopping, head to Plaza Bavaro and find charming souvenirs to take back home.
Keep in mind that Punta Cana, like all of the Dominican Republic, is a year-round destination. However, the city has a humid subtropical climate which means that there are two distinct seasons. One is hot and humid with heavy rain and even the possibility of hurricanes. Therefore, it is preferable to choose the dry season, which runs from November to April. Temperatures for that period vary between 25°C and 30°C.
There are many points of interest, including the excellent Marinarium Marine Park and Aquarium that offers boat trips to explore the Caribbean's coral reefs and marine life. It is based on ecotourism principles: that profits are reinvested for the protection of the environment and education to raise awareness of the environment and the ecosystem. From sea kayaking to a relaxing stroll, from festive cruises to a catamaran outing, Marinarium is the obvious place to spend memorable times with family or friends.
The atmosphere of Punta Cana is decidedly upbeat thanks to the city's many bars, terraces, and restaurants. Let yourself be seduced by the music in the magical setting of Parque Colon. The local Creole cuisine is based upon the banana, with dishes such as tostones (fried banana slices) and mangu, a puree of boiled green bananas.
Accommodations are very comfortable with the possibility of reasonable all-inclusive packages that include access to beaches. Many resorts make the trip a true pleasure, offering attractive, clean rooms, full amenities, and quality service. Among such hotels in Punta Cana are the Bavaro Princess Punta Cana, the Grand Paradise Bavaro Punta Cana, the Punta Cana Bavaro, the Bavaro Beach Punta Cana, the Bavaro Palace Deluxe Punta Cana, the Royal Bavaro Punta Cana, the Catalonia Bavaro Punta Cana, the Grand Palladium Bavaro Punta Cana, the Club Med Punta Cana, the Club Princess Punta Cana, the Grand Palladium Punta Cana, the Tropical Princess Punta Cana, the Riu Palace Punta Cana, the Riu Palace Macao, the Riu Bambu Punta Cana, the Occidental Grand Punta Cana, and the Arena Blanca Punta Cana.
