Dominican Republic Fam trip

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC a vibrant Cari ean escape

Our Fam Trip Agents

Special Report

Bavaro Adventure Park

Dominican Republic Fam Trip

FIVE GO TO… the Dominican Republic

Take five agents from some of the best travel companies in the UK, serve up return flights from London Gatwick with British Airways, wine and dine them in four of the top resorts in the Dominican Republic, add a sprinkle of outdoor adventure, blend some culture into the mix and what do you get?

An unforgettable fam trip exploring one of the Caribbean’s most exciting destinations.

Our five agents travelled to the Dominican Republic in October 2025, courtesy of British Airways, with Dominican Republic Tourist Board host Gustavo Adolfo Candelario and Selling Travel’s Lauren Jarvis, for a week of Caribbean-style fun in the sun.

Dive into our Dominican Republic trip report to discover where to stay, what to do and how to get there, and gain valuable tips on how to sell the destination to your own customers.

Need To Know

Capital: Santo Domingo

Population: 11.5 million

Official language: Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency: Dominican Peso, although U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in resorts

Climate: Tropical, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November, although showers are often brief and the weather remains warm.

Temperature: Warm and sunny year round, with average daily temperatures hovering just below 26C / 80F.

Entry requirements: Visitors from the UK do not need a visa, but must complete a free electronic entry and exit form at eticket.migracion.gob.do

Time: Five hours behind GMT, with no daylight savings adjustments

Plan your trip to the Dominican Republic at godominicanrepublic.com

Golf in Punta Cana

“As one of the best-value destinations in the Caribbean, I think visitors will be very happily surprised with the high standard of accommodation and service we experienced during our stay”

Michelle, Travel Counsellors

Meet the host

Gustavo Adolfo Candelario, Dominican Republic Tourist Board

“We were thrilled to have the opportunity to host agents from the UK here in the Dominican Republic, and were delighted to show them the best of our beautiful nation.”

Meet the reporter

Lauren Jarvis, Travel Writer

“I’ve visited other Caribbean islands but this was my first time in the Dominican Republic, so I was excited to explore and learn more about its history and culture.”

Meet the agents

Dan Saunders, Tropical Sky

“The Dominican Republic has great-value properties but also some outstanding luxury accommodation as good as anywhere in the world.”

Charlotte Scotts, TravelUp

“Naturally beautiful, friendly and with some excellent hotels offering a huge range of activities for children, this is a destination I’d return to with my own family.”

Fiona Whitehead, Travel Counsellors

"With its breadth of experiences, the Dominican Republic will appeal to everyone from active families to honeymooners to those looking for a cultural escape.”

Libby Mortimer, Gold Medal

“There is so much to discover here beyond the beach resorts – from adventure parks like Bavaro to the history and culture of the country’s capital, Santo Domingo.”

Michelle Wainwright, Travel Counsellors

“The destination is a great year-round option – even in the rainy season showers are short-lived. With some beautiful spas, it caters to the wellness sector too.”

WELCOME to the Dominican Republic

Its natural beauty, vibrant culture and, of course, those dreamy beaches make the Dominican Republic one of the Caribbean’s premier year-round destinations.

Travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to Caribbean destinations, but for many, there’s one country that consistently tops their ‘dream holiday’ wish list: the Dominican Republic. Drawing more than 11.5 million visitors to its picture-perfect shores in 2025, with its enticing blend of natural attractions, breathtaking beaches and exceptional resorts, it welcomes more travellers from the UK than anywhere else in Europe, with visitation up 3.2% year on year.

Basking under year-round blue skies in the Greater Antilles archipelago, the Caribbean’s second-largest country after Cuba shares the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola with Haiti but has its own independent government and one of the fastest-growing economies in Latin America. Its coastline is one of the longest in the Caribbean, stretching more than 1,000 miles. Along its northern Atlantic Ocean shores lies the historic city of Puerto Plata and the talcum-powder beaches of Samaná Peninsula, while the nation’s capital, Santo Domingo, with its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Colonial District, stands on the Caribbean Sea to the south.

Exceeding expectations

Throughout its history, a melange of nationalities and cultures have each left their mark, their influence felt in everything from the Indigenous Taíno-inspired design of the new Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton to exquisite Spanish architecture like the Columbus Alcazar palace in Santo Domingo and the African rhythms pulsing through the music playing in bars and clubs around the country.

With eight international airports, the busiest being Punta Cana – gateway to 30 miles of beautiful beaches and some of the country’s best resorts – and Las Américas Airport in Santo Domingo, travelling to the Dominican Republic is a breeze. British Airways offers direct flights from London Gatwick to Punta Cana, while Iberia flies from London Heathrow to Santo Domingo via Madrid. And, of course, the destination is a highlight on the Caribbean itineraries of many major cruise lines.

The Dominican Republic has perfected the art of delivering excellent value and exceeding expectations, especially in the case of accommodation. From family-run guest houses to private villas and all-inclusive luxury resorts, the destination has accommodation to suit every kind of traveller and budget.

“A boat trip is a great way to explore the destination, see more of its beautiful coastline and hopefully experience some marine life too”

Michelle, Travel Counsellors

Para Sailing, Punta Cana

“British Airways’ direct flight from London Gatwick to Punta Cana is fantastic, with lots of leg room and great food”

Dan, Tropical Sky

Snorkeling Playa Frontón

Did You Know?

The Dominican Republic has the most cruise ports of any Caribbean destination, with Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, La Romana, Samaná, Cabo Rojo and Puerto Plata welcoming ships from cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Norwegian, Celebrity, Carnival and Princess.

Caribbean’s largest

Some of the world’s most established and celebrated brands are here, including properties from Eden Roc, W Hotels, Hyatt, Marriott and Club Med, each one offering the exceptional experience and service guests have come to know and expect. The Dominican Republic is also home to the Caribbean’s largest resort, Casa de Campo, which spans 7,000 acres and offers luxury accommodation, its own marina, an equestrian centre and a Mediterranean-style village.

Abundant nature

With a quarter of land protected by national parks, there’s plenty for nature lovers to enjoy, with lush, forest-clad mountains, tumbling waterfalls and family-friendly adventure parks where thrill-seekers can zipline through the trees.

And while you’re here, don’t miss the chance to explore the ocean too. Try an exhilarating reef, wall or wreck dive; snorkel with turtles and rays above kaleidoscopic coral gardens or join a boat tour to see humpback whales cruising the coastline.

Michee, Fiona and Li y Dinner at Zemi Miches Punta Cana Punta

HISTORY & CULTURE A sense of place

From the contemporary resorts celebrating the country’s Indigenous ancestry, with their modern take on traditional Taíno design, to the Spanishinfluenced architecture and cobbled streets of Santo Domingo and the UNESCO-recognised Guloya Festival, which commemorates the struggles, courage and resistance of enslaved Africans, the Dominican Republic honours its rich and complex cultural heritage through its food, festivals, music and more.

Did You Know?

Considered the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, Santo Domingo’s plazas buzz with vibrant restaurants that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage, serving an array of exciting dishes influenced by the Indigenous Taíno people and infused with Spanish, African and Middle Eastern flavours.

“The Dominican Republic really sets itself apart by establishing a strong sense of place through the cultural activities on offer at many of the country’s resorts and by keeping so many of its diverse traditions alive,” says Dan from Tropical Sky.

Whether it is eating delicious “mofongo”, a dish made with mashed green plantains with its origins in West Africa, swaying slowly to the passionate rhythms of Bachata, born from the barrios of Santo Domingo in the twentieth century, or joining local fans at a baseball game (known here as “pelota”) in the capital’s hallowed Estadio Quisqueya, the destination offers plenty to engage adventurous travellers who are looking to dive a little deeper into the nation’s culture, history and heritage.

“For clients keen to experience some culture in the country’s capital, as well as some beach time, the Iberia flight from London Heathrow, via Madrid, to Santo Domingo is a good option”

Michelle, Travel Counsellors

“I don’t usually include local excursions in my Dominican Republic packages, but it’s been great discovering the many exciting cultural experiences I could potentially offer” Charlotte, TravelUp

Local dancing in Santo Domingo

Where to stay: Casas del XVI

This new luxury hotel concept offers unique accommodation in a selection of restored historic homes throughout Santo Domingo’s Colonial Quarter. With private butler, concierge and chef services, each room or house is perfectly positioned for exploring the city’s UNESCO World Heritage site.

casasdelxvi.com

Three Unmissable Events

There’s always something exciting happening in the Dominican Republic – from international sports gatherings to vibrant cultural festivals. Here are three must-see events to add to your calendar.

1 Dominican Carnival… for a cultural escape

Visit the Dominican Republic in February and you could be lucky enough to experience the annual carnival celebration. The fiesta lights up Santo Domingo with a colourful parade, floats, music and dance.

2 PGA Golf Tournament… for a swinging celebration

Corales Golf Club at Puntacana Resort is the home of the Dominican Republic’s first PGA Tour event. The seventh edition of the Corales Puntacana Championship will be held on the oceanfront course from July 16-19 2026.

3 Merengue Festival… for an immersive musical experience

There’s dancing on the streets of the capital during the annual Merengue Festival each summer, with workshops and events which honour the UNESCO-recognised traditional dance form.

NATURE & OUTDOORS Action-packed adventures

While it’s tempting to spend a holiday in the Dominican Republic daydreaming on a beach lounger, memorable real-life dream experiences await visitors who head out to explore the country’s lush landscapes that lie beyond the pool.

“The destination’s all-inclusive resorts offer so many activities but it’s absolutely worth venturing out to discover all the country has to offer – you won’t be disappointed,” says Michelle, Travel Counsellors.

Family friendly

Our action-packed fam trip included a visit to one of Punta Cana’s most popular attractions, Bávaro Adventure Park, which promises a fun day out for families (and big kids too). With a wonderfully wild forest setting, the park has a jungle zipline, cenotes (freshwater lagoons) and a Sacred River, which runs through limestone caves, carved and painted with Indigenous Taíno symbols.

Did You Know?

The Dominican Republic is home to the Caribbean’s highest peak, Pico Duarte, which soars to 10,174 feet in the country’s Central Range. Join a guided hike to the top for sweeping views of the mountains and breathtaking tropical landscapes.

Magical national parks

The country has some spectacular national parks, including Los Haitises, which has magical mangrove forests, ancient petroglyphs, and incredible hiking and biking trails, just two hours from Punta Cana. For water babies, the country’s coral reefs are bursting with life and provide a playground for snorkellers and divers. Thrill-seekers can satisfy their need for speed with white water rafting, kitesurfing and ATV tours.

“The destination offers an incredibly diverse range of outdoor activities. From golf to water sports to horse riding, there really is something for everyone”

Fiona,

Travel Counsellors

“I knew the Dominican Republic had some fantastic resorts, but I never expected it to be so green and naturally beautiful”

Libby, Gold Medal

3 Beach Beauties

You’re never far from a stunning beach or an exciting ocean adventure in the Dominican Republic. Whether you’re looking to lounge, windsurf or explore beneath the waves, here are three paradise beaches to add to your holiday hotlist.

1 Playa Rincon… for soaking up some rays

Where to stay: W Punta Cana

Overlooking the stunning Uvero Alto beach, W Punta Cana is a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty, with lush gardens and a dazzling 260-feet-long infinity pool. The Dominican Republic’s first all-inclusive adultsonly experience also has a spa, water sports and offers ziplining, diving and buggy adventures. marriott.com experience

Blessed with lush mountain views and soft white sand, Playa Rincon is one of the world’s best beaches, offering an authentic, laid-back Caribbean vibe on the country’s Semaná Peninsula.

2 Cabarete Bay… for water sport adventures

With a reef 800 metres offshore, Encuentro’s crescent-shaped Cabarete Bay is a favourite spot for windsurfers, and at its western end, Kite Beach is a mecca for kiteboarders.

3 Saona Island… for exploring the reefs Saona Island is a favourite diving and snorkelling spot, with warm, shallow waters, beginner-friendly sites and amazing marine life, including turtles, nurse sharks, rays and dolphins.

FIVE STYLISH STAYS for a traveer types

You’ll find a resort to suit every kind of traveller in the Dominican Republic. On our fam trip we visited five of the best.

Best for an active stay

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

Covering more than seven acres on the southeast coast in La Romana, the Caribbean’s largest resort (and one of its most exclusive) is a destination in itself, with a marina, three championship golf courses, a Polo and Equestrian Club, a luxurious spa and a village inspired by a 16th-century Mediterranean town. casadecampo.com.do

Best for a romantic escape

Sanctuary Cap Cana

This sophisticated adults-only all-inclusive resort in Cap Cana is perfect for a romantic stay. With a beautiful beach and five swimming pools, couples can find their own secluded spot in the sun. Restaurants offer everything from casual beachside dining to highend cuisine, while Sanctuary Town is perfect for a stroll after dinner. sanctuarycapcanaresort.com

Best for a cultural dive

Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton

For those who prefer a resort with a strong sense of place, the new Zemi Miches is perfect. With design influenced by the Indigenous Taíno people and daily crafts workshops, which teach some of their traditional skills, plus the gorgeous Acana spa (inspired by the pre-colonial civilisation), Zemi offers a mindful Caribbean stay. hilton.com

Best for a family holiday

Club Med Punta Cana

No matter how active the kids, they’ll be ready for bedtime after a day diving into the exciting attractions at Club Med Punta Cana, which include a tropical-themed water park, a large racket-sports centre and a circus skills school complete with flying trapeze. There’s also a stylish adults-only zone for those travelling à deux. clubmed.co.uk

Best for a tranquil retreat

Eden Roc Cap Cana

The Caribbean’s first and only Relais & Chateaux hotel, Eden Roc Cap Cana, offers effortless elegance and style on a tranquil sandy bay, with Spanish colonial architecture, a chic beach club and a magical gardengrotto – The Garden of Eden – for private dining and stargazing. The resort also regularly hosts visiting celebrity chefs. edenroccapcana.com

GET READY TO FLY British Airways & Iberia

With direct British Airways flights from London Gatwick to Punta Cana, and Iberia offering a service to Santo Domingo from Heathrow via Madrid, getting to the Dominican Republic has never been easier

Hit the beach with BA

The Dominican Republic is well prepared to greet travellers from around the world as it boasts no less than eight international airports.

Many UK visitors choose to fly direct to the holiday hub of Punta Cana with British Airways from London Gatwick.

Offering three flights a week year round, the service whisks passengers straight into Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), where they can either rent a hire car (Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Budget, and Europcar are all here), organise a hotel pick-up, or take a taxi for the 20- to 45-minute journey to Punta Cana’s resorts.

britishairways.com

“The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean’s more accessible destinations and direct flights, like the BA service from London Gatwick to Punta Cana, are really appealing to our customers, especially those travelling with children.”

Charlotte Scotts, TravelUp

Explore Santo Domingo with Iberia

Spanish airline Iberia has daily flights from London Heathrow, via Madrid, to the Dominican Republic’s cultural heart, Santo Domingo, which lies on the country’s southern coast.

The latest model of the A330-200 ensures its 288 passengers travel in comfort and style to Las Americas International Airport (SDQ; around 45 minutes from the city centre) with wider seats and more legroom in Business, and an ergonomic design offering more space in Economy, too. Using around 30% less fuel than wide-body models, the increased energy efficiency of the single-aisle A330200 shows Iberia’s commitment to lowering carbon emissions.

iberia.com

“The Iberia flight to our stunning historic capital from London Heathrow via Madrid offers visitors the chance to experience an exciting two-centre holiday, immersing themselves in the culture of Santo Domingo before relaxing on our beautiful beaches.” Gustavo Adolfo Candelario Dominican Republic Tourist Board