20 Reasons to Holiday in the Dominican Republic

In 2010 more than 4 million tourists and holidaymakers visited the Dominican Republic, the majority of which (54%) came from the USA and Canada. Whilst this might sound like an impressive number of visitors it pales in comparison to other island destinations around the world. The reason being, quite possibly, is that in the realms of travel advertising, people just don't hear about it. So for the uninitiated below is a list of 20 reasons to holiday in the Dominican republic.

1. The Weather!

As it is located in the Caribbean the climate of the Dominican Republic is mostly tropical. In the summer the temperature peaks at around 32 °C (90 °F) and the average daily temperature is 25.8 °C (78 °F) with approximately 6.3 hours of sunlight every day.

2. It Has Great Beaches!

The Dominican Republic has nearly 1000 miles of coastline on its north, east and southern borders, a third of which is made up of some of the world's most beautiful beaches. Most of these beaches are pristine oases of brilliant white sand due to the high content of coral and shell, lined by tall shaded palm trees and offset by crystal clear waters. Not only do the beaches look beautiful and are great places to relax, the water temperature is also a constant 28-30 degrees Celsius almost throughout the year, which makes swimming an added pleasure.

3. It has Great Hotels and Resorts!

As well as a wide range of fantastic hotels the Dominican Republic is the Caribbean's undoubted leader for all-inclusive resorts, with more than two dozen all-inclusive properties ranging from budget to luxury currently in operation. These resorts are based in breathtaking locations and offer world class facilities including Golf Resorts, Spas, Weddings and Water Sports.

4. The Food is Amazing!

The Dominican Republic has an excellent reputation for its varied and flavoursome food. Local cuisine is unique and delicious and as a culture Dominicans love to eat. Holidaymakers will find plenty of places to eat ranging from luxurious restaurants with gourmet menus to casual street cafes, all of which offer a mouth watering array of meals including Oriental, Mexican, Mediterranean, Italian and of course Creole food. You certainly won't go hungry!

5. It's a great place to bring the kids!

On top of the great weather, magnificent beaches, excellent range of accommodation and the awesome food, the Dominican Republic offers a wide range of fun activities for children. As well as a full range of water sports including surf boarding, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, diving and sailing, there are opportunities for horseback riding, go karting and mountain biking. In addition to this the Trampoline Museum, the Children's Library, the National Aquarium, the National Zoo, the National Botanical Gardens, the Waterslide Park and the Las Canquiñas Children's Park are sure to keep the little ones amused.

6. It's a fantastic place to get married!

Given its weather and breathtaking location the Dominican Republic is a fantastic place to get married. Many resorts offer complete wedding packages and dedicated co-ordinators who take the hassle out of organising the wedding for you. The Dominican Republic is of course a fantastic place for a honeymoon and just think what those wedding pictures will look like, especially against the backdrop of a pristine white beach!

7. It is an excellent place for a golfing holiday!

If you love golf then you will love golfing in the Dominican Republic as it contains 28 world class courses designed by such legends of the game as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Nick Faldo, Nick Price and Greg Norman. Nine of the country's golf courses are included in Golfweek Magazine's 2010 list of the top 50 courses in the Caribbean and Latin America. Not least because the breathtaking coastlines, lush green fairways and magnificent unspoilt views of nature make these courses an absolute joy to play on.

8. There's no better place for an Eco-Adventure!

The Dominican Republic has no less than nine distinct ecological zones. This natural diversity allows you to enjoy an extraordinarily diverse eco-adventure on one beautiful island. Containing the highest and lowest points above and below sea level in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic entertains practically every form of nature. From luscious tropical rain forests to arid deserts, each area offers a wide range of very distinct activities. Places like Jarabacoa and Constanza provide opportunities for mountain climbing, hiking, horseback riding, and rafting, while Pedernales, Bahoruco, Bani, Azua and Barahona will reveal untouched beaches, geological formations, lagoons, deserts and dunes. At Cabarete and Samaná, in the northeast coast near Puerto Plata you can experience deep dives, windsurfing, kite boarding, jeep safaris, waterfalls and even humpback whales. While all around the island you can marvel at more than 5000 different species of plant, 254 species of birds and 1,411 species of reptile, many of which are endangered or simply can't be found anywhere else in the world. If eco-adventure tourism is your bag, then the Dominican Republic is definitely for you.

9. You'll love the Water Sports!

Surrounded by warm waters and breathtaking views The Dominican Republic is a Mecca for water sports. Attracting regattas from around the world, such as the R.o.l.e.x Farr 40 Pre-World Cup in April 2010 and the World Sailing Championship at the Casa de Campo marina, sailing is extremely popular. As well as hosting the Windsurfing World Cup, Cabarete Beach is also revered as the 'kiteboarding capital of the world' because its perfect combination of beaches, winds and waves creates the optimum conditions for the sport. Surfing of course is an extremely popular activity and there are 16 fantastic surfing sites located on the northern coast from Puerto Plata to Playa Grande and in Río San Juan, with classic or standard waves that reach over 4 metres high during the months of December to March. Diving too is a major attraction and with 1000 miles of coastline housing coral reefs, caves, shipwrecks and brilliantly covered fish and fauna the Dominican Republic is also known as one of the best places to snorkel or dive in the whole of the Caribbean. If you love water sports, whether it be watching or participating, the Dominican Republic is somewhere you simply have to visit.

10. It has World Class Fishing!

The Dominican Republic is a world class destination for fishing. For years it has been a legendary destination for fishermen and has hosted several international bill fishing tournaments such as the Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament at Cabeza de Toro, the ESPN Billfish Xtreme Tournament at Punta Cana Resort & Club and the new International Billfish Shootout at Cap Cana Marina, the largest marina in the Caribbean. If you like to fish then the Dominican Republic is where it's at!

11. The National Parks are incredible!

The Dominican Republic has a beautiful topography; so much so that over 25 percent of the country has been protected in the form of National Parks, Reserves, and Marine Sanctuaries. These beautiful ecosystems are protected areas within a conservation plan that boasts 83 distinct areas, including 19 national parks, 15 natural reserves, six scientific reserves, 32 natural monuments, 2 marine sanctuaries and 9 areas of protected islands with panoramic views. Providing awe inspiring views of untouched landscapes and moments of peace and solitude the Dominican Republic's National Parks include everything from verdant mountains with bosky pine forests to pristine white-sand beaches and arid desert lands. If you love getting at one with nature the Dominican Republic is the place you must go.

12. The Nightlife is great!

If you like to party, the Dominican Republic will not disappoint as most bars and cafes throughout the country are open and serve alcoholic drinks until midnight on Sunday to Thursday and 2:00 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays.

While most resorts offer a variety of musicals, shows, discos and performances every night if you really want to party then head to Santo Domingo! The Dominican Republic's capital is the hub of the country's nightlife. It enjoys arguably the greatest entertainment in the Caribbean, with a wide range of trendy and happening bars, discotheques, casinos and restaurants and has been touted by some as the Caribbean 'New York'.

13. The Spa's are mind blowing!

The Dominican Republic houses a number of world-class spas. Many are located in luxury 'all-inclusive' resorts that offer the most up-to-date and advanced treatments, including some that use traditional Dominican herbs and minerals. Set in magnificent surroundings, with the subtle sounds of relaxing music, the ocean or waterfalls to sooth your ears and the sweet aroma of natural oils to tantalise your nose, these spas provide the perfect place to pamper your body and free your mind. Many spas also provide a range of cosmetic treatments, hairdressing services; makeovers, hair removal, manicures and pedicures. So there is everything you need to totally unwind!

14. The place oozes of history and culture!

Santa Domingo is generally recognised as the 'First City in the Americas', the place where the New World started. As a consequence Santo Domingo has an impressive display of historic monuments that are as captivating as they are enriching. The most famous of which, the "Colonial City" was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1992. The city has also recently been confirmed as the American Capital of Culture for 2010. To mark this celebration The Dominican Republic's Ministry of Culture has scheduled more than 600 activities to take place throughout the year including the Second National Festival of Theatre and the International Book Fair, as well as various exhibitions, festivals and the inauguration of the new National Library and the much anticipated Museum of Dominican Man.

15. You can shop till you drop!

If you love to shop then The Dominican Republic is the place to go as it has a wide range of many excellent places for the discerning shopaholic to get their fix!

In most tourist areas as well as in the bigger cities, you will find upscale open air markets and large well known shopping centres. But if you really want to shop the place to go is Santo Domingo where the range of shops, boutiques and department stores are simply superb. Selling everything from the latest fashions, leather articles, bags, cosmetics, jewellery and shoes to books, electronic games, liquor, cigars, water sports equipment and art, you will find an endless array of fantastic products to suit any budget and taste.

Typically the shops in Santo Domingo tend to stay open from 9am to 7pm on Monday to Saturday and 9am-6pm on Sunday, so there's plenty of time for a browse even between lying on the beach.

16. No Language Barriers!

If you can't speak a word of Spanish don't worry! Although it is the official language of the Dominican Republic many employees at tourist and hotel destinations across the country speak English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Russian. So you should not have any problem in finding someone to communicate with. That said as a common courtesy it is always worth learning a few basic Spanish phrases. You are after all visiting a country that doesn't speak your native tongue as their first language.

17. You can log on anywhere!

Internet cafes can be found in most tourist destinations in the Dominican Republic. In addition, pretty much all of the larger resorts and hotels offer Internet access on site and most of them offer high-speed DSL Internet connection for laptops in your room. So even though you will be in Paradise you won't find it difficult to keep up to date with all the news, events and scores from the outside world.

18. The Drinking Age is 18!

Both the legal drinking and gambling age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old so even though you might not be old enough to drink in the USA you can legally do so in the Dominican Republic.

19. It is close to other Caribbean islands!

Located in the heart of the Caribbean the Dominican Republic is a fantastic place to use as a base for other destinations in the region. Neighbouring Haiti and with the Bahamas and Turks & Caicos to the North, Cuba and Jamaica to the west and Puerto Rico and the West Indies to the east, in just a few short hours you can visit any other destination in the whole of the Caribbean. Imagine what a holiday that could be.

20. You don't need any specialist vaccinations

In order to travel to the Dominican Republic, you will not need any vaccinations outside of those normally required for Europe and North America. Infact you can pretty go on holiday straight away!

Snorkeling at Grand Sirenis Mayan Beach

Snorkeling at the Grand Sirenis Mayan Beach all inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya, right of the beach at the resort, is the BEST that we have found in our travels around the Caribbean. The clear water, beautiful and health reef create an environment that attracts a wide variety of tropical fish - if you want to experience great snorkeling from the beach, introduce kids to the wonders that lie beneath the sea and stay at a great all inclusive resort then the choice is easy, Grand Sirenis Mayan Beach. We highly recommend this resort for families and couples of all ages. Music: TEMPLO MAYOR by ENRIQUE DEL CARMEN creativecommons.org

Mayan Riviera things to see and do

Explore limestone caves by foot or snorkeling for the adventure of a life.

Zumba Clothing - What is the Best Workout Clothes to Wear

Is Zumba clothing important? Whether you are doing an aerobic or cardio class the correct attire can make your workouts easier. And it's no different with Zumba. There are so many different styles, brands, fabrics and types available today that the task of choosing the proper work-out clothes can be somewhat daunting. Besides everyone has their own personal favorites. Here are some of my favorite dance work out apparel that I personally where in all my classes.

One last thing, many of our existing customers are wearing just any old garment to their classes. We used to do the same thing but what we found is that when you wear clothing that is not only comfortable to workout in but that you look good in, you will enjoy your workouts more! Recent studies suggest that you are more apt to continue your exercise program if you have the proper attire and are happy with the way you look in your workout clothes.

Besides Zumba is all about having fun. So take a little time and find the right cargo pants, tank tops and other apparel to maximize your experience.

Zumba Cargo Pants

It is important to have comfortable pants that move with you. Clothing that restricts your movement is not advised. You need to have exercise clothing that moves with you. These should also be made of a breathable stuff. A newer fabric out today is Supplex. Supplex is a fully breathable fabric that is soft and feels like cotton but made to stretch with you and go right back into place time after time. This fabric does not pill either.

This material also keeps its color very well wash after wash and dries quicker than cotton. This is one type of exercise material we recommend. Another good material you will really like is Dri Fit®. In our opinion, it holds it's shape well and keeps moisture away from your body. Another option are the very hip and very popular cargo pants that you see many of the instructors wear on the videos.

They are available in a tremendous array of vibrant colors and sizes and styles. The "hipster" style has a little narrower leg and a shorter rise. They also carry plus size workout clothing.

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Underwater photos from A-1 Scuba & Travel Center "Since1959"

Since 1959 A-1 Scuba & Travel Center has been the Ultimate Scuba, Snorkeling and Travel Resource for Divers. View photos taken on various trips and events from the Denver Downtown Aquarium. Photos by: S Taylor

Punta Cana: Dreams Palm Beach - Guest Reviews

bookit.com Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana is conveniently located only 20 minutes from Punta Cana airport on a picture-perfect beach filled with swaying palms and sugar-white sands await. Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana boasts a stunning beachfront location and offers exceptional amenities, many recreational activities and sensational cuisine. Experience true relaxation and the privileges of Unlimited-Luxury. Complete Unlimited Luxury Details: All meals included from one of 6 restaurants (5 a la carte, 1 buffet and a coffee shop) World Café- open air buffet restaurant featuring a variety of local and international cuisine Portofino Restaurant- variety of gourmet Italian specialties; Bordeaux (adults only, 18+)- French gourmet a la carte Himitsu- Asian cuisine; Tapanyaki grill tables- a la carte dining; El Patio- a la carte with traditional Mexican cuisine; Seaside Grill and Chief Burger- grilled specialties, burgers and hot dogs Unlimited domestic beverages including beer, liquor and wine by the glass with dinner Unlimited soft drinks and juices Daily activities including tennis, horseback riding (additional charge, reservation required), volleyball, beach soccer, table tennis, bicycles, darts, billiards, board games and an exercise room Introductory scuba demonstration (in pool) Non-motorized water sports including kayaking, snorkeling, Hobie Cats, and windsurfing Supervised Explorer Kid's club and the Core Zone Teen Club Nightly entertainment including indoor a Theatre ...

Snorkeling For Kids - Tips On Teaching Your Kids On How To Start Snorkeling

The most important thing is that kids must first feel comfortable in the water. It is a great idea to start them out in a bath tub at home or in very shallow calm waters.

Do not push your kids to learn how to snorkel, on the contrary, it is best if you let your kids to develop their skills at their own pace. If they are pressured, it will likely take out the fun of snorkeling. Do not worry, a child's skill will improve on their own with practice.

Practice will undoubtedly develop your kids snorkeling skills. Ideally, begin your child's training in calm, shallow water, where your child is able to reach out with his/her arms. Shallow areas are also great and easy for your child to practice with buoyancy.

Mastering the skill and confidence to float will be a major milestone towards safe and relaxed snorkeling. However this will take time. So be patient and never push your child to exceed their capabilities. This skill will be perfected by time and practice.

The next step is to have your kid practice the skill of treading through water. The most important thing to look out for is that your kid is comfortable and is able to lift their head above the water whenever the need arises.

Familiarize your kids with the snorkeling gear

Teaching your kids snorkeling may take some time. This is more so the case when your kids learn on how to use their snorkeling equipment. Once your kid is prepared to go snorkel, go with your child and keep close. Important to instruct your child to breath from his/her mouth. Ideally a mask stays reasonably dry on the inside, but it can (and does) accidentally fill with water. Show your kid on how to clear the water from a flooded mask by raising the head, pulling the lower edge of the snorkeling mask away from the face.

If by now you think that your child has gained confidence, show him/her how to clear their snorkel should water come in. This is advisable as you wouldn't want your child swallowing water if he/she submerges their head below the water.

The next milestone is to teach your kids on how to fin. Encourage them to kids to thread slowly through the water with relaxed movements and to use their hips during the kick in a way that he/she does not break the water's surface.

This article is an excerpt from a series of informative guides appearing on Scuba-Snorkeling-Adventures.com under the Kids Snorkeling section of the site at http://www.scuba-snorkeling-adventures.com/kids-snorkeling.html

Is a Dry Snorkel Really Better?

There are so many types of snorkels to choose from, how can you choose which is the best?  Some styles boast a splash guard, but one big wave and you have a mouth full of water.  Other designs are on the market, but a dry snorkel is best.  This is because of its great design. With this type of snorkel the water splash does not go down the tube into the swimmers mouth.  This saves energy by not having to blow out the water from the shaft.

Many snorkeling enthusiasts enjoy "diving" below the surface of the water to get a better look at interesting objects on the ocean floor.  With traditional snorkels the swimmer must blow out the water that has filled the tube.

If you have ever tried to clear a water-filled tube after holding your breath you know how difficult this can be.  However, with a dry snorkel, the mechanism prevents water from entering the shaft as soon as you go below the surface.  This allows you to take a full breath of air when returning to the surface (rather than a gulp of water!)  

There are different brands of this type of snorkel, but the basic principle is the same.

Traditional snorkels are open at the top of the shaft to allow air into the swimmers' lungs.   This is a good thing.  However, what is bad is that water can easily get in too.  A dry snorkel has a mechanism at the top of the shaft.  Within this part is a one way valve. This valve seals the top of the snorkel when water tries to get in.  Another benefit to this type of style is that it is effective in every direction - 360 degrees.  Standard styles need to be vertical and completely out of the water in order to work without delivering a mouth full to its owner.

Who should use a Dry Snorkel?

Don't worry about not getting enough air with this type of snorkel.  You can breathe quite well with this style.  I have used this system for over ten years and highly recommend it.

Another great benefit of the dry snorkel involves your children.  Since kids are not going to choke on water from this snorkel, they are more likely to enjoy snorkeling and be safe.  My kids have used this style since they were little.  They love it!

Is the Dry Snorkel Technology Expensive?

In years past this technology was a little pricey (and still worth the price) but today the price is extremely reasonable.  In fact, I think it is one of the best investments you can make for your family and their vacation.  

Also available are sets that include the mask and snorkel, or even the mask, snorkel, and fins.

I give this design an eleven out of 1ten and recommend you get one for each member of your family.  Of course the best design isn't any good if it just sits on a shelf.  So, take it with you every time you go to the beach, go on a snorkeling trip, or diving expedition.

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Scuba Adventure Day

Join Lake Pleasant Regional Park on Saturday, May 2 from 8 am to 3 pm for Scuba Adventure Day! At this fun filled family event, attendees will find slippery snorkel contests, a kids water craft program and dive shops that are eager to talk about the sport. First time divers are invited to try out the Discover Scuba experience while certified divers enjoy a boat ride to a fish area. Entry into the event is included in the $5 per vehicle park entry fee; however, additional fees apply for underwater activities. Certified divers who register at the event and pay the entry fee will be eligible to dive and enter underwater treasure and lobster hunts for valuable prizes. Grand prizes include a week long cruise on the Andrea Lynn liveabord dive boat by Sea of Cortez Diving and a weeklong cruise on Blackbeards fancy liveaboard 65 ft. sailboat. Bring your swim suit, snorkel or scuba gear and head to the lake for a day of fun! Divers may obtain a $2 discount coupon from a participating dive shop. Details available online at www.maricopa.gov/parks/lake_pleasant/scuba.aspx. For additional information, contact Terry at (602) 372-7460 ext. 202. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located at 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road.

Sandos Playacar Riviera Maya Beach at Night

Once a week the beach at Sandos Playacar Riviera Maya comes alive with activities and shows. There was a food and drink concession set up, towel folding demo, kids show, fire show and a disco... Now that's a holiday. JCVdude Website: sites.google.com

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FishEyes Rod & Reel with Underwater Video Camera

Great for gadget lovers and nature lovers, this is not just a hi-tech fishing pole you'll be amazed at how much fun you and your family will have discovering and observing nature in ways never before possible. Spy on turtles feeding on your next camping trip to the lake or bring it along to your next family pool party and checkout everyone swimming underwater! Whatever you may discover underwater, Fisheyes is guarantees to be a hit for the whole family. FishEyes features a waterproof video camera that transmits live footage of your fishing experience below the surface to a rod mounted monitor. The full color LCD screen allows for a vivid display of the underwater scenery so you can see if there are any fish waiting to take the bait! FishEyes is available at Amazon.com, Dick's Sporting Goods and other major sporting goods, fishing and outdoor retailers starting Spring 2011 at an MSRP of $99.99 Website: www.fish-eyes.com Facebook fan page www.facebook.com

Hoteloogle.com - Muri Beachcomber Hotel Rarotonga

www.Hoteloogle.com - A three and a half hour flight from Auckland New Zealand, Pacific Resort Rarotanga is center stage at Rarotongas premiere location, Muri Beach. Luxurious landscaping compliments an intimate collection of 64 rooms, either studio, one or two bedroom units and villas, with poolside, beachfront or garden location... The choice is yours. Every room features air-conditioning, overhead fans, cooking facilities and insect protection. With modern Polynesian decor and furnishings... your comfort is priority. Muri Beach is Rarotongas best spot for water activities. Pacific Resort Rarotonga offers complimentary snorkeling gear and kayaks, sailing craft and pedal boats for hire. There is also the tunning secluded inland freshwater swimming pool. The activites team operate our 8.5 metre glass bottom cruiser - Moana Roa - with excursions and customized cruizes of our lagoon environment. You may wish to have a massage on the beach, leave the children at the kids club while you explore the reef and lagoon or learn to play the ukelele. We can also provide information and make reservations on your behalf for Rarotonga tours and excursions. Sandals Restaurant and the Barefoot Bar are our dining venues. You can also dine on the beach with sand between your toes and enjoy Pacific Cuisine from our all day menu featuring honest resort food. Pacific Resort Rarotonga is a special place on Muri Beach where you can enjoy Cook Islands hospitality, gracious Polynesian services ...

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my lil tashu bro going hyper in a 5yrs old's spider man suit, a kids scuba diving mask and snorkel and a tele tubby costume...watch my big bro in the background!! it hilarious!

"Bintan, Indonesia" Monicab's photos around Bintan, Indonesia (bintan indonesia how to get)

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