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

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Oct. 27, 2016 – 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.