Hotels in Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is one of the most glamorous resorts on the Dominican Republic’s Coconut Coast, if not the whole of the Caribbean. That's because the giddy mix of hot days on the beach and VIP nightlife makes the resort feel a little like paradise, with its bright green scenery set against the gold of the coast. The jungle is ideal for would-be explorers, while the rather more leisurely golf courses complete a very pretty picture. During your Punta Cana holidays, you may even rub shoulders with some of the world's most famous celebrities, too, as many of Hollywood’s A-listers are big fans of this part of the island.

Things to do

Go shopping at the Palma Real Shopping Village in the Bávaro area on your holidays to Punta Cana, where you can see some beautiful arts and crafts items. Visit the Marinarium and learn all about sharks and stingrays, or head to the Aromas Museum if you're interested in finding out about the Dominican Republic's history and culture. In La Romana, just under an hour's drive from Punta Cana, you can explore the Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village, featuring an amphitheatre and archaeological museum.

Excellent beaches

The inviting resort has some of the best beaches in the whole of the Dominican Republic. Enjoy the pristine shores of Punta Cana’s 35 kilometre stretch of continuous white sand lined with palm trees. The tropical setting is the ideal location for a long day in the warm sunshine. Relax on the powdery white sand of the resort’s main beach, Playa Bavaro. Take a dip in the warm, crystal clear waters and snorkel in the shallow coral reefs. For something a little quieter, take a trip to Macao Beach where the shores are virtually untouched. Lounge along the sand and take in the spectacular views of the impeccable coast and shimmering waters. This is a popular surfing spot where you can take surfing lessons or rent a board if you are more experienced.

History and culture

It was the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, who discovered the area on his first voyage in 1492. The popular holiday resort can be found along the exquisite shores of the Dominican Republic. It shares the Caribbean island of Hispaniola with neighbouring Haiti. Before the Spanish inhabited the island, it was populated by the Taino Indians for hundreds of years but won its independence from Spain in the early 19th century by Haiti. The growth in tourism into Punta Cana was due to the area’s first airport opening in 1984. The Dominican Republic is now well known not only as a hugely popular holiday paradise, but also for their major league baseball players.

Vibrant nightlife

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the laid back island life throughout the day and in the evening. Punta Cana is the best place in the Dominican Republic for nightlife. It comes alive at night with an array of bars and huge dance clubs open until the early hours and regular beach parties on the sandy shores. Dance the night away to a mix of Caribbean beats and the latest summer hits and sip on fruity cocktails. If you want a more peaceful evening, enjoy a cold drink in one of the coastal bars and watch as the sun sets on the glistening horizon.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bavaro

Bavaro has the Dominican Republic’s favourite attractions in one resort, from a golden coastline and tropical jungle, to thriving nightlife full of Caribbean flavour. Stay moments from the beach and be by the sea every morning of your holiday, feeling the warm sand between your toes. Relax by the water all day and soak up the sun filtering through the coconut palms, or plan exhilarating excursions into the depths of the jungle. 

Things to do

Release your inner explorer and plan a guided tour or jeep excursion of the lush, green national park and jungle on Bavaro’s doorstep. The morning is the best time to be in the jungle, before the tropical heat rises at midday. Next, bag yourself a shady beach hut right by the water and make the most of the sunshine, before wandering up the beach to find a local restaurant for some tasty fresh seafood. The nightlife here starts late, and you can keep it low-key with a cold beer on the beach or at a live music bar.

Excellent beaches

The beach is Bavaro’s most talked about attraction and arguably the best beach on the whole island. The powdery, white sand is adorned with tropical palm trees that look like it’s straight off a postcard. The peaceful setting is made even more comfortable with sun loungers and straw parasols for you to relax under and with beachside bars and cafés; a delicious cocktail is never too far away. Lay back and take in the spectacular views of the glistening, crystal clear sea. Nearby there’s also the opportunity to enjoy a variety of water sports, from jet skiing, paragliding, windsurfing and snorkelling.

History and culture

Famous explorer, Christopher Columbus, first discovered the Dominican Republic in 1492, which now shares the island of Hispaniola with neighbouring Haiti. Bavaro was originally designed to be a home for the large amount of tourist employees that worked in Punta Cana, but the pristine, sandy shores couldn’t be kept secret for long as hotels were soon built. Holidaymakers soon began to flock to the serene setting to experience the laid back island life.

Vibrant nightlife

The upbeat resort of Bavaro has both a laid back atmosphere and a choice of entertaining nightlife for you to experience. Enjoy a delicious meal and sip on a fruity cocktail or cold beer in one of the beachside bars and take in the stunning views of the sunset. The nightlife on the island typically starts later than expected, but the bars and clubs open until the early hours. Enjoy a live band in one of the popular music bars and dance until the sun comes up.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Antigua | Aruba | Bahamas | Barbados | Cuba | Dominican Republic | Jamaica | Mexico | Punta Cana | St. Lucia | Tobago

Jamaican holidays are so varied! One day you’ll discover plunging waterfalls and the Martha Brae River, and the next you’ll be snorkelling in a marine park. Immerse yourself in the Caribbean culture and explore the Blue Mountains, vibrant jungles and golden sandy beaches. In the evening‚ wind down by taking in the stunning views of the tropical ocean or stay up late dancing until dawn to Jamaica’s homegrown reggae music. You’ll soon find this island is full of breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering local dishes and the friendliest people.

Things to do

For dreamy Caribbean views and laidback hours stretched out under the tropical sun, you’re onto a winner with Jamaica. Relax on the sands of Seven Mile Beach and sip fresh fruit cocktails under the fronds of a huge palm tree, soaking up the sounds of the waves, sea birds and, above all, Bob Marley.

Or, for a more exciting tropical exploit, set off up Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios. Making your way right through the gushing water, you’ll need your swimming kit and water shoes rather than walking gear! The climb to the top is one of the most memorable things to do in Jamaica, so it’s a real must for both older families seeking a forever experience and couples looking for a romantic adventure.

Refuel with delicious street foods like spicy jerk chicken, curried goat, and peppered shrimp. Think the kids won’t like the local flavours? Your little globetrotters might just surprise you! Look for family-pleasers such as buttery funchi (polenta), the meat-and-veg sancocho stew, and sweet, coconutty cassava cake for an easy-in starting point.

After your lunch has gone down, why not take a boat trip to Lime Cay for some of the best snorkelling in Jamaica? The beaches on this uninhabited coral island are astonishingly lovely, too. It’s hard to believe Kingston, Jamaica’s bustling capital, is just across the water when you’re chilling in a paradise like this! The mood at Lime Cay’s buzzing at weekends, though, with a youthful party vibe - so go with the flow and get ready to let your hair down.

If top-notch golfing holidays are more your thing, book a round or two at the spectacular Runaway Bay Golf Club, just one of the world-class courses you’ll find in Jamaica. Looking for more challenging sports? Join a 12-hour hike up Blue Mountain Peak via the notoriously steep Jacob’s Ladder; go bobsledding, river rafting, horse riding or surfing; or whizz through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline ride - there are several to choose from, so take your pick!

Where to go

There are tons of sights to fill your holiday to Jamaica - it’s an irresistible place to explore. If it’s spectacular scenery you’re after, head west to Mayfield Falls. Immerse yourself in lush greenery and play in the shallow river with its series of small but beautiful cascades. This knockout highlight is just outside Negril, where you’ll find some of Jamaica’s most popular beaches and buzzing West End nightlife, as well as the legendary Rick’s Cafe. Known for cliff-diving and good times, it’s been voted one of the best bars in the world. It probably goes without saying that Negril is holiday central, so you might well find your dream hotel here. How about a luxe hideaway on the clifftops, or a family paradise on the sands?

There are more crowd-pleasers over in Montego Bay (aka Mobay). From gentle adventures like a leisurely ride on a bamboo raft to posing with Usain Bolt’s statue for an Insta-worthy photo opp, you’re sure to find all sorts of things to do in this cultural melting pot of a resort.

Montego Bay is also home to the infamous Rose Hall Great House. This lovingly restored 18th-century beauty may look stunning but its walls could tell some brutal stories. Visit the museum to learn about the harsh lives of the enslaved Africans who worked the sugar cane plantation, and take the guided tour for spooky tales of Annie Palmer - a supposed White Witch and murderer whose ghost is said to haunt the house. There’s even a night-time option… if you dare!

Fancy bobsledding, ziplining or riding a chairlift through the rainforest? Make your way to Mystic Mountain, one of Jamaica’s biggest and best spots for outdoor adventures. It’s just one of many reasons to visit Ocho Rios, on the north coast. Other top attractions in this popular resort include the all-day beach parties at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, mud buggying at Yaaman Adventure Park and, when you’re ready for some quiet time, the much calmer setting of Turtle River Falls & Gardens.

But if this is all sounding a bit action-packed for you, check out Runaway Bay. Peace, quiet, romance… this is one of the most chilled out resorts on the island. It’s perfect for honeymoons, anniversary breaks and laid-back family escapes. When you’re not playing on the white sands or floating around your hotel’s pool, you could be horse riding on the beach, exploring the subterranean Green Grotto Caves or enjoying the low-key nightlife with a rum punch or two.

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We also have travel guides for top destinations in Jamaica including: Montego Bay | Negril | Ocho Rios | Runaway Bay

Tobago is an unspoiled island in the Caribbean; it’s the ideal place to get away from it all. It’s slightly smaller than its sister island, Trinidad, but it’s absolutely brimming with glorious rainforests, colourful coral reefs and miles of pristine beaches. From the volcanic shorelines (where you’ll find Hawksbill turtles) to the refreshing Nylon Pool lagoon, this is a dream-like destination. And on top of all this, you’ve got year-round sunshine. Holidays in Tobago really are your little slice of paradise. 

Things to do

You won’t be able to resist the white-sand beaches and the sparkling blue sea is a calming presence. If you want to explore what lies beneath, you can try exploring the beautiful coral reefs with a spot of diving or snorkelling. You can discover a wealth of natural beauty beyond the shoreline, too; make a beeline for the UNESCO-protected Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve to see the tropical rainforest in all its glory.

Golfers will adore the island’s two championship golf courses, boasting panoramic ocean views that could easily put you off your swing. When you’re ready to sample traditional cuisine, it’s worth seeking out crab and flour dumplings with a sip of spicy pacro water. If you want to let loose, go ahead and get dressed up for one of the country’s famous carnivals. 

Beautiful beaches
You’ll definitely feel you’re in a tropical paradise on Tobago’s beaches. They are truly stunning with white or golden sands and warm waters, fringed by palm trees and other lush greenery. Tobago has so many beaches that it is impossible to visit them all on one holiday to the island. There are some secluded and isolated, and there are some that are well-known with lots going on, no matter how much of a favourite some of the beaches are with tourists, they all remain fairly quiet and unspoilt.

Natural beauty
Tobago is a nature lover’s paradise as it is surrounded by all kinds of natural beauty. It’s home to hundreds of species of birds, wildlife and marine life including dolphins and endangered turtles, making it a prime location for animal spotting. The sea waters are so clear that you can easily see the colourful fish and coral reefs underneath, perfect for diving and snorkelling.  It is also surrounded by plants and flowers and has the largest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere.  

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Antigua | Aruba | Bahamas | Barbados | Cuba | Dominican Republic | Jamaica | Mexico | St Lucia

Holidays to Mexico combine all the beauty of the Caribbean coast with a fascinating ancient history. From the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza to powder-white beaches along the Riviera Maya, the east side of Yucatán is a traveller's paradise. Lose yourself in the cenotes of Tulum, swim with the green turtles of Akumal Bay, dive deep into the steamy jungles of Calakmul, or climb all 130 steps of the Coba pyramids.

Also the home of the fiesta, Latin America, has a contagious energy that will stay with you long after you leave. An outrageous nightlife can be found in Punta Cancun, with acrobats, DJs, and dancers stealing the show. There are plenty of things to do with the family too, from beach days to exploring the eco-themed parks like Xplor Park. So, if you want to visit ancient sites, swim with the fish, or sample the clubbing scene - Mexico holidays are for you.

Places to stay

Riviera Maya

Extending along the Yucatán, on the east coast of Mexico, is the Riviera Maya. The idyllic peninsula is dotted with some of the world's most exotic resorts, including Playa del Carmen and Playacar. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza, is a popular day trip. While the second largest barrier reef in the world runs for over 700 miles, making Mexico holidays a must for diving and snorkelling. 

Playa del Carmen

Venture a little further south, and you’ll find Playa del Carmen, ranking as one of Riviera’s trendiest spots. The nightlife offers a good mix of laid-back vibes and full-on party mode. Bars will start around Avenida Quinta, with live music at Kitxen or Senor Frogs, and move up an octave near the beach on Calle 10 and Calle 12. Around 12am is when the clubs really kick-off, keeping you going until 4 am. Rio Secret is a must-see. It has an underwater river lined with stalactites and stalagmites. 

Playacar

Located on the south side of Playa del Carmen is Playacar. Celebrated for its upmarket all-inclusive resorts and luxurious golf clubs. Lesser known than Playa del Carmen, Playacar holidays are perfect for those looking for a calm getaway tucked behind lush jungle. Adult Only and family resorts are dotted throughout Playacar, offering the ideal springboard for exploring the powdery white beaches and Xaman-ha ruins. 

Cancun

Head north, and you’ll find Cancún, on the Riviera’s northern tip, a party paradise that’s annually gate-crashed by MTV camera crews and Spring Breakers. The most popular destination is Coco Bongo. Packed out every night, it pulls in the crowds with spectacular ribbon dancers, acrobats, and DJs. Deep-Sea Fishing is also a popular affair in Cancun, where licensed captains will help you reel in your catch for that balmy evening BBQ. Book yourself a seat on the Captain Hook Cancun for the best dinner cruise in the Caribbean and sail the seas on an 18th century Spanish galleon replica.

Playa Mujeres

North of Cancun is the tranquil destination, Playa Mujeres. Far away from the city's nightlife, Playa Mujeres was once a tiny fishing village that has retained its unique charm. Lined with soft white beaches, nearby coral reefs, and an excellent golf course, the region is perfect for those who like their Caribbean holidays laid-back and relaxed. Set on a quiet peninsula, holidays to Playa Mujeres are all about world-class luxury, from private dinners on powdery beaches to romantic boat rides over glassy waters.  

Cozumel

Just 10 miles off the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula is the island of Cozumel, 29 miles long from northeast to southwest. Geologically similar to the Yucatán, it is home to dolphins, manatees, and sea turtles, making it another ideal spot for uncovering Mexico's diverse marine life. Cozumel is an excellent alternative to holidays in Riviera Maya if you want to unplug from the world. Lay back on the untouched sandy shorelines dotted along the west and south sides.

Puerto Vallarta

Over on the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant city with an old Mexican feel, from its cobblestone streets and distinct architecture. Lush jungle and mountains roll down into white sand beaches. Famous for its LGBTQ+ nightlife and annual White Party, it might just have the edge over Cancun. Puerto Vallarta holidays are great for food and art lovers, boasting fantastic galleries and restaurants considered to be only second to Mexico City. To experience an authentic taste of Mexican life, take a day trip to one of the small nearby historic towns such as San Sebastien del Oeste.

Mexico City

Unmissable places to visit in Mexico include the exciting capital, Mexico City. Visit world-class museums such as the National Museum of Anthropology, alongside designer shopping and art galleries. Be sure not to miss the stunning historic centre with impressive colonial architecture dating back to the 16th century. Highlights include the bustling Plaza de la Constitucion, the spectacular Catedral Metropolitana, the National Palace and the Aztec relics at Temple Mayor. Add a visit to the majestic volcanic mountains of Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl, providing a dramatic backdrop to the city and plenty of opportunities for adventure in the scenic highlands.

Beaches

From secluded palm-fringed beaches to lively party spots, Mexico has some of the most pristine beaches in the world. From the Riviera Maya, starting a few miles south of Cancun, down to Tulum, you could be spotting turtles one day and exploring Mayan ruins the next.

Nightlife

When the sun begins to set, Mexico comes alive with the bustle of locals and tourists ready to dance the night away. Home to renowned hotspots such as Pink Kitty, Coco Bongo and Mandala, where you can keep partying until the early dawn (4-6am).  

Playa del Carmen, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are excellent destinations for those who want a generous dose of high-octane clubbing with their holiday. For the best LGBTQ+ nightlife, book a stay in Puerto Vallarta. Head to Punta Cancun for the ultimate and downright bonkers clubbing experience, and venture to 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen for beachfront vibes.

History & Culture

Holidays to Mexico would be incomplete without visiting the Mayan ruins. The country is filled with traces of ancient times, from the Pyramid of Kukulcan to the ruins of Palenque and the fortress of Tulum, each historical site scattered across the country tells a unique story. 

Take a walk through the Avenue of the Dead in Teotihuacan, where you can witness sacred artefacts, including the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Or spend a few hours exploring the archaeological site of Mitla, where you’ll discover intricate mosaic fretwork covering the many tombs, panels, and friezes here.

Unsure of the best time of the year to visit? Check the weather in Mexico to see which month is right for you.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Cancun | Playacar | Playa del Carmen | Playa Mujeres | Puerto Vallarta | Riviera Maya