Travel information and news

The Dominican Republic is a nation on the island of Hispaniola, one of the largest islands in the Greater Antilles archipelago. The western third of the island is occupied by the nation of Haiti, as this is one of two Caribbean islands that are shared by two countries. The Dominican Republic is the second largest Caribbean nation next to Cuba. It has a population of approximately ten million people. It is located in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela, east of Cuba and Jamaica and west of Puerto Rico. It has hot tropical temperatures all year. There are two rainy seasons; the heaviest is from May to August and the other is from November to December. The Dominican Republic has become the Caribbean's largest tourist destination; the country's year-round golf courses are among the top attractions. Music and sport are of the highest importance in Dominican culture, with merengue as the national dance and song and baseball the favorite sport.

Most of the tourists who come to visit are initially attracted to its magnificent golden sandy beaches. They extend over one-third of its 870-mile coastal regions that define three-quarters of its borders. This is particularly true of the northern Atlantic side of the country. The majestic coral reef breaks the waves offshore, keeping the Punta Cana beaches pristine and the surf gentle. Stunning Bavaro beach and most of its beachfront hotels are less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport.

In the far north-west corner of the Dominican Republic, is the province of Monte Cristi. This is home to Monte Cristi Beach, or Playa Monte Cristi. Since Monte Cristi Beach sits on the Atlantic it is faced with some rough waters at times.

Playa Grande, in the Rio San Juan/Cabrera area is probably known best for serious golfers. Many golfers consider the course here at Playa Grande to be the best in the Dominican Republic. A few have even compared it to Pebble Beach. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. Ten of its holes border the Atlantic Ocean. These are atop dramatic cliffs overlooking our featured beach. Playa Grande has some serious beach front as well.

The beaches of Puerto Plata located near this colonial, coastal town are perfect for those who want to explore the coral reefs offshore. Many people at this Dominican Republic beach enjoy either diving or snorkeling around the spectacular reefs that are full of life. The living accommodations in this area range from high-end all-inclusive Dominican Republic resorts to more affordable villas.

For a less-crowded beach experience, the beaches of Sosua are ideal. There are no major resorts nearby so this area is ideal for those who want to experience the beauty of a beach and enjoy a little privacy as well. Most of the people who choose to visit this secluded Dominican Republic beach enjoy windsurfing, snorkeling or surfing in addition to kicking back, chilling out and soaking up the sun.

Cabrete is located in the northern Dominican Republic. This area tends to have stronger winds and is where most avid windsurfer's flock to take advantage. There are also some amazing coral reefs that are located about two miles offshore. Exploring these reefs is riskier than in the south where the seas are calmer, so precautions should be made prior to diving. The beach itself, however, stretches for two miles and is absolutely striking.

Located near the city of Santo Domingo, Boca Chilca is one of the most popular and populous beaches in the Dominican Republic. Many families come here from the nearby resorts to relax and have fun. The beach is surrounded by a coral reef, which has created waters that are calmer and shallower than normal. This makes it a favorite of parents who prefer their children to swim there rather than in the deeper more turbulent waters elsewhere. The only downside to this beach is that many people come here. But if you don't mind the crowds and enjoy people watching, then Boca Chilca may very well be the beach for you!

The Dominican Republic is one of the most amazing countries in the world, with its year-round tropical temperatures, pure-white sand and hundreds of miles of beaches it is a destination that is sure to relax the body and soothe the soul. Make sure you pack plenty of food and water before you head to the beach and always remember to wear your sunscreen!

BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on dominican republic hotels at BookIt.com!

Other articles you might like;

• Blog Interviewer
• Baby Einstein Around The World Discovery Center « bartonseek.com
• How much is car insurance for older muscle cars? | online car insurance
• London's Best Cars | Travel information and news | Best Cars Gallery - Cars Photos Wallpapers
• Do you find having city id important or is that just a money making tactic?