Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1515188
AREA GUIDES D O M I N I C A N R E P U B L I C COME MEET IN THE MOST DESIRED CARIBBEAN DESTINATION, THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC B Y D O S W E L L I N G R A M Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, The Dominican Republic's lush tropical island paradise boasts nearly 1,000 miles of coastline, 250 miles of the world's top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety of sports, recre- ation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding thrill of the merengue, renew in luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy eco- tourism adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers, and beaches. The DR's soaring visitor numbers–the highest in the region, currently over six million a year–reflect the destination's efforts in continuously upgrading all aspects of the visitor experience, from lodging to highways, entertainment, his- torical and cultural preservation, and meeting and convention spaces. These upgrades have allowed the island to be a premier Caribbean destination to hold a wide array of gatherings. Throw in eight international airports– making it the best-connected Caribbean destination–and a total hotel inventory of over 75,000 rooms: choosing the ideal DR region to fit your group or incentive trip becomes a simpler task. For large events, the top choice remains Punta Cana, home to the coun- try's largest number and size of all-inclu- sive beachfront hotels, as well as the largest convention center space. But Santo Domingo, the capital city of the DR, holds its own. This first urban settlement in the Americas–its Colonial City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with historical stops–is home to leading international hotel brands with casinos, and the country's gastronomy hub, making it the perfect base for cul- ture, history, and nightlife. To the east, La Romana's luxurious lodging and golf activities coupled with nearby Bayahíbe's stunning beaches, a national park, and offshore islands attract small to medium events. Up north, Puerto Plata is an excellent choice for medium- sized meetings complemented with an adrenaline-packed outdoor and culture- filled itinerary for team building activi- ties. Samaná's boutique hotels and haven of secluded beaches and moun- tains, along with some of the best wildlife watching in the DR, is the go-to place for small groups. In between meetings, go beach hop- ping and sailing–choosing from our nearly 1,000 miles (1,576 kilometers) of coast- line–play one or more of its 26 golf cours- es, go on adrenaline-packed hikes and ziplines, tour coffee or cacao plantations, cool off in freshwater lagoons and caves, snorkel off reefs and shipwrecks, explore diverse gastronomy, and relax under the stars at one of their world-class marinas or beachfront resorts. From south to north, or east, you'll soon notice that balancing work and leisure is part and parcel of the Dominican culture. All you have to do to get started is pick one of the magical corners of this country. The DR is one of the most desired destinations for a combined business and leisure trip. A valid passport is required. You may also need a tourist card or a visa. Citizens of countries who are legally able to enter the European Union, Great Britain, the United States of America or Canada may enter the Dominican Republic by present- ing a Tourist Card. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is only 15 minutes from the Punta Cana and Cap Cana area, and some 30 minutes from Bávaro, El Cortecito, Arena Gorda, Macao and Uvero Alto hotel areas. lic.com B M & T ••• January/February 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 51 Tranquil Dominican Republic Beach • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Catalonia Santo Domingo 228 The Westin Punta Cana Resort & Club 200 Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo 602 VH Gran Ventana Beach Resort 538 Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa 756 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Hard Rock Hotel, Punta Cana Total Space 75,744 sq. ft. Largest Hall 75,744 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 19,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 8 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Dominican Republic – (809) 221-4660 www.godominicanrepub