The Dominican Republic: More Than Just Resorts

When many people think of the Caribbean, they think of great resorts, Jamaica, and Cuba. But what they don't realize is that the most popular destination in the Caribbean is the Dominican Republic.

The Dominican Republic is on an island that is shared with Hispaniola and Haiti, and it sees over 6 million visitors a year. This results in 2 million more than Cuba. This Caribbean destination has a lot more to offer visitors than your run-of-the-mill resort. The Dominican Republic has so much more. Here are some great things to see on your trip to D.R. 

Scenic Locations And National Parks

Lake Enriquillo-Lake Enriquillo is the only saltwater lake throughout the Antilles. It is located in the center of the Parque Nacional Isla Cabritos and is a haven for wildlife. It is one of the largest natural reserves for the American crocodile. 

Eastern National Park-This World Heritage Sites is one of the largest marine parks in the Caribbean

Rhinoceros iguanas, bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees are just some of the fantastic wildlife that visitors will get to experience when they visit Eastern National Park. 

Bahia de las Aguilas and Jaragua National Park-The picturesque turquoise waters that line this 6-mile stretch of beach is best accessed by boat from the small village of La Cueva. Its' marine life and incredible views will make for memories that you couldn't possibly forget anytime soon.

 Damajagua Falls

Jarabacoa-Jarabacoa is best known as an area ripe for ecotourism and the location of the Dominican Republic's only whitewater river, the Rio Yaque del Norte. The terrain, rivers, and waterfalls make it perfect for adventurous activities like hiking, climbing, and mountain biking. 

Samana Peninsula and Bay-This peninsula and bay are lined with beautiful mangroves, caves, rock formations, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic. It is also home to the Parque Nacional Los Haitises. Marine life is present in this area year-round, including mother humpback whales giving birth in January and February.

Ready to go to the D.R.? We're ready to take care of the planning no matter when you would like to travel. We can research and reserve your transport, accommodation, any tours day trips or transfers. Plus, we are pros at matching you to the right travel insurance policy for your vacation and personal needs. Let's chat! Reach out today! www.paradisebeyondtravel.com

Mexico's Top 3 National Holidays

 Sometimes, one trip just isn’t enough. Some places are worth seeing twice. (Or three, or four times.) That's how I feel about Mexico.

Funny story, I took four years of French in HS.
The plan was to travel Europe after I graduated.
Except, I headed South to Mexico instead, spending a month visiting the beaches, immersing myself in the culture and climbing the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacán, outside of Mexico City.

 

One of the best ways to discover another culture is to experience their holiday festivities. Immersing yourself in the excitement and traditions that come with national holidays will instantly give you a new found respect for the culture. Mexico's national holidays are well known around the globe and even celebrated in other countries. However, if you want a feel for the real thing, it's best to book a trip to Mexico and experience it first-hand! 

Día de Muertos

Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is one of Mexico's most celebrated holidays. In the United States, it is related to Halloween, but they are entirely separate! Celebrated from October 31 - November 2 each year, Day of the Dead is when families welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a brief reunion that includes food, drinks, and celebration. People decorate home altars all across the country, have parades, and hold a graveside candlelight vigil for their deceased loved ones. 

Dia de la Independencia

Independence Day in Mexico is a festival that marks the start of Mexico's decade-long war of independence against Spain. The festivities begin a week before September 16, with towns putting on art shows, concerts, parades, and dressing the streets in the national colors of green, white, and red. The celebration culminates in the local plazas at midnight for El Grito, when a local functionary shouts "Viva Mexico!" signaling the start of a firework display and a large party!

Cinco de Mayo

While you don't have to go to Mexico to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, it's still a celebration worth traveling for. Cinco de Mayo celebrates a Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Much like Dia de la Independencia, the city of Puebla does mark the week before with music and cultural events. On May 5, the Mexican Army units led a parade of local people dressed in period costumes.

Regardless of which festivity you travel for, celebrating an authentic Mexican holiday in Mexico is an experience you won’t soon forget!

Are you interested in planning a trip to Mexico? Leave me a comment below, or find me on Facebook or Instagram @ToParadiseandBeyondTravelLLC

Top Tips for a Cinque Terre Tour

 The Cinque Terre is a group of five coastal towns that line the cliff tops of Italy’s Ligurian Riviera. Although tiny (the entire region spreads over just 15 square miles) the five towns - namely Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Manarola, Riomaggiore and Vernazza - are popular destinations for hikers and sightseers alike.

The region is situated close to the Italian mainland, making it the perfect day-trip destination. The best and easiest way to visit is by booking a Cinque Terre tour leaving directly from Florence. This will eliminate any logistical stress and leave you free to soak in the authentic Italian charm of these wonderful towns. Below you will find some top tips on the best ways to make the most of your trip.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for a Cinque Terre tour is a matter of opinion. Whilst some people may enjoy basking in the warmth of the Italian sun during the summer months, others might prefer tackling some of the famous hiking trails in a much cooler climate, throughout the winter.

Whilst it is impossible to satisfy everyone’s requirements, mid-to-late spring and early autumn could be the happy medium that many people search for when visiting the region. April and May sees temperatures beginning to rise again after the winter. Whilst the sea remains chilly at this time, those who are particularly keen for a dip will still be able to enjoy the water if they use a decent wetsuit. September often sees temperatures beginning to fall after the baking hot summer months, however the waters retain their heat and are perfectly comfortable for swimming. Spring and autumn are also wonderful times for hiking, as there is minimal rainfall and a comfortable climate for exercise.

Above all, during these months you will enjoy a much quieter and calmer visit as the hordes of tourists that flood to the area during the summer have either not yet arrived, or have been and gone.

Getting Around

There are a number of options to consider when looking at getting around and travelling between the towns. There are regular train services running across the region, and a Cinque Terre pass will get you unlimited access to each of the towns for the entire day. Alternatively, you could hike between the villages and take in the stunning views across the Ligurian Riviera. There are taxi services in Vernazza, Manarola and Monterosso and this is another transport option worth considering.

Tours

If you’re looking for the most efficient way to visit the towns, your best bet will certainly be to book onto a guided tour through a reputable local operator in Florence. This will eliminate any stress and guesswork from your day, and you will reap the benefits of a local guide who will ensure that you experience everything there is to enjoy on a Cinque Terre tour.

Activities

Hiking and sunbathing are just two of the great activities visitors can enjoy on a Cinque Terre tour.

Any foodies out there will not be disappointed during their visit. There is nothing more delicious than traditional Italian cuisine, and the food prepared by those local to this area simply cannot be beaten. Once you’ve eaten your food, why not take some time to enjoy a local tipple whilst soaking up the sun on a warm evening. This region is known for its vineyards.

You may also be lucky enough to be in the area during one of the many annual festivals; for example the Grape Harvest Festival in the autumn, the Lemon Festival in May, the Easter processions, or the peculiar Cuckold Festival in November. These are wonderful experiences to meet locals and enjoy the vibrancy of the celebrations.

Photographers will be in their element overlooking the Ligurian Riviera. The rugged coastline and vibrant blue waters contrast beautifully with the lush green hillsides that line the towns. Be sure to bring your camera - these are memories you will want to keep forever!

With gorgeous scenery, great weather, typically Italian character and food a-plenty, there really is something for everyone in these hidden Italian gems. Regardless of your preferences, a Cinque Terre tour will certainly not disappoint.