DOMINICAN REPUBLIC SPECIAL EDITION 2016
PARADISUS PALMA REAL A VACATION FOR THE SENSES
EDITORIAL
VIRTUAL TOURS FOR TOURISTS
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Manuel Quiterio Cedeño Editor in Chief
ACCESSDR, the Dominican Republic’s most effective link with the global tourism community, is now featuring an innovative “Virtual Tour” option that will allow potential tourists to view tourism facilities and destinations from all possible angles.
Yamirys Liriano Executive Editor Yamirys@accessdr.com Rafael D. Durán Senior Editor
This new option is now an important part of the CICOM family, the country’s most important tourism-oriented media outlet. The new “Virtual Tour” is the result of the strategic alliance between ACCESSDR and the German-based company “360 tourist.net,” one of the world’s most experienced when it comes to virtual tours. This launching of this new and innovative tool coincides with the seventh anniversary of ACCESSDR, the country’s leading tourism-related website that provides updated information, in various languages, on the country’s thriving tourism industry. We invite you to become fami-
Persio Saint Hilaire Special Proyects Director persio@cicom.do Andrés Lora Public Relations Director Elena Crespo Periodista Merian M. Pérez Editorial design
liar with this user-friendly and economic solution to promote the Dominican tourism industry. It is an excellent option for hotels, tour companies, or any other tourism-related product or company that could be of interest to the national and international tourist. This edition includes information on the “Virtual Tour” option, which once again proves that CICOM continues to be the Dominican Republic’s most innovative tourism-oriented media outlet. Manuel Quiterio Cedeño
Máximo Zorrilla Photos
INDEX
keila Cedeño Community Manager Ave. Winston Churchill Esq. Max Henríquez Ureña. Edificio InTempo- Suite 302 Ens Evaristo Morales, Tel.: (809) 683-3881 Fax (809) 563-5215 Santo Domingo, República Dominicana Info@accessdr.com www.accessdr.com
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Founded in 2009 CICOM´s product, edited by EquipDatos.
COVER The Paradisus Palma Real 2 ACCESS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
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PARADISUS A Vacation for the Senses
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Sivory Punta Cana Boutique Hotel
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Tour Web.com in the D.R.
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Puerto Plata
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The Environment and Tourism
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Punta Cana, when the sun sets
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Xeliter, an Unforgettable Experience
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Coral Costa Caribe Resort & Spa
SPECIAL EDITION
CASA DE CAMPO Maintains its Leadership As a Top Luxury Tourism
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VIRTUAL TOUR Exciting Tour Options in the D.R.
PARTIAL VIEW MAIN POOL.
SIVORY PUNTA CANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL: A SOPHISTICATED EXPERIENCE ON THE EASTERN COAST OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The 55 suites, Adults Only, Sivory Punta Cana Boutique Hotel is a perfect blend of Polynesian and Caribbean influences; a true tropical oasis. The oceanfront suites, which also feature private plunge pools, overlook one of the region’s most beautiful golden sand beaches.
BEACH AREA.
ROMANTIC WINE CELLAR DINNER.
Situated in Uvero Alto, Punta Cana, the Caribbean’s most important tourism destination, the Sivory Punta Cana Boutique Hotel is the only member on the east coast of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Four Diamond AAA, Signature Travel Network, Affluent Travelers Collection, Kiwi Collection amongst others. The hotel offers guests an impressive variety of complimentary activities such as cooking classes, wine tasting, massage
lessons, non- motorized watersports. The personalized Concierge Service will arrange Tours, Excursions, Golf or any special request. Be pampered at Aquarea Spa & Wellness Center with a wide array of treatments. An infinity pool with built-in jacuzzi, three awarded gourmet restaurants, two bars, and the 2nd largest wine cellar in the Caribbean with capacity up to 8000 bottles of wine from over 300 of the most important wineries in the world
recognized by Wine Spectator for 3 consecutive years with the Award of Excellence. Sivory is also the perfect location for Corporate Events with 2 meeting rooms with capacity ranging from 15 to 110 guests as well as a preferred location for Destination Weddings, where unforgettable memories are created by the extremely attentive and professional staff. Sivory Punta Cana Boutique Hotel; Sometimes the Smallest is Simply the Greatest. SPECIAL EDITION
LARIMAR MEETING ROOM.
LUXURY OCEAN FRONT.
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THE MOST EXCLUSIVE BEACH CLUB IN PUNTA CANA Contacto: 809.933.3171 Ext.: 7728/7724 info@pearlbeachclub.com
www.pearlbeachclub.com CRTA. CABEZA DE TORO-PUNTA CANA PearlBeachClub
@PearlBeachClub
Endless holidays
Punta Cana | Dominican Republic
Llévese a su familia de vacaciones, disfrute de una escapada solo para adultos, organice su boda o un gran evento, relájase en el Spa, haga su mejor jugada de golf y además aprovéchese de los beneficios exclusivos del Club Premium.
Take the family on vacation, enjoy a short break just for adults, organize your wedding or a great event, relax at the Spa, play your best round of golf and also take advantage of the exclusive benefits of Club Premium.
Barceló Hotels & Resorts, hoteles únicos en primera línea de playa con el mejor programa todo incluido.
Barceló Hotels & Resorts, unique hotels right on the beach and with the best All Inclusive program.
809-227-2356
A good presentation is everything
Ideally located in the heart of the business and commercial district, Radisson Santo Domingo oers 160 spacious rooms and suites with facilities and services appealing to the modern traveler
Radisson Hotel SantoDomingo Calle Presidente Gonzalez #10 Esq.Av.Tiradentes Naco SantoDomingo 10124
To find out more, visit Radisson.com or call 1-800-333-3333
radisson.com
INTERNATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT WEB.COM
TOUR TO BE HELD IN THE D.R. In January, Panama hosted the Claro Golf Championship. In February, Colombia hosted the Club Colombia Championship. And recently, in March, the launching of 23 tournaments – to be held during an eight-month period – will end with a grand finale: the Web.com Tour Championship. The good news is that for the first time the Dominican Republic will host this world-famous golf tournament. The event is scheduled to take place at the “Corales Puntacana Resort & Club” resort, one of the most tourism destinations in the Caribbean and home to its strikingly beautiful golf course, one of the finest in the Caribbean.
CORALES 8TH AND 9TH HOLES.
CORALES 9TH HOLE.
The celebration of the Tournament is a milestone not only for the Dominican Republic, but for the Caribbean region as well, due to the importance of the golf event. The agreement with the event organizers is that the tournament will be held in the Dominican Republic between 2016 and 2018. The first “Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship” will be held between May 30 and June 5 of this year. Approximately 156 national and international players will compete for an overall prize of US$625,000. The Corales golf course, designed by world-famous Tom Fazio, is located along the seaside cliffs, the nearby bay, beautiful tropical inlets, and inland lakes. The design features six seaside holes, including the last three holes, an area known as the “Devil’s Elbow.” The 18th hole is situated next to the strikingly beautiful Coral Bay. The golf course is also home to three miles of pristine white sand beaches, and 45 holes created for championship golf. The Puntacana Resort & Club is without a doubt one of the best destinations where amateur and professional golf players will enjoy an exciting combination of beach and golf in the Caribbean. In addition, it is just a few miles from the Punta Cana International Airport. The complex itself has a cosmopolitan feel to it, although one of its most important features is the privacy and personalized services offered by the resort. These
CORALES 18TH HOLES.
key factors make it one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for international personalities from the world of politics, art and business. The event is being coordinated by Golflink, organizers of all the Web.com Tour tournaments in Bogota and Cartagena, also in Colombia. These tournaments came about through an agreement with the Puntacana Group and the American Professional Golf Association. The tournament is part of the PGA Tour. The Puntacana Resort & Club is an important addition to the growing presence and impact of the PGA TOUR in Latin America, which now features the Web.com and PGA TOUR Latin America. Alongside these golf events will be the Olympic Games, to be held this summer in Rio de Janeiro. These various sports events will place Latin America and the PGA Tour on the world’s sport scenario, specifically the Latin America PGA Tour and the Web.com Tour. These two events will also place the Dominican Republic on the forefront of golf in the region. The first “Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship” is a much awaited event that will also help attract new players not only to the sport, but also to the Dominican Republic, especially when the international golf community sees the incredible golf facilities and Caribbean beauty of the Corales golf course, one of the best in the world. SPECIAL EDITION
2016
For more information, please visit www.puntacana.com.
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VIRTUAL TOURS OFFER VISITORS FIRST-HAND LOOK AT EXCITING TOUR OPTIONS IN THE D.R. Modern technology allows visitors to enjoy a virtual tour of a specific tourism destination. Now, ACCESS DR provides national and international visitors the possibility of carrying out virtual tours of many Dominican tourism destinations (ACCESS Virtual Tours). “We currently feature the most comprehensive and innovative virtual tours of hotels and tourist attractions in the Dominican Republic,” explained project manager Manuel Jose Cedeño. “Access VT” is the result of a strategic alliance between Access Dominican Republic (Access DR) and the German “360.tourist.net,” one of the world’s most important virtual tour companies in the world. The virtual tour of Access VT combines highdefinition panoramic photographs covering 360 ° in all directions. These sequences are part of an inter-active tour with unlimited possibilities. According to project manager Cedeño, the cameras used to produce the impressive photographs are placed throughout the country, capturing panoramic 360° photographs and aerial videos captured by high-technology drones. Cedeño says “Access VT” offers truly innovative possibilities to present some of the country’s top tourism destinations.
COMPONENTS These virtual tours are featured in various languages, with updated information on hotels, tourism destinations, and other tourism-related activities. The tours can be customized with the company’s logo. “It is the most interactive and comprehensive way to promote your hotel online,” said Cedeño. Aside from the panoramic 360° high-definition views captured by the cameras, the tours also feature “hotspots” that provide timely, synchronized information supported by Google maps, inter-active maps of the facilities, video sequences, photographs, social media networking, an E-brochure, music and reservation facilities.
INTEGRATION “Access VT,” explained Cedeño, also allows the client to include the virtual tours on its website without having to modify the original design. The tours will also be featured in the AccessDR and 360 Tourist websites, which together register more than 100,000 weekly visits from all over the world. They can also be featured in Into-Touch and Smart TVs, and are fully compatible with Smart Phones and VR Glasses.
ACCESS-VT.COM
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ADVANTAGES Websites featuring virtual tours, revealed Cedeño, are 67% more likely to generate bookings, according to studies carried out by TIG Global and Omni Hotels. Browsers tend to remain twice as long on websites with virtual tours, while 80% of users claim that the image quality is crucial when making a final decision regarding a specific destination or online service, as demonstrated by studies carried out by Pew Internet & American Life Study. In addition, added Cedeño, “Access VT “ can be integrated to the client’s website in a matter of minutes. They are also available on Amazon servers, ensuring constant availability and speedy downloads.
INFO@ACCESS-VT.COM
(809) 683-3881
SPECIAL EDITION
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PUERTO PLATA,
THE BRIDE OF THE ATLANTIC AND AMBER COAST Founded in 1502, Puerto Plata is the country’s oldest and most important north coast city and a traditional welcome center for tourists traveling to the Dominican Republic. Because of its strategic location, many have called the city the Bride of the Atlantic.
Others know it as the Amber Coast, because in the nearby mountain ranges lie some of the world’s most important amber mines. Puerto Plata’s Amber Museum is world-renowned because of the unique pieces it exhibits. The city is also home to the Brugal Rum Factory, one of the most important rum distilleries in the world. The city’s beautiful historic center, featuring 19th century Victorian homes and buildings, is situated in downtown Puerto Plata. There are also some unique art deco structures, such as the Cathedral of St. Philip the Apostle. Right next to the Cathedral is the iconic Independence Plaza, representing the city’s proud history.
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HodelpaHotels @hoteleshodelpa Hodelpa Hotels @hodelpahotels
2016
SPECIAL EDITION
República Dominicana Dominican Republic
IN PUERTO PLATA THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
PLACES TO VISIT The city of Puerto Plata offers many interesting attractions for the enjoyment of the national and international visitor. There is the “Malecon,” or oceanfront boulevard, a six-kilometer avenue that lines the city’s historic neighborhoods. The “Malecon,” with its spectacular views of the ocean, is used continuously by the general population for sports events, parades, exercising, and even quiet strolls. On one end of the “Malecon” is the colonial Fortress of San Felipe, one of the first to be built by the Spaniards in the Americas. The fortress was built in the sixteenth century to defend the island from possible invasions. Today, it is a museum that depicts the city’s rich history and the battles it fought to maintain its independence from foreign powers. The home of the city’s national hero, Gregorio Luperon – the city’s airport is named after him – has been completely refurbished and turned into an important historic site.
LAND OF WORLD-CLASS RUM DISTILLERIES The Bride of the Atlantic is famous for its rum. It is the official home of the Brugal Rum Factory (www.brugal.com.do), one of the oldest rum factories in the region. The Brugal Factory is also an important tourism destination, where annually thousands of international visitors visit its installation.
CHRIST STATUE LOOKS OVER THE CITY The 16-meter tall statue of Christ, similar to the famous Christ Statue found in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is situated at the top of the Isabel de Torres Peak, the region’s most important National Park. The statue is a major landmark visited by Dominicans and international visitors alike. A cable car will take the visitors all the way up to the mountain top, from where they will be able to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Puerto Plata.
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Puerto Plata is one of the Dominican Republic’s most important tourism destinations. The city and overall region offer visitors thousands of hotel rooms, all designed for the specific needs and budgets of the individual visitor. Most hotel facilities offer all-inclusive packages, but there are also beautiful villas, apartments and cozy inns available. The same goes for the city’s diversity in its restaurants. Visitors can easily find and enjoy tasty Dominican dishes in local restaurants, featuring some of the region’s most popular dishes (Crab Stew). There’s also a mandatory stop at Cofresi Beach and Ocean World, and a special visit to “Lucia Restaurant” – at the “Casa Colonial” Boutique Hotel. The city’s nightlife is concentrated mainly along the Luis Ginebra Avenue, and the downtown section.
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A VACATION FOR THE SENSES Vacation trends change and tourists are always looking for new ways to enjoy their leisure time. For those who want a vacation that will please their senses, then the place is the Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, one of Punta Cana’s trendiest hotels.
The resort’s goal is “to provide guests with a unique experience, where they can experience their vacation through their senses,” explained Conrad Bergwerf, the hotel’s general manager. “This is the unique characteristic that identifies the Paradisus Meliá Hotels International brand.” Experiencing the hotel through sight is done through the innovative lighting of the facility. The hotel is different during the day than it is at night, precisely because of the lighting of the hotel. The sense of taste awakens thanks to the hotel’s excellent restaurants. Guests can also enjoy wonderful music, depending on where they are at the hotel. Each area has its specific music. Finally, the hotel’s rich ambiance and tropical surroundings encourage the sense of touch.
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WHAT’S NEW? The Reserve Beach is a whole new concept introduced at The Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real Resort. It’s a hotel within hotel, featuring 232 rooms, of which 80 were renovated and an additional 42 new suites were built overlooking the majestic
Caribbean
Sea
and especially designed for vacationing families.
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GASTRONOMY Bergwerf explains that the Paradisus Palma Real is focused on pleasing guests with a varied gastronomic offer that will please all palates. The hotel features 11 a la carte restaurants and two poolside buffets, providing guests with world-class cuisine. The Paradisus Palma Real is home to the famous “Passion” restaurant, created by world-famous Spanish Chef Martin Berasategui, a 7-star Michelin award recipient. There is also the Italian “Palazzo” restaurant (exclusive for guests of the Royal Service program); the “Bana” (sushi and teppanyaki); the “Olio Vento” (Mediterranean); “Fuego” (Latin); the “Blue Agave” (Mexican); the “Aqua” (Mediterranean); “Mizu” (Teppanyaki); the “Hydro Grill” (light snacks) and the two buffet restaurants, the “Gabi Club” and “Naos.” The restaurant recently added two new restaurants: “The Winery”
and “RARE.” The latter is a steak house with the best meats in the facility, while “The Winery” features more than 180 highly rated wines. It is an intimate corner with a beautiful seating area for 18, and an outdoor area exclusive area for four guests. The menu offers a Tapas menu prepared by Chef Martin Berasategui.
THE HOTEL The Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort is an all-inclusive resort featuring 554 suites, including 132 Royal Service suites and two presidential suites all distributed in three-story buildings. The hotel offers guests five distinct bars with international premium brand drinks and tasty Caribbean cocktails; three swimming pools with pool and snack bars; the Red Lounge Bar, with trendy music, and the Lobby Bar, situated in the reception area. The hotel’s YHI Wellness Spa, covering 2,300 squa-
re meters, includes seven hot tubs, cabins for special treatments. Relaxing massages and hydrotherapy are also available. Also: a modern casino, five tennis courts and two tennis courts, among other facilities. The Royal Service area features an adults-only exclusive swimming pool as well as an exclusive pool for guests of The Reserve and Family Concierge areas.
MEETINGS AND EVENTS The hotel’s convention center covers an area of three thousand square meters of adaptable space. The center features seven meeting rooms, three work rooms, and a 1,700 square meter ballroom. Also, banquet facilities for up to 1,400 seated guests, state of the art audiovisual equipment, and an Experience Lounge operated by the AVVC audiovisual company, experts in the use of 3D technology. SPECIAL EDITION
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THE ENVIRONMENT AND TOURISM: MANAGING CORRECTLY THIS FRUITFUL RELATIONSHIP
PATRICIA GUZMÁN
The tourism sector, in order to maintain the sustainability of this thriving industry, must become familiar with the obligations, responsibilities and environmental challenges faced by the sector in this crucial area. Natural resources are perishable, and Mother Nature tends to respond harshly when humans do not treat it well. In order to better understand this relationship we sat down to discuss the issue with environmental law specialist Patricia Parra Guzman, an attorney with the local law firm of DMK-Central Law. What advice would you give to tourism entrepreneurs in order to effectively comply with the effective implementation of their environmental commitments? The projects, works or activities, regardless of their scope, size or nature, will usually generate some kind of impact on the environment. This is the reason why it is important to comply with the prevailing environmental regulations in order to mitigate the impact. In order to better understand these regulations it
The tourism industry is one of the Dominican Republic’s most important economic sectors, generating more than 182,000 direct and indirect jobs and earnings that currently surpass more than six billion annually, according to Central Bank 2015 data. However, this important industry cannot continue to grow without the protection and conservation of the country’s natural resources. After all, the more than six million tourists that annually visit the Dominican Republic are attracted, for the most part, to the country’s natural beauty. is important to work with a professional who is familiar with the environment and the local laws that protect it, in order to prevent potential damage to the environment. Intervening when the environmental damage has already been done can lead to significant costs, such as the demolition of infrastructures, the confiscation of equipment, compensation and penalties, among others. Worst of all is the impact on our natural resources. In the case of hotels, in particular, what minimum requirements should the tourism sector take into consideration regarding the protection and conservation of the local natural resources? Basically, and in relation to the current environmental laws, tourism developers are required to hire waste managers authorized by the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources for their proper disposal. Also, to monitor, control and mitigate gas emissions and noise; monitor and control water quality (conservation, use of sea water); carry out
programs for the conservation and protection of the coastal areas, and the country’s flora and fauna, as well as water and energy. Other important issues are the establishment of contingency plans and environmental education programs, among others, depending on the nature and size of the project. What, in your opinion, is the main institutional weakness facing the protection of local natural resources? My opinion is that the control, monitoring and providing environmental education to all by the competent authorities is a true challenge. The effective implementation of these management tools, as mandated by Law No. 64-00 on Environmental and Natural Resources, are basic elements that must be implemented in order to prevent activities that could provoke potential risks to the environment due to ignorance and negligence, among others. A fundamental principle when it comes to environmental issues is “prevention,” and that’s why these provisions were introduced.
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Regarding the current regulatory framework, what is your opinion? Our General Law on the Environment dates back to the year 2000. Sixteen years later there are still mandates in the law that have not been executed, such as the Land Management Plan (Article 30), or the correct implementation of the system of environmental incentives (Article 63). Regarding the sector’s legislation, there are current bills in Congress regarding the tourism sector that are still pending, such as the Bill on Coastal and Marine Resources and the bill on Solid Waste. Any final recommendation? The over-exploitation or misuse of natural resources is already a local reality. Climate change is not an isolated figure, but rather a harsh reality. Climate change is the direct result of uncontrolled human activities. In the end, everyone must fully commit to this issue. Not because it is an issue of social corporate social responsibility but because, without a doubt, without natural resources there will be no tourism. At least, not in the long run.
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ALTOS DE CHAVON VILLAGE.
CASA DE CAMPO
MAINTAINS ITS LEADERSHIP AS A TOP LUXURY TOURISM RESORT Casa de Campo Resort & Villas continues to maintain its leadership as the Dominican Republic’s top luxury resort. Casa de Campo is the perfect destination for the national and international visitor who demands top-quality services in a sophisticated luxurious environment for a family holiday, for personal pleasure, or to enjoy a sportsoriented vacation.
Visitors looking for a vacation experience that complements their active lifestyle opt for Casa de Campo. The resort will provide them with unrivaled sports programs, including four golf courses designed by Pete Dye, a Golf Hall of Fame architect. One of the resorts top golf courses, and one of the best in the world, is the Teeth of the Dog course. Today, Teeth of the Dog is the top golf course in the Caribbean. It currently hosted the official PGA Dominican Republic Open, held from May 8-14, 2061. Built in the 1970s, it is the most awarded Latin America and Caribbean golf course and is on the list of the world’s top golf destinations. Seven of its top holes overlook the Caribbean Sea. Last January, the Teeth of the Dog also hosted the Latin American Amateur Championship tournament.
POLO CHALLENGE Casa de Campo is also home to the Polo Club & Equestrian Center, which recently hosted the Polo Challenge, a new high handicap tournament that attracted some of the best polo players in the world. The event turned Casa de Campo into a “regional reference for the sport, due to the high level of competition,” explained resort president Rafael Torres. Open-sea fishing, the Shooting Center, and the Tennis Club, are also top-rated attractions. .
ALTOS DE CHAVON.
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FITNESS Torres notes that Casa de Campo continuously enriches its world-class sports programs with new options, such as physical and holistic treatments that concentrate on the overall well-being of its guests. The resort’s health and fitness facilities are headed by Eduardo Mena, who has worked with top professional athletes and international celebrities. The centers offer specialized consultations, fitness classes, diet and nutrition, and cross fit workouts, as well as personal training options. Torres also explains that the centers work in association with Pinecrest Physical Therapy, a specialized clinic in Miami, Florida. The Casa de Campo Pinecrest Physical Therapy Center is headed by Ron Yacub, a certified trainer with a Master’s degree in physical therapy. It is a full-service clinic specializing in functional physical therapy, focused on sports-related injuries, strength building and body conditioning and personal physical training. Torres also explained that the center provides professional athletes, as well as regular guests, a unique opportunity to train in their specialized field while enjoying the beautiful Caribbean surroundings with their families.
DIVERSE ACCOMMODATIONS Since 1974 Casa de Campo has been praised as one of the Caribbean’s top luxury resorts. Its splendid villas, marina, the Altos de Chavon Cultural Village - a replica of a 16th century Mediterranean village - and excellent dining options all contribute to maintaining the resort as one of the Caribbean’s top tourism destinations. Other attractive features are the resort’s varied room accommodations: luxury villas with stunning tropical views such as the Marina and the Altos de Chavon village; comfortable apartments in “Los Altos” overlooking the Dye Fore golf course or the majestic Chavon River Chavon as it flows into the Caribbean Sea. It is important to point out, said Torres, that continuing with its tradition of exceptional cuisine, Casa de Campo Resort & Villas operates two toprated restaurants in the Marina, specializing in fine or casual dining: the Pubbelly Sushi – specializing in international cuisine - and the famed SBG Casa de Campo.
ART AND CULTURE Casa de Campo is also widely known for its art, entertainment and cultural activities. National and international artists bring their world tours to the Chavon Amphitheater, and the resort’s wine and food festivals, art exhibits and world fashion events have attracted the attention of the international community.
TEETH OF THE DOG COURSE.
NEW SUMMER CAMPS Aside from Casa de Campo’s traditional programs, the resort is now in alliance with the American Sports Academy to provide the best of traditional American summer camps to children between 7-17 years of age. The summer program provides campers with professional sports programs, English and Spanish lessons, SAT preparation, cultural tours and volunteer opportunities for all participants. Torres also explained that the resort’s alliance with the FCBEscola, the worldfamous soccer training program, is an added plus for children and adolescents who want to excel in this sport. Finally, the Casa de Campo Real Estate project will soon begin construction of new beachfront villas to attract young professionals interested in an investment opportunity for their families. The project will only use environmentally responsible construction techniques, such as efficient energy resources.
MINITAS BEACH.
POLO.
CASA DE CAMPO.
TENNIS CLUB.
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PUNTA CANA:
WHEN THE SUN SETS, THE PARTY BEGINS Punta Cana is the most visited tourism destination in the Caribbean. Aside from the excellent hotels and out-of-this-world beaches, it also provides visitors with an active and varied nightlife. The town’s nightlife is thriving outside the walls of its worldclass, “all-inclusive luxury resorts,” a whole new concept when it comes to the hospitality industry. Punta Cana is the sum of many communities and hotels that line some 30 kilometers of world-class beaches. Today, the town provides both the national and international visitors with various nighttime options, such as fun bars, theaters and nightclubs. The region’s nightlife is now enriched with an excellent offer of worldfamous restaurants, starting with “Passion”, one of the latest creations of international Spanish chef Martin Be-
PEARL.
COCO BONGO.
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rasategui. “Passion” is situated at the Melia Paradisus Hotel, and is open to the public with previous reservations. Aside from its extensive list of discos, variety shows and bar, RT Magazine has selected the top 10 most popular places to visit in Punta Cana after the sun sets. The following list was put together by the magazine’s team of experts. 1. Coco Bongo Punta Cana 2. Guaguancó 3. Imagine Punta Cana 4. Pearl Beach Club 5. Jewel
COCO BONGO Punta Cana’s downtown area is the place to find the region’s trendiest clubs. You can enjoy a happy hour and
relax with original cocktails in “Coco Bongo,” the hottest club in the region. The club features live musical performances, and the party literally ends at dawn. What makes the club even more attractive is its magnificent interior design, that allows each viewer to enjoy all shows and performances from anywhere in the place. It opens daily. The admission fee includes unlimited national drinks, while the “Gold Member” fee includes international drinks.
GUAGUANCÓ The Guaguancó Punta Cana, a new space for vibrant Latin music, is also situated in Punta Cana’s downtown area. The place attracts both national and international dance lovers. The most popular Dominican bands are always featured, as well as national and international DJs, and the club’s restaurant is open until 10:00 p.m. With capacity for 450 guests, the club is open Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
IMAGINE PUNTA CANA This is a must-visit disco in Punta Cana because of its incredible design. The club is actually located in a system of interconnected caves, with multi-level terraces and balconies. Each cave features its own music and DJ, its very own dance floor and an unique ambience. With capacity for 3,000 guests, the club is open daily.
PEARL BEACH CLUB This relatively new club has quickly become a magnet for those who enjoy a cool tropical drink while watching a magnificent Caribbean sunset. The swimming pool area, nestled between majestic palm trees, has plenty of hammocks and beds for those seeking true tropical relaxation. The area also has private jacuzzis. Inside, the Club’s restaurant features a modern décor, a light menu, and an excellent sushi bar. The Pearl Beach Club has it all: luxury, excitement, excellent cuisine, music and live musical revues. It is open daily.
JEWEL The three-level disco is situated in the Palma Real Shopping Center. Its 10,000 square meters is fully equipped with the latest technology: 315,000 LED lights, 60 Elation (robotic heads), 7 lasers, 12 canons operated by Cryo Blaster, and more than 100,000 watts of the best sound system in the region. The disco has three distinct areas: the main ballroom, the VIP balcony on the second level, and the Retro Techno Room, decorated with elegant tables that overlook the runway and stage.
OTHER PLACES TO FUN Oro Nightclub Mangú Disco La Taberna De Charlo Kviar Show Disco & Casino Punta Cana El Kan Drinks House
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XELITER CALETON VILLAS.
XELITER COSTA DEL SOL.
XELITER GOLDEN BEAR LODGE
XELITER: UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS AND AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE Xeliter is the luxury brand of Coral Hospitality Corp, the country’s leading tourist condominium management company with more than 2,000 units in the beachfront communities of Juan Dolio, Cap Cana and Samana. In the last few years vacation homes have become an important lodging alternative for tourists seeking a quiet rest, or to enjoy in a more intimate environment the company of family or friends. This option allows the traveller to organize their stay with the utmost freedom. Xeliter Rentals offers an interesting selection of vacation homes, such as luxury villas and condominiums (available for a few nights, weeks or months), and comfortable apartments. The villas and apartments are all beautifully furnished and decorated, and offer guests balconies, terraces, patios, swimming pools and social areas, excellent for family celebrations.
JUAN DOLIO
SAMANÁ Xeliter Balcones del Atlantico. Situated on Las Terrenas at the breathtaking Portillo Beach, on the country’s northeast region, this complex offers guests luxury apartments, penthouses and villas just a few steps from the beach; as close as 5 minutes away from the vibrant village offering a rich gastronomy and active lifestyle, and just 30 minutes from the Juan Bosch International Airport. This fully equipped units offers memorable experiences for 20 ACCESS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
all special occasions (Weddings, anniversaries and birthdays). Offering excellent meetings and events venues like the Porto Restaurant with a beautiful ocean view. Xeliter Vista Mare. Also situated in Samaná with a beautiful bay view that includes Cayo Levantado and the humpback whales (seasonal). This 87 residences (1-4 bedrooms) complex is an ideal spot for weddings and meetings. Accommodations. Like the “El Cayo Restaurant” providing guests with a modern menu, two swimming pools, a magnificent beach and the closeness to “Las Galeras” and “Rincon” beaches make this and ideal retreat for fun and relaxation.
Xeliter Costa del Sol. Juan Dolio was once a quiet fishing community situated 45 minutes east of Santo Domingo. Today, it is a thriving tourism destination that still maintains some of its original characteristics. The Xeliter Costa del Sol provides guests a pristine beach and is literally a few steps from two of the country’s most popular golf courses, the “Los Marlins” and the “Guavaberry”. It is an ideal destination for golfers and family vacations. Also close to the Pinewood Indomina Studio and 3 in-
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ternational airports (PUJ-LRM-SDQ). Xeliter Marbella. This impressive beach front five-building complex, with 400 (2-3 bedroom) apartments with swimming pools and jacuzzis; close to the Punta Cana, La Romana and Las Americas Airports offers guests easy access to Santo Domingo, world renown golf courses, fine dining experiences and interesting and entertaining excursions.
experiences matched with fine di-
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ving room and dining room, a private
Xeliter Golden Bear Lodge. This exclusive 98 apartments complex near the “Punta Espada” golf course (a Jack Nicklaus Design) located in Punta Cana with views overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the golf course. Offering our guest impressive golf
ning at the many restaurants found in Cap Cana, such as “La Palapa,” “Cappucino,” and “Juanillo Bar & Grill.” Xeliter Caleton Villas Cap Cana. This is truly a full-luxury retreat, where the great prize is the privacy, this seaside villas (3-5 bedrooms) offers ocean view or golf view units with concierge service, a golf cart, WI-FI, a fully equipped kitchen, spacious literrace with swimming pool and jacuzzi, the possibility of your own private chef and the opportunity to golf in other Punta Cana courses nearby. For more information: www.xeliter.com.
CORAL COSTA CARIBE RESORT & SPA
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY IN JUAN DOLIO
Situated just 45 minutes of the capital city of Santo Domingo, in the seaside community of Juan Dolio, the Coral Costa Caribe Hotel Resort & Spa, offers guests a great place to vacation in a wholesome family atmosphere. The resort will do relaunch for the upcoming winter season, in order to provide guests with the best facilities. Strategically located close to the international airports of Punta Cana and La Romana and just 20 minutes from Las Americas International Airport. This all-inclusive hotel offers 416 air conditioned rooms with ocean or garden view. This property offers six bars and five restaurants; three swimming pools and two jacuzzis, tennis and basketball courts, beach volleyball, gymnasium, a 9-hole mini golf course, a sports bar, daily night shows and a disco. For
the younger guests: the Coralin Kidz Paradise, featuring games and a swimming pool. And for those seeking relaxation and wellness, the recently InSense Spa is a wonderful treat to the senses. The complex also offers three fully-equipped meeting rooms for special events, conventions, and gala dinners, with capacity for 400 guests. There are two nearby golf courses(Los Marlins and Guavaberry Golf & Country Club), with special rates provided to guests.
The First Internationally Certified Surf School in the DR Offering All Three Disciplines! LESSONS at macaO bEach SURF - US $100 SUP (Stand Up Paddle) - US $80 Ask about our Special SUP YOGA - US $90 Tour Operators Rates SUP EXCURSION to Yoga Cove - US $90
*All prices p/p include transportation.
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C On the golden sands of Uvero Alto beach, CHIC by Royalton Luxury Resorts provides discerning adults an All-Exclusive™ social vacation experience. This resort features the poolside atmosphere and luxury offerings of famed hot spots such as Las Vegas and South Beach with all 320 stylish rooms and suites designed in keeping with the trendiest hotels. The exceptional design here means every memory and the photos that capture them are vivid and stylish with rich attention-to-detail.
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Unveil new flavors at four á la carte gourmet restaurants in meals prepared with the freshest local ingredients. Design your own treatment package at The Royal Spa, or instead, round up your friends and stay at the exclusive CHIC Mansion to lounge in your private pool.
Part of award-winning Royalton Luxury Resorts, guests of CHIC sip premium cocktails and savor masterfully prepared food with friends both old and new, in an elegant yet relaxed resort ambience. Enjoy your hard-earned vacation, romantic honeymoon, birthday bash or a simple ‘just because getaway’ in ways only CHIC can deliver. An All-Exclusive™ vacation means you’ll spend sultry afternoons inside private cabanas, dip into the Mermaid Pool with intricate tiled and glass-walls, savor culinary creations by a private chef or boost your energy with a rejuvenating visit to an onsite oxygen bar. Give yourself the privilege of All-Exclusive™ with top shelf premium liquor, private pools and balconies, Royalton’s signature DreamBed™, a poolside DJ booth, upscale Diamond Club™ upgrades and incredible architecture that turns basic spaces into SPECIAL EDITION 2016 ACCESS DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 23 modern masterpieces.