Warm Wishes From The D.R.

with Martha Chapman

The Dominican Republic is known for its warm hospitality, but last week they really pulled out the stops to welcome 80-some industry honchos to an appreciation night in Toronto.

As the sidewalks sizzled outside, we enjoyed an evening on top of it all on the 33rd floor of the swanky Sutton Place Hotel.

Our host was Director of the Tourism Board Abdalah Castillo, and as we sipped cooling drinks and munched on classy munchies he thanked the crowd for the amazing amount of business Canada provides to his home country.

“All the islands offer the same climate and beautiful beaches,” he told me, “But the Dominican Republic truly is a destination for everyone – and offers the best quality/price ratio in the Caribbean.” So much so, he says, that he hopes to welcome a million Canucks next year!

It was fun to chat with a room full of D.R. experts and find out their favourite thing about the country. Barcelo’s Rick McCauley loves Punta Cana - “Especially the Barcelo Bavaro Palace. I’m a beach person and the beach is incredible. 11 restaurants, shopping arcade… and wait for December – they’re installing a wave pool.”

Anna Facchini of ACV is partial to the choice of excursions in Samana, especially to Playa Rincon, while her colleague Teresa Pereira, like Rick, swoons for the beaches in Punta Cana.

Golf writer Ted McIntyre knows his stuff, having golfed some 300 courses around the world. He says that the D.R. has by far the best golf in the Caribbean. “Teeth of the Dog golf course is the purest, most lethal test – it will test your guts, your game and all your talent in between.” He’s also partial to Cap Cana, calling it “Just one big photo op.”

But – for Ontarians at least – the biggest sell factor for the D.R. these days might just be the weather. At a (relatively) cool 30°c and just 70% humidity, Punta Cana’s biggest asset may be its refreshing weather!