The Dominican Republic continues to ride a strong tourism wave.

Recent statistics show the Dominican Republic remains the most-visited destination in the Caribbean region. Tourist arrivals were up 6.32 per cent for the first nine months of 2018 compared to last year, with a total of 5.009 million tourists. North America continues to be the major feeder market for the Dominican Republic, with Canadians accounting for 699,000 of the visitors during this period

While beautiful, sunny weather and stunning beaches remain the DR’s most sought-after attractions, tourists also flock to the country for its true warmth – the hospitality of the people and the local culture. Santo Domingo, the country’s capital, was voted as one of the ‘2018 Friendliest Cities in the World’ by Condé Nast Traveler’s readers and the new Dominican Republic “Smiles” Campaign captures the country’s genuine hospitality and infectious smiles.

The Ministry of Tourism recently allocated more than $20million CAD to the regeneration of 11 beaches in popular tourist regions including Punta Cana, Puerto Plata and Samaná. The Dominican Republic also looks to immerse visitors in cultural experiences with two new museums were announced for Santo Domingo: an undersea museum that will showcase the nation’s underwater salvaged heritage and a museum promoting the nation’s musical history.

Golf tourism to the DR has grown 10.5 per cent and is expected to increase another 8.5 per cent throughout the remainder of the year, according to the International Association of Golf Tour Operators. And this winter for the first time ever, Sunwing will fly from Sept-îles, Quebec to Punta Cana. The new weekly flight service will offer more convenience and affordable travel for vacationers in the Côte-Nord region.

The Ocean Club Resort is a fabulous property on a lovely stretch of beach in the Sosua area, just a few minutes from Puerto Plata. The gleaming white units and sleek swimming pools feel more like South Beach in Miami than the D.R. Large units are meant for sharing and feature modern conveniences and enormous patios, some with plunge pools.

Not far away are the Damajaqua waterfalls, where guides can take you through a secluded river surrounded by tall rock cliffs and slippery slides. Be sure to wear the helmets they provide.

Playa Grande features colourful wooden shacks where you can order up a large serving of fresh fish, rice and veggies. Take your food down to the beach and eat your lunch under a shady tree, with the surf just a few feet away.