The Dominican Republic is a top sun destination for Canadians, consistently rating as a favourite to escape our brutal winters. While many travelers hit popular Punta Cana, there are other options in the country that can make many repeat visitors feel like they’re visiting the country for the first time.

La Romana is located about 45 mins from Punta Cana International Airport and is home to the brand new Hilton La Romana, which TravelPulse Canada visited back in October. Located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, Hilton La Romana is an All-Inclusive Resort surrounded by a lush, tropical jungle. On the drive, travelers can see the landscape changing as urban turns to rural, loaded with fields upon fields of sugar cane.

The resort has an eco-modern vibe, with spacious and tastefully designed rooms and amenities that include a stellar spa, a variety of higher-end dining options and buffets and two large pools, including an infinity one. The lobby is perfect for catching cross breezes and people watching; in the morning with a fresh-brewed specialty coffee from Aroma (and a cookie, which is a must) or in the evening with a refreshing adult beverage at the lobby bar.

Not that you’d want to leave, but it’s also a quick half hour catamaran ride to nearby Sanoa Island, one of the Dominican’s best kept secrets. A favourite among Instagrammers, the serenity of the beach and beautiful turquoise waters are a great way to spend an afternoon exploring all the island has to offer.

Days can be filled with a variety of activities such as a cooking class on the beach or a rum tasting, or maybe it’s best just watching the waves from the beach. All Playa Hotel and Resorts properties provide service that’s based “from the heart” and staff will make travelers feel as such.

Hilton La Romana encompasses two resorts – the one open currently is the adults-only side, while the brand new family resort will open in December.

Several agent-facing initiatives exist including luxury in-market events; a series of travel agent fams from throughout the end of 2019; a coveted double point offer through AgentCASH Plus, Playa’s travel agent reward program; and a new consumer promotion throughout all five resorts in the region.