Puerto Plata: A Great Vacation Alternative to DR’s Popular Punta Cana
by Denise CaiazzoWhen people think of the Dominican Republic, the fun-in-the-sun hotspot of Punta Cana typically comes to mind. But there is another equally appealing vacation destination to consider that was established long before its sexy beachfront neighbor to the east. And it is Puerto Plata.
For travelers who want spectacular beaches and mountains, a bit of history, and lots of fun, plus ample options for adventure and pulsating nightlife, Puerto Plata is an excellent choice.
One of the oldest cities in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502. Sitting on the northern Atlantic shoreline, nestled between the ocean and a towering mountain, it was the first destination on the island, and some still say the prettiest. It was dubbed “Port of Silver” because of the glistening silver color of its coast at sunset.
With rich history and culture, the destination proudly displays its classic Spanish colonial architecture (those wonderful white stucco walls, red clay roofs, wooden beams, and gorgeous courtyards) and its famous Fuerte de San Felipe and the Casa Museo General Gregorio Luperon, all mixed in with a distinctively casual Caribbean vibe.
As for the Puerto Plata beaches, they are a natural paradise and simply breathtaking. There are miles of white sand beaches (so many playas to luxuriate on), crystal clear waters, and hidden coves to explore. The destination is a paradise for easy-access snorkeling and scuba diving. In certain spots, the wind and waves kick up, making it ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
For those who like an adrenaline rush while on holiday, the 27 waterfalls of Damajagua also deliver activities like natural waterslides, zip-lining, kayaking, and cliff-jumping. The Isabell Dell Torres mountains (which can be reached by hiking or by cable car) offer amazing views of the city, the jungle, and the ocean. El Choco National Park is a wonder for hiking, mountain biking, cave exploration, and swimming in freshwater lagoons. Puerto Plata even has a safari cultural adventure tour of Monkey Jungle, plus self-driving off-roading adventures.
Nearby Cabarete is one of the best spots for nightlife and shopping. A multitude of bars and small clubs line the beach and pump out scintillating music and dance. The town’s main street offers boutique shops and local art.
Puerto Playa has a satisfying food scene. Among its culinary offerings, visitors should not pass up tasting la bandara (the national dish of red beans, stewed meats, rice, and fried green plantains), as well as pescado con coco (fish with coconut sauce).
The Dominican Republic is also known for producing some of the clearest and oldest ambers in the world, which is mined in Puerto Plata in the hills of La Cumbre. Returning home with a gift to oneself (or a loved one) of stunning amber jewelry is a must for the sophisticated traveler (or at least visiting the Museo del Ambar Dominicano to see pieces dating back 15 to 20 million years). And, of course, visitors will want to pick up some Brugal Rum (which has been traditionally made in the DR since 1888, and distillery tours are available) and the DR’s famous chocolate (perhaps after taking a tour to learn about the tree-to-bean-to-chocolate-bar journey of the island’s cacao).
When booking accommodations for clients vacationing in Puerto Plata, a standout travel supplier to consider is Lifestyle Holidays. The brand offers travelers from around the world the ultimate tropical destination with miles of beautiful beaches and an endless abundance of sunshine and refreshing ocean breezes. The enchanting resort complex features a mixture of suites and stand-alone villas that come in a variety of spaces to provide ample room for couples, families, and groups of all sizes.
The luxury accommodations at Lifestyle Holidays Hotels And Resorts are designed as a serene, pampering retreat with awe-inspiring ocean or mountain views and feature top-of-the-line amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, stylish contemporary décor, and both private and communal pools. Guests enjoy a variety of gourmet restaurants serving international and Caribbean cuisine, live entertainment shows, beach party extravaganzas, top-tier services, and a host of transportation options – all from an exclusive oceanfront resort with long stretches of pristine beaches overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
FROM THE SPONSOR:
Lifestyle Holidays Hotels And Resorts offers its guests exceptional accommodations and miles of beautiful unspoiled beaches overlooking sparkling oceans, and a relaxing, refreshing, and unforgettable vacation experience. Worries and troubles drift away on energizing ocean breezes at our resorts in the enchanting Dominican Republic at locations such as Puerto Plata, Cabarete, Punta Cana, Samana, Bayahibe, and Boca Chica. Our guests enjoy an all-inclusive vacation experience, featuring exclusive VIP amenities and services in premier travel destinations throughout the world. From delicious gourmet restaurants and al fresco buffet dining options to private-access beach clubs with attentive VIP service, our guests are catered to at every turn. They can take in a game of world-class golf, explore an array of water sports, and enjoy endless island adventures. And delight in the best in local live entertainment, beach party celebrations, exciting casino nightlife, and so much more – all reserved for our VIPs. This is the sophisticated vacation lifestyle your clients have been looking for.

