5 Reasons Why The Dominican Republic Is Having Its Best Year On Record For Travel

Last Updated 2 months ago

The Dominican Republic is smashing multiple travel records this year as the country gears up to welcome over 10 million tourists by the end of 2023.

a beautiful white sand beach in punta cana

Excellent safety, a friendly and welcoming culture, and some of the most popular coastal resort destinations in the Caribbean have helped the Dominican Republic become one of the trendiest hotspots for travelers this year.

With projections showing that the tropical island will almost certainly break its all-time travel record this year, here’s a quick look at 5 reasons behind the Dominican Republic’s unparalleled travel popularity.

a view of a white sand beach somewhere in the Dominican republic

The Perfect Destination For Safety-Conscious Travelers

In 2023, safety is paramount for travelers, especially for the millions of Americans heading to Caribbean destinations like the Dominican Republic.

As the world enters the post-COVID era, travelers are increasingly opting for destinations that have reliable institutions, including transparent and effective law enforcement. In that sense, the Dominican Republic ticks all the right boxes.

@maddiecastellano We had the best time in Punta Cana last week!! The boys were in heaven. 📍Falcon Resort Punta Cana #familytravel #dominicanrepublic #puntacana ♬ Aesthetic – Devonte Mayo

With one of the lowest crime rates in the region and an excellent tourism policy body, the Dominican Republic is a stable and welcoming destination.

Soaring Aerial Connectivity

Good international connectivity and affordable airfare are some of the most important factors when booking a Caribbean getaway. Despite its small size, the Dominican Republic is home to a handful of well-connected international airports.

@jessicaxalexis It’s always a good idea to avoid hurricane season in DR 🇩🇴 #dominicanrepublic #republicadominicana #visitDr #travel #traveltiktok #travellife ♬ GIVE IT TO ME X PROMISCUOUS – ALTÉGO

The country’s largest aerial hub, Punta Cana International Airport, handles over 8 million passengers per year. Having just wrapped up a nearly $100 million renovation program, the modern and safe airport is a major target for large North American airlines, including JetBlue, American Airlines, and Air Canada.

New Exciting Destinations

While Punta Cana is the most famous destination in the Dominican Republic, the sun-drenched country is home to several new resort hotspots that are attracting travelers in droves.

From the hidden cultural and natural wonders to the country’s insular provinces – including in Cibao – to major upcoming resort hotspots like Miches and Pedernales, the Dominican Republic is much more than sun and beach.

@traveltomtom Found this cabin up in the mountains near #santiagodeloscaballeros and #puertoplata #rd🇩🇴 #republicadominicana #dominicanrepublic ♬ original sound – Traveltomtom

With travelers increasingly focusing on sustainable travel and eco-friendly options, places like Miches offer tourists a new way to experience the Dominican Republic’s verdant nature and untouched white-sand beaches.

A Leading Cruise Ship Hub

Just like air travel, the number of cruise ship travelers has grown significantly in the Dominican Republic over the past several years. But in 2023, cruise ship popularity has reached a new all-time high as cruise liners add new stops in destinations like Puerto Plata and La Romana.

@theshrinkingcreative Have you had Mamajuana? #cruise #cruiselife #carnivalcruise #traveltiktok #travelvlog #carnivalcelebration #travelvlogger #cruisevlog #cruisevlogger #cruisetok #choosefun #cruisehacks #Travelhacks #choosefun #ambercove #dominicanrepublic ♬ love nwantinti (ah ah ah) – CKay

In December this year, officials will inaugurate a brand-new state-of-the-art cruise ship terminal in Pedernales. Port Cabo Rojo will be the largest cruise ship port in the country and a major milestone for the country’s tourism industry.

Offering unparalleled access to the natural wonders of the country’s southwestern coasts, the new undertaking will help further boost the country’s record-breaking popularity.

Exciting New Accommodations

Aside from offering traditional all-inclusive experiences in Punta Cana and beyond, the Dominican Republic is a breeding ground for new, exciting experiences in luxury hospitality.

@thrillist Booking that trip to Punta Cana immediately 🎢 #travel #traveltiktok #news #themepark #dominicanrepublic ♬ Smiles & Sunsets – ultmt. & Hz.

From Punta Cana’s first-ever theme park, Kathmandu Park, to Puerto Plata’s famous golf courses, the Dominican Republic is a country of superlatives. Amid stiff competition from international resort firms, companies like Meliá, Four Seasons, and Hyatt are constantly launching new undertakings that redefine luxury hospitality.

It’s no wonder Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic are often voted as having some of the best luxury accommodations in the world.