Dominican Republic Is The Fastest-Growing Destination On Earth According To New Report

Last Updated 2 weeks ago

More than three years have passed since global travel came to a screeching halt, presenting an unprecedented challenge for the travel industry.

Nevertheless, popular destinations worldwide have been making a gradual recovery as countries ease their travel restrictions and welcome travelers once again.

But among these destinations, none has managed to outpace the Dominican Republic in terms of tourist growth.

Dominican Republic beach with palm trees

According to the latest ‘Global Travel Trends’ report by ForwardKeys, the Dominican Republic currently tops the list of countries that have made the swiftest recovery in their tourist sectors, with a remarkable 14% growth in 2023 compared to 2019.

Furthermore, the report unveiled several emerging global travel trends around the world.

While 2022 was marked by a strong preference for sun and beach destinations, this year’s travel trends have shifted towards a growing interest in urban and luxury tourism.

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Given that the Dominican Republic currently stands as the fastest-growing destination worldwide, let’s delve into how these latest travel trends are reflected in its remarkable growth.

A Sun And Beach Haven

Even though this year’s travel trends have diversified, the love for sun and beach getaways is still going strong.

ForwardKeys’ report shows that beach destinations continue to thrive, experiencing a noteworthy 26% increase compared to 2022.

And when it comes to sun and beaches, the Dominican Republic truly excels.

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Beyond Punta Cana’s world-famous coastlines, such as Bávaro Beach and Macao Beach, renowned for their expansive white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, the country offers a multitude of options.

Destinations such as Puerto Plata, Bayahibe, Cayo Levantado, and Playa Rincón at Samaná are famous for hosting some of the Caribbean’s most paradisiacal coastlines, each offering unique yet equally delightful features.

Moreover, the Dominican Republic’s excellent weather throughout the year offers the opportunity to enjoy these breathtaking beaches regardless of when you’re visiting.

The Dominican Republic’s Urban Tourism Boom

One of the most remarkable shifts in travel trends this year is the rise of urban tourism, which, at a whopping 52% growth, swiftly outpaces the sun and beach destinations.

And once again, the Dominican Republic doesn’t lag behind.

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Santo Domingo, the country’s capital city, is currently one of the fastest-growing destinations in the country and one of the most popular tourist hotspots worldwide this winter.

As the oldest European settlement in the Americas, Santo Domingo offers a unique opportunity for urban exploration, featuring iconic landmarks like Alcázar the Colón, Columbus Park, and the Church of Our Lady of The Mercies.

The charming Colonial Zone provides a window into the country’s rich history, where European, Latin American, and African influences seamlessly blend.

Furthermore, as the country’s major economic hub, Santo Domingo is also solidifying its position as a top business tourism destination.

This, coupled with its skyrocketing popularity, has prompted significant investments in infrastructure and hotel accommodations by the government.

The Epitome Of Caribbean Luxury

After countries reopened their borders post-pandemic, a unique trend emerged known as ‘revenge travel.’

This surge in ‘revenge travel’ has significantly impacted the tourism industry, and the Dominican Republic, renowned for its luxury offerings, aligns perfectly with this trend.

Eden Roc Cap Cana with its large main building and pool — Image courtesy of: Eden Roc Cap Cana

Boasting scores of lavish resorts such as Eden Roc Cap Cana, Tortuga Bay, and Majestic Mirage, Punta Cana, the country’s main tourist hub, has become synonymous with luxury travel.

Yet the Dominican Republic’s luxury offerings are by no means limited to Punta Cana. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in La Romana, for instance, is renowned as one of the most exclusive properties in the Caribbean.

Moreover, hotels such as Cayo Levantado Resort, Bahia Principe Grand Samaná, and Hilton La Romana remain some of the country’s most sought-after luxury resorts, evidence of the Dominican Republic’s thriving luxury tourism scene.

Aerial view of Cayo Levantado resort in Isla Catalina with blue water surrounding it — Image courtesy of: Cayo Levantado Resort

With its diverse tourism landscape marked by exceptional beach and urban destinations, added to a wide range of luxurious offerings, it’s clear why the Dominican Republic currently stands as the fastest-growing destination in the world.