If you’re considering a Dominican Republic vacation in the coming months, you’ll find lots of new things to discover. New flights, a new cruise port, and a new tennis club named after one of the country’s most famous natives are among the latest travel news from this sunny Caribbean nation. There’s also a sexy-chic new adults-only hotel, and plans to install bike lanes in the capital city.
United Airlines Launches New Flight to Punta Cana
United Airlines launched a new year-round weekly service from Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), departing Saturdays. Between June 4 and August 17, the service will operate daily to accommodate a greater number of visitors. (Use LatinFlyer’s own booking engine, right here on this page, to find the best airfares by simultaneously searching more than 10 of the top websites, including Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz.)
Vacation Express Launches Non-Stop Flights to Punta Cana
From May to August 2015, Vacation Express will offer direct flights from both Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) in New Orleans and Port Columbus International Airport (CMH) in Columbus, Ohio, to Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). Operated in partnership with Swift Air,., flights will depart Monday mornings and return early Sunday evenings.
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New Amber Cove Port to Welcome First Cruise Ship
Located near Puerto Plata, Amber Cove port will welcome its first cruise ship on October 6, 2015 — the first of 37 calls and 100,000 guests to arrive by April 2016. The port architecture was designed to dramatically echo the area’s Colonial past. Amber Cove will feature one of the most extensive excursion programs, with dozens of options available to its visitors.
Oscar de la Renta Tennis Center Inaugurated at Puntacana Resort & Club
In honor of the late designer and Dominican native, Puntacana Resort & Club inaugurated its new Oscar de la Renta Tennis Center during the annual Oscar de la Renta Tennis Tournament for charity. The resort has held this tournament in his honor since 2001, with proceeds going toward the education of the resort’s ball boys.
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Dolphin Discovery Downtown Punta Cana Construction Underway
Construction on the first phase of the new Dolphin Discovery Downtown Punta Cana dolphinarium is now complete. The construction includes three dolphin lagoons which – at nearly 20 feet deep with an 8,200-square-foot water surface – are reportedly more than five times the size required by international standards. Upon completion, the attraction will offer educational tours, a shop, snack bar, restaurant, swimming pools, lodging and playground. (Read LatinFlyer’s review of Dolphin Discovery here!)
Punta Cana CHIC by Royalton Resort Debuts
Blue Diamond Hotels & Resorts has opened the doors to its new Punta Cana CHIC by Royalton resort. The adults-only luxury resort has 323 rooms, some with private pools, with a choice of ocean or garden views. On-site amenities include a spa, eight restaurants and six bars, including the Detox Oxygen Bar. CHIC also offers a private, two-level home in a separate building in addition to its traditional rooms, featuring six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, pool, spa, wine cellar and much more.
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Two Punta Cana Properties Awarded Green Globe Certification
Green Globe – an international program that recognizes long-term commitment to sustainable practices in the travel industry – has awarded the Memories Splash Punta Cana and Royalton Punta Cana Resort & Casino properties with certified Green Globe membership. Programs in place at the hotels include recycling, the use of solar power, on-site compost areas, energy-efficient LED lighting and the donation of surplus food waste to local farmers.
Bicycle Lanes Coming to Santo Domingo
In an effort to protect the environment, reduce fuel consumption and improve citizens’ quality of life through exercise, urban infrastructure committees are proposing the creation of bicycle lanes in the capital. The project is currently in planning stages, with studies being done to determine the most beneficial routes and main points.
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Santo Domingo Beltway Nearing Completion
Construction of the 10.5-mile highway called the Santo Domingo Beltway, the country’s longest beltway, was wrapping up construction and should be ready to connect ports at Haina to the Duarte Highway. In 2016, the second stage of construction will link to Boca Chica. Ultimately, the Santo Domingo Beltway will link two major port areas and five major roads to Santo Domingo, while eliminating heavy traffic in the capital.