Showing posts with label Dominican Republic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dominican Republic. Show all posts

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Amber Cove - The Next Great Caribbean Cruise Destination?

     
Amber Cove, the newest Caribbean cruise destination is set to welcome its first cruise ship, has signed an agreement with Carnival Cruise Line to allow Carnival to be the first major cruise line to utilized the exciting new facilities at this new destination port; when it opens in opens in October 2015.  This exciting new destination, located near the historic town of Puerto Plata, on the beautiful north coast of the Dominican Republic- will welcome it first cruise ship, the Carnival  Victory. with a day long call in October 6th, according to Reuters.



       The port is situated in a spectacular cove between lush tropical landscapes and souring mountains.  Amber Cove will feature extensive recreational activities, and feature some of the most extensive shore excursions programs available in the Caribbean.   From beautiful beaches, to exciting water sports and snorkeling in crystal clear waters, to eco-adventures on land and water, Amber Cove promises something  to satisfy your Caribbean dream adventures.  Other exciting excursions will include crossing the rugged country side on Terracross vehicles, horseback riding along miles of open beaches, or even the luxury of renting your own beachside bungalow with your own personnel chief.   The port will feature historic architectural elements that echo the area's colonial past.  Its cobblestone plazas will feature themed restaurants and bars, a locally sourced marketplace, recreational amenities, and be the transportation hub for access to land and sea adventures.  The nearby town of Puerto Plata, discovered by Columbus in 1492, offers you limitless opportunities to shop, eat, drink and explore.  The port will offer 2 births that are able to accommodate the largest ships.



       Carnival Cruise Line is planning to make 37 calls to Amber Cove, in the first 6 months after it opens in October of 2015, for 7 night and longer cruises departing from Florida.  According to Terry Thomton, senior VP of itinerary planning for Carnival, "Amber Cove is destine to become a cornerstone...and provide an unmatched combination of fun in the sun activities and eco-tourism opportunities".  Over 100,000 guests will experience this new jewel of the Caribbean in its first 6 months.



Monday, July 7, 2014

The Best Caribbean Resorts for Golfers

       Last week, after finishing a round of golf at my local club, I went to the 19th hole to share an adult beverage with my golf buddies.  As I sat down, a Club member, who knew my wife and I were in the travel industry, asked if I could recommend several golf courses in the Dominican Republic that where challenging for his hard core golfing son in law to play on his upcoming trip to that nation.  After giving him the names of several famous courses, I started thinking about my own situation.  After the brutal winter of 2013, my wife wants to go someplace warm for our Holiday vacation, instead of our normal ski trip out west. One of the options we are looking at is vacationing at a luxury beach all inclusive in Cancun which offers free rounds of golf at a nearby golf course.  Now, I don't know the reputation of this particular golf course, or how well it is maintained; but any chance I can  get to play a round in the middle of winter, becomes an opportunity.  For that reason alone this  vacation option gets my vote, ( thou unfortunately not the only vote), for our family trip.

       I started thinking about these two similar events happening at the same time; and it started me asking myself what are considered the best  all inclusive resorts and dedicated golf resorts in the Caribbean region for that golfer with the skill that wants to play the best, ( unfortunately above my skill level). Here is a consolidated list of the highest rated and most recommended golf resorts that offer the most beautiful, challenging, and value for the golfer who is planning to travel to the Caribbean region; from the pages of Caribbean Journal, Golf Digest and Travel and Leisure.  So if you are thinking about a vacation to one of these destinations, check out the list and don't leave your clubs at home.

Dominican Republic
  Casa deCampo
  Eden Roc Cap Cana
  Tortuga Bay Resort
  Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Resort
  Paradisus Palma Real

Bahamas
  One and Only Ocean Club
  Sandels Emerald Bay Resort

Cancun
  Le Blanc Spa Resort

Puerto Rico
  Dorado Beach (Ritz Carlton Reserve)
  El Conquistador (Waldorf Astoria Resort)

Nevis
  Four Seasons Resort

Jamaica
  Half Moon Resort and Spa

St.  Kitts
  St. Kitts Marriott Resort

St. Lucia
  Sandels Regency LaToc

Curacao
  Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort