Undiscovered Family Hideaways in the Dominican Republic

Undiscovered Family Hideaways in the Dominican Republic
The most popular destination in the Caribbean and one of Jetsetter.com's 'Best Islands for Families,' the Dominican Republic is a treasure trove of cultural delights, hidden beaches, natural wonders and adventures galore.

Diverging from patterns of the past, families are no longer interested in cookie-cutter itineraries and travel experiences, but rather are seeking safe, customized vacations that allow for a balance of cultural immersion, adventure and relaxation. Far from the all-inclusive mega resorts of Punta Cana, two undiscovered Dominican boutique hotels, Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences and Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, are offering families the chance to discover regions of the popular island before unforeseen.

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences Beckons with Pristine Natural Delights and Cultural Stimulation

Nestled on a six-mile stretch of stunning private beach, Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences is located just ten minutes outside of the bustling cultural mecca of Las Terrenas - a delightful fishing town with an eclectic and accessible culture rich with French, Italian and Dominican influences.

Families can enjoy complimentary use of paddleboards, boogie boards, surfboards and wind surfing equipment in the hotel's brand new water activity center. When not swimming in or relaxing by one of the hotel's breathtaking pools, families can arrange for excursions ranging from world-class whale watching and family cooking lessons, complete with a trip to the local fish market, to exciting horseback rides culminating at natural waterfalls and swimming holes.

With 26 extraordinarily spacious guest accommodations ranging from one and two-bedroom suites to two and three-bedroom casitas (villas), which can be combined for larger groups, the hotel is perfectly suited to families of all sizes. As part of a new turndown service, children will be surprised each evening with special gifts ranging from nighttime sweets to toys and books.

Families can relish the delightful, healthy, seasonal cuisine at the hotel's restaurant or venture into town to take in a seaside meal from the outdoor decks of one of the many gourmet restaurants. For those parents and older children seeking a night out on the town or an escape to the spa, babysitting services can be arranged through the hotel.

The hotel is offering a 50% discount off of regular room rates for one-bedroom suites, and 30% off of rates for other room categories for travel from November 1 through December 23, 2013 if booked by October 31, 2013. Rules and restrictions apply. For more info visit www.sublimesamana.com or call 888-896-9416.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, an Intimate Eco Friendly Escape where Adventure Abounds (pictured above)

Situated in the rainforest between three peaks and complete with a thrilling, ten platform canopy tour, mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking trails on site, it is hard to find a hotel anywhere in the Dominican Republic better suited to the adventurous family than Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge. With renovations recently completed on each of the hotel's 12 guest rooms, families can take in the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic's southwestern coast in an intimate environment that celebrates the beauty of the region, while maintaining the comforts of home.

Originally the weekend retreat of the Schiffino family, Casa Bonita prides itself on maintaining an authentic character that reflects the family-focus of owner, Polibo Schiffino.

The restaurant sources ingredients from its own extensive organic garden with an exciting menu highlighting the region's unparalleled seafood and rich tropical produce. Gourmet picnics can be prepared for family beach outings and excursions can be arranged to such cultural enclaves as the Cachote Village, perched high in the awe-inspiring cloud forest of the eastern Bahoruco mountains.

Additional excursions include opportunities to tour nearby national parks within the Jaragua, Bahoruco and Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve, experience an organic coffee plantation, visit the Casa de Tarzán (Tarzan's House), Las Aguilas Bay, Oviedo Lagoon and Lake Enriquillo, or explore caves with ancient tribal art.

For parents and children in need of some relaxation, the hotel's unrivaled, open-air, organic river spa offers a magical escape into the sights and sounds of the jungle setting with healing treatments utilizing local ingredients available for all ages.

To celebrate the new renovations, Casa Bonita's guest rooms will be available at a special rate of $137 per night plus tax and service charges for travel through December 15, 2013 if booked by October 31, 2013. Rates are subject to blackout dates and availability. A limited number of rooms are available. For more info visit www.casabonitadr.com or call 800-961-5133.