The Dominican Republic is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean for families, simply because there is so much to do. This island getaway offers more variety and more cultural activities than perhaps any other destination in the Caribbean Sea. Not only that, but the Dominican is also home to so many different luxury hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive and half-board, plus huge family villa holidays and boutique stays – the choice is yours and there’s something for every budget. The Dominicans are also extremely friendly and you’ll be received with the warmest hospitality, and food is at the centre of everything they do so you’ll never feel at a loss when it comes to finding a great place to eat with the kids. Bus companies also provide an excellent service at very affordable prices so getting around will be very easy.

The food of the Dominican Republic is very much influenced by its Spanish past. Just as it is in Spain, lunch is the largest and most important meal of the day. Rice and peas are typically served with many meals and you’ll find that sausages and stews taking influence from Spain are popular on many restaurant menus. There’s a huge variety of dishes in Dominican cuisine so it won’t be hard finding something that everyone likes. Some must try dishes include Mondongo tripe stew, Asopao de Pollo or Shrimp Asapao (similar to a rice gumbo), La Bandera (stewed meat, beans and rice), Mangú mashed plantains, Tostones fried plantains, Sancocho seven meat stew, Dulce De Coco (coconut and cream dessert) and Tres Leches sponge cake. You’ll also be able to find some amazing street food snacks, with plenty of sweet treats that can appeal to the kids such as Memelos caramel lollipops. Jugo De Chinola (passion fruit juice) is the fruit drink of choice in the Dominican and most resorts, hotels and restaurants will serve a large selection of wines, beers and spirits.

Sharing an island with Haiti on the west, the culture of the Dominican is extremely different. The two nations contrast dramatically; whilst Haiti was colonised by the French, the Dominican was under Spanish rule for more than five centuries. Many of the Dominicans identify themselves as “Indos” and are very proud of their unique culture. Their culture today can be defined by their dedication to music, their many festivals which take place throughout the year, and their incredible fusion food which blends Spanish cooking influences with traditional Taino cuisine.