What is the destination city that reinvents luxury tourism in the Dominican Republic?

If Punta Cana is the place where the fantasy of tourism all inclusive becomes a reality, the concept takes on a new dimension in Cap Cana.

This private city located in the municipality of La Altagracia -whose jurisdiction it shares with Punta Cana- has an area of ​​120 million square meters, equivalent to two Manhattans, and a seal that distinguishes it from any Caribbean destination.

Dream beaches, comfort, nature, but above all, exclusivity: a key word if you want to begin to describe what it is like to live in this spectacular real estate and hotel development in the Dominican Republic.

Under the sun’s rays, in its pristine streets where cars and golf carts circulate among palm trees and monumental hotels, Cap Cana offers travelers gastronomic, sports, adventure and wellness, under the premise of “everything you are looking for is here.” And this destination city, which has only about a thousand residents of 23 nationalities, was designed with the purpose of become an international icon of luxury tourism.

With a masterplan that was projected 20 years ago by the Dominican government, through its Ministry of Tourism, a unique concept was promoted in the country that combines real estate, hotel and diversified tourism development.

A panoramic view of Cap Cana shows the gabled roofs of the residential areas, accompanying The extensive Marina was located in the heart of the city. This marina, the largest and safest in the Caribbean, is a must for water sports and fishing enthusiasts. And one of its greatest attractions.

Just walk along that U-shaped route. Bordering the moorings of the yachts and sailboats, There are around 15 restaurants, shops and even a small amphitheater that completes its commercial circuit.

The Marina is also a meeting place in the social life of its residents. Every December 1st, the city lights up in the Christmas spirit and celebrates in advance with a boat parade dressed for the occasion with lights and colors.

He Christmas Boat Parade It emerged in 2017 as an idea from the fishing community and became an iconic event in the city. Fast food stands, Christmas decorations, live music and Disney-themed characters bring together thousands of people every year.

The experience of staying at a Cap Cana hotel is equivalent to immersing yourself in a city within the city. From the moment you enter the lobby you are under the spell of a rhythm of its own in which each guest can choose their own adventure.

Spa day, entertainment in the pools, a drink on private access beaches, international cuisine, dazzling rooms with sea views. The seal of exclusivity is present in all servicesalthough each complex can be focused on different activities.

Sanctuary Cap Cana, for example, is a sumptuous complex focused exclusively on adult audiences. In its imposing colonial-style architecture, collections of suites, villas and even a castle coexist where tourists can stay. The proposal is total relaxation and a certain amount of privacyespecially designed for traveling couples.

Among its stone arches, rattan armchairs, fountains and terraces overlooking its five pools – one with sea water -, there are activities, a gym, spa, and bars ideal for spending the day.

Among the services included is the access to five restaurants that offer variants of haute cuisine, from Italian to Asian cuisine, an international buffet, or grill. For a more informal dinner there is the area Sactuary Towna food court where more gastronomic alternatives are added, from pizza places to ice cream parlors.

Eden Rock It is one of the outstanding jewels of the city. With a boutique concept, It is the only chateau hotel in the country whose main dish is gastronomy. Not only because of its varied offering, which combines seafood delicacies, Mediterranean cuisine, meats and even kosher options. And not only because of its award-winning chefs, who have at least one Michelin star.

And Eden Rock the culinary journey is what matters. A balcony adorned with flowers, surrounded by a tropical atmosphere and a waterfall, can be the setting for a romantic dinner. Or a sunset on the beach, accompanied by violins and a four-course menu.

Cap Cana’s commitment to the hospitality industry is ambitious. In its first phase of development, which covers some 110 million square meters, The city has 3 thousand hotel rooms active. All hotels have a rating of three diamonds or higher.

Most chains landed with “luxury” editions of their all-inclusive hotel models. Hotel rates vary by season, but typically the lowest prices range between 400 and 600 dollars per person.

Adrenaline: it is what you feel at the moment of jump from a kilometer-long zip line, several meters high, crossing trees and waterfalls at full speed. And it is one of the many attractions it offers Cap Cana Scape Park.

Swimming in a huge cenote with turquoise blue water, spotting exotic animals, climbing the iconic Farallon cliffs or snorkeling in tropical waters are some of the activities available to spend the day in this theme park.

He Blue Hole It is one of the most sought after places by travelers. To get to this cenote you have to cross a lush tropical path, crowned with orchids, ferns and cacti, among other native species.

The walk is part of the attraction. The tour, which does not skimp on colors, aromas and sounds, continues on a suspension bridge with a panoramic view of the park. A few meters ahead, the limestone covered in lush green and the blue of the water appears. The most adventurous jump from the platform located at the foot of an imposing cliff to swim, although you can also descend to the Blue Hole by ladder.

In an environment of forests and lagoons, Scape Park has good infrastructure and all the necessary services to stay for lunch and spend the rest of the day. The excursion, which includes transfers from the hotel and entrance with access to the main activities, It costs 129 dollars.

• The high season in the Dominican Republic extends from December 29 to Easter, so it is advisable to book a ticket outside of those dates if you are looking for deals.

• Since last year, the Arajet airline offers the direct route Buenos Aires -Santo Domingo, and includes transfer to Punta Cana at no additional cost. Although the company is not characterized as a low cost, has affordable prices.

• The fare for a direct round-trip flight from Buenos Aires per passenger is from US$800 for mid-April and US$800,640 for mid-May (www.arajet.com).