3 Things Besides Beaches to Explore in a Warm Paradise By Addy Gibbons

If the vacation of your dreams consists of swimming in deep blue waters and relaxing on the beach, there are a lot of places you could visit that offer just that. There are so many, in fact, you might have no clue where to book your next vacation. What makes one place more attractive than the other? A lot of it has to do with what else the place has to offer tourists besides the beachfront.

Even the most beach-loving traveler can’t spend an entire vacation on the beach. Even if that sounds good to you now, you’re sure to get bored if you actually try that out. That’s why it’s worth it to discover what else in a region might appeal to you. In areas such as Punta Cana or Puerto Plata, for example, the opportunity for adventure, fine dining and historical tourism ensures that travelers to those areas come back with more than just a suntan and a well-worn swimsuit. Turn your beach vacation into one of the most memorable trips of your life. With so much to do in one place, you might have to come back a second time or make the trip an annual affair.

Visit Museums and Historical Architecture

To find the perfect vacation, you have to find a warm beach paradise that’s rich in history. Whether you’re on your own or with a family, being able to experience a culture’s history rather than simply reading about it makes the lesson so much more meaningful. See if there are any museums around. Historical museums will give you a history of the locale, while art museums will let you enjoy both historical and modern culture through the lens of art. You might also inquire about tours of historical architecture and monuments that are landmarks in the region.

Dine at Local Restaurants

Even the most avid beach lover is sure to enjoy a restaurant on her vacation, but if you only eat room service, you’re missing out on what the local area truly has to offer. Ask your concierge to recommend places that serve local cuisine in town and make several reservations at different restaurants throughout your stay. Yes, you’re likely to find American chain restaurants and the kids may beg you to eat there, but you don’t want to go home having only eaten American food. Make a point of trying the most famous dishes from the area.

Go on an Adventure

Don’t just lie on the beach – experience it. Speak to your concierge or travel agent about adventures such as zip-lining or all-terrain walking tours. If you’re an avid swimmer, don’t just paddle near the shore, sign up for a diving tour so you can see the beautiful coral reefs firsthand. You might also inquire about kayaking and boat tours. If you’re not up to the physical demands of many of these adventures, you can still get a great view and an epic thrill by taking a cable car tour over the beach to the top of a nearby mountain.

A trip to one beach-filled paradise shouldn’t be spent consistently on that beach. You have to come in out of the water and sun sometime. Include a wider variety of things to do on your itinerary, and you’ll come home with memories that will last long after the end of your trip.

About the Author: Addy Gibbons is a former travel agent and a travel blogger. She recommends anyone who wants a relaxing trip considering vacationing in Punta Cana or Puerto Plata.

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