Juan Dolio Holidays

The beach town of Juan Dolio is perfectly situated in the Dominican Republic. The shoreline is a dream, with green-blue sea, fine warm sand and palm trees fringing the edge of this little bit of paradise. It has an air of quiet relaxation on its coastal promenade, with many small shops to browse, but is close enough to neighbouring towns to take advantage of their attractions too.

There is a boulevard that runs from Boca Chica to San Pedro de Macorís straight through Juan Dolio, dotted with tropical flowers that exude scents that instantly give you that holiday feeling. The houses and shops are freshly painted and welcoming and the beach is protected by a gorgeous coral reef. On the outskirts of the town tropical farmlands and palm trees form a magnificent backdrop to this old fishing town.

Most international arrivals fly into Las Americas International Airport, which is about half an hour's drive from Juan Dolio. The newer La Romana Airport is also a possibility but is further away, approximately an hour's drive away. When you are out and about in the town, walking is by far the most popular way to travel – but little buses called guagua travel every few minutes along the main highway and couldn't be simpler to catch; if you stand anywhere along the roadside, they will stop for you! Most hotels can rent you a bicycle but beware the main road is extremely busy – for this reason also, the Motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) are also best kept for more local trips. Also taxi fares can be disproportionately high.

There's plenty to do in and around Juan Dolio, from the 18 hole Guavaberry or Los Marlins golf courses, to scuba diving in the beautiful colours of the coral-surrounded, crystal clear sea. Go Kart Bahn gives you the chance to test your racing skills or visit the botanical gardens and jungle pathways at Tropical Plantation on the Hato Mayor-Sabana de la Mar Road. Deep sea fishing, horse riding and jeep safaris are also a great way to soak up the wonderful atmosphere of this very special part of the world.

Nightlife in Juan Dolio is mainly focused on the hotels; many have casinos with a good selection of gaming tables and machines as well as often featuring dances and live music. This is by no means a loud party resort and is more popular with people who enjoy the fabulous range of restaurants and bars; naturally seafood is delicious here but there's also a wonderful selection of international flavours too.

There's everything from informal dining to chic up market affairs, even great wine choices too. You can relax into the early hours enjoying chatting, people watching and listening to the lively sound of local music or winding down in a piano bar. The locals of Juan Dolio offer a warm and friendly welcome so it is highly likely you will enjoy spending the evenings making new friends. It's less busy than other more animated resorts, there's less hustle and bustle and more time to feel 'part of the local family'.