By: Véronique Leduc

Thereʻs always something new and surprising in the D.R. – no matter how well travellers may think they know this much-loved destination.

Whether it’s to pique the interest of travellers already familiar with its charms – or to attract snowbirds who are considering a trip here in light of geopolitical events – or simply to keep its resort product at the forefront of modernity and elegance, the D.R. is happy to share news of its many hotel and resort projects underway.

A recent trip hosted by Air Canada Vacations showcased several of the new developments.

“26% of the travellers we receive are Canadian, and the market is constantly growing,” said Carlos Batista, a guide for the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism, who accompanied the group during the trip.

Although the destination doesn’t highlight this aspect in its official communications, it doesn’t hide it either: locally, it’s believed that the current situation in the U.S. will encourage even more Canadians to choose the D.R. for their next vacation or a long stay.

In a case of great timing, and to meet growing demand generally, several new projects are springing up across the country – in Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata and Miches. Batista also noted that the destination wants to increase its ecotourism offerings and develop luxury tourism.

Certainly the rapidly growing Miches region is poised to meet both goals. The strategy includes the introduction of major hotel brands to showcase this still-preserved area, located 90 minutes from Punta Cana airport. Currently, it has six or seven properties, but 10 or so more are already planned for the near future.

Here’s an overview of the main new developments the ACV trip group discovered during our visit …

 Zemi Miches

After three years of construction, the Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is set to open on June 30. It will be the first Curio all-inclusive resort in the D.R.

This high-end property will feature 500 oceanview rooms and suites, including about 20 beachfront bungalows. The Zemi’s theme pays tribute to the culture of the indigenous Taíno people, with earthy tones and natural materials.

“Everyone knows about the Mayans of Mexico, but our own history is lesser known. Dominicans are warm, love to dance, drink, and eat, but they offer much more: a history, a culture, a gastronomy,” said Hairo Galindez, the hotel’s marketing director. The propertyʻs on-site entertainment will also draw inspiration from this heritage.

Zemi Miches highlights natural materials

The decor of the Zemi Miches is inspired by the Taino people, as in the entrance hall where boats and winds are recalled

The resort will include six bars and six restaurants, including a buffet, Thai, Italian and Dominican eateries showcasing regional specialties. Guests looking for an upgrade can opt for Club Azure, which offers private check-in, a rooftop pool with terrace, and an exclusive pool area. Families are well catered to with water slides and two separate clubs for kids and teens.

The hotel also boasts flexible event space for up to 800 people. The entire complex can be booked for private events. According to Galindez, Zemi Michesʻ main asset is its location: 800 metres of beach stretch out in front of the hotel along the protected Carlyle Bay, free of waves and seaweed. Behind it, mountain views enhance the stunning scenery.

Secrets Playa Esmeralda Miches

Right next door, the adults-only (18+) Secrets Playa Esmeralda Miches will welcome its first guests on July 1, ahead of an official opening in August.

The hotel consists of tall white buildings forming a large ʻUʻ around pools, lounge chairs and shared spaces with direct beach views. A more intimate VIP section includes 125 rooms, an exclusive restaurant, concierge service, private check-in lounge, and a reserved beach area.

Targeting guests ages 25-54, the resort offers 500 ocean-facing rooms – some with private pools – three pools, 11 restaurants, eight bars, and 24-hour room service. Guests also have access to the adjacent Dreams resort, designed for families, bringing the total dining options to about 20. Behind the hotel, a lively village area offers Dominican, French, Italian, and Greek restaurants, bars, shops and entertainment – no reservations required.

Secrets is also focusing on the wedding market, with 40 ceremonies already scheduled and a goal of 150 events in its first year. “Guests can stay at either hotel,” notes Sales Director Brian de Jesus. He believes Carlyle Bay, where the resort is located, is a perfect alternative to the more touristy areas of the D.R.

Room at Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa Miches

The surrounding untouched nature allows for a variety of excursions, including visits to Los Haitises National Park or hiking in the region’s trails. “The area offers the best excursions,” says Brian de Jesus. “Tourism is growing, flights are increasing, and travellers want something new. If you’ve already been to Punta Cana, you should know that Miches is completely different!”

To boost activity in the region, Secrets Miches is working closely with Canadian tour operators, hoping that this market—especially active from November to April—will make up 20% to 50% of its visitors.

Viva Miches

ACV is also offering the Viva Miches by Wyndham, which caters to families, making up about 60% of its clientele thanks to its amenities and kids’ club, according to Frederica Natale, who manages groups and events.

Open since December 2024, the hotel has 535 rooms spread across three buildings. Here too, the focus is on the hotel’s natural surroundings – between the sea, mountains, and lush vegetation.

While the hotel offers many activities and entertainment options, popular off-site excursions include trips to Redonda Mountain and Samana Beach, accessible by boat. Ranch visits are also in demand, as well as whale watching from January to March.

Viva Miches Room

Reserva Real by Harper

In Punta Cana’s Bavaro area, Reserva Real by Harper opened this past April. According to manager Heriberto Ramos Hernandez, the condo-hotel concept it offers is still rare in the country. Close to restaurants, bars, and shops frequented by locals, the hotel has 193 apartments arranged around four long pools, not counting those at its elegant private beach club on Bavaro Beach, which guests can access for free.

Reserva Real Room

The units – one- or two-bedroom – are equipped with kitchens, washers and often balconies. Parking is also available. “People love this setup: they want to live like locals, explore neighbourhood restaurants, shop at the market on foot, and get away from overly structured environments,” he explains.

The property offers exclusive rates through ACV. It’s ideal for stays of one to two weeks or long-term stays—a trend growing rapidly in the country, according to trip guide Batista.

Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda

Journalists also visited Bahia Principe Luxury Esmeralda, also in Punta Cana and fully renovated last year. With Canada as its main market, the hotel already hosts many Canadian visitors and is always ready to welcome more.

Geared towards families, the 570-room property is part of a six-hotel complex and now showcases the Taíno people’s culture through its design, entertainment and cuisine, with a clear intent to highlight Dominican history and identity. Highlights include a kids’ club, water park, seven restaurants, six bars, two large pools, a spa and luxury rooms with direct pool access and breathtaking beach views.

Zel Punta Cana

During the ACV trip, the group stayed at the newly opened Zel Punta Cana, a Meliá brand hotel previously known as Garden Suites by Melia. It’s the first Caribbean property under the Zel brand created by Rafael Nadal, after two openings in his home country, Spain. Zel charms with its enchanting décor, though some aspects of service still need refinement.

Buffet restaurant at Zel Punta Cana

Zel Punta Cana Coffee Counter

Located less than 30 minutes from Punta Cana airport, this Mediterranean-style hotel has 190 rooms, some with direct access to a beautiful pool winding through a carefully landscaped garden.

Zel Punta Cana Master Suite

Zel Punta Cana Master Suite

Part of a five-hotel Meliá complex, Zel aims to stand out with a wellness and fitness focus: gym, yoga classes, spa, and tennis courts (unavailable at the time of our visit).

Open since December 2024, the hotel is not directly on the beach but offers a beach club served by shuttle, along with eight bars and restaurants. Nearby, catamaran excursions and adventure parks – like the popular Bavaro Adventure Park – are favourites for visitors seeking new experiences.

Source: Travelweek