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Santo Domingo’s cosmopolitan shopping and dining — not
to mention the notable architecture that dates to the 16th
century — combined with the beaches, golf courses, and
natural attractions around La Romana, make the southern
coast of the Dominican Republic a Caribbean smorgasbord
of activities and amenities.
What to do: Take an island expedition. Yes, the main-
land has nice beaches, but they simply can’t compare to
the blindingly white sand found on the coast of Isla Saona,
a 42-square-mile island that’s widely considered the prettiest
place in all of the Dominican Republic. Activities range from
building sandcastles to waterside dance parties to dozing off
beneath a palm tree.
Where to do it: The best way to get to Isla Saona is
to join one of the many day tours that typically depart from
Bayahibe. There are plenty of options. Most travel by means
of catamaran or speedboat, which includes a buffet lunch,
beverages (adult and otherwise), and a bit of sightseeing
along the coast of the National Park of the East.
Why go now: The transition from summer to fall is one of
the least busy periods in the Dominican Republic, so those
unspoiled Isla Saona beaches will feel even more secluded.
Insider’s tip: Isla Saona isn’t the only game in town. Plan
a different day to cruise out to Isla Catalina. The vibe here is
more snorkeling and scuba diving than relaxing and reveling
on the beach. There’s colorful history, too. Captain William
Kidd’s pirate ship was discovered just offshore in 2007.
ADDITIONAL
ANTICIPATED
international
destinations:
62 INTERVAL WORLD ■ Issue 2, 2018 INTERVAL WORLD ■ Issue 2, 2018 63
Orlando hardly needs an introduction. It’s the unequivocal Theme Park Capital of the World, and
home to countless other attractions, restaurants, and activity centers. Simply put, an Orlando
vacation is essentially a rite of passage for families and children around the globe.
What to do: Journey to Antarctica, take a magical ride on the Hogwarts Express, and explore
Pandora – The World of Avatar. And believe it or not, that’s just the beginning. Traveling to Orlando
isn’t necessarily about visiting Orlando. It’s about being transported to other worlds and alternate
universes, most of which are otherwise only accessible in our wildest imaginations.
Where to do it: Start with the big three: SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, and Walt Disney World.
Each has its own atmosphere (underwater creatures, Hollywood hits, fairytales) and a range of cor-
responding rides and activities. Keep in mind, though, there are even more possibilities. Consider
a jaunt to Legoland or smaller attractions, such as Gatorland, WonderWorks, and Extreme
Dinosaurs: The Exhibition.
Why go now: With new attractions opening on a regular basis, there’s never a bad time to drop
by Orlando. For example, a Voodoo Doughnut shop (see page 32 for more information) and new
Fast & Furious ride recently opened at Universal Orlando.
Insider’s tip: Take a break from the frenetic pace of the theme parks. From a quiet float amid
magnificent cypress trees with Peace of Mind Kayak Tours to a casual round of putt-putt at Pirate’s
Cove Adventure Golf, there are plenty of ways to have a world of fun beyond the mega attractions.
FLEXCHANGE
Looking for a last-minute break?
Through Flexchange® , you can request an exchange from 59 days to 24 hours before check-in. The list of
available destinations changes often, so sign in to to get the latest, and make an exchange.
2012 Universal Orlando Resort; Hemis/Alamy Stock Photo
ADDITIONAL
ANTICIPATED
destinations in
the U.S.: