Page 33 | Casa de Campo

A golf vacation can be one of the best ways to spend your precious time off. It was tough, but we managed to narrow our list of reasons to golf in the Dominican Republic down to just ten. Read on to find out why a golf vacation at Casa de Campo might be just what you’ve been looking for. Aerial shot of a golfing green surrounded by water and sand traps

Aerial shot of a golfing green surrounded by water and sand traps

1. The Weather

It’s impossible to talk about any sort of vacation in the Dominican Republic without starting with the weather. Wherever home is for you, you might be used to an all-too-short golf season that barely allows you to lace up your shoes before the first frost hits again. When you plan a golf vacation at Casa de Campo, the season lasts as long as your vacation.

2. Our Courses

You probably think of beaches and afternoons by the pool when you think about the Dominican Republic, and we certainly have some of the world’s best beaches and pools, but we’re just as proud of our golf courses. At Casa de Campo, we have three championship courses designed by golf legend Pete Dye. Each course will test your skills in a different way, and our crown jewel, Teeth of the Dog® , is the #1 course in the Caribbean. With so many holes right on the water’s edge, you’ll be surrounded by the full beauty of Casa de Campo. The Dye Fore’s cliffside layout, along with two of the greatest par three holes you’ll ever play, will delight players of all skill levels. The Links course brings a slice of British style reminiscent of a classic links course. A golf hole along the Caribbean Sea at Casa de Campo Resort.

A golf hole along the Caribbean Sea at Casa de Campo Resort.

3. Pete Dye

While we’re on the subject, let’s talk about Pete Dye. Since his childhood, he’s worked on golf courses, and became a successful amateur golfer. In the 1960s, he began designing golf courses, starting with the nine-hole “El Dorado” near Indianapolis. In 1964, he designed his first well-known course, the Crooked Stick Golf Club, in Carmel, Indiana. Throughout his career, he built his name on challenging greens (like the famous “Island Green” at TPC at Sawgrass), deep bunkers, and other signature elements. At Casa de Campo, he designed all three of our championship courses, including the #1 course in the Caribbean, Teeth of the Dog® .

4. Group Activities

One of the best parts of a golf vacation is that it makes planning a simple pleasure. You know what you’re going to do, and you know how you’d like to spend your days. That’s why it’s one of the best ways to plan a group vacation. Whether it’s couples, a group of friends, add company groups/incentives or a family getaway, a golf vacation takes all the stress out of planning. What will the golfers do? Golf! What will the non-golfers do? Whatever they want. Maybe a morning at the Spa, or sleeping in followed by a late breakfast. Perhaps a day spent at the beach, or exploring Altos de Chavon. The possibilities are endless! A golfer tees off at Teeth of the Dog® in the Dominican Republic.

A golfer tees off at Teeth of the Dog® in the Dominican Republic.

5. Destination Weddings

A destination wedding at Casa de Campo is the best way to say, “I do.” Encourage your guests to fully appreciate their surroundings with a day of golf while they’re on vacation. Planning a few rounds for your guests and wedding party can bring your friends and family together to bond and have some fun. As a pre-wedding ice breaker, or a post-wedding wind down, golf at Casa de Campo will take your destination wedding to the next level!

6. Couples Getaway

We know that golf isn’t “a good walk spoiled” (despite what Mark Twain may have said), it’s actually a great way to get some exercise and relax while you’re appreciating the beauty of the Dominican Republic. For your couples getaway, consider adding a round of golf to your list of must-dos. Some friendly competition can spice up your vacation!

7. Photo Ops

What can we say? One of the best reasons to vacation is the photos! A round of golf at Casa de Campo will provide you with enough picture-perfect moments to fill your Instagram account. Just take a look at the photos below if you’re not convinced. A beautiful photo of the Teeth of the Dog® Golf Course at Casa de Campo Resort.

A beautiful photo of the Teeth of the Dog® Golf Course at Casa de Campo Resort.

A view of the Caribbean Sea from the Teeth of the Dog® golf course.

8. Vacation Exercise

For those of us who like to stay active even while on holiday, it can sometimes be a challenge to find vacation activities that also work off a few calories. A round of golf is as strenuous or relaxing as you want it to be. If you are looking for something more strenuous, walk the course and carry your bags with you. If you would like a more relaxing experience, hop in a golf cart and enjoy the scenery as you cruise between holes.

9. Endless Activities

Of course, one of the best reasons to golf in the Dominican Republic is that you’re in the Dominican Republic! At Casa de Campo, we have activities and events for everyone in your party, so golfers and non-golfers alike can enjoy a fun and relaxing vacation on and off the course. Play some tennis, check out our spa and dining options, and our list of activities and excursions. A golf vacation at Casa de Campo can have as much or as little golf as you want!

10. Easy Planning

Finally, the best reason to have a golf vacation at Casa de Campo is because we make it easy. Get your friends or family together and tell them you want to plan a golf getaway and we’ll help you plan the perfect golf vacation. And don’t forget to check out all our accommodations and packages, including our villas, which are perfect for golf groups!

TEE TIMES GO FAST. BOOK YOURS IN ADVANCE!

For Tee Times Reservations contact us at: Toll free: 866-719-8883 Local: 809-523-8115 Email: golf@ccampo.com.do

A wedding day is one of the most exciting and memorable days in a couple’s life together, and a memorable day deserves a memorable location. Casa de Campo is home to a wide range of stunning wedding ceremony and reception venues. From small and intimate locations for two, to large, elaborate event spaces that will fit 500 guests, there’s a venue that can be perfectly tailored to any couple for their special day.

St. Stanislaus Church

A bride and groom at their destination wedding at Altos de Chavon, Dominican Republic.

Photo Credit: @weddingroll

St. Stanislaus Church in the center of Altos de Chavón is THE destination for Catholic wedding ceremonies in La Romana. Smaller ceremonies can be held inside the church, while larger weddings can be accommodated outside, with the stone church serving as a stunning backdrop.

Minitas Beach

Photo Credit: @treseventos

Dreaming of a barefooted, beach wedding? Look no further than our own Minitas Beach. Say your “I Do’s” amidst a crystal-clear turquoise backdrop. Our beach can also host receptions, and have no fear if you have a large wedding party, our beach venue can accommodate up to 600 guests for a buffet-style dinner.

The Amphitheater at Altos de Chavón

Stunning wedding table decor at a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic

Photo credit: @dieventord

The amphitheatre at Altos de Chavon is ideal for wedding photos.

Photo credit: @davydova_irishka

In addition to hosting world-class concerts and events from the likes of Elton John and Marc Anthony, the 5,000-seat Grecian-style amphitheater at Altos de Chavón can also host your wedding. While many brides and grooms choose to have some of their wedding photos taken here, the amphitheater can also host intimate receptions. It’s a wedding venue fit for a King and his Queen.

Dye Fore Terrace

Photo Credit: Casa de Campo Living

Overlooking the picturesque Dye Fore Golf Course, the Dye Fore Terrace is an ideal location for a wedding reception. This venue will fit up for 100 guests for a cocktail reception, as well as a buffet-style dinner. Your guests will feast on delicious food, while taking in incredible views.

Poolside

Photo Credit: @nativaflores

Looking for a dreamy, poolside wedding or reception venue? At Casa de Campo, we have a host to choose from, from our large main pool, to the tennis pool deck, to more intimate ceremonies by the pool of one of our private villas. Whichever pool you choose, your wedding day is sure to be a memorable occasion.

These are just a small selection of the numerous wedding venue options at Casa de Campo. For a more options, and to learn more about having your dream destination wedding at Casa de Campo Resort, click here.

Contact our wedding specialists.

New year, new you—right? New year’s resolutions can seem like broken promises sometimes, and in fact, studies show that only 8% of people successfully keep up their resolutions and meet their goals. After looking at Google’s top-searched resolutions throughout 2016, we’ve compiled a list of achievable, and even bucket list worthy goals you can easily accomplish here at Casa de Campo. This year, don’t over-extend yourself, relax and let us help you reach a happier, healthier life.

Get Organized

Yes, we can even help you with that! No, we can’t help you reorganize your closet, but we can help you plan your next vacation at Casa de Campo. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group, or for business, our reservation assistants and group specialists can help organize your visit. Planning upcoming nuptials? Let our wedding specialists handle the details and create a memorable day for you and yours.

Live Life to the Fullest

Carpe Diem! Whether your idea of living life to the fullest includes a little R&R on Minitas Beach, or an adrenaline pumping zip-lining excursion, Casa de Campo has the activities and lush tropical setting to help you achieve this goal. Explore the 100,000-year-old Las Maravillas Cave, or race your own buggy through the Dominican countryside. Discover native flora and fauna at the Parque Nacional del Este, or devour fresh, local cuisine created by our own Chef Anthony Masas before taking a merengue lesson or catching an exclusive concert at Altos de Chavón. Whatever you choose, we’re brimming with “seize the day” activities to suit every taste and lifestyle.

Learn New Hobbies

It can be hard to find time for new hobbies with today’s busy lifestyles. Why not make your vacation the time to explore your passions or budding interests? At Casa de Campo we have plenty of activities for all ages and abilities. Dive head first into aquatic adventure with any one of our fishing, snorkeling, or kayaking excursions. Ride into the sunset on a trail ride, enjoy English and Western-style horseback riding lessons, or explore the elite world of Polo at our sprawling Equestrian Facilities. Take aim at Casa de Campo’s Shooting Center, or take comfort in an old hobby and treat yourself to some shopping in and around the resort.

Spend Less

Your dream vacation doesn’t need to drain your bank account. From deals on rooms to golf packages, we have great, year-round offers to help make your vacation as worry-free as possible. Simplify your life even further by booking the Casa de Campo Inclusive Experience and enjoy a luxurious vacation where the toughest decision is where to eat or when to hit the beach.

Travel More

If you’re planning a trip to Casa de Campo, you’re already halfway to your goal! But in all seriousness, travel is about more than just the destination. It’s the culture, the sites, and the people that make a vacation a journey to remember. Visit the historic Hacienda Higüeral Ranch and meet local cowboys, learn about their work, and explore surrounding sugar cane fields. Take a tour of Altos de Chavón, a beautiful replica Mediterranean village, and visit local artists to shop their unique handicrafts. History buffs will love Santo Domingo, the oldest city in the New World. Walk cobbled stone streets and take in cultural landmarks like museums, cathedrals, and other historic sites. Whatever facet of Dominican culture you’d like to explore; we have an adventure for you.

And lastly, if you are more of the relax on the sand type of traveler, we can always accommodate your wish for some beachside reading recommendations. Visit our Top 4 Beach Reads for Your Next Trip to Casa de Campo blog post for some great ideas.

Make 2017 the year you cross a bucket-list destination off of your list. Contact us for Reservation Assistance and start planning your Dominican Republic vacation.

If your New Year’s Resolution is to embrace a healthy lifestyle and achieve your fitness goals, the fitness experts at Casa de Campo are here to help you do it! Our state-of-the-art facilities, highly trained staff, and breathtaking location provide the perfect combination for you to kick off a year of fitness and wellbeing. Here are some tips for achieving your fitness goals.

Find an activity you enjoy

Yoga on the beach in Dominican Republic

Do you enjoy exercising outdoors or do you prefer to be in a gym? Do you like working out on your own, or in a team or sports setting? Finding activities that you enjoy doing make it much more likely that you will maintain your exercise regime, and that you’ll have fun! Here at Casa de Campo, we offer a wide variety of activity. The views from our trails make for a lovely run, a round of tennis provides excellent cardio, and our kayaks offer a great upper body workout. Take advantage of our equestrian facilities to try your hand at polo, or head to our Fitness Centre for a Zumba class! Of course, no trip to the Caribbean’s best golf resort would be complete without a round on one of our courses.

Get expert advice

To achieve your fitness goals in a healthy and sustainable way, consulting with a professional is a must. Put your best foot forward with a consultation at our physical therapy center! Our sports medicine and physiotherapists can give you a full evaluation to help you steer clear of injury. For help creating a fitness regime, turn to the experts at our fitness center for guidance. Our personal trainers are more than happy to work with you to design a program tailor-made for you and your fitness goals.

Grab the right gear

Ensuring you have proper attire and equipment for your chosen activity not only makes it easier, but it can make it safer for you too. Dressing the part can help you feel more comfortable and able to tackle your new exercise, and every bit of motivation helps. From trendy fitness clothes to sport-specific accessories, it’s definitely worth finding the right gear for you and your chosen regime. Check out the shops at Altos de Chavón or at the Casa de Campo Marina for unique clothing, footwear and more that will maximize your routine and keep you looking good while you do it!

Plan your meals

When it comes to staying healthy, exercise is only half the battle. Developing healthy eating habits is an essential part of achieving your fitness goals! We’re pleased to offer a wide variety of light and healthy options at our resort restaurants. If you’ve rented a villa for your stay at Casa de Campo, take advantage of our Chef In Villa service! Watch and learn as our professional chef creates delicious and healthy meals in your villa kitchen. To maintain a balanced diet, plan and prepare your meals in advance, and don’t be afraid to indulge in a tasty cocktail or decadent dessert every now and again!

Getting in shape can be hard work but adopting a healthy lifestyle is an incredibly rewarding experience, and it can be fun, too! Especially when you’re kick-starting your fitness program with a sun-filled Dominican Republic vacation at Casa de Campo Resort and Villas! We wish you the best of luck achieving your 2017 Fitness Goals.

2016 is coming to a close and we’re looking ahead to the next year of luxury travel. What will change about the way we vacation in the coming year? You can expect to see these trends emerge in 2017.

Special Event Vacations

More and more, travelers are seeking unique experiences abroad. Planning a vacation around a special event gives your trip an unforgettable feel – and gives you something to brag about on social media.

Casa de Campo is looking forward to hosting several special events in 2017, like the 43^rd Annual International Pro Am golf tournament in January, and the 1^st Annual Sporting/5 Stand Pro Am Clay Shoot in March.

Going Green

The United Nations declared 2017 the International Year of Sustainable Tourism. How can you support this initiative as a traveler? Our five tips for an environmentally friendly vacation include:

– Going paperless

– Using eco-friendly products

– Leaving environments clean and undisrupted

– Eating local

– Connecting with nature in mind, body, and spirit

Multigenerational Trips

Multigenerational travel has been steadily growing over the past several years and has emerged as one of the biggest travel trends for 2017. As baby boomers retire and extended family members live farther away from one another, multigenerational trips become a way for families to get together in a fun, new environment.

What makes an ideal multi-generational travel destination? It should offer something for everyone: comfort and luxury for seniors, adventure and sport for active younger generations, extensive children’s programs, and great dining options for big family dinners.

Wellness Destinations

2016 saw an increase in wellness vacations, and we expect to see travelers wanting more in 2017. The right vacation can help you relax, rejuvenate, and recharge, resulting in a lasting positive impact on your life.

Here at Casa de Campo, we go above and beyond when it comes to helping you unwind with personalized retreats. After all, wellness isn’t one size fits all!

Tech-Savvy Travel

Travel is getting tech-savvy. In 2017, expect to see more travelers booking their vacations online and using apps to organize their itineraries. As the quality of smartphone cameras improve and new editing apps emerge, you’ll see more travelers posting professional-quality vacation photos to Instagram. And fitness trackers can even help you count your steps and stay healthy on vacation!

What travel trend will you try in 2017? We can’t wait to welcome you back to our resort in the New Year. Travel may evolve over time, but one truth remains constant – you can never go wrong with a Casa de Campo getaway!

Here in the Dominican Republic, we take Christmas seriously! The holiday season starts near the end of October and continues into January, making Casa de Campo Resort & Villas the perfect place to immerse yourself in the festive spirit.

Celebrate

A choir sings during a Dominican Christmas celebration at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas

The revelry here begins on the streets. Lights twinkle from lamp posts and palms, while nativity scenes decorate the lawns and windows of shops and government buildings. Giant Poinsettias bloom outside of homes, while inside, snowy white Christmas trees replace evergreens. Over the noise of fireworks, carolers can be heard traveling door to door, visiting with neighbors and chatting over coffee, rum, and homemade ginger tea.

Music can also be heard throughout the streets of Altos de Chavón, as we celebrate Christmas Dominican-style. Listen to the Madrigalistas Choir perform traditional Christmas carols on December 24th, or stop by on the 25th to enjoy the Armonia Choir’s family-friendly, interactive Christmas Concert.

Give

Santa and his elves at Altos de Chavon, Dominican Republic Traditionally, January 6th, Dia de los Reyes Magos (Day of the Kings) is the day we exchange gifts in the Dominican Republic. At Casa de Campo, we’ve added a twist to our celebrations by having Santa visit on December 25th. After all, with so many guests visiting from away, we couldn’t exclude the jolly fellow from our holiday festivities. Gather with family as Santa arrives at Plaza de Chavon to meet the kiddies and hand out treats.

Of course, there’s no need to wait for Santa to bring presents. Get into the local spirit and set up Un Angelito (little angel) gift exchange. Like Secret Santa, participants draw names and leave anonymous gifts each week throughout the holidays, revealing themselves on the final day of the exchange. You need not look far for ideas either, the shops at Casa de Campo boast a large selection of holiday gifts options. From locally crafted jewelry and cigars to designer goods, we’ve got your gift guide covered.

Feast

A festive turkey dinner. For Dominicans, the real highlight of the season is not Christmas day, but Nochebuena (Christmas Eve), when friends and family gather to enjoy a feast. Some seasonal favorites include roast pork or chicken, Russian salad, bread, sweets, and the famed pasteles en hojas, a steamed banana leaf wrapped pouch filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables. After dinner, locals usually spend the evening on their porches, enjoying wine or rum and socializing with family and neighbors before Midnight Mass.

Here at Casa de Campo, we replicate this communal celebration for our guests by holding our own Christmas Eve celebrations. At Plaza Chavón, we are proud to host our own delicious traditional feast at La Piazzetta Restaurant. Following dinner, we invite guests of all denominations to stop by Christmas Eve Mass at St. Stanislaus Church, and cap off your night with an eggnog toast before whisking off to bed with thoughts of sugar plums dancing in your head.

Just because you’re away for the holidays, doesn’t mean you can’t feel at home. Visit our events page for more details on Casa de Campo’s holiday celebrations.

Santo Domingo is a must-visit destination in the Dominican Republic. Not only is it the capital of the country, it’s rich with history, having been founded by Bartholomew Columbus (brother of Christopher Columbus) in 1496. It’s been continuously inhabited ever since.

Historic Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @davidalaspm

Santo Domingo is less than two hours away from Casa de Campo, but you’re going to want to hit the road early in order to experience the highlights of this amazing city. Plan to arrive in Santo Domingo by mid-morning.

Your first stop is the Colonial Zone or Zona Colonial as it’s called locally. This section of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Grab a coffee and then spend some time wandering the neighborhood, enjoying the colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, monuments, public squares, and the pedestrian-only street Calle del Conde.

Calle del Conde in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @jmercadophotography

After spending some time exploring the streets of the Colonial Zone, your next stop is the Catedral Primada de America, built in 1514 it was the first church to be erected in the New World, and still maintains its stunning architecture. Audio guides are available in multiple languages and are useful for touring the cathedral.

Catedral Primada de America Cathedral in Santo Domingo Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @awjei

To learn more about the rich colonial history (and architecture) of Santo Domingo, visit the Alcazar de Colon. Built in the early 1500’s under the son of Christopher Columbus, it’s the oldest Viceroyal home in America. While the home fell into ruin over the centuries, in the 1950’s it was extensively restored and now houses an important collection of European works of art.

Alcazar de Colon Santo Domingo Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @ed_j_h

Upon leaving the Alcazar, head down George Washington Avenue to the Malecon district. This area has a beautiful pedestrian boardwalk along the ocean that’s perfect for strolling and building up an appetite for a late lunch. The area’s many local restaurants offer everything from traditional Dominican cuisine to steakhouses and pizzerias, so there’s sure to be an option to satisfy your hunger.

Malecon district Santo Domingo Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @jonawerdsbr

Following lunch, you’ll cross the Rio Ozama and head to your final stop in Santo Domingo, the 3 Eyes National Park (Los Tres Ojos). Situated in the middle of the city is this incredible urban oasis featuring a series of open-air limestone caves with 3 lagoons fed by underground rivers. Descend down a large staircase to explore the caves, surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites. Swimming isn’t permitted, but you can board a small raft and travel across the last lagoon to feed the fish. 3 Eyes National Park is one of the most popular attractions in the Dominican Republic and is not to be missed!

Los Tres Ojos, The Three Eyes National Park Santo Domingo Dominican Republic

Photo Credit: @bolivarsanchezm

To explore the city with the expertise of a local guide, join one of our Santo Domingo historic excursions. Tours depart the resort at 8:15 a.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays and the cost includes transportation and admission fees to the historical sites. After spending a busy day in the city, return back to Casa De Campo Resort & Villas where you can spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the ocean breezes at the marina, or the calm waters of the pool at your private villa, while you reflect on your explorations in Santo Domingo.

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas is known for its beautiful beaches, award-winning golf courses and luxurious accommodations, but did you know it also boasts the most comprehensive shooting facility in the Caribbean? Next time you vacation at Casa de Campo, why not try something new? Our shooting facilities offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced game shooters. Here’s everything you need to know about shooting at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas.

The Facilities

Spread over 245 acres of La Romana countryside, the Casa de Campo shooting facilities have over 200 stations for sporting clays, trap, and skeet shooting as well as an impressive 110 foot tower—one of the largest in the world—for projecting sporting clays at various speeds.

Our flexible layout and realistic conditions offer you the opportunity to truly feel as though you’re shooting wild game in their natural habitat. In fact, more experienced shooters can do just that, with our driven pheasant, duck and partridge shoot, and two pigeon rings.

The course is designed with all skill levels in mind and our clay flight patterns are changed daily so even the most frequent shooters can have an exciting and challenging session.

One of the most important parts of our outstanding shooting facility is our experienced and personable staff who are on hand to give tips on proper technique and safety. It’s recommended first-time shooters take a lesson, however, our expert instructors also offer lessons to the more experienced shooters to help you hone your skill and aim. Our lessons make a great team building and group activity, as does our course.

Clay Shooting 101

Historically, shooting game was a necessity, providing sustenance for those able to hit their target. It gradually evolved into a hobby, initially for the wealthy and elite, and now is a fun pastime for everyone to enjoy.

A clay is a 4-inch clay disk that is shot through the air at speeds upwards of 41 mph. This clay target is meant to simulate the movements of wild game such as grouse, duck, pheasant, quail, and even rabbit. The direction, height, and speed of clays are adjusted to test the range and skill of each shooter and further mimic the erratic movements of hunting in the wild.

At Casa de Campo Resort & Villas, gun rental and ammunition are included with each round of shooting, allowing guests of all skill levels to participate.

Shooting Options

Trap

Trap shooting involves 5 different stands where you shoot at clays moving away from you at a consistent height.

Skeet

Our skeet shooting involves eight positions with clays crossing in front of you at both low and high heights.

Sporting Clays

This most accurately mimics the movements of live game, with each target moving at a different height, speed, and position.

Availability

Thanks to the Dominican Republic’s beautiful climate, our shooting facilities are open year-round. Lessons are available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and our staff is always ready to help you plan a group or team event.

Shoot to win

2017 brings an exciting first to the shooting range at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas: our 1^st Annual Sporting and 5-Stand Pro-Am Clay Shoot Tournament! Join us March 4-8, 2017 to test your skill and win prizes including resort credits, a 4-bedroom villa vacation, and cash! Visit www.casadecampo.com.do/things-to-do/sports/shooting-center/1st-annual-sporting-5-stand-pro-am-clay-shoot/ to learn more or contact Gary Salmon at g.salmon@ccampo.com.do with your questions, or to reserve your spot.

Make a visit to the shooting range part of your next Casa de Campo vacation! Check out our Dominican Republic vacation packages and special offers and start planning your trip!

5 Reasons Why Winter is Hot in Casa de Campo

While the weather in your location may be turning frightful, at Casa de Campo, winter is always delightful. With average winter temperatures of 29°C (84.2°F), the season is hot here in La Romana. In addition to the fantastic weather, here are five more reasons why winter is hot at Casa de Campo.

5. Bring your competitive spirit

Keep your spirits high and your competitive spirit even higher! With the Winter Pro-Am Series at Casa de Campo from January to April, there’s no dull moment. Golf, clay shooting, or polo, what’s your game of choice?

4. Beautiful Beach Days

What’s a hot winter vacation without spending a few days on a stunning beach? Enjoy the heat as you work on your winter tan, or if it gets too hot for you, relax in the shade at Minitas Beach with a drink in your hand, or get in the water and cool down while enjoying some of our available water sport activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.

3. Tropical climate

Casa de Campo is located in the Caribbean, which has a tropical climate that remains warm throughout the year. Winters in this region typically have mild temperatures, with daytime highs often around 80°F (27°C), making it feel like summer even during the colder months elsewhere.

2. Pristine Fishing Conditions

Many guests at Casa de Campo come for the spectacular fishing available just offshore. The fishing season begins in February, and you’ll have ample opportunity to try your hand at catching prized Blue Marlin. In addition to Blue Marlin, you may also be lucky enough to catch Tuna, Swordfish, and other local species. Whatever your catch-of-the-day is, you’re sure to love your time out on the open seas.

1. Fun for the Whole Family

Family Activities at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic||Shooting Center Lessons in the Dominican Republic at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas|Water Sports and Snorkeling at Casa de Campo

Looking to get away as a family this winter or spring break? Look no further than Casa de Campo. With a whole host of family-friendly activities, there’s something here to appeal to everyone. There are full and half-day, fully supervised programs for children of all ages, from toddlers to teens. These programs allow your kids to meet others their age and have a blast, while you enjoy your vacation too.

Have we whetted your winter travel appetite? Book one of our winter packages.

Photo via @n.silla.a

While other areas of the world are ramping up for cold weather and winter sports, here in the sunny Dominican Republic, we’re trading in snow for the polo green. Once the Sport of Kings, polo is no longer reserved for the aristocracy. At Casa de Campo, we’ve made polo more accessible than ever to players of all ages and abilities during our polo season, which runs from early November to April.

With three sprawling 300-yard playing fields, one practice field, and the largest string of polo ponies under a single brand, Casa de Campo is proud to help bring the elite world of polo to the Dominican Republic and our guests. Whether you plan to play with colleagues, friends, or family, here’s a quick guide to the gear you’ll need to look like a seasoned pro.

The Gear

Fake it until you make it! Part of building your confidence in any new sporting endeavor is looking like you know what you are doing. In professional polo matches, each club has their own logo, matching polo shirts, and even distinctive helmet colors to differentiate themselves on the field. Your first match may not be as high-profile, but here are some items you’ll need to make yourself look like you belong on the field:

Mallet

A polo mallet is your weapon of choice for sending that ball into the opposing team’s goal. The length and weight of your mallet will depend on your height and strength, as well as the height of your pony. A leather wrapped grip and thumb sling keep your mallet in hand, even while at a full-gallop.

Riding Boots

Leather riding boots – preferably brown – that fall just below the knee for comfort and flexibility while you ride.

Knee Pads

Galloping around at high speeds, you’ll need all the help you can get gripping your saddle and staying in your seat. Leather knee pads will not only help you stay on your mount, they’ll come in handy should you have a run in with a mallet or another rider.

White Trousers

This relic of tradition might seem impractical, but white trousers are your key to looking the part. White denim or chino are the standard, but white riding jodhpurs are a welcome (and much more comfortable) substitution.

Helmet

Even the most experienced riders wear protective gear. Keep your head in the game and out of the emergency room with a well-fitting riding helmet. Look for one with an adjustable chin strap, secure clasp, and visor to keep the afternoon sun out of your eyes and on your competitors.

Collared Shirt

There’s a reason it’s called a polo shirt! Look for a short-sleeved, cotton blend, collared shirt to stay cool and look the part. Polo pony logo optional.

Accessories

If you’re ready to commit to the full-look, you can accessorize with gloves, wristbands, face mask, spurs, and a whip or riding crop. Throw around some insider words like chukker, right-of-way, and ride-off, and you’ll look right at home on the playing green!

To find out more about Casa de Campo’s equestrian facilities and plan your exclusive polo experience, visit our equestrian page to book today.

[image_grid index=”1″]