Between turquoise Caribbean waters and unfiltered smiles, the Dominican Republic remains the favorite destination for French travelers seeking stunning vacations. Boosted by the return of direct flights from Air France to Punta Cana and a new route from Air Caraïbes to Samaná, the destination, honored guest at IFTM, is accelerating even further. Yes, there are the beaches and the all inclusive (hello Club Med), but also an acknowledged upgrade, from golf to luxury accommodations, not to mention a generous nature that invites exploration beyond the hotel to taste local culture and gastronomy. The result: a cocktail of sun, safety, and pleasure that makes you want to come back… and book quickly.
A favored destination for French travelers, the Dominican Republic is consolidating its status as a star of the Caribbean thanks to the return of direct flights, a controlled upgrade, and a clearly defined shift towards nature and sustainability. Between the unbeatable Punta Cana, the allure of the open sea from Samaná, new gems like Miches, Punta Bergantín, or Rio San Juan, and the arrival of major luxury brands (sometimes in all inclusive), the French find a perfect balance between postcard-perfect beaches, culture, safety, and authentic experiences.
Still at the top of the French choices
Generous sunshine, blonde beaches, warm sea, and that disarming hospitality that makes many a traveler return: the Dominican Republic ticks all the boxes for a successful stay. The tourism authorities, under the impetus of Minister David Collado, have focused on a clear strategy: to offer more protected nature, high-end experiences, and a secure environment where one feels free to explore. The result: the French favor “Rép Dom” for getaways that are both unforgettable and easy to organize, whether with family, as a couple, or among friends.
Closer skies: the great return of direct flights
Unforgettable vacations in the Caribbean, even more accessible
Connectivity is significantly improving. Air France has announced the resumption of its direct flight to Punta Cana (suspended in 2023), which will facilitate access to the country’s main beach hub. Meanwhile, Air Caraïbes is strengthening its presence by launching a permanent Orly–Samaná route, in addition to its services to Punta Cana and Buenos Aires. For travelers, this means more choices, greater flexibility, and often better rates during off-peak periods. The stated goal of the authorities? To welcome up to 250,000 French tourists by 2026, in a qualitative dynamic.
Punta Cana adored… but the call of the open sea is heard
Why the Dominican Republic still charms
About 70% of the French unpack their bags in Punta Cana, drawn by its vast beaches, mid-range and high-end all inclusive hotels (from Melia to Iberostar), not to mention the iconic Club Med – one of the largest villages in the group. But French travelers have one particularity: they love to venture outside the hotel. Boat excursions, fishing villages, cocoa and coffee in the mountains, Dominican street food, museums, and local festivals: the desire for authenticity also brings other regions into the spotlight.
The nature and high-end turning point
New standards of luxury, Dominican style
The country has undertaken a conscious shift towards luxury tourism and active experiences. In Punta Cana, the hotel ZEL, endorsed by Rafael Nadal, represents this chic sporty vibe. On the international hotel front, brands like Four Seasons, Hilton, Hyatt, Rosewood, W, Ritz-Carlton, and St. Regis are expanding or enhancing their offerings, with a notable twist: some are introducing an all inclusive model for the first time that reflects the local way of life. Golf is also not left out: the country boasts some of the most beautiful courses in the region, with ocean views and palm-lined fairways.
Diversifying flows: a focus on new gems
From Punta Bergantín to Miches, the big thrill
If Punta Cana remains the primary gateway, the Dominican Republic aims to shine a light on its other jewels. On the northern side, Punta Bergantín is emerging as a future high-end hotspot, designed to reconcile development and the environment. Not far away, Rio San Juan is reinventing itself, with ultra-luxury brands such as Aman investing in the area. To the east, Miches combines mountains, forests, and the stunning Playa Esmeralda: the postcard captures here take on the air of a natural refuge. And for an immersive “address book” experience, the Samaná peninsula – with whales offshore, waterfalls, and coconut groves – reveals itself in all its splendor: discover a glimpse into this lush peninsula.
Samaná, Las Terrenas, and the French spirit
A slice of paradise with a French touch
In Las Terrenas, the French community has left a delicious mark: one can find bakeries, bistros, gourmet restaurants, and terraces with feet in the sand. The combination of Dominican living and French gastronomy is a happy marriage. The beaches remain stunning, the pace is gentle, and nature – omnipresent – invites to stroll. The emotional connection between the French and the Dominican Republic is nourished here, in that feeling of being both far away and “a bit at home.”
Responsible tourism: how leaving the hotel changes everything
Nature as a compass
To improve local benefits and limit pressure on ecosystems, the authorities encourage visitors to explore the culture, gastronomy, and artisans beyond the resorts. The coastlines are subject to stricter construction regulations, protected areas are being consolidated, and public beaches are being redesigned to offer pleasant comfort for all. A unique Dominican feature: some areas, like Punta Cana, have literally emerged thanks to tourism, creating jobs and services without displacing an overcrowded historical city. A model that, if well managed, can combine development and preservation.
IFTM Top Resa: the showcase that boosts momentum
A decisive event to consolidate attractiveness
As the guest of honor at IFTM Top Resa, the destination took advantage of a great professional momentum to announce its ambitions and strengthen its partnerships. This edition gathered an impressive official assembly with ministers and ambassadors who came to discuss the future of the sector. On the agenda: upgrading, sustainability, regional diversification, and new air routes to bring the Caribbean closer to French travelers.
Tailor-made vacations: luxury, discovery… and good deals
Enjoyment at a fair price
As premium hotels expand, the Dominican DNA remains one of diversity of offerings. From intimate boutique hotels to family villas, from all inclusive resorts to nature lodges, everyone composes their own symphony. And great deals are still available: between seasonal promotions and targeted offers, one can still aim for the tropical dream without breaking the bank. For inspiration: take a look at this suggestion to transform your vacation into a dream without overspending.
Practical tips for a truly unforgettable stay
From fine sand to local markets
– Plan your direct flights in advance: French demand is strong, especially during school holidays.
– Mix relaxation and excursions: villages, cocoa, coffee, mountain hikes, cenotes, and waterfalls.
– Book a day at a public beach: the atmosphere is friendly, ideal for tasting local cuisine stands.
– Try a golf course by the ocean even if you are a beginner: the academies are very educational.
– On the comparison of islands, broaden your perspective and draw inspiration from this overview of paradisiacal islands to refine your expectations… then come back to confirm that the Dominican Republic remains your number one.
Looking ahead to 2026: an ambitious outlook
Quality, safety, diversity
After a setback due to the suspension of the Air France route in 2023, the machine is back in motion: resumption of service to Punta Cana, strengthening of Air Caraïbes with Orly–Samaná, high-level hotel investments, and a continuous effort on safety and the quality of infrastructures. The authorities aim for a solid increase in French arrivals by 2026, without renouncing the Dominican essence: a warm country, proud of its culture and gastronomy, where visitors seek much more than just the beach. And what if “Rép Dom” remained, quite simply, the safest bet in the Caribbean for truly unforgettable vacations?
