The Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism recently hosted Canadian media on a FAM to Samaná, highlighting the peninsula's ecotourism experiences, wellness offerings and sustainable tourism initiatives.
The visit focused on showcasing Samaná as an alternative to more heavily developed Caribbean destinations, with an itinerary centred on nature, conservation and locally owned tourism businesses.
During the trip, the journalists visited several of the region's best-known beaches, including La Playita, Playa Grande, Playa Rincón and El Aserradero.
The group also toured La Fábrica Samaná, a family-owned producer of shade-grown coffee and cacao. Shade-grown coffee production uses less water, fertilizer and pesticides than conventional methods while supporting biodiversity, healthier ecosystems and diversified income for local farmers.
Nature-based experiences continued with a visit to Los Haitises National Park, one of the country's most significant ecological reserves, followed by a stop at Cayo Levantado. While on the island, the group toured Cayo Levantado Resort and participated in a sound healing session designed to complement the island's natural surroundings.
The itinerary also included time in the town of Samaná, where journalists visited the marina and toured accommodation options including Bannister Hotel, overlooking Puerto Bahía Marina, and Las Casitas.
Another highlight was a visit to El Limón Waterfall, organized by locally owned operator Parada La Manzana. The company welcomes visitors in small groups and incorporates sustainable practices including locally sourced food, composting organic waste, circular economy initiatives and partnerships with local recycling businesses.
Throughout the trip, media stayed at Viva V Samaná by Wyndham. The adults-only resort has implemented initiatives including refillable water stations to reduce single-use plastics, environmentally friendly products and wellness programming such as yoga, kayaking, paddleboarding, archery, bachata lessons and cocktail tastings.
The Ministry of Tourism said the familiarization trip was designed to introduce Canadian media to Samaná's focus on nature, wellness and community-based tourism while highlighting opportunities for travellers seeking more sustainable travel experiences.
Topics From This Article to Explore
