Republic tips

The Dominican Republic is acclaimed for its breathtaking beaches and warm waters — ripe for relaxation and sea-based adventures. But there's a whole lot more to this Caribbean nation besides sun, sand and sea. The Dominican Republic is also a hotspot for uplifting cultural adventures. For example, the tasty tourist experience offered by Chocal Chocolate Factory. We were delighted to hear from this female-owned, female-operated collective in response to our 'tell us your story’ initiative.

The word's been out for some time now: the Czech Republic does not begin and end with Prague. A little further over to the east, for example, the region of Moravia stands out for having all the rural Czech hallmarks you could possibly hope for – while at the same time still being within easy reach of the average traveller.

As you shuffle along with your fellow tourists round the chancel of Prague’s main cathedral, there’s not a lot to see beyond the remains of a few medieval Czech kings with unpronounceable names – Břetislav, Spytihněv, Bořivoj. That is, until you find your way virtually barred by a giant silver tomb, which looks for all the world as if it has been abandoned by a bunch of Baroque builders upon discovering it was too big to fit into one of the side chapels. Turning your attention to the tomb itself, you’re faced with one of the most gobsmackingly kitsch mausoleums imaginable – sculpted in solid silver, with airborne angels holding up the heavy drapery of the baldachin; and you notice the saint’s rather fetching five-star sunburst halo, and back to back with him, a cherub proudly pointing to a glass case. On closer inspection, you realize the case contains a severed tongue.

The Dominican Republic is a country located on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti. It is the second-largest country in the Caribbean, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and history, and diverse natural landscapes. Here is our guide to the best things to do in the Dominican Republic.

If you’ve fallen for Prague’s undeniable allure, it might be time to consider branching out to explore some of the Czech Republic’s less-trodden paths. Paths that deliver a richly rewarding blend of fine wine, fascinating folk culture, and exhilarating landscapes that are ripe for outdoor adventuring - both above and beneath the earth. If that sounds like your kind of trip, if you’re looking for a fresh destination that remains tantalizingly under the radar, South Moravia might just be your new favourite place. Read on to discover why.

Majestic mountains and fairy-tale forests. Riverside has rambling routes and charming spa towns. Czechia is a dream destination for hikers looking to enjoy culture and history (and world-beating beer) alongside outdoor adventuring. And with 40,000 km of marked trails, hiking is arguably the most rewarding way to experience its diverse delights.

Travelling by train is one of the best ways to explore Europe, and there are few places that offer train adventures quite like the Czech Republic. Prague may lure a traveller in, but other cities and towns in the country can truly capture a traveller’s heart, as bloggers Megan Starr and Aram Vardanyan discovered when they embarked on a rail adventure through the Czech Republic.

“Prague never lets you go,” said Franz Kafka, “this dear little mother has claws”. Prague also gets her golden claws into tourists, and few ever make it outside the capital. But those who tear themselves away won’t be sorry. The colonnade- and park-filled spa towns, Bohemia’s Renaissance breweries and hilltop ruins, and Moravia's rolling hills are among the many best things to do in the Czech Republic.