1. Experience DR culture
Dominican culture, savvy sense of design, love of the arts and optimistic zest for life are all found throughout the country.
2. Get active
The DR’s North Coast boasts the Kiteboarding Capital of the world. In and around Puerto Plata, waves and wind are just right for watersport activities. Also throughout the island you’ll find caving, kayaking, zip lining, hiking, horse riding and more.
3. Strengthen family bonds
The DR is a perfect place to get closer. Spend quality time exploring attractions like Ocean World in Puerto Plata. Kids of all ages will love the Fun-Fun Cave in Los Haitises National Park while Punta Cana beaches are great for relaxing together.
4. Reconnect with nature
The DR is a world leader in sustainable tourism and eco-adventures. Explore national parks, coastal sanctuaries and reserves. From cascading and canyoning down waterfalls and mountains, to kayaking and fishing in rivers, lakes and bays, the DR is a natural choice.
5. Get golfing
Play any of 25 designer golf courses, with more on the way. Punta Espada Golf Club at Cap Cana, Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo and Nick Faldo’s Legacy Course at Roco Ki are a few of the courses that have received top honours for their beauty and design.
www.godominicanrepublic.com
Look sharp on your travels with the cool new tote and washbag from Paul Smith, perfect for short journeys and overnight trips when you don’t want to check in a suitcase. Featuring a colourful mini in Smith’s trademark stripes, it’s also a subtle way to show your British pride while also displaying your excellent taste. www. houseoffraser.co.uk
When it comes to fundraising, Sir Richard Branson is no stranger to thinking outside the box. So when the British Virgin Islands, where he owns a private island, were looking for ways to drive investment into the islands, he was happy to host an unusual charity event. Donors to the BVI Charitable Trust were given tickets to an exclusive dinner on Branson’s Necker Island, where guests could meet some of the best winemakers in the world and try dishes paired with their finest vintages. Looks like charity really does begin at home! 
TripAdvisor has thrown its support behind UNESCO’s ongoing work on World Heritage sites, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Taj Mahal. The travel advice service has asked its community of 25 million users to contribute reviews and opinions on the state of world heritage sites around the world, to enter a competition with a prize of getting involved in conservation efforts on an important site, and to encourage donations to help conserve and support sustainable and responsible tourism. With so many eyes watching out for the world’s most beloved and valuable monuments, hopefully any degradation can be spotted and dealt with before it becomes a major problem, so wherever you live, there’s likely to be some way you can get involved. 
What’s a gourmet Americanophile to do when they can’t get over to the US for Christmas? Buy a hamper of all the goodies they’re missing out on, of course! House of Fraser has put together a package of delicious treats, including Texas pickles, real Vermont maple syrup, Peanut Butter & Co Vanilla Heaven, and lots more. Whether you’re pining for the flavours of your favourite country, or just enjoy the odd American-style pancake, this is the hamper for you. 
