SIX18 TRAVEL

La Romana is the Dominican Republic’s most refined secret—a sophisticated coastal enclave where vast sugarcane fields lead to heavenly, secluded beaches. While its neighbor Punta Cana thrives on high-energy crowds, La Romana offers a quieter, more private slice of Caribbean paradise. Its crowning jewel is Altos de Chavón, a meticulously reconstructed 16th-century Mediterranean stone village perched on a cliff overlooking the Chavón River. Walking its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a dream, with artisan studios and a grand Greek-style amphitheater that has hosted legends from Sinatra to Shakira. The area is a sanctuary for those who appreciate the finer things, from world-class golf courses like 'Teeth of the Dog' to the elite luxury of Casa de Campo. Yet, for all its polish, the soul of the region remains in its connection to the sea. Nearby Bayahibe serves as a charming gateway to the crystalline waters of Catalina and Saona islands, where the snorkeling is world-class and the shipwrecks of pirates like Captain Kidd lie waiting in the depths. It is a destination of balance—where colonial folklore meets modern luxury, and where every day ends with a sunset that feels like a private masterpiece painted just for you.