Manuel Del Villar
Hi! I’m Manuel, a travel specialist based in the Dominican Republic and a proud native of Santo Domingo. With a background in sustainability and 11 years of experience working with international travelers, I specialize in crafting immersive itineraries that highlight the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich social fabric. Whether you’re looking to experience Afro-Caribbean music and cuisine, relax on a secluded beach, hike to a hidden waterfall, or connect with local artisans and conservation efforts, I’m here to make it seamless and authentic. I believe travel should be both meaningful and fun, and my job is to help you experience the Caribbean in a way most travelers never do. Outside of work, I'm a passionate concert-goer and lifelong fútbol fan.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"I design tailor-made trips across the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico for couples, families, and small groups. My itineraries often include:
Boutique lodging in eco-resorts, colonial homes, or oceanfront villas
Outdoor adventures like canyoning, rafting, snorkeling, ziplining, hiking, and surfing
Curated cultural experiences: music, dance, culinary tours, and artisan visits
Eco-conscious activities: coral restoration, organic farms, permaculture
Hidden-gem beaches, nature reserves, and off-the-beaten-path villages
Seamless logistics, local guides, and personal attention to every detail"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I first got involved in travel by leading educational programs for international student groups visiting the Dominican Republic. What started as a seasonal role turned into a career when I realized how powerful travel could be as a tool for learning, empathy, and cross-cultural exchange. From there, I dove deeper into program design and logistics, combining my academic background with my love of storytelling and local connection."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"A Spanish couple in their 60s reached out after finishing a Caribbean cruise, looking to end their long-awaited dream vacation with something more personal and connected to nature. I designed a week for them in Samaná, staying at a peaceful beachfront hotel surrounded by gardens and ocean views. They spent their days hiking to Playa Frontón and exploring seven hidden beaches with a local guide. It was the kind of experience they said made them feel young and alive again; a perfect finale to the trip of a lifetime."
Manuel's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
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