The most visited jewel in the Caribbean
About ten years ago something quite dramatic happened to the Dominican Republic. It was discovered. For the second time. The first time was by Christopher Columbus, the Italian explorer, on his first voyage in 1492. This most recent time was by tourists. This second discovery has catapulted the country to become the most popular destination in the Caribbean. But where exactly is it?
The vibrant Dominican Republic shares the sun-drenched tropical island of Hispaniola with Haiti which lies on the west coast facing Cuba across the Caribbean Sea. With white, sandy beaches and swaying palm trees, the Dominican Republic features a range of wonderful resorts with memorable activities and offers a good quality vacation at a very affordable price. About the same cost of a ton of hairy coconuts, I would say.
And what a superb holiday you can have. Windsurfing across the azure waves with the sea spray cascading across your well-tanned body, hiking through tropical rainforests, [an umbrella is not compulsory] climbing the breath-taking mountain ranges and whale watching are just some of the exciting pursuits on offer in this friendly, Spanish speaking, country. Ole!
Things to do in the Dominican Republic
Dirty dancing at its best.
Head down to Santo Domingo, one of the oldest cities in the Caribbean, and have fun with the locals gyrating to the merengue. Pulsating Latino beats and live jazz can be heard and found in several steamy nightclubs in the Zona Colonial. Just feel the sultry steamy heat and drink the ice-cold beer for an unforgettable music-filled nightlife experience. Caramba! Ride the waves at Puerto Plata
If it’s an adrenalin rush you want, then head down to the nearby Sosua and Cabarete beaches at Puerta Plata where you can feel the salty sea spray whip across your toned body whilst you surf the white crested ultramarine waves.
This big surf is whipped up by powerful winds creating world-class windsurfing and kite-boarding conditions so make sure your swimwear is tight, we don’t want you overexposed.
Catch a big one
Sports fishing offers the chance of hooking marlin, barracuda, mahi mahi, and dorado at the popular fishing spots of Punta Can, Puerto Plata, and Bayahibe, a village founded by 19th-century fishermen. More serene but just as exciting is the freshwater river fishing for snook or wahoo that can be found in La Roman and Rio San Juan. The best season ranges from February to May. Deep sea fishing opportunities and reef trolling are located along the reefs of Sosua and Cabarete. It’s all an angler’s paradise.
Get on your bike
Saddle up and go exploring as mountain riding opportunities are plentiful in hilly towns, mountainous villages, and protected parks. Adventure outfitters in Cabarete lead riders on a variety of trails inside El Choco National Park, including a strenuous 50-kilometer (31-mile) endurance test. [Phew!]
From Jarabacoa to Constanza, the central highlands region’s winding, empty roads flank plantations and are perfect for sightseeing on a mountain bike. Thank goodness there are rivers and waterfalls along the way for cooling off. The Cotubanamá National Park in Bayahbe is as magical as it gets, with paths leading to caves filled with spring water pools.
Mountain bikes and the necessary safety equipment are always available in the major resort towns or from adventure tour operators.
Clippity Clop
If biking is not your thing, then saddle up on a horse instead. Trot along the hills and visit the colourful villages throughout the country.
In the Dominican Republic, horseback riding has a long history that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. The hills of Puerto Plata are hard to surpass, with a beautiful landscape of verdant terrain. Hack along rivers, mix with the cattle and enjoy wide stretches of unspoiled, lush Caribbean scenery.
Samaná’s valleys dotted with coconut trees and clifftop sea views provide a wonderful setting. You can access the highlands near sugar plantations in Bayahbe. One of the top equestrian facilities in the Caribbean, Casa de Campo in La Romana offers cattle ranch paths, as well as expert-led training in English or Western-style riding and jumping.
Horseback riding is a fantastic and fun way to explore the countryside regardless of skill level.
These boots are made for walking
Okay, forget the saddles and put on your boots.
With the most diverse topography in the Caribbean, the area conjures up a host of mind-boggling hiking opportunities, particularly in the national parks. Keep a look out for the summer rains though, as it can make trails muddy but more adventurous. Squelch.
Explore the caves of the Tainos and learn the history of the indigenous people of the Caribbean encountered by Christopher Columbus way back in 1492. If you want a challenge try Jarabacoa, the roof of the island with an altitude of just over 3000 meters. There are overnight expeditions so you can reach the peak early morning to witness a spectacular sunrise.
Constanza provides spectacular hikes through the protected pine tree forests of Valle Nuevo, revealing an unexpected part of the nation that few people get to experience. The hills around Puerto Plata and Cabarete are also a great place for organized hikes through national parks, ranches, and quaint towns like Tubagua, where you can trek to God’s Swimming Pool along a private trail through farms, and meadows before reaching the cascading waterfalls.
Zip zip and away
If you don’t mind heights then ziplining is a unique way to take in a panoramic view of the country’s splendid landscape checking out the gushing rivers, and rainforests as you glide at 122 meters above the green hills of El Valle.
There’s a 2-mile course on Megatruck’s private ranch and a 10-platform run with Yasica Adventures. Punta Can’s adventure parks also offer a thrilling ride with the longest zip line located at Scape Park, where you can take a swim in the freshwater blue hole. You’ll need it.
Tee off in Paradise
Okay, you simply must bring your clubs for a game that will stick in your memory forever. The Dominican Republic is without a doubt the top destination for golf in the tropics, boasting some of the most stunning golf courses in the Caribbean and Latin America. At least seven Dominican Republic courses have continuously been placed in the top 50, with Punta Espada ranking in the top 10. With Los Corales hosting the 2018 PGA Tour, and Teeth of the Dog at Casa de Campo holding the top spot since 2009. These magnificent golf courses, which feature 86 sea-facing holes and 39 ocean-side holes from La Romana to Punta Cana to Juan Dolio, and Puerto Plata, give you the option to tee off by the azure sea or on lush inland courses created by some of the game’s most renowned golf course architects including Greg Norman and Gary Player.
Under the sea, we go
The exceptional natural beauty and warm crystal-clear waters attract divers from around the world. Strap on your goggles and fins and snorkel or dive into this amazing underwater world. And there’s plenty to see, from sunken galleons, shipwrecks, and an abundance of marine life. Check out the eagle rays off Playa Fronton in Galeras or discover colourful tropical fish at Cayo Arena. Although you can dip under the waves all year round, the best season is between June and September to take advantage of the calm seas and good visibility.
Vroom, vroom.
Inland safaris by quad or all-terrain trucks enable you to ride deep into the hills to meet the locals in their traditional homes and enjoy the mystical scenery. Great local hospitality means you are offered freshly chopped coconut and to sip the cool milk to cool off. Cheers!
Excursions include a safari ride through quaint towns such as Otra Banda to witness the meat shops hanging their produce outdoors before heading off to Macao Beach for some sun rays and a quick dip in the sea.
Fun in the rapids
The high-altitude mountains provide freshwater rivers flowing down with enough force to give you a thrill of a lifetime. Yaque del Norte is the longest river in the Caribbean. Starting from Jarabbacoa it provides an exhilarating river rafting experience never to be forgotten.
Glide with the guide
If you don’t want to hike to check out the scenery, then the next best thing is to glide. Certified instructors drive you up to the lift-off point where you will be strapped into a harness with your guide in tandem. Then it’s take-off! You will fly above roaring waterfalls, green plantations, majestic peaks, and the Jarabacoas which were the settings for the Hollywood movie Jurassic Park. We promise, no dinosaurs.
Hint – Best to experience the flight close to sunset for the cool air and glowing scenery.
And so, to the yummy food
The country’s cuisine features a fusion of flavours from Spanish, Middle Eastern, Taino, and African gastronomies that are expertly mixed to highlight the country’s distinctive flavour and can be sampled from street food level, local humble establishments for traditional Caribbean flavours and up to top-rated restaurants. Fish and seafood head the list from fish stews to grilled fresh lobster.
Here are just three of the many fantastic restaurants available.
For authentic Spanish dishes, you can’t beat the Don Pepe in the Piantini district. One of the best-rated eateries in the country it has served dignitaries and celebrities for years. Best choice dish is the Salpicon de Mariscos with the sumptuous taste of shrimp, octopus, and squid.
For a startling and unique experience, El Meson la Cava is a breathtaking restaurant set inside a limestone cave in Santo Domingo. With romantic ambient lighting, green plants hanging from the ceiling, and white tablecloths, this should be at the top of your list for fine dining.
Top dishes include seafood platters, char-grilled Black Angus steak, and a variety of pastas.
For the best photo opportunities, then the seaside restaurant, La Yola, situated in the Marina Estates, will make your social media friends green with envy. This thatched roof open-air eatery is perched on a wooden deck literally over the blue waters with stellar views of the sea and a big sunny blue sky. Offering exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with classic dishes such as seafood pasta, salmon de fillet, and crisp green salads you can’t go wrong in this awesome setting.
Getting around
Public transportation is not only the cheapest option, but it’s also a fantastic chance to see how the local people live daily in the Dominican Republic. Jump on a bus and experience life as it unfolds throughout the day. Chat to the locals by using Hola [hello] and Mucho Gusto [Nice to meet you]
The public transportation network in the Dominican Republic is remarkably advanced and vast. Dominicans frequently travel, whether it’s to visit family in the country, conduct business, or make their way to school. There are always buses, big or small, travelling to whatever town or city you choose to explore. Taxis are widely available. Uber is accessible in three major cities: Santiago, Puerto Plata, and Santo Domingo.
You can also rent a car but beware of potholes and ruts, especially on the poorly lit secondary roads. The police may flag you down and make up an accusation but they’re just after a regalo a gift “for your children” Be generous and away you go.-
Where to park your bum
Santo Domingo
Meandering down the romantic, beautifully paved streets of the Zona Colonial in the historic city of Santo Domingo is what you really need to do. Eclectic restaurants, bars, theatres, and nightclubs make for sizzling nightlife. If you’re a culture vulture, there is an abundance of museums that offer a glimpse of the Spanish colonial era. If you want to save time and your legs then hop onboard the Chu Chu Colonial for a historical train tour, you will discover in 45 minutes 500 years of history, monuments, churches, parks, and colonial houses.
This nation’s capital city holds a significant historical distinction: In 1498, just a few years after Christopher Columbus’s first voyage of exploration, the Spanish Crown founded it as the first official town.
Punta Cana
For pure escapism and the best, soft, white beaches in the country Punta Cana is the place. It all happens here from boutique hideaways to all-inclusive resorts with entertainment centres and water parks for the family. All the activities are available including horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. If you’re a golfer, then this is your destination with ten courses to choose from. For a bit of “wink, wink, nudge, nudge say no more” try a secluded beachside lodge for some intimate romance.
Bayahibe
If you’re an underwater adventurer, then Bayahibe is a must. Historical wrecks litter the beautiful spectacular coral reef and with a diversity of marine life, it makes sense to plunge into the warm waters for a dive of discovery. If you’re not a water baby, discover the birds, wildlife, and lagoons at the national park, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Or simply flop on one of the soft white-sand beaches.
La Romana
If you have deep pockets and want to stay where the wealthy and movie stars go on vacation, then the up-market historic town of La Romana is the place to be seen and to brag about it to your friends. The city’s streets are bustling with local life and tourists with stylish restaurants and swish hotels offering international cuisine and luxurious comfort. Don’t be surprised if you bump into Beyonce or Mark Anthony.
Juan Dolio
This family-friendly and affordable small beach resort boast amusement parks, agricultural tourism, and fishing trips. You can indulge yourself by relaxing on the 10-kilometer sparkling white sand beach or stroll around the quaint town rubbing shoulders with the affluent urbanites who gather there on weekends. Wear your best-branded shorts.
Splashing the cash
We all need to garner souvenirs and buy items unique to the country visited. You won’t be disappointed as The Dominican Republic is the shopping giant of the Caribbean, so you will definitely be tempted to max out your credit card.
Top of your list will be jewelry sporting semi-precious stones such as amber or larimar. For him, no doubt it will be the infamous cigars and inexpensive rum that will be taken home hidden in the suitcase.
One of the most popular souvenirs is the traditional Dominican faceless dolls. These dolls are made from clay, wear traditional clothing, and carry flowers or a pot of water on their heads.
Paintings, sculptures, clothing, and bags are available in many of the shops, just don’t forget to haggle. If you are patient and preserve, you will end up with a great bargain.
The Dominican Republic. Me gusta!
