People say the Dominican Republic has it all, and in case you disagree, you’ll be hard-pressed to find evidence to back it up because this place truly is a destination with everything for every single member of the family.
Image courtesy of Ronald Saunders at Flickr.com
The diversity of the Dominican Republic goes far beyond the beach resorts and amazing golf courses the country is famous for. Visit the luscious green mountains that extend as far as the eye can see, lose yourself in the rich historic city streets that hide secrets from centuries old and experience the vibrant nightlife along the warm and fun-loving locals who will make sure you have the time of your life.
With all that being said, here we have some of the top destinations you cannot afford to miss if you visit the Dominican Republic.
Santo Domingo.
Santo Domingo is the largest city in the Caribbean by population and also the oldest city in the new world. In her magical streets, the stories of the old world mix with the notes of the latin music of today, creating a rich cultural atmosphere that will leave you wanting for more.
Restaurants like Pat’e Palo European Brasserie and Pura Tasca will let you taste the best food this meeting of cultures has to offer. The shopping centers have nothing to envy from those found in the biggest modern cities in the world. Crystal clear water in sandy beaches are everywhere waiting to be explored. Do you want to get away from tourist and explore the real Santo Domingo? Take a trip down the road from Barahona to Enriquillo and admire the beautiful coastal scenery, away from tourist and hotels and have a glimpse into the local lifestyle. Explore Boca Chica and feel like you are discovering parts of the new world when you see the beautiful hidden waterfalls and green mountains. Don’t forget to give merengue a chance! Nobody dances this upbeat and fun latin rhythm like Dominicans do, so take advantage of your stay and give it a try. To end the night with style, visit Barra Payan and try the fast food the locals eat; then you can say you have truly visited Santo Domingo.
Punta Cana.
When you think about the Dominican Republic, you immediately think of Punta Cana. Punta Cana is part of the easternmost province of the Dominican Republic. The place is famous for its beautiful beaches that have been favored by tourists since the 70’s. Speedboating, four-wheeling, sailing, deep sea sport fishing, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, swimming with sharks and stingrays, whale watching, reef exploring and scuba diving in general are some of the most common activities you can take part in. Make sure not to miss Bavaro Beach, Isla Saona, Isla Catalina and Hoyo Azul; the sights are unlike anything else in the world and the pictures you can take will be unforgettable.
If you are a golf lover, this is paradise. Punta Cana golf courses are world famous and considered the best the Caribbean has to offer; many of them designed by professional golfers, so you know they will challenge your skill as you enjoy the beautiful greens and the blue sky above you.
Image courtesy of Trip & Travel Blog at Flickr.com
Las Terrenas.
A beautiful town located along the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic, located in the province of Samaná. Originally a small fishing village that grew prosperous with tourism, this beautiful town offers miles of pristine beaches and clear waters as far as the horizon. Top resorts as well as small romantic room rentals are available for all types of different travelers. Make sure to see Playa Bonita, El Portillo and Las Ballenas to experience some of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world. The place truly has no match.
Puerto Plata.
This amazing city serves as one of the most important trading ports of the country. All-inclusive resorts and wonderful accommodations are found all over the place. In Puerto Plata you can find the only aerial tramway in the entire Caribbean, used by visitors to take a ride all the way to the top of the Pico Isabel de Torres, a tall mountain with a breath-taking view of the city. The fort of San Felipe along with the beautiful architecture helps accentuate the colonial atmosphere Puerto Plata is known for. Don’t forget to visit the Museo del Ambar, a great historic monument of the city and the beautiful cast-iron lighthouse know as El Faro. If you plan your trip accordingly, you may be lucky enough to be part of Puerto Plata’s Merengue festival. During the festivities, Merengue artists perform on a large stage and vendors offer samples of the local cuisine, souvenirs and clothing.
If you are thinking about visiting the Dominican Republic, this is the time to go. For more information please visit us here.