Dominican Republic |
| Thursday, 29 May 2008 00:00 |
 The Dominican Republic is one of the two countries making up Hispaniola, the other one being Haiti. While the latter is forever trouble-ridden, the Dominican Republic has developed over the past centuries, mainly benefiting from tourism, and though far from reaching Western standards is doing much better than its war-torn neighbor. Unless you spend your entire vacation in a private holiday resort isolated from the actual country you will soon notice that it still has a long way to go, yet there is absolutely no reason why you should not enjoy this stunning country. Security is not a concern, and with no extra effort you can help support local businesses like restaurants and guest houses and make sure Dominicans benefit from their incredible hospitality just as much as the big international corporations do. The Dominican Republic combines the elements of Caribbean whirl and remote natural beauty, making this an exceptionally exciting place to spend your holidays. With about one third of the island under the protection of nature reserves there is a huge unspoiled playground for outdoor fans. Four mountain ranges (Cordilleras) cross the country and form the most gorgeous green valleys. The highest peak, situated in the Central Cordillera, reaches over 10,000 feet. At the foothills of the Central Cordillera you will also find an insider tip, the charming town of Bonao. Far, far away from big chain hotels and burnt skin on beaches you can discover authentic Dominican life in view of gorgeous mountains and the Yuna River bubbling toward the sea. The locals are as sweet as can be and will recommend the best trekking and hiking trails, as well as introduce you to the delicious regional cuisine. Similarly remote, yet less mountainous is a trip to Cayo Levanto, a small island in Samana Bay. This place is the perfect secluded Caribbean beach, coconuts and sunset inclusive. Should you seek some more action, you will find just that on the beaches around Punta Cana on the eastern shore. Plenty of entertainment is provided in and around the water, whether it is scuba diving classes, surfing, beach volleyball, or beach clubs. Another hotspot for the international surfer scene is Cabarete on the north coast, attracting even professional athletes on the board. This is, as can be expected, accompanied by excellent nightlife and international flair. Culturally the most intense place is of course Santo Domingo, the capital. Anyone even remotely interested in America and history will feel the air of discovery that blows through the Ciudad Colonial, the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, and the first ever European settlement in the New World. The first road to be paved by Columbus’s companions dates from 1502, his family residence from 1510. The sense of history is enormous when you attend a service in the cathedral, stroll through the Ozama Fort, or visit the Alcázar de Colón, the first seat of the colonial government. Despite the cultural and historical wealth of the city your stay does not have to be entirely educational. Plenty of leisurely fun is to be found around Malecon, an amusement strip in the water, where you can spend your pesos in casinos or bars. One last note to drivers: Despite modern highways and good inner city infrastructure you will be faced with adventurous dirt roads when driving in remote areas, which may require some experience. When night falls remember that locals barely turn on their head lights and also consider traffic rules to be rather suggestive than binding. |
Travelguide Dominican Republic
Hispaniola Hispaniola is the Antilles second biggest island, located to Cuba’s east. The island is split into to two regions. The eastern and biggest part makes up the Dominican Republic. The smaller......more |