What do you look for while choosing your holiday destination? Nature, fun, adventure and uniqueness? If so, we have the perfect place for your next trip. Visit the Dominican Republic, the most geographically and ethnically diverse country in the Caribbean. Turquoise waters, white sands, bewitching landscapes, creeks where whales rest, small fishing villages, make the country your next adventure!
The Dominicans are one of the friendliest and most welcoming people. The culture is relaxed and easy-going. The people are always ready to chat or have a conversation. You are going to feel at home during your visit to the Dominican Republic. The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492 and was claimed for the Spanish crown. But the island also had a native population that has lived for hundreds of years, the "Tainos". Even today, the culture represents a mixture of indigenous heritage and Spanish influences. Since Spanish colonization, there has been a whirlwind of history with the onset of slavery from Africa, recurring rebellions, wars between the Spanish, French and British, and with neighbouring Haiti. Santo Domingo, the seaside capital, is the oldest European colony in the Caribbean, and its historic walled city center dates to the 1500s.
As you stroll through the streets of the island nation, you will witness a lively and upbeat scenario with cheerful energies. The echo of merengue music, the most popular musical genre among Dominicans, the colorful cafes, bars and shops will captivate you. Music is the cornerstone of numerous festivals in the country, from the carnival celebrations in February to the Restoration Day in June. Each year there is a Latin music festival in June, a jazz festival in October and a two-week merengue festival in July, in which the arts, crafts and food are also showcased. Dominican cuisine also known as comida criolla, combines Spanish, African and Taino elements, and has a lot in common with Cuban and Latin American cuisine. While there are many high-end restaurants in the cities, the best way to discover traditional cuisine is to visit the comedores, one of the many simple, family-run, home-style restaurants that can be found all over the country. Some typical dishes include moro de guandules - rice with peas, pork, beef, olives and capers - and pastel stews made with cassava and plantain. Chicken, fried, grilled or in soup, makes a staple, usually served with fried green plantains. Be sure not to miss the fresh Dominican seafood.
Unmissable Places in Dominican Republic
Punta Cana
It is the easternmost point of the country with magnificent beaches facing both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. One of the most romantic destinations in the world, Punta Cana offers all kinds of activities and adventures for your perfect vacation.
Samana Province
This exquisite and off-beat place, located in the north of the country, is the ultimate paradise. If you wish to spend your days away from the very touristy beaches, in isolation, to rejuvenate and unwind, this is the best option for you. Its tropical forests, coconut groves and hundreds of small sandy creeks are still relatively unexplored by the crowds, but its uniqueness is that it is the only place in the world where you can observe the breeding whales that flock in large numbers from January to March.
Bahia de las Aguilas
It literally means "Eagle Bay" and is an 8 km stretch of sand and clear water, considered one of the most gorgeous beaches in the world by both locals and tourists. This is primarily because it is completely untouched and isolated, miles away from the main tourist areas, and can be reached by boat or by finding a local guide from the tiny fishing village of La Cueva.
Damajaqua Cascades
One of the most popular tourist attractions on the island is the Damajaqua Cascades, also known as the 27 waterfalls, in Puerto Plata. Upon entering the park, travellers will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide to the site of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. The waterfalls are in the hills of the Northern Corridor, surrounded by a sugar cane field. The 27 waterfalls flow into their own sparkling pools, formed by limestone walls.
