The Dominican Republic is seated on the Caribbean Island of La Espanola. From the geographical perspective, the country shares the island with Haiti. It is the second largest island nestled in the archipelago of the Antilles. The Dominican Republic is also nicknamed as ‘Quisqueya’ by people of this beautiful island. It means “mother of all lands” and is originally used by the native Taino for La Espanola.
For most of the foreign travellers, mention of Dominican Republic reminds them of beaches, hotels and resorts. However, there are always more to it. Santo Domingo, which was founded way back in 1496, is the first city in the modern world. This old city paves way for the monumental route and its colonial area has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. If you are among those who want to visit this great country, you are in the right place. I will share some great travel tips with you to make your journey funnier and bigger a party.
All imaginable kinds of luxury are available in every resort in the Dominican Republic. However, most of these expensive resorts are located in Puerto Plata and Punta Cana. However, if you are in favour of more thrill and adventure, the country has a rich blend of picturesque landscapes and cultural blends to be intimate with. The country, which is still the most unknown territory on the island, receives footfalls from only a few visitors. Despite a very depressed economy, the country has all natural makings especially in terms of landscape diversity to mesmerize the visitors.
The country features a host of contrasts. After you arrive here, you cannot help but be charmed by its natural beauty. Visit the highest peak of the Caribbean and also walk along the first paved road, the first hospital, the first university and the first street of the New World in this less developed country. The diversity in landscape texture is very contrasting but extremely interesting.
There are plenty of Spanish heritage sites including some extraordinary monuments which mark the first events of colonial history in the earlier phase. The Tainos, natives of the island during the pre-Columbian era, are credited with creations of original and amazing art objects made from different kinds of materials including amber, wood, leather, mud, larimar etc.
It is important for the visitors to know the culture of Dominicans. It will help you mix with them more freely. Some of their most popular traditions are fighting cocks, the Carnival and dance, Bachata and Merengue in particular.
An extensive variety of most delicious dishes will be a bonus for your trip to the Dominican Republic. These cuisines have strong influence of Taino, African and European culinary traditions and are rich in flavours.