La Romana, tucked away in the Caribbean, is a delightful travel destination for those pleasure seekers who favor the traditional joys of the Caribbean experience. Located in the Dominican Republic, La Romana began as a tiny village of just 30 people on a fertile riverbank. Today, it is a vibrant and cultured vacation spot that attracts tourists from throughout the world.
One of the most interesting cultural attractions to be found in La Romana is Altos de Chavon. This is a delightful model town, designed in the early 1980’s by Roberto Copa with the medieval villages of Spain and Italy in mind. Capturing the style and grace of those European towns, Copa created an arts center, nestled into the captivating countryside above the Caribbean Sea and the canyon of the Rio Chavon, attracting an international blend of tourists.
Its cobblestone streets are home to a wide assortment of artisans, producing stunning works of art in a variety of mediums, including rich tapestries and other fine textiles, ceramics and hand-crafted jewelry. Almost everywhere in this picturesque center, you will encounter fascinating recreations of historical architecture. Among these is the Church of St. Stanislaus, located on the main plaza, which is graced by the lovely fountain of four lions and a colonnade of obelisks, surrounded by a breathtaking view.
There are numerous art galleries and a remarkable archeological museum. The Regional Museum of Archeology is open every day from 9am to 8pm, and there is no admission charge. This museum exhibits, among other things, a fine collection of artifacts left behind by the early native inhabitants, the Tainos. Altos de Chavon also boasts a 5,000 seat open-air amphitheater that serves as a venue for festivals, classic symphonies, theater, and concerts that have included some of the biggest names in music, such as Carlos Santana, Julio Iglesias, Gloria Estefan, and many others.
In addition to the wide variety of cultural pursuits to be found in La Romana, there are many opportunities for those seeking the more traditional joys of the Caribbean – sun and sand. Due to the comfortable climate, outdoor activities are plentiful.
La Minitas, Bayahibe and Catalina are three popular beaches that will provide visitors with the quintessential Caribbean sun, sand and surf experience, complete with graceful palm trees and a fresh sea breeze. Other outdoors activities include river and deep-sea fishing trips, snorkeling, horseback riding, amazing trails to be explored with rented off-road four-wheeler recreational vehicles, and beautiful golf courses for an unforgettable golfing experience.
For shopping enthusiasts, aside from the delights of Chavon, La Romana City hosts an outdoor marketplace that boasts an astounding variety of local produce, as well as typical marketplace fare. It is certainly a place worthy of exploration. There are also small flea markets and other interesting shops and stalls.
La Romana is home to numerous restaurants offering a broad variety of dining experiences, ranging from traditionally-prepared foods typical of the region to delicious interpretations of local fare and fine international cuisine. From tiny beach restaurants run by locals to elegant restaurants with formally trained and renowned chefs, each dining atmosphere has its own individual charm which only serves to compliment the cuisine.
Restaurante Yssamar, located right on Bayahibe beach, is a delightful example of a small, casual eating establishment that offers excellent local cuisine at reasonable, even inexpensive prices. Known for the quality of its seafood dishes and its relaxing open air, beach setting, Restaurante Yssamar is a dining experience to remember.
The Panaderia Trigo De Oro, found in the downtown area of La Romana City, near the marketplace and the park, is a wonderful place to people watch and enjoy some of the best local pastries and coffee. Made fresh daily, the pastries fill the air, making it a perfect location to enjoy good conversation and the local atmosphere.
For those interested in the ultimate fine dining experience, the Casa del Rio restaurant is the ideal spot. Located in Altos de Chavon, with a beautiful river view, this restaurant features bistro-style cuisine. Open for dinner only, reservations are necessary. Other notable eating establishments in La Romana include Delicias Del Mar, on Libertad Avenue, Don Quijote Restaurant, located at 42 Diego Avila Street, and Los Cajuiles at 7 Altagracia Street.
La Romana offers an active nightlife, with popular discos and clubs attracting vibrant blend of tourists and locals. La Locura, the disco at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Palace Resort - Dominican Republic Hotel is a favorite among travelers. Altos de Chavon is home to several small bars and clubs with live music of all types, within pleasant and safe walking distance of each other.
For the tourist, La Romana provides a broad range of activities. Travelers are able to enjoy cultural pursuits, active sports, and an exciting nightlife in addition to all of the classic Caribbean experiences. As a vacation destination, La Romana will not fail to satisfy.
