Until recently, a mention of the Dominican Republic would likely have been greeted with a polite, puzzled smile and a casual shrug. Few people knew, and even fewer actually visited, this obscure region nestled on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean. Few people took advantage of the stunning combination of towering mountains and golden white sand which first captivated Christopher Columbus in 1492. However, thanks to increased advertising efforts and the emergence of local celebrities such as baseball star Sammy Sosa, more visitors than ever are discovering that this year-round tropical locale (average annual temperature 77 degrees) makes for a truly unique traveling experience.
Part of the benefit of this increased exposure is that it has given the country an opportunity to develop some incredible resort areas in its naturally beautiful beachside locales. Three of the most popular resorts are Barahona, Rio San Juan, and Boca Chica. A breathtaking mixture of beaches, lush vegetation, powerful waterfalls, marvelous mountaintops, and the lovely Lake Enriquillo, the selling points of Barahona speak for themselves. The resort area also hosts sixty-plus bird species (such as the famous flamingo), marking it a paradise for bird-watching enthusiasts. One may even catch a glimpse of the crocodile, who is a protected inhabitant of these lands. Another natural hot-spot is the small town of Rio San Juan, a rocky coastal area whose main attraction is the mysterious Gri Gri Lagoon. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride through this dark, cavelike area that boasts the bluest waters in the land. If tourists prefer a more commercialized area, however, then Boca Chica is the place to be. This neighbor of Santo Domingo was developed specifically as a haven for the social butterfly. It offers visitors plenty of popular activities to fill those long tropical days, including yachting, golf, gambling, and some of the most acclaimed seafood restaurants in the Caribbean.
In addition to the aforementioned areas, the Dominican Republic houses an array of national parks which are abundant in wildlife, beautiful scenery, and family gathering areas. For example, Mirador Norte Park is a ring of six parks surrounding Santo Domingo that is perfect for social outings. The National Park of the East offers cave explorations and plentiful tropical wildlife, while Acuario Nacional de la Republica Dominicana (the National Aquarium) specializes in wildlife of the marine variety. If a tourist prefers basking in marvelous mountains and rich scenery, then the Armando Bermudez National Park, Limon National Park, Los Haitises (in the northeast), or de Cabral National Park (in the Southwest) are must-see destinations.
Sporting fans, particularly those of the extreme variety, will find their home-away-from-home in the Dominican Republic. For the outdoor explorer, Los Tres Ojos (located in Santo Domingo) is a dream come true. Dubbed “The Three Eyes,” this area more than lives up to its intriguing name. Four subterranean caves are home to four diverse lakes that are tailor-made for scuba activity and swimming. Measuring from a mere 20 to an intimidating 300 meters deep, the lakes range from figurative kiddie pools to challenging adventures that would make even the bravest explorer tremble just a little (one lake is aptly nicknamed “The Refrigerator”). For those desiring a stronger foothold on the land, the town of Jarbacoa (at 530 meters above sea level) offers all of the whitewater adventure minus the caves. Although a visitor may be tempted to simply bask in an unparalleled view of the scenery, the extreme fun that this small town offers is not to be missed. One can choose from canoeing, whitewater rafting, diving, horseback riding, mountain climbing, hiking (up to 10,000 feet above sea level), jeep safari, and much more. For the truly brave at heart, the monster waterfall Salto de Jimenoa affords the perfect opportunity to experience the extreme world’s newest addition, “cascading.” Windsurfing pros can also find a thrill in the Dominican Republic. The community of Caberete plays host to some of the most prestigious windsurfing competitions in the world.
Despite all of the extreme goodness, those whose sporting interests run a little on the safer side should not feel left out. Baseball fans can enjoy a game (safely in the stands) year-round in San Pedro de MacorĂs, which has produced some of the biggest names to step on major league diamonds. For those who would rather enjoy a relaxing day on the golf course, the Dominican Republic has developed an array of high-quality courses: Los Marlins (artistic beauty), Casa de Campo (located in La Romana), and Playa Grande (play while gazing at miles of crystal white beach).
We have so far focused on the outdoor adventures of the Dominican Republic, but the small island is also imbued with an old-world charm that must be mentioned. In particular, Zona Colonial and the town of Montecristi invoke a nostalgic reminder of bygone eras and cultures. Zona Colonial, which borders the Ozama River, is a hodge-podge of comfortable and familiar cafes, restaurants, bars, and cobblestone streets. Many of the buildings (which have been forever preserved as museums) can be traced back to the 1500s, and at night one can almost imagine being whisked back to a more innocent time. The former sugar port of Montecristi is a living remnant of the Victorian era. As a popular spot for divers, the town mixes its old-world charm with more adventurous modern times.
The only way to truly understand all of the wonders that the Dominican Republic has to offer is to experience them for yourself. Whether you prefer the thrill of an extreme sport or the relaxation of a quaint town, the Dominican Republic will make for an unforgettable vacation. In closing, here are a few more popular monuments and landmarks which should be on any tourist’s must-see list:
* Pico Duarte--With an elevation of 10,130 feet, this is the Caribbean’s highest point.
* Catedral Primada de America—Located in Santo Domingo, this 1546 landmark holds the honor of being the first cathedral in the New World.
* Tomas Morel Museum of Folkloric Art—This Santiago attraction contains colorful carnival masks.
* The Monument of the Heroes of Resoration—Art lovers will stand in awe of this 67-meter high monument, home to murals of acclaimed artist Vela Zanetti.
* Santiago—This popular cultural spot is home to a rhythmic phenomenon that has swept the Dominican Republic and beyond, the Merengue.
