Puerto Plata is part of the Dominican Republic. It is bordered by Haiti, the Atlantic Ocean, the Mona Passage, and the Caribbean Sea. Haiti is its only “land” border, and therefore most of this destination is surrounded by sandy beaches. About eighty percent of Puerto Plata’s land area is mountainous, adding to its enchanting beauty. It is in the Eastern Standard time zone, and a valid passport is required to travel to this tropical paradise. This area basically experiences two seasons: November to April is the cooler season, with temperatures ranging from about sixty-five degrees (Fahrenheit) at night to eighty-five degrees in the daytime; May to October is the warmer season, with temperatures ranging from about seventy degrees at night to ninety degrees in the daytime. It is significantly more humid in the warmer season, although humidity is relatively high all year round as compared to the continental United States. Also, there are often burst of tropical rainstorms that are usually short (about 30 minutes) but heavy. There are several activities and attractions to enjoy if you are traveling to Puerto Plata, including gambling, dancing, and site-seeing.
Gambling is one of the foremost entertaining experiences available to Puerto Plata travelers. There are several casino venues to choose from, including the Jack Tar Village, Casino El Dorado, Playa Dorada Hotel, and the Paradise Beach Club and Casino. The Jack Tar Village is located in Frigate Bay, Saint Kitts, and Nevis and it features about fifty slots, six casino tables, and six restaurants. The dining options include grills, Italian food, and international cuisine. Baccarat, blackjack, craps, and roulette are available at the tables. The Casino El Dorado is in Cucuta, Notre de Santander, Colombia, and it boasts about thirty slot machines and six casino tables. The Playa Dorada Hotel is about three miles from the center of Puerto Plata, and it is right on the beach, and if you visit this hotel and casino, you can also enjoy swimming, tennis, and night club entertainment. The Paradise Beach Club and Casino features about twenty slots and ten table games, and it also offers four restaurants.
If you love to dance, then the La Barrica nightclub and bar is the spot to check out. They are open everyday except Sunday, and they are packed just about every night. This club will give you a taste of Puerto Plata’s nightlife, and you will be able to enjoy Spanish dancing and music. This place really fills up, and because of the mob crowds, it is recommended that you do not go alone, especially if you are female. Make this a group outing. This is definitely not a family vacation attraction, but singles and party-lovers will have a blast.
Fort San Felipe is one the foremost historical attractions that Puerto Plata has to offer. It is the oldest fort in the New World. Fort San Felipe took thirty-three years to construct, and it was started in 1564, after Phillip II of Spain ordered it to be built. The fort was restored in the 1970s. It is an incredible sight, with its design geared towards keeping enemies out – there is a moat, and the doorways are only four feet tall to impede entrance. Isabel de Torres, a tower with a fort, is another historical attraction to check out. It has an impressive view of the Amber Coast, and it also features beautiful botanical gardens.
