Discovered in 1492 by Christopher Columbus, the Dominican Republic is a mosaic of beautiful beaches, majestic hills and lively people. Hispaniola Island, as Columbus named it, has always been described as one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean. Columbus refers to it as “”a beautiful island paradise with high forested mountains and great river valleys” in one of his diaries. Today, the Dominican Republic is one of the main tourist places in the Caribbean offering a variety of activities for those who seek peace, excitement and connection with nature in its purest form. Travel back in time to the 1500s in colonial Santo Domingo, go scuba diving in the blue waters of the Caribbean or dance the merengue the night away on one of the many beaches. clubs and resorts, the choice is yours.
where to go
Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic and the oldest city in the New World, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has the first cathedral, the first university and the first hospital in the Americas. There is no need for a time machine when you are walking through the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo. The place will transport you in time. There are many museums and historical buildings in this area, including the famous Alcázar de Colón (Castillo de Colón). This castle was built in the 16th century by the son of Christopher Columbus, Diego, and features artifacts that belonged to the Columbus family.
On the East Coast is the Punta Cana/Bávaro area, considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Punta Cana offers a variety of all-inclusive resorts for individuals and families seeking peace and relaxation in luxury oceanfront suites. The sugar-colored beaches attract people from all over the world looking for secluded areas. Although Punta Cana has become a popular destination for Americans, the majority of tourists are European. Some celebrities like Oscar de la Renta and Julio Iglesias have bought their summer retreats on this coast.
The North Coast, also known as the Amber Coast due to the prevalence of this jewel, features the popular towns of Puerto Plata, Cabarete and Sosua. This area features jungle forests, mountain ranges, blue waters, and golden beaches. It was here that Christopher Columbus discovered the island of Hispaniola, and it is precisely here that a new museum focused on the discovery of Christopher Columbus will open. Jurassic Park fans will also want to know that the amber mosquito seen in the movie is housed in the Amber Museum in Puerto Plata.
The northeast coast offers an intimate connection with nature. The Samaná peninsula is an ideal destination for ecotourists and nature lovers looking for pristine beaches, coral reefs, mountain waterfalls, tropical forests, and humpback whales. In fact, this coast offers one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Samaná is also known for its unique diversity and its culture that mixes traditions of French, Spanish and Italian settlers and African-American immigrants.
what to eat
Although culinary specialties vary from region to region, you will be able to find something to suit your taste. Traditional Dominican dishes have a strong Antillean and Creole influence: rice, fish, shellfish, meat and vegetables. Some also add light spices and coconut for extra flavor. Featuring a combination of seven meats, including goat, Sancocho prieto is an authentic Dominican dish popular with daring palates. Seafood restaurants are, of course, the most popular option for those who visit the beaches. All-inclusive resorts feature seafood restaurants, buffets, and ethnic restaurants.
Where to study
Many American universities offer study abroad options for the Dominican Republic. The two most common cities that receive exchange students are Santo Domingo and Santiago. You can also review study abroad agencies that offer academic and Spanish programs in the Dominican Republic.
Visas and Documents
Citizens of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and most EU countries do not require visas, except for citizens of Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia and Malta. Additionally, citizens of Argentina, Chile, South Korea, Ecuador, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Peru, Liechtenstein, and Uruguay do not require a visa. Nationals of certain countries may require a tourist card to enter the Dominican Republic. For more information, contact the Dominican Republic embassy or consulate in your country.
