Dominican Republic
Known as Quisqueya – “the mother of all lands” in the native Taíno language — the Dominican Republic is abundant with natural riches.
Off the shore of the Dominican Republic, thousands of migrating humpback whales congregate in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean between the months of December and March. Spot them during a stay in Samaná, a natural haven of pristine beaches, waterfalls and forested islands that rise dreamlike out of the ocean.
The bustling metropolis of Santo Domingo offers a vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants, as well as cobbled streets steeped in history in the Zona Colonial. As the first European settlement in the Americas, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 16th Century churches and monasteries, imposing fortresses and leafy plazas.
Dotted along the north coast are quaint towns and buzzing oceanfront cities. Dramatic beaches with rolling waves offer some of the best conditions for adventure sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Beneath the water’s surface, colourful corals and sunken ships await exploration. While coconut palms fringe some beaches, others are lined with towering rocks and tangled mangroves sheltering rare birds and hidden caves.
Whether you are exploring lush tropical forests, sipping juice from a coconut on a wild beach or soaking up the buzz of the vibrant capital, the island boasts a breathtaking diversity of landscapes to suit any adventure.
Off the shores of the Dominican Republic, thousands of migrating humpback whales congregate in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean between the months of December and March. Spot them during a stay in Samaná, a natural haven of pristine beaches, waterfalls and forested islands that rise dreamlike out of the ocean.
The turquoise waters of Punta Cana are a busy hub for adventure sports and family-friendly beach resorts.
The bustling metropolis of Santo Domingo offers a vibrant nightlife and excellent restaurants, as well as cobbled streets steeped in history in the Zona Colonial. As the first European settlement in the Americas, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 16th century churches and monasteries, imposing fortresses and leafy plazas.
Dotted along the north coast are quaint towns and buzzing oceanfront cities. Dramatic beaches with rolling waves offer some of the best conditions for adventure sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing. Beneath the water’s surface, colourful corals and sunken ships await exploration. While coconut palms fringe some beaches, others are lined with towering rocks and tangled mangroves sheltering rare birds and hidden caves.
Select a Sense
The cuisine of the Dominican Republic is a delightful mix of Spanish, African, and Taíno flavours. La Bandera is the national dish, a hearty blend of rice, beans, and meat. Also, look out for sancocho, a rich stew with varied meats, and mangú, mashed plantains often served for breakfast. Seafood is a staple, with fresh catches daily. For sweets, enjoy dulce de coco, a coconut-based dessert, and wash it all down with a refreshing glass of Presidente beer or Dominican rum.
In the Dominican Republic, it’s all about merengue and bachata. Merengue, the national dance, features fast-paced rhythms and lively steps, while bachata is more romantic, with a slower, sensual rhythm.
LISTEN INLarimar jewellery is a unique blue stone found only in the Dominican Republic. Hand rolled Dominican cigars are world-renowned for their quality. Dominican rum, celebrated for its smoothness, and Mama juana, a traditional herbal liqueur.
Literature from the Dominican Republic often responds to the island’s complex social and political landscape.
Some recommended reading…
A classic must-read is The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz, blending contemporary life of a Dominican immigrant in the USA with historical elements.
For a deep dive into the Trujillo era, In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez is profound.
Contemporary insights come from Tentacle by Rita Indiana, offering a futuristic, alternative perspective on Dominican identity and culture.
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