2016/17 DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Dominican Republic

by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

@FarsightedGirl

Graced with beaches, mountains, colonial landmarks and rainforests, the Dominican Republic stands out as one of the Caribbean's most diverse islands. It's also one of the friendliest, with Dominican hospitality being as notable as the landscape. Located on the eastern half of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti to the west, the Dominican Republic attracts more tourists than any other Caribbean island and boasts the region's largest economy as well as the Caribbean's most extensive subway system. Famous for perfect beaches, plentiful all- inclusive resorts as well as lively nightlife, this island offers something for every type of traveler.

The Dominican Republic stretches along the Caribbean coast with an array of sites to visit and events to experience. However, we will focus on the island's most visited towns of Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerta Plata and La Romana.

Santo Domingo

The bustling capital of Santo Domingo is a great place to start your visit. As the oldest city in the New World, this dynamic metropolis provides lots of culture as well as history. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Zona Colonial and check out the first street, first military structure and first cathedral in the Americas. Many of the colonial buildings are well preserved and are open for tours and some are in ruins but a walking tour, either organized or self-directed, is a great introduction to this influential Caribbean city. Take sturdy shoes, sunscreen and water to help navigate the uneven, sun-soaked streets and don't miss Plaza Espana a lovely courtyard lined with restaurants and sidewalk cafes. At night, head to the Maleco'n, a tree-lined promenade filled with nightclubs and restaurants that hug the coastline. Sample the national dish of sanchocho, a rich stew of meat, corn on the cobs, starchy tubers and spices. The spirited music and dancing of merengue and bachata are national past-times (followed by baseball) so be sure to visit a club and learn a few steps.

Punta Cana

On the eastern tip of the island, Punta Cana draws scores of young tourists ready to join the town's party-focused activities. Nicknamed the Coconut Coast, the area is crammed with all-inclusives for every budget and offers a host of adventurous excursions, including zip lining, wind surfing, kayaking and sailing. Note that Punta Cana is on the Atlantic coast so waves can be a little rough for diving and snorkeling. Lolling about golden sand beaches is the highlight for the area, as well as golfing on the various golf courses that blanket the town. Key outings include walking the 11 winding, foliage-adorned paths at the Punta Cana Ecological Reserve Trails and zip lining on Anamuya Mountain. Punta Cana is the ideal spot for those who just want to enjoy a beach retreat and unwind with a laid back itinerary.

Puerto Plata

For holidaymakers interested in a little bit more than sun and sand, Puerto Plata, a charming port city on the island's north coast, serves up an impressive blend of surf and sophistication. Less crowded than either Santo Domingo or Punta Cana, Puerto Plata gives visitors the chance to relax on beautiful beaches in relative peace. Known as the kite-boarding and windsurfing capital of the world, adrenaline fans can grab lessons from a local and have a go at riding the waves or head to Damajagua to view (or climb or jump) the stunning 27 waterfalls. For more serene pursuits, the region's capital, also called Puerto Plata, holds a vibrant cultural fest every June at the Fuerte de San Felipe and there's also the Amber Museum, dedicated to the country's prized resin and cigar factories to tour.

La Romana

On the sugarcane topped southeastern coast, La Romana lures travelers with unspoiled natural beauty. Pearly sand beaches edged with coral reef make it a swimmers dream but the area is also noted for its extensive cave system. Take a scenic horseback ride along the countryside of this former fishing village and head to Fun Fun Cave in Hato Mayor, which is filled with Taino Indian petroglyphs and stalactites. A visit to the Mediterranean village of Altos de Chavon is mandatory in La Romana, where the 16th century replica sits atop the Chavon River, beckoning to explorers. The cobblestone streets showcase artisan shops, Mediterranean restaurants and a sprawling, 5,000 seat Roman style amphitheatre that has hosted international pop stars including Shakira and Sting.

Tips for making the most of your Dominican Republic holiday include learning a bit of Spanish and being aware of local customs. Although English is widely spoken in resort areas and in Santo Domingo, if you want to venture outside the tourist spots, a few Spanish phrases will go a long way. Wearing skimpy clothing, including shorts above the knee and shoulder baring tops isn't encouraged in churches and other formal places. Dominicans are warm and welcoming people, smile and be open to learning as much as you can about their lovely island.