Accommodation
Hotels
Following a period of intensive development, the Dominican Republic now boasts over 55,000 hotel rooms, making it the largest room supply in the entire Caribbean. The southeast coast is noted for its modern hotels and beautiful beaches. In the capital the choice ranges from clean and cheap to plush, with rates remaining the same all year because of steady business traffic. At resort hotels winter prices are higher and, in summer, prices drop by up to 10 per cent. Hotels outside Santo Domingo and La Romana are considerably less expensive, whatever the season. A service charge of 10 per cent and a 12 per cent sales tax will be added to all bills. Grading: There is a 5-star grading system, but visitors should note that even the highest grade is somewhat lower in standard than is general in the Caribbean.
Guest houses
Guest houses are very economical, and best found after arrival in the country
Self-catering
Self-catering establishments are available in Puerto Plata at very reasonable rates.
Camping
There are no official sites. Camping is only possible in rural areas with permission from the landowner. National Parks are also available for camping with the permission of the National Parks Office.
Accommodation Information
Asociación Nacional de Hoteles y Restaurantes (ASONAHORES)Calle President Gonzalez esq, Avenida Tiradentes, Edificio la Cumbre, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Tel: 540 4676.Website: www.drhotels.com
Business
•
GDP: US$55.68 billion.•
Main imports: Food, petroleum, cotton and fabric, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. • Main exports: Ferronickel, sugar, gold, silver, coffee, cocoa, tobacco, meats and consumer goods. • Main trade partners: Canada, Colombia, Japan, Mexico, Korea (Rep), Netherlands, USA and Venezuela.
Economy
Sugar, coffee and cocoa are the main agricultural cash crops. The mining industry produces ferronickel, gold and silver. These primary products are the basis of the Dominican Republic’s economy and its main export commodities. Exploration of other potential deposits has been underway since the early 1990s but, although some gold and silver has been located, the expected oil deposits have failed to materialise. Industry is mainly concentrated in production of food and drinks, chemicals and refining of imported oil. In the service sector, tourism has had a major impact on the Dominican Republic’s economy during the last 20 years and now contributes one-sixth of total output. The economy grew slowly but steadily during most of this period, but has recently experienced some problems. Growth turned negative in 2004 and unemployment rose to 16.5 per cent, while the Dominican peso has lost a third of its value against the dollar. (A major cause is the collapse of the international sugar market.) The country relies on substantial foreign aid, principally from the USA and the Inter-American Development Bank. The Dominican Republic is a member of CARICOM, the major regional reading bloc.
Business Etiquette
It is usual for businesspeople to dress smartly and to deal formally with each other at first, although the general atmosphere is informal. Some formal events may require wearing a tuxedo or a white suit. Spanish is the main business language and a knowledge of it will be of assistance. Enquire at your hotel for interpreter services. Office hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800. Government office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1500.
Commercial Information
Cámara de Comercio y Producción de Santo Domingo, Apartado Postal 815, Arz. Nouel 206, Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicTel: 682 2688.Website: www.ccpsd.org.do
Climate
Climate
Hot with tropical temperatures all year with coastal areas being warmer than central regions. There are two rainy seasons; the first is from May to August and is the heaviest, whilst the second from November to December is the lightest. Hurricanes may sometimes occur during these periods.
Communications
Telephone
Full IDD available. Country code: 1 809. CODETEL, Dominican Republic’s telecommunications company, has produced the Comunicard, which enables tourists visiting the country to phone anywhere abroad from any touchtone phone. For further information, contact CODETEL, Av Tiradentes 1169, Santo Domingo (tel: 220 5168; website: www.codetel.net.do).
Mobile telephone
Roaming agreements exist with some international mobile phone companies.
Internet
There are Internet cafes in larger cities.
Post
Airmail takes about 10 days to reach western Europe. It is advisable to post all mail at the Central Post Office in Santo Domingo to ensure rapid handling.
MEDIA
Ownership of TV channels, radio stations and newspapers is concentrated in a few economically or politically powerful hands. There are several terrestrial TV channels and some 30 multichannel cable TV operators. There are more than 200 radio stations, most of them commercial. There are two Government-owned stations. The media are regulated by the government and are considered to be only partially free. Although the government rarely interferes with programmes, some subjects, such as the Catholic Church and the army, are generally avoided. Press: All daily papers are in Spanish and include El Caribe, Hoy, Listín Diario and El Nacional. The English-language Santo Domingo News is published weekly on Wednesday and may be obtained in hotels. Dominicana News, a monthly Tourism Promotion Council publication, has the main Dominicana tourism industry items. TV: Radio Television Dominicana (Canal 4) and Rahintel (Canal 7) are state-owned channels. Other channels include: Color Vision (Canal 9), Canal 6, Telesistema (Canal 11), Teleantillas (Canal 2) and Cadena de Noticias (CDN), a news-based channel.Radio: Cadena de Noticias (CDN) Radio is a news station; Radio Television Dominicana is Government-owned; Rumba FM is one of Santo Domingo's many merengue and salsa music stations.
Duty Free
The following goods may be imported into the Dominican Republic without incurring customs duty by travellers over 16 years of age: 200 cigarettes or one box of cigars; one litre of liquor; two bottles of perfume (opened) for personal use; gifts of up to US$100. All baggage must be declared on arrival and departure.
Prohibited items
All animal products, agricultural and horticultural products and drugs.
Entertainment
Food & Drink
Native Dominican cooking combines Spanish influences with local produce. Beef is expensive (Dominicans raise fine cattle, but most is exported) and local favourites are pork and goat meat. Locally produced beer and rums are cheaper than imported alcohol which tends to be expensive. There is plenty of fresh fish and seafood, island-grown tomatoes, lettuce, papaya, mangoes and passion fruit and all citrus fruits are delicious. National specialities:•
La bandera (meaning ‘the flag’, comprising white rice, red beans, stewed meat, salad and fried plaintain).• Chicharrones (crisp pork rind). • Chicharrones de pollo (small pieces of fried chicken). • Casava (fried yucca). • Moro de habichuelas (rice and beans). • Sopa criolla dominicana (native soup of meat and vegetables). • Pastelón (baked vegetable cake).• Sancocho (stew with anything up to 18 ingredients). National drinks•
Presidente (Dominican beer) is very good• Rum drinks such as the local Brugal or Bermudez. •
Rum añejo (old, dark rum) with ice makes a good after-dinner drink. Native coffee is excellent and very strong. Tipping: Hotel and restaurant bills automatically include a 10 per cent service charge (on top of a 12 per cent charge for tax purposes) but an additional tip may be given as an appreciation of good service. Taxi drivers on the fixed routes do not expect tips.
Nightlife
Choice varies from a Las Vegas-style revue, discos and casinos to a quiet cafe by the sea in Santo Domingo. Hotels offer more traditional shows, including folk music and dancing. Popular dances are the merengue, played very loudly almost everywhere; bachata, which is becoming very popular in tourist hotspots; perico ripiao; and the salsa. The Malecón, Santo Domingo's seaside boulevard, is known for its nightlife. Concerts and other cultural events are often held at the Casa de Francia and Plaza de la Cultura in Santo Domingo, among other venues.
Shopping
Best buys are products made on the island including amber jewellery and decorative pieces. These are a national speciality, some pieces encasing insects, leaves or dew drops within ancient petrified pine resin. Larimar or Dominican turquoise is another popular stone. Milky blue and polished pink pieces of conch shell are also made into jewellery. Rocking chairs, woodcarvings, macramé, pottery, Taino artefacts, Creole dolls, baskets, limestone carvings and CDs of salsa and merengue also make good buys. Bargaining is recommended. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1430-1830.
General Information
Area
48,072 sq km (18,696 sq miles).
Population
9 million (UN estimate, 2005).
Population Density
187.2 per sq km.
Capital
Santo Domingo. Population: Approximately 3 million.
Geography
The Dominican Republic is in the Caribbean, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and constituting the eastern two-thirds of land. The landscape is forested and mountainous, with valleys, plains and plateaux. The soil is fertile with excellent beaches on the north, southeast and east coasts, rising up to the mountains.
Government
Republic. Gained independence in 1865, after successive attempts. Head of State and Government: President Leonel Fernandez since 2004. Recent history: The bicameral National Congress comprises the legislature. Members of both the 150-seat Camara de Diputados (Chamber of Deputies) and the 32-seat Senado (Senate) are popularly elected. So is the President, who wields executive power. All are elected for four-year terms. In the most recent elections, in 2004, Leonel Fernandez became President again after promising to reduce inflation, stabilise the exchange rate and restore investor confidence. He had already served as President in 1996.
Language
Spanish is the official language. Some English and French are spoken.
Religion
Almost all Christian, with 95 per cent Roman Catholic; there are small Protestant and Jewish minorities.
Electricity
110 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style two-pin plugs are in use.
Social Conventions
The Dominican lifestyle is more American than Latin, with short siestas and without long, late lunches. The non-Latin ambience is reflected by the fact that, though the culture is rich in Roman Catholic and Spanish influences, 72-hour divorces may be obtained. Daytime dress is generally casual but beachwear and shorts are only acceptable in resorts and at pools; it is considered offensive to enter a church wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Evenings tend to be smarter, with jackets recommended for men at better restaurants, hotels and for social functions.
Health
Health
1
Typhoid may be a risk in rural areas. Vaccination against typhoid and polio is recommended.
2
Malaria risk, exclusively in the malignant falciparum form, exists throughout the year in rural areas of the western provinces of Castañuelas, Hondo Valle and Pepillo Salcedo, which border Haiti. Chloroquine is the recommended prophylaxis.
Food & drink
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated and sterilisation should be considered essential. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is pasteurised. Powdered or tinned milk is available. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other risks
Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is endemic. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water; swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis has been reported. Hepatitis A and B may occur. Outbreaks of dengue fever occur in the area. Longer-term travellers may contract lymphatic filariasis. Rabies may be present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.
Health care
Health insurance (to include emergency repatriation) is strongly recommended. Medical care is limited and variable in quality. An emergency service is available in Santo Domingo.
History and Government
History
Columbus discovered the island of Hispaniola (which he called La Espaniola) in 1492 and established it as his main base for the further exploration of the region. In 1697, the western part of the island came under French control, with the east remaining under Spanish control. In 1795, the city of Santo Domingo – the oldest city in the Americas, founded by Columbus’ brother, in 1496 – was ceded to the French, followed by the rest of the island of Hispaniola later the same year. The battle of Palohincado, in 1808, in which Dominican General Ramirez inflicted an important defeat on the French, heralded the collapse of French rule in the eastern part of the island. The colony reverted to Spanish sovereignty in 1809, and in 1821, the colonial treasurer, José Nunez de Caceres, proclaimed Santo Domingo’s independence. This independence was short-lived – in 1822, the Haitians invaded the colony and occupied it for 22 years, until, on 27 February 1844, the territory of Santo Domingo recovered its sovereignty and declared independence once again, this time permanently, as the Dominican Republic. After many years of civil war, dictatorship and US occupation, the Republic was ruled by the dictatorship of General Rafael Trujillo (1930-61), whose assassination led to a period of civil unrest. Under the control of President Joaquin Balaguer, leader of the Partido Reformista Social Cristiano (PRSC), who served three terms from 1966, the country was reasonably stable. Guzman Fernandez of the main opposition party, the centre-left Partido Revolucionario Dominicano (PRD), won the elections in 1978. However, after a further defeat in 1982, Balaguer was re-elected four times consecutively between 1986 and 1995: in total, he served seven terms of office as President. In November 1995, amid a cycle of protests and strikes caused by a serious energy crisis, steep inflation and deterioration of public services, Balaguer was forced to stand down. In June 1996 Leonel Fernandez took the Presidency. In May 2000, despite failing health, Balaguer took one more shot at the Presidency, but this ended in defeat at the hands of PRD candidate Hipolito Mejia. Two months later, Balaguer, who dominated the politics of the Dominican Republic for half a century, died aged 95. In the most recent elections, in 2004, Leonel Fernandez became president again after promising to reduce inflation, stabilise the exchange rate and restore investor confidence.
Government
The bicameral National Congress comprises the legislature. Members of both the 150-seat Camara de Diputados (Chamber of Deputies) and the 32-seat Senado (Senate) are popularly elected. So is the President, who wields executive power. All are elected for four-year terms. The current Vice-President is Rafael Alburquerque.
Money
Currency
Dominican Republic Peso (DOP) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of peso2000, 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of peso1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 centavos.
Currency exchange
The peso is not available outside the Dominican Republic. Currencies of Canada, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, UK and USA may be converted into local currency. On departure, up to 30 per cent of the exchanged currency can be reconverted into US Dollars at any bank, provided original receipts are shown. All exchange must be done through official dealers such as banks and hotels approved by the Central Bank. Some street vendors in touristic areas accept US dollars as legal tender.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are all accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Traveller's cheques
Traveller's cheques are accepted by some banks. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local currency is limited to DOP20,000 in notes and DOP100 in coins; the import of foreign banknotes is allowed provided they are declared on arrival if they are over US$10,000 or the equivalent and reexport is intended. The import and export of traveller's cheques is unlimited.
Exchange rate indicators
DateAt time of publishing£1.00=57.09$1.00=32.50
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0830-1700.
Overview
Country Overview
The Dominican Republic is in the Caribbean, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and constituting the eastern two-thirds of land. The landscape is forested and mountainous, with valleys, plains and plateaux. There are excellent beaches on the north, southeast and east coasts, rising up to the mountains. The old parts of the capital, Santo Domingo, have been carefully restored to retain their colonial charm. The modern areas contain a thriving port city with discotheques and casinos. A few miles east of the city is a remarkable cave complex, Los Tres Ojos de Agua (The Three Eyes of Water), containing three turquoise lagoons, fed by an underground river and surrounded by stalactites, stalagmites and lush vegetation. Native Dominican cooking combines Spanish influences with local produce. Local dishes include la bandera (comprising white rice, red beans, stewed meat, salad and fried plantain) and cassava (fried yucca) Locally produced beer and rum are relatively cheap. For nightlife, the choice varies from a Las Vegas-style revue, discotheques and casinos to a quiet cafe by the sea in Santo Domingo. The national music, merengue, is celebrated in several festivals which draw large numbers of national and international musicians.
OverviewII
Columbus discovered the island of Hispaniola (which he called La Espaniola) in 1492 and established it as his main base for the further exploration of the region. In 1697, the western part of the island came under French control, with the east remaining under Spanish control. In 1795, the city of Santo Domingo – the oldest city in the Americas, founded in 1496 by Columbus’ brother – was ceded to the French, followed by the rest of the island of Hispaniola later the same year. The battle of Palohincado, in 1808, in which Dominican General Ramirez inflicted an important defeat on the French, heralded the collapse of French rule in the eastern part of the island. The colony reverted to Spanish sovereignty in 1809, and in 1821, the colonial treasurer, José Nunez de Caceres, proclaimed Santo Domingo’s independence. This independence was short-lived – in 1822, the Haitians invaded the colony and occupied it for 22 years, until, on 27 February 1844, the territory of Santo Domingo recovered its sovereignty and declared independence once again, this time permanently, as the Dominican Republic. Today, the Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, a former French colony. Most tourists who come to the island are initially attracted by the magnificent golden sand beaches along its 1400km (870-mile) coast line. The island's northern, Atlantic side contains the majority of tourist attractions, hotels and resorts, particularly in the 40-mile zone between Puerto Plata and Cabarete. Santo Domingo, in the south, features the very first monuments of the American continent: the first cathedral, the first hospital, the first chapel and the first university. In the centre of the country, the three main mountain ranges run roughly parallel to each other in an easterly/westerly direction. The Cordillera Central is the highest mountain range on the island. It includes Pico Duarte, the highest mountain in the Caribbean at a height of 3175m (over 10,000ft). Western influence can be seen in the numerous colonial buildings of the capital Santo Domingo while the African heritage, when the Spanish brought African slaves to the island, is reflected in its music. The popular song and dance, the merengue, blends both heritages and is celebrated in several festivals which draw large numbers of national and international musicians.
Passport/Visa
Passport/Visa
Passports
Passports valid for twice as long as the person will remain in the Dominican Republic required by all.
Note
These nationals will also require Tourist Cards, which may be purchased on arrival.
Tourist Cards
Issued to travellers visiting the Dominican Republic for touristic purposes for stays of up to two weeks. Tourist Cards can be applied for in advance at a cost of £8, or can be issued on arrival at a cost of US$10, though this can be a lengthy process. Extensions of up to three months are possible by visiting the Immigration Department in Santo Domingo; failure to do so will result in a surcharge at the airport upon departure. Nationals of the following countries are eligible for a Tourist Card: (a) 3. nationals of the countries mentioned in the chart above (except nationals of Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia, Malta and Slovak Republic, who do need a visa); (b) nationals of Andorra, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Croatia, Curaçao, Dominica, El Salvador, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Jamaica, Macedonia (Former Yugoslav Rep), Martinique, Mexico, Monaco, Norway, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, Reunion, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Maarten, St Vincent & the Grenadines, San Marino, Serbia & Montenegro, Surinam, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands, US Virgin Islands and Venezuela.(c) Nationals of Ukraine and Russia for a limited time.
Validity
30 days.
Application to
Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy); see Passport/visa information.
Application requirements
(a) Photocopy of the photo page of the passport, containing personal details of the applicant. (b) Fee, payable by postal order or bank draft. Applicant’s name and address must be written on the back. (c) Stamped, self-addressed A5 envelope for postal applications.Note: Some foreign nationals with permanent legal residency in countries such as the UK need to get a note from the Embassy of the Dominican Republic, and may then be able to travel visa-free.
Working days required
Seven if application made via the post.
Visas
Required by all except:(a) holders of a Tourist Card; (b) 4. nationals of Argentina, Chile, Japan, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Peru and Uruguay may enter the Dominican Republic without a visa or Tourist Card.
Note
In addition to a valid visa, nationals of China (PR) require an authorisation from the Director of the Migration/Immigration Department.
Types of visa and cost
Tourist (single entry): £100. Business (single entry): £170. There is no charge for visas for nationals of Italy, Mexico, Norway, Panama, Spain and the USA. Student: £60. (£30 (non-refundable) for each application form and the remainder is payable when the visa is approved.)
Validity
Tourist visas and single-entry business visas are valid for 60 days. Multiple-entry business visas are valid for up to one year.
Application to
Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy); see Passport/Visa information. Multiple entry visas can only be applied for once in the Dominican Republic.
Application requirements
(a) Passport, valid for at least four months from the date of application. (b) Completed application form. (c) Four passport-size photos. (d) Fee (payable by cash or postal order). (e) Three months of bank account statements, plus any other proof of sufficient funds. (f) Stamped, registered self-addressed envelope for postal applications. (g) Employer's or school's reference letter. Tourist: (a)-(g) and, (h) Flight itinerary and reservation. Business: (a)-(g) and, (h) Reference letter or letter of invitation from a company in the Dominican Republic. Student: (a)-(g) and, (h) Letter of request stating applicant's name, nationality and place of residence. (i) Acceptance letter from the university of centre of learning. (j) Certificate of good conduct or equivalent, issued no more than 30 days before application. (k) Certificate from the health authority of the applicant's country of residence.
Working days required
Two weeks. Approximately four weeks for visas which have to be referred to the authorities in the Dominican Republic, unless requested by fax (the cost of which must be paid by the applicant). In cases of emergency, documents may be processed in one working day. There is a £100 fee for this service.
Temporary residence
Consult the Consulate or Consular section at the Embassy; see Passport/Visa Information.
Passport/Visa Information
Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the UK139 Inverness Terrace, Bayswater, London, W2 6JF, UKTel: (020) 7727 6285.Website: www.dominicanembassy.org.ukOpening hours: Mon-Fri 1000-1400.Honorary Consulate of the Dominican Republic in the UK539 Martin's Building, 4 Water Street, Liverpool, L2 3SX, UKTel: (0151) 236 0722.Opening hours: Tues-Fri 0930-1230.Embassy and Consulate of the Dominican Republic in the USA1715 22nd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USATel: (202) 332 6280.Website: www.domrep.org
Public Holidays
Public Holidays
Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2006-June 2007 period.Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day. Jan 6 Epiphany. Jan 21 Our Lady of Altagracia. Jan 26 Duarte’s Birthday. Feb 27 Independence Day. Apr 14 Good Friday. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 15 Corpus Christi. Aug 16 Restoration Day. Sep 24 Our Lady of las Mercedes. Nov 6 Constitution Day. Dec 25 Christmas Day. Jan 1 2007 New Year’s Day. Jan 6 Epiphany. Jan 21 Our Lady of Altagracia. Jan 26 Duarte’s Birthday. Feb 27 Independence Day. Apr 6 Good Friday. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 7 Corpus Christi.
Resorts & Excursions
Introduction
Santo Domingo
The colonial part has been carefully restored to retain its original charm, and is home to the first university, cathedral and hospital built in the New World. The modern city of Santo Domingo, by contrast, is a thriving port city, equipped with discos, gambling casinos, shops and the Cultural Plaza , which houses the Gallery of Modern Art and the National Theatre. Just a few miles east of the city is a remarkable cave complex, Los Tres Ojos de Agua (The Three Eyes of Water), so-called because it contains three turquoise lagoons on three different levels, each fed by an underground river and surrounded by countless stalactites, stalagmites and lush tropical vegetation.
Southern Coast
To the west of Santo Domingo is San Cristóbal, where the first constitution was signed on 6 November 1844. It is probably the most visited city, particularly by those wishing to get a closer look at the historical sites linked to the life of Trujillo, the dictator who governed the country with an iron fist from 1930-61. In the church and Caves of Santa Maria, the patron saint’s day is celebrated with drums and dance rituals. One hour 45 minutes east of Santo Domingo is the city of La Romana, home to the understated elegance and graceful charm of the 7000-acre Casa de Campo resort, designed by Oscar de la Renta. Nestled within the resort is Altos de Chavón, a reconstructed 15th-century Mediterranean-style village of culture and art which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the tropical Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea. Altos de Chavón hosts major events in a 5000-seat Greek amphitheatre, built in the traditional design of Epidaurus. Near Punta Cana, is Manatí Park, a theme park which includes a zoo, gardens, a recreated Taino village and a variety of exotic animals, visitors have the opportunity to swim with dolphins. The popular destination of Barahona is a humid area with beautiful beaches of white sand. Cabritos Island, a national park in the centre of Lake Enriquillo, is the greatest preserve of the wild American Crocodile, large populations of flamingos and two species of iguana. Azúa de Compostela was founded in 1504 by Diego Velázquez, who later conquered Cuba. In particular, the ruins of the colonial city in Pueblo Viejo are well worth a visit.
Northern Coast
The Northern, or Amber Coast, is so-named because some of the most beautiful amber in the world is mined here. The Amber Museum houses a good display of amber pieces found in this area. Puerto Plata (the Silver Port) has some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean Islands. It was founded in 1504 and boasts colonial architecture. The Fort San Felipe was built in the 1600s by the Spanish to protect the settlement from pirates. The Atlantic coast of the country is renowned for its miles of unspoilt beaches that surround Puerto Plata, the most popular being Sosúa. Just 3km (2 miles) from the town is the Playa Dorada resort complex. Just outside, in Puerto Plata, is the Costambar Beach Resort, with 5km (3 miles) of beach. Mount Isabel de Torres features a cable car which climbs over 760m (2500ft) above sea level. The breathtaking view of the Atlantic and the port of Puerto Plata is well worth the seven-minute ride up to the top of the mountain. 10 sq km (4 sq miles) of botanical gardens can be explored here. Río San Juan is still an undeveloped area awaiting the adventurer to discover Playa Grande (with a few resorts under construction), the beautiful Playa El Caletón and the Gri-Gri lagoon. The Samaná Peninsula is located on the northern portion of the island, approximately two hours from Puerto Plata’s international airport. Samaná, with its transparent blue waters, miles of unspoilt beaches, and dozens of caves, is a romantic paradise. Other resorts include The Gran Bahía Beach Resort, Cayo Levantado and El Portillo Beach Club.
Sport & Activities
Baseball
This is not only the national sport, but also a national obsession, and even the smallest communities have floodlit stadiums. The centre of the country’s baseball is the industrial seaport of San Pedro de Macoris. Many Dominican players go on to play in the US major leagues. Juan Marichal, whose pitching exploits for the San Francisco Giants landed him a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame, is now the country’s Director of Sports. The professional winter season runs from October to January. Visitors should ask local people or look in the local paper for schedules and the nearest game.
Watersports
The opportunities for watersports in the Dominican Republic are excellent. Although some shores are rough and rocky, there are magnificent stretches of beach suitable for swimming. For scuba-diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, there is reef diving, good visibility, warm waters, wrecks, caverns and a rich marine life. Good dive sites include Sosúa (near Puerto Plata); Cabrera (freshwater cave diving with an underground lake); Las Terrenas; the Samaná peninsula; Punta Rucia (good for coral diving); La Caleta National Underwater Park (accessible by boat from Boca Chica); Catalina and Saona islands (accessible by boat from La Romana); and Barahona (an area currently being developed for ecotourism). Experienced divers can also join the North Caribbean Research Group and participate in a government-funded project to recover and remove artefacts from sunken ships, some dating back to the 16th century. Snorkelling and diving equipment can be borrowed or hired from dive operators and resort hotels. Small sailing craft are available through hotels in Santo Domingo and most other resorts in the country. Boat trips to the marine caves of the Gri Gri Lagoon near Sosúa are a popular tourist attraction. Hotels also organise charter boats for offshore fishing for marlin, sailfish, dorado, benittos and other game fish. River fishing in flat-bottomed boats with guides can be arranged at La Romana, Boca de Yuma and on the north coast. Windsurfing is particularly good at Sosuá, which also hosts the Professional Windsurfing Association World Cup.
Adventure sports
The Dominican Republic was quick to jump onto the adventure sports bandwagon and, hence, has well-developed facilities for the usual range of adrenalin-generating sports. Whitewater rafting is available on the Río Yaque del Norte in Jarabacoa. The best places for tubing, in which participants individually float down the rapids in oversized rubber tubes, are on the Río Jamao del Norte, the Río Yaque del Norte and the Río Isabela in Santo Domingo. Cascading involves climbing up to the top of a waterfall and rapelling down the cascade tied to a rope; the best places to do this are Cascada del Limón, Cascada Ojo de Agua, El Salto de Baiguate and El Salto de Jimenoa. Canyoning, which is cascading minus the rope (meaning that practitioners climb up a river gorge and then jump into the river below), is popular at La Madajagua in Imbert and the Jarabacoa area.
Trekking and hiking
The best places for trekking are Jarabacoa, the Constanza Valley, and the Nuevo Valley. Hiking and climbing enthusiasts may join the locals’ annual pilgrimage to the Caribbean’s highest mountain, the Pico Duarte (3210m/10,700ft), which they can conquer either on foot or by riding a mule. Similar tours can also be made at El Mogote, Mount Isabel de Torres, Pico Yaque and, in the southwest, the Sierra de Bahoruco.
Horse riding
Dominicans love horseriding and their country offers some of the best riding in the Caribbean. Regular polo games are held at Sierra Prieta in Santo Domingo and at Casa de Campo near La Romana, where guests can join in the twice-weekly competitions.
Golf
There are a number of golf clubs and golf courses on the island, many of which are bordered by the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. Following on from the 42nd Caribbean Golf Championships, which were held in the Dominican Republic in 1998, the country continues to actively promote itself as a major international golf destination. Some of the best courses can be found at Casa de Campo, Dientes de Perro (Teeth of the Dog), Gran Diablo Links (the planned location for the country’s first Golf Academy) Playa Dorada (designed by Robert Trent Jones), La Romana Country Club, and Santo Domingo Country Club. For more information, contact the Federation of Dominican Golf (FEDOGOLF), Aut. Duarte KM 201, Santo Domingo (tel: 231 4719 or 4720; website: www.golfdominicano.com).
Top Things To Do
Top things to do
• Join the locals in celebrating the patron saint’s day with drums and dance rituals in the church and Caves of Santa María. • Near Punta Cana, visit the Manatí Park, a theme park which includes a zoo, gardens, a recreated Taino village and a variety of exotic animals; visitors have the opportunity to swim with dolphins. • Alternatively, go to Cabritos Island, a national park in the centre of Lake Enriquillo, which is the greatest preserve of the wild American Crocodile, has large populations of flamingos and two species of iguana. • The Atlantic coast of the country is renowned for its miles of unspoilt beaches that surround Puerto Plata, the most popular being Sosúa. Windsurfing and diving are particularly good here. Boat trips to the marine caves of the Gri Gri Lagoon near Sosúa are a popular tourist attraction. Just 3km (2 miles) from Sosua is the Playa Dorada resort complex. Just outside, in Puerto Plata, is the Costambar Beach Resort, with 5km (3 miles) of beach. Río San Juan is a lovely resort town, which has not yet been reached by mass tourism. Discover Playa Grande (with a few resorts under construction) and the beautiful Playa El Caletón. • You can also dive in Cabrera (freshwater cave diving with an underground lake) and Las Terrenas; Punta Rucia (good for coral diving); La Caleta National Underwater Park (accessible by boat from Boca Chica); Catalina and Saona islands (accessible by boat from La Romana); and Barahona (an area currently being developed for ecotourism). Experienced divers can also join the North Caribbean Research Group and participate in a government-funded project to recover and remove artefacts from sunken ships, some dating back to the 16th century. Snorkelling and diving equipment can be borrowed or hired from dive operators and resort hotels. • The Samaná Peninsula is located on the northern portion of the island. Samaná, with its transparent blue waters, miles of unspoilt beaches, and dozens of caves, is a romantic paradise. Other resorts include The Gran Bahía Beach Resort, Cayo Levantado and El Portillo Beach Club. • Go offshore fishing for marlin, sailfish, dorado, bonito and other game fish. Hotels can organise charter boats for visitors. River fishing in flat-bottomed boats with guides can be arranged at Boca de Yuma and on the north coast. • Enjoy the understated elegance and graceful charm of the 2800-hectare (7000-acre) Casa de Campo resort, designed by Oscar de la Renta in the city of La Romana. Nestled within the resort is Altos de Chavón, a reconstructed 15th-century Mediterranean-style village of culture and art which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the tropical Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea. Here, you can attend an event in a 5000-seat Greek amphitheatre, built in the traditional design of Epidaurus. • Whitewater rafting is available on the Río Yaque del Norte in Jarabacoa. The best places for tubing, in which participants individually float down the rapids in oversized rubber tubes, are on the Río Jamao del Norte, the Río Yaque del Norte and the Río Isabela in Santo Domingo. • Cascading involves climbing up to the top of a waterfall and rapelling down the cascade tied to a rope; the best places to do this are Cascada del Limón, Cascada Ojo de Agua, El Salto de Baiguate and El Salto de Jimenoa. •
Hiking and climbing enthusiasts may join the locals’ annual pilgrimage to the Caribbean’s highest mountain, the Pico Duarte (3210m/10,700ft), which they can conquer either on foot or by riding a mule. Similar tours can also be made at El Mogote, Mount Isabel de Torres, Pico Yaque and, in the southwest, the Sierra de Bahoruco.• Watch a game of baseball, which is not only the national sport, but also a national obsession, and even the smallest communities have floodlit stadiums. The centre of the country’s baseball is the industrial seaport of San Pedro de Macoris. The professional winter season runs from October to January. Visitors should ask local people or look in the local paper for schedules and the nearest game.• Following on from the 42nd Caribbean Golf Championships, which were held in the Dominican Republic in 1998, the country continues to actively promote itself as a major international golf destination. Some of the best courses can be found at Casa de Campo, Dientes de Perro (Teeth of the Dog), Gran Diablo Links, Playa Dorada (designed by Robert Trent Jones), La Romana Country Club, and Santo Domingo Country Club. For more information, contact the Federation of Dominican Golf (FEDOGOLF), Aut. Duarte KM 201, Santo Domingo (tel: 231 4719 or 4720; website: www.golfdominicano.com).
Tourist Information
Secretaría de Estado de Turismo (Ministry of Tourism)Street address: Avenida México esq, 30 de Marzo, Oficinas Gubernanentales Bloque B, Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicPostal address: Apdo 497, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Tel: 221 4660. Website: www.dominicana.com.do Dominican Republic Tourist Board in the UK18-21 Hand Court, High Holborn, London WC1V 6JF, UK Tel: (020) 7242 7778. Website: www.dominicanrepublic.com Caribbean Tourism Organisation in the UK22 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BP, UKTel: (020) 8948 0057.Website: www.caribbean.co.uk Dominican Republic Tourist Board in the USA136 East 57th Street, Suite 803, New York, NY 10022, USA Tel: (212) 588 1012. Website: www.dominicanrepublic.com
Top Things To See
Top things to see
• Appreciate the charm of colonial Santo Domingo, which is home to the first university, cathedral and hospital built in the New World. The modern city of Santo Domingo, by contrast, is a thriving port city, equipped with discos, gambling casinos, shops and the Cultural Plaza , which houses the Gallery of Modern Art and the National Theatre. • Just a few miles east of the city is a remarkable cave complex, Los Tres Ojos de Agua (The Three Eyes of Water), so-called because it contains three turquoise lagoons on three different levels, each fed by an underground river and surrounded by countless stalactites, stalagmites and lush tropical vegetation.• To the west of Santo Domingo is San Cristóbal, where the first constitution was signed on 6 November 1844. It features historical sites linked to the life of Trujillo, the dictator who governed the country with an iron fist from 1930-61. • Stop at the ruins of the colonial city in Pueblo Viejo. • The Amber Coast (northern coast) is so-named because some of the most beautiful amber in the world is mined here. The Amber Museum houses a good display of amber pieces found in this area. • Pay a visit to Fort San Felipe, built in the 1600s by the Spanish to protect the settlement from pirates.• Discover colonial architecture in Puerto Plata (the Silver Port) founded in 1504. • See beathtaking views of the Atlantic and the port of Puerto Plata from Mount Isabel de Torres where a cable car climbs over 760m (2500ft) above sea level. Ten sq km (4 sq miles) of botanical gardens can also be explored here.
Tourist Information
Secretaría de Estado de Turismo (Ministry of Tourism)Street address: Avenida México esq, 30 de Marzo, Oficinas Gubernanentales Bloque B, Santo Domingo, Dominican RepublicPostal address: Apdo 497, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Tel: 221 4660. Website: www.dominicana.com.do Dominican Republic Tourist Board in the UK18-21 Hand Court, High Holborn, London WC1V 6JF, UK Tel: (020) 7242 7778. Website: www.dominicanrepublic.com Caribbean Tourism Organisation in the UK22 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BP, UKTel: (020) 8948 0057.Website: www.caribbean.co.uk Dominican Republic Tourist Board in the USA136 East 57th Street, Suite 803, New York, NY 10022, USA Tel: (212) 588 1012. Website: www.dominicanrepublic.com
Travel - Internal
Air
There are regular flights between Santo Domingo, Santiago, Samaná, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata by Air Santo Domingo. Planes may also be chartered. For more information, contact the airline directly.
Road
Traffic drives on the right. There is a reasonable network of roads, including the Sanchez Highway running westwards from Santo Domingo to Elias Pina on the Haitian frontier; the Mella Highway extending eastwards from Santo Domingo to Higuey in the southeast and the Duarte Highway running north and west from Santo Domingo to Santiago and to Monte Cristi on the northwest coast. Not all roads in the Dominican Republic are all-weather and 4-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for wet weather. Checkpoints near military installations are ubiquitous, though no serious difficulties have been reported (those near the Haitian border are most likely to be sensitive). The speed limit is up to 60kph (38mph) in cities and 80-100kph (50-63mph) on motorways. Driving at night is not recommended because of poor lighting and and signage. Keep doors and windows locked at all times and, legally, seatbelts are required to be worn. Bus: Cheap and efficient air-conditioned bus and coach services run from the capital to other major towns. Taxi: Travellers are recommended to hire tourist taxis or radio taxis that can be arranged in advance. Avoid unmarked taxis. Car hire: There are several car hire companies in Santo Domingo. Minimum age for car hire is 25. A credit card is required for car hire transactions. Insurance is compulsory. Documentation: A national or International Driving Permit is accepted, but is only valid for 90 days.
Urban
Santo Domingo has flat-fare bus and minibus services, and an estimated 7000 share-taxis called Carro de Conchos. These operate a 24-hour service in Santo Domingo, Santiago and Puerto Plata. Hotel taxis are also available. In old Santo Domingo, the streets are narrow with blind corners, so care should be taken, particularly as Dominican drivers have a tendency to use their horns rather than their brakes. Horse-drawn carriages are available for rent in tourist areas for tours around parks and plazas.
Travel times
The following chart gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from Santo Domingo to other major cities and towns in the Dominican Republic.AirRoadPuerto Plata0.453.15Samaná0.353.30La Romana0.253.30Barahona-3.30
Travel - International
Air
The Dominican Republic’s national airline is Air Santo Domingo (EX). American Airlines offers daily flights from London via Miami. Direct flights from the USA are operated by American Airlines (from New York) and Continental Airlines (from New Jersey). Iberia operates every day to Santo Domingo via Madrid. Other airlines operating flights from Europe are Air Canada, Air France, Air Martinique, British Airways, BMI, Condor, Martinair, Spanair and Virgin Atlantic.
Approximate flight times
From London to Santo Domingo is 11 hours (including stopover).
Main airports
Santo Domingo (SDQ) (Internacional de las Américas), 18km (11 miles) east of the city (travel time – 30 minutes). To/from the airport: Taxi services are available to Santo Domingo. Facilities: Outgoing duty free shop, post office, bank/bureau de change, restaurants, bars and car hire. Puerto Plata International Airport (POP) (Internacional General Gregorio Luperón). Facilities: Outgoing duty free shop, banking and exchange facilities, gift shop, post office, restaurant, bar and car hire.Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is 10 to 30 minutes’ travel time from the Punta Cana and Bávaro resorts. Facilities: Gift shops, duty free shop and taxi.
Departure tax
US$20 for a stay of up to two weeks and US$25 for more than two weeks. Passengers in direct transit and children under two years of age are exempt. A ‘stay tax’ is also levied on all passengers staying longer than three months: DOP60.48 (three to nine months); DOP100.80 (nine to 12 months) or DOP160.16 - DOP600.32 (one year or more).
Note
When buying an international air ticket in the Dominican Republic a tax of approximately 12 per cent is levied on the carrier by the Government. This expense is passed on directly to the customer on the price of the ticket. If the ticket is bought outside the Dominican Republic, there is no tax.
Sea
Cruise lines calling at the Dominican Republic include Holland America, Seabourn and Windjammer.
Road
There are three routes from Haiti: on the road from Port-au-Prince to Santo Domingo at Jimaní/Malpasse; on the road from Cap-Haitian to Santiago at Dajabón/Ouanaminthe; and a third route near the centre of the island at Elías Pinâ/Belladere. The borders are open from 0800-1600.
Travel Advice
Most visits to the Dominican Republic are trouble-free but there has been an increase in violent crime. Travellers should also should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice: British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Tel: (0845) 850 2829. Website: www.fco.gov.uk US Department of State Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
