Dominican Republic

Transcription

Dominican Republic

The
Dominican
Republic
The Nolitours & Transat Holidays
Guide to
All the
Hot Spots
Plus:
Beaches Sports
Dining
Nature
A Destination Guide Supplement To The March 2011 Issue Of
VACATIONS ARE SACRED
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you step aboard. With unsurpassed on-time performance and the best aircraft reliability in Canada, you can depend
on us to get you to Punta Cana, Samana, La Romana and Puerto Plata as quickly and as comfortably as possible.
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Punta Cana
la romana
Samana
With more than 20 years’ experience in this idylic
destination, Nolitours and Transat Holidays are proud
to show you their Dominican Republic. We offer direct
flights to Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Samana and
La Romana, along with a world of choices, resorts and
excursions. Play golf with your friends, soak up some
rays on a stunning beach, go mountain biking or explore
Santo Domingo’s historic streets. Whatever your tastes
and needs, we have the resort that’s right for you.
For more details or to book, contact your
travel agent.
Puerto Plata
ParadiSe.
by nolitourS and
tranSat HolidayS.
The
Dominican
Republic
Beaches 101
6
The DR Au Naturel
23
La Romana In A Week
8
History Lives In Santo Domingo
24
A Puerto Plata Planner
12
Cultural Treasures
27
The Big Trip: Punta Cana
16
I Do In The DR
28
Samana: From The
Rainforest To The Coastline
Delicious DR
29
20
The Sporting DR
30
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE MARCH 2011 ISSUE OF CANADIAN TRAVELLER
Published 12 times a year by
Written by: Josephine Matyas
Cover Photo Credit: Dominican Republic Tourist Board
Printed in Canada
Contents © 2011 by ACT Communications Inc.
All Rights Reserved. ISBN 1207-1463
201-2080 Hartley Avenue
Coquitlam, BC Canada V3K 6W5
Tel: (604) 699-9990
Fax: (604) 699-9993
25 Canadian Traveller
MARCH 2011
Dominican Republic
© 2011 PRO RD S.A. (dr1.com)
The Nolitours & Transat Holidays
Guide to
5
A beach is a beach is a beach, right? Not so fast.
While northerners love to travel to the warm
Dominican Republic to escape the snow and ice,
the exact beach destination they choose requires
a bit of fine-tuning.
Nolitours & Transat Holidays
Dominican Republic Tourism Board
Beaches
101
Dominican Republic
Isla Saona, La Romana
6
Most vacationers head here – to the
booming tourist enclaves at Playa Dorada,
Sosua and Cabarete.
The massive resort complexes at Playa
Dorada (just east of Puerto Plata) make it
the major destination for package tours.
The beautiful beaches are busy, dominated
by resort-run activities and services.
Sosua has experienced a boom in
MARCH 2011
in the day are a magnet for the experts.
Indulge in great people watching at
Kite Beach.
Samaná Peninsula
The peninsula is a thin strip of land
jutting out into the green-blue Atlantic
Ocean, lined by a coastline of powderywhite sand beaches. Samaná has a
peaceful, timeless ambience compared
to the bustle surrounding Puerto Plata to
the west. The stunning horseshoe-
Canadian Traveller 26
Pu nTA Cana
days
The North Coast
development, from quiet fishing
village to magnet for tourists from
around the world. It has a pretty,
Sam ana
golden-sand beach and is known
as one of the best diving and
shaped Playa Rincón is known for the soft
snorkelling sites along the North Coast.
sands and thick grove of coconut palms.
Cabarete has been made famous by
Whale-watching has become a major
its winds, waves and watersports (it’s the
tourist draw – between January and March
kiteboarding and windsurfing capital of the
thousands of visitors come to watch the
hemisphere). The conditions are ideal for
giants of the ocean that have migrated to
the sports: calm winds in the morning for
their wintering grounds.
beginners, more challenging trade winds later
Nolitours & Transat Holi
Dominican Republic
In a country like the Dominican Republic – with
almost 1,300 kilometres of shoreline – there are
beaches to fit every vacation style. Yes, all are gorgeous (wiggle your toes in the warm sand, take a
dip in the blue ocean waters). Each beach region
has its own character, flair and best use. Looking
for awesome waves to do some kiteboarding?
Snorkelling a shallow coral reef on the vacation
menu? The Dominican can deliver on all counts;
but the end destinations are different.
We’re making it easy. Here’s an idea of
what you’ll find at the gorgeous beach areas
in the Dominican Republic:
nsat Holidays
Nolitours & Tra
days
Nolitours & Transat Holi
Pu erto Plata
The white sand beach at Cayo
Levantado might look familiar – it
ISL A SAONA
was used as the slice of paradise
featured in the original Bacardi Island
The town of Las Terrenas may be known
advertisements. The picture-perfect island
for its shops and restaurants, but it is also
still attracts plenty of beachgoers (access by
known for the golden sand of its nearby
boat from Samaná) to its trademark beaches
beaches. Playa Las Ballenas is a good spot
and its calm, shallow turquoise waters.
for snorkellers and divers to explore an
offshore shipwreck. Playa Bonita
Cayo Are ana
and Playa Cosón have the
same beautiful, golden sand,
but are a little less crowded.
The Southeast
A draw of this area is the
long curve of palm-lined
beach, anchored at either
end by the resort towns of
Bávaro and Punta Cana. It’s a
busy area (popular on spring
break and with families)
known for large resort complexes with a
dizzying choice of entertainment and sports
options. The 50-kilometre stretch of Playa
Punta Cana and Playa Bávaro is one of the
finest stretches of sand in the country. The
conditions for windsurfing and surfing here
are close to ideal.
Further to the south, the beaches at La
Romana and Playa Bayahibe border on the
Caribbean Sea. A very popular day trip from
Punta Cana or La Romana is to the quiet,
remote Isla Saona; an island of near-perfect
coconut tree-lined beachfront that is part of
one of the national parks. b
MARCH 2011
Dominican Republic
Pue rto Plata
7
Dominican Republic
La Romana
In A Week
It’s a little quieter on the south coast of the Dominican Republic.
Mass tourism has made its mark; but the sea is a little calmer
here, the pace is dialed down a notch and despite making it
onto the main tourist radar, the village of La
Romana still exudes a unique, peaceful charm.
In days gone by, La Romana was a sugar mill
town but nowadays tourism sits front and centre, although sugar production and cigar manufacturing still contribute to the local economy.
8
Teeth of the Dog,
Casa de Campo.
Dominican Republic
Kayaking, Rio Chavon.
MARCH 2011
Not far down the road is the seaside
fishing village of Bayahibe, a convenient
departure point for nature lovers who
want to visit the Parque Nacional del Este
and its tranquil islands of Catalina, Saona
and Catalinita. The village is known for a
slow pace of life and as an access point to
the ecotourism attractions on the islands
and the national park, as well as for some
of the country’s best coral reef sites.
Sunday
Stash your bags at one of the area’s
fantastic resorts and call for tee off
times at the luxurious Casa de Campo
resort. Golfers come from all over the
world to play the classic Teeth of the
Dog course, considered by legendary
golf course designer Pete Dye to be his
finest work.
Another world-class course on
every golf aficionado’s must-do list is
Dominican
Republic To
urism Boar
d
Altos de Chavon
Río Chavón and the Altos de Chavón
artists’ village.
Monday
Stake out a spot on the beach and
watch the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
Enjoy a stroll along the long, palmfringed sandy crescent of Playa
Dominicus just a few kilometres east
of Bayahibe. The waters are calm and
clear here, so it’s perfect for swimming
and snorkelling. The beaches in the
Cueva de las
Maravillas.
Dominican Republic
The Links, also designed by Dye. The
challenging inland layout is reminiscent
of traditional British and Scottish
courses, with its rolling hills and the
water of lagoons and lakes coming into
play on five holes.
Another option is a third Pete Dyedesigned course – the challenging
Dye Fore is the newest of the three
courses at Casa de Campo. This course
is known for its spectacular views of
the Caribbean Sea, the mountains,
e
Bayahib
MARCH 2011
9
Dominican Republic
Bayahibe area have been certified as Blue
Flag, an ecolabel that guarantees the
cleanliness of the water and the sustainable
development practices of the area.
Tuesday
Unleash your shopping side at Altos de
Chavón, one of the most visited tourist spots
in the southeast part of the country. One
would not expect to find a recreated 16thcentury Mediterranean-style village perched
above the Río Chavón, but visitors flock here
to stroll the cobblestone streets, exploring
the artists’ studios, galleries and boutiques
for original artwork, hand-crafted jewelry
and high quality handicrafts.
Then head west along the coastline to
explore a more ancient style of art at Cueva
de las Maravillas (the name means Cave
of Wonder). This protected area contains
a beehive of limestone caves, with some
of the best-preserved Taíno rock art in
the Caribbean. There are more than 500
pictograms and petroglyphs, most dating
back thousands of years. The guided tours
and museum quality presentation make a
visit to the caves one of the best outings in
the La Romana region.
Wednesday
Leave the resort behind and spend the day
reconnecting with nature in the Parque
Nacional del Este, one of the country’s
protected national parks described by
UNESCO as “one of the largest pristine
marine and coastal environments in the
Santa Rosa de Lima or walk a block to shop
at the town’s outdoor market for souvenirs
and handicrafts.
In La Romana, visit the Tabacalera de
Garcia and take a guided tour led by a cigar
education specialist. The facility is the largest
handmade cigar factory in the world and
visitors get an up-close look at the processes
of bunching, rolling, aging and packaging.
In the winter months, baseball is in full
swing at the Michelin Baseball Stadium,
home to the local team, Los Toros del Este.
Saturday
One more chance to play in the ocean
waters, this time a little further off the
beaten path. Shuttle boats and ferry service
go to the uninhabited Isla Catalina (it’s part
of the Parque Nacional del Este), just two
kilometres off the coast of La Romana.
Catalina’s offshore shallow coral reefs are
perfect for snorkellers and beginner divers.
Experienced scuba divers are drawn to the
dramatic dive site called The Wall, where
colourful sea fans, sponges, coral and
fish can be spotted along the dramatically
plunging rock face.
Also within the protected boundary of
the national park is the small Isla Saona, a
picture-perfect spot of white-powder sand
and swaying palm trees at the juncture
of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean
Sea. The island is an ecotourist’s dream:
exotic birds, turtles, bottlenose dolphins,
sharks, whales and the endangered West
Indian manatee make their home here. Just
offshore are coral reefs filled with sponges,
coral and brightly-hued fish. Most excursions
to Isla Saona leave from Bayahibe.b
Thursday
Anglers, nature lovers and photographers
should plan for an early start to the day
if they want to float down the scenic Río
Chavón (the lush setting has been used as
a backdrop in several feature films). A day
on the water passes through mangroves
and tropical rainforest. Guides, boats and
equipment can all be booked.
Friday
Make your way into La Romana to do a little
people watching in the shade of the green
and tidy Parque Central. From there,
cross the street and visit the
historic Iglesia de
Isla Saona, Parque
Nacional del Este.
Caribbean.” Birding is popular here – 112
species have been spotted inside the park’s
boundaries, including the rare Hispaniolan
parrot and the magnificent frigate bird.
Four species of sea turtles use the park’s
beaches as nesting sites. Manatees,
bottlenose dolphins, numerous fish species
and an immense coral reef system live in the
offshore waters.
The park also protects the past of the
Taíno people; the Amerindians encountered
by Columbus when he first visited the island.
Archaeological ruins, ancient burial sites
and limestone caves with a treasure trove of
exquisite rock art have all been discovered
within the national park.
Just off the eastern shore of the park is a
small, uninhabited island that lies within the
park’s protected boundaries. Isla Catalinita is
very popular with snorkellers and divers who
want pristine coral reefs and a good chance
of spotting sharks, eagle rays and sea turtles.
Tour operators offer day trips to the islands
of the national park.
Dominican Republic
Tabacal era de Garcia .
10
MARCH 2011
Dominican Republic
A
Puerto
Plata
Primer
As planeloads of winter-weary Canadians head south for a mid-winter break, there’s a good chance
that they’re headed for the airport at Puerto Plata, one of the budget destination capitals of the
Caribbean. To be more precise, they are almost certainly headed for one of the all-inclusive resorts
at Playa Dorada, a massive gated resort complex on a long stretch of golden sand beach just minutes
east of Puerto Plata. From a tourism perspective, Puerto Plata and Playa Dorada is one region.
Republic To
MARCH 2011
Dominican
12
urism Board
Dominican Republic
Fort of San
Felipe.
For History & Culture Buffs
This is the place for people who crave long stretches
of golden sand and the lure of high adrenaline
watersports. The coast of Puerto Plata and Playa
Dorada catches the trade winds of the Atlantic
Ocean. At nearby Cabarete, the ideal wind and
water conditions have garnered it the reputation
of “windsports capital of the world.” Both Playa
Cabarete and Kite Beach attract windsurfers,
kiteboarders and traditional board surfers. What
was once a sleepy little town has exploded onto the
world scene as a busy sports centre, lined with bars,
restaurants, souvenir shops and tour operators.
The calmer waters at Playa Dorada are protected
by offshore reefs, and are a better choice for those
looking for a beach chair, a good book, and the
occasional dip into the blue-green waters. Non-guests
wanting to use the facilities of the resort complex can
purchase a day pass. The 14 resorts of Playa Dorada
feature shopping, nightlife and casinos, restaurants
and bars, horseback riding, tennis, movies and golf.
Just east of Puerto Plata, the village of Sosua is known
for its calm, clear turquoise waters. Sosua is a popular
destination for swimming, snorkelling and glass bottom
boat tours of the reefs. Experienced divers come for the
wreck of a cargo ship and a dramatic reef wall, home to
numerous fish, sponges and corals.
At Ocean World Adventure Park in nearby Playa
Cofresí, visitors learn about the ocean and have the
chance to get up close to dolphins, sea lions, sharks,
stingrays and exotic tropical birds. The marine park
features the largest man-made dolphin habitat in the
world, a bird sanctuary, a coral reef aquarium and
dozens of interactive animal programs each day. The
Ocean World complex also contains a world-class
marina and aquatic-themed casino.
For Adventure Seekers
Just a half-hour from Puerto Plata, the beautiful
Waterfalls of Damajuagua is a popular excursion for
canyoning and cascading. These popular adventure
sports involve climbing a series of waterfalls, then
jumping off cliffs or sliding down water chutes to
get back to the bottom. The cascading course at
Damajuagua has a staggering 27 waterfalls.
Tourism Board
Dominican Republic
Cabarete.
In the times of Columbus, pretty Puerto Plata was a
major port for ships heading from the New World to
Spain laden with a cargo of silver (the name means
“port of silver”). The historic heart of the Old City is
the charming Parque Central Independencia, a town
square bordered by grand Victorian buildings that
were once homes to wealthy landowners and trade
merchants. The park is a popular stop on most city
tours; many of the stately Victorian buildings have
been restored and are now home to the City Hall
and Palace of Justice. Close to the park is the unique
two-steepled church, Iglesia San Felipe, known for its
stunning Italian stained glass windows.
The compact Old City is easy to navigate on
foot – especially the spacious Malecón, the seaside
boardwalk that is the centre of the city’s social life.
When the sun goes down, bars, restaurants and
food stalls along the Malecón bring energy to this
part of town.
Just a few steps from the Old City is the Dominican
Amber Museum with its unique collection of amber
pieces. Included in the displays are leaves, ants, wasps
and a perfectly preserved lizard, all caught in pieces of
clear, golden amber.
The city’s last remaining colonial structure is the
16th-century Fort of San Felipe, built by the Spaniards
on the waterfront to fend off pirates and attacks from
the sea. Today it houses a small museum.
Rising behind the city is Isabel de Torres Peak.
Visitors take a popular trip by aerial cable car to
magnificent views from the top, a botanical garden,
and to the Christ the Redeemer statue (a scaled-down
version of the one in Brazil).
Puerto Plata is also the cultural centre of the North
Coast. The area hosts both the annual Dominican
Jazz Festival (each November) and the lively Carnival
celebration, a tradition inherited from the Spanish
forefathers (February and March).
For Sand & Surf Aficionados
Brugal Rum
Factory
Aerial cabl e car , Isabel de
Dominican Republic
Luckily, this area has got it all: history, watersports,
food, music, nightlife and the beautiful beaches that the
Dominican Republic is known for. The dizzying selection
can be a bit overwhelming. Point clients in the right direction using our Puerto Plata Primer.
Torr es Peak .
MARCH 2011
13
Dominican Republic
Ten platforms plus eight strong cables equals a
major adrenaline rush at the zip lining course at Yasika
Adventures, just 30 minutes outside of Puerto Plata.
With the proper equipment, flying through the air along
a zip line is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For Golfers
Eighteen glorious holes of challenging golf at the Playa
Dorada Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.,
wrap around the Playa Dorada resort complex and
along the coast.
Just east of Puerto Plata (close to Rio San Juan) the
Playa Grande course – also designed by the legendary
Robert Trent Jones Sr. – has been described as “the
Pebble Beach of the Caribbean.” With 10 of the
18 holes played along the ocean, dramatic cliff-side
fairways and wide open vistas, this course provides
a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
For Shopaholics
With a backdrop of mountains on one side and
turquoise waters on the other, Puerto Plata abounds
in jaw-dropping natural beauty. And from small
local markets to the larger shopping complexes at
Playa Dorada, the area’s shopping destinations offer
spectacular sights as well.
The famous amber of the Dominican Republic can be
found at the gift shop at the Amber Museum, at small
shops in the Old City and in boutiques in Playa Dorada.
The region around Puerto Plata contains among the
largest deposits of amber in the world.
From Monday through Saturday, the Mercado Nuevo
is a local market bursting with Dominican and Haitian
art, island rum, cigars, bottles of vanilla, tropical fruit
marmalades and souvenir handicrafts.
The Playa Dorada Plaza is a must-stop for serious
shoppers. The 80-store shopping district includes shops
specializing in jewelry and amber, fine fashion, gifts and
specialty foods.
In Puerto Plata, the popular Brugal Rum Factory
Tour guides visitors through the process of making the
island’s signature liquor. Tours are followed by a tasting
time and a chance to shop for the distillery’s products.
A stroll along the beach usually involves chances
to stop at the many beachfront stalls that sell local
snacks, handicrafts and souvenirs. Besides getting a
shopping “fix,” it’s a wonderful way to interact
with the locals. b
sunset
Wat erfalls of Da
ma jagua .
14
d
MARCH 2011
Boar
Dominican Republic Tourism
Dominican Republic
Dom inican Amber Mus eum .
Dominican Republic
The
Big Trip
Punta Cana
16
MARCH 2011
Dominican Re
Nolitours & Transat Hol
Dominican Republic
Ecological
excursions
idays
public Tourism
Board
Once just a quiet spot on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, the towns of
Punta Cana and Bávaro have exploded into a resort zone of all-inclusive properties that cater to honeymooners, families and spring breakers looking for
sports by day and exciting nightlife after the sun goes down. In
a word, there’s a lot to do here.
Div ing c
oral r e
e fs .
Punta Cana and Bávaro sit at either end of a
long stretch of coconut palm-lined sand. The
sugar-white beaches are considered to be
the best in the country; the natural beauty
and clear waters have earned the area the
reputation as a true tropical playground.
Together, the two towns and the resorts
between form the tourist region known as
Punta Cana.
Selling paradise in a place like this is the
easy part of the equation. With a little extra
knowledge it’s possible to recommend the
perfect activity fit for every traveller.
An Adult Getaway
Punta Cana is home to many luxury worldclass resorts that rate service and amenities
as keys to the ultimate vacation experience.
This is especially true when choosing a spot
for a destination wedding or honeymoon.
Many properties offer wedding and free
honeymoon packages. Some welcome
guests 18 years of age and older only. Luxury
services, spa, casino, boutique shopping and
golf are some of the more popular amenities
at adults-only resorts.
Relaxation is the name of the game on
a catamaran cruise along the Punta Cana
coastline. Different cruises have different
themes: a sunset cruise or a snorkelling
expedition; many are billed as “party boats”
for the open bar and non-stop music on board.
Family Time
Mile for mile, the coastline resorts of
Punta Cana offer some of the most
concentrated family-friendly settings and
activities on the island. Many all-inclusive
properties offer specials where kids “stay
and eat free.” Playgrounds, Kids’ Clubs,
Teen Clubs, children’s pools and babysitting
services translate to a happier time for
all family members.
Getting up close and personal with the
tropical wildlife is a favourite vacation
activity for both adults and children. Animal
Adventure Park (near Cabeza de Toro
beach) is designed
for the younger set – encounters with sea
lions, sharks, stingrays, parrots and turtles.
The Marinarium Marine Park offers half-day
cruises on a glassbottom catamaran, visits to
a coral reef area and the chance to snorkel
with stingrays and nurse sharks.
Bavaro Runners operates a exciting ziplining adventure (for age six and over) where
kids (and their parents) can screw up their
courage and step up to challenge of “flying”
through the air from one canopy platform to
the next through the lush, tropical greenery
of a subtropical forest.
All major resort hotels offer jeep safari
tours that explore the countryside outside of
the resort zone. Trips head to jungle terrain,
a sugarcane plantation and remote beaches,
with stops at small villages (including
perusing the shelves at a local grocery store
and stopping for a cup of home-brewed
Dominican coffee).
Sustainability Is In Season
Kick off an ecotour with a visit to the
Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve,
600 protected hectares of lush, verdant,
subtropical forest known for its lagoon
swims, biodiversity, guided and self-guided
tours. The park is a natural refuge for local
flora, insects and wildlife.
A new Segway off-road ecotour is
transforming beachfront exploration. The
electric-powered, two-wheel self-balancing
vehicle has been designed to cover all
terrains – from sandy beach to rougher offroad tracks.
Punta Cana serves as a home base for
ecological excursions to nearby attractions
that are keeping sustainability at the
forefront. A daylong tour to Playa Limón
near Miches is definitely off the beaten
track, but adventuresome trekkers are
rewarded with unspoiled beaches lined with
coconut groves, waterfalls, birdwatching
and a sense of peace. In the springtime,
turtles use the beach at Playa Limón to come
ashore and nest. Full day excursions depart
from Punta Cana to Parque Nacional Los
Haitises, a national reserve of mangroves,
Family
fun.
Nolitours
Nolitours & Transit
& Transit Ho
lidays
Dominican Republic
Punta Cana’s challenging courses.
Holidays
MARCH 2011
17
Dominican Republic
Parque Nacional
Los Haitises.
estuaries, bays and coves. The national
reserve is memorable for its rugged
topography, 700 species of plants that thrive
in the subtropical forest, 100 species of birds
(including the rare Hispaniolan parrot) and
the tortoises and manatees that live in the
mangrove system. The extensive limestone
cave system is a bonanza for budding
archaeologists who will be wowed by the
pictographs and petroglyphs left by the
ancient Taíno tribe.
Land & Sea Sports
The most popular excursion taken by visitors
to Punta Cana is by boat to the pristine
Isla Saona, a small, undeveloped island
with gorgeous beaches that are part of
the protected Parque Nacional del Este.
The island sits at
the juncture of the
Atlantic Ocean and
the Caribbean Sea, making for dramatic
scenery and rich biodiversity. The island’s
lagoons and mangroves are breeding and
nesting ground for flamingos, pelicans and
parrots. The coral reefs that fringe the island
are popular diving and snorkelling sites.
Sports fishermen know Punta Cana by
reputation: from March to July, white marlin
arrive in large numbers just a few kilometres
offshore; waters are calmer through the winter
months when fishing for barracuda, mahimahi and Atlantic sailfish move into full gear.
Near perfect year-round weather and a
large number of well-groomed courses has
positioned Punta Cana as one of the most
popular golf destinations in the Caribbean.
Golf’s most dedicated players can choose
from a dozen world-class, 18-hole courses,
including layouts designed
by Jack Nicklaus, Pete B. Dye and Tom
Fazio. The La Cana Golf Course (a Pete B.
Dye design with 14 oceanview holes) at
the luxury PUNTACANA Resort was named
“the number one course in the Caribbean”
by Golf Magazine. Built on the site of an
old coconut plantation, the challenging
Cocotal Golf Course (designed by six-time
Spanish champion Jose “Pepe” Gancedo)
follows the natural ups and downs of the
gently rolling landscape. Dramatic cliffs and
crashing ocean waves provide the backdrop
at the Faldo Legacy course at the Roko Ki
Golf Club. The strategically challenging,
18-hole course includes one of the most
dramatic golf holes in the Caribbean – the
spectacular 18th hole named Los Dos Rezos
(the Two Prayers) where the play is over two
ocean inlets. Numerous golf publications
have named Faldo Legacy as one of the top
courses in the world. b
Dominican Republic
Parque Nacional del Est.
18
Dominican Republic Tourism
MARCH 2011
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Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic
Samaná:
From The
Rainforest
To The
Coastline
20
Parque Nacional Los Haitises.
On the Samaná Peninsula, nature occurs in the drama of green, jungle-draped mountainsides,
the sensuous curve of a perfect powder-white beach, the sight of a mother whale and her calf
frolicking in the deep ocean waters. These are the images that first-time visitors take home
from Samaná, inspiring them to return again and again.
MARCH 2011
The Samaná Peninsula is a thin strip of land
in the northeast part of the Dominican
Republic, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on
one side and the Bahía de Samaná on the
other. Considered by some to be the prettiest
part of the island, it is Samaná’s extraordinary
diversity in geography – romantic beaches,
rainforest, waterfalls, mangroves – that
makes it an attractive choice for the more
independent-minded traveller. For those that
want to get out and explore the tropical
landscape, Samaná is the perfect destination.
The peninsula is easily explored with more
than enough to keep ecotourists and sports
enthusiasts occupied for a weeklong stay.
Use one of these three towns as a base.
Each has got its own style and flavour, as well
as access to attractions and destinations to
please every nature lover.
Santa Bárbara de Samaná
Known commonly as Samaná, this pretty little
harbour town sits on the Caribbean side of
the peninsula. With its winding streets and
wide restaurant-lined Malecón (the seaside
boardwalk that leads to the port), Samaná is
easily explored on foot. Visitors staying at the
nearby all-inclusive resorts use the town as a
departure point for whale-watching excursions
and daytrips to some of the small islands.
The biggest tourism event in Samaná
is definitely the arrival of the magnificent
humpback whales. Every winter (peak season
is January through March), these giants of the
deep migrate by the thousands to the warm
waters around the peninsula, an important
sanctuary for them to breed and calve. The
World Wildlife Fund has ranked Bahía de
Samaná as one of the best places in the world
to observe the humpbacks. Whale-watching
tours depart from the town’s waterfront – it
is important to choose a tour company that
adheres to the whale-watching regulations
designed to protect these mammals.
Boats also depart from Samaná for daytrips
to the very picturesque Cayo Levantado, the
original island photographed in the Bacardi
Island rum campaign. The small island is
made of a protruding coral reef and is a very
popular destination for tourists looking for
the quintessential white sand beach ringed by
calm, shallow turquoise waters. At one time
Cayo Levantado
was completely off
the tourist radar,
but construction
has been booming
and cruise ship
passengers have
discovered its nearperfect shores. It’s still
worth the visit – but
you won’t be alone in
paradise.
Samana.
Dominican Republic
Tourism Board
Las Terrenas
beach.
Dominican Republic
Tourism Board
Whale-watching in Samana.
Dominican
d
urism Boar
Republic To
MARCH 2011
21
Dominican Republic
Samaná’s history is very much on view at
the La Churcha, the only wooden building to
survive a major fire that devastated most of
the town in 1946. The Methodist church was
originally imported to Samaná from England
as a gift to former slaves of the United States
who had settled in the peninsula. Re-assembled
piece-by-piece, the church is one of the few
historical remnants of the old-style architecture
of the town.
Las Galeras
Known for its remote location (it’s on the far
northeast tip of the peninsula), untouched
secluded beaches and quiet ambience, the
small village of Las Galeras is the stepping stone
to many of the most gorgeous beaches in the
Dominican Republic. It’s a good choice for the
independent-minded traveller who wants to
explore outside of the larger resort properties.
And a good place to interact with the local
people – try a fresh seafood meal at the fishing
shacks that line the entrance to the beach.
Close to Las Galeras, the remote Playa Rincón
has been named one of the top 10 beaches
in the Caribbean. It’s the paradise that tourists
from the cold north are hoping for – startling
aquamarine waters, a deserted three-kilometre
stretch of gently curving white sand backed by
a thick grove of coconut palms and a dramatic
backdrop of towering cliffs and forested hillsides.
Just offshore, Cabo Cabrón is considered one
of the best dive spots along the northern coast.
This challenging dive site is known for its rocky
formations, and imposing underwater walls and
caves that are home to schools of brightly-hued
tropical fish, turtles, fans, sponges and corals.
Dominican Republic
Las Terrenas
22
Those looking for the island’s trademark long
stretches of sand without sacrificing some
exciting, fun-filled nightlife should head for
the village of Las Terrenas, closer to the neck
of the peninsula.
Las Terrenas is known as a hub of activity; a
very busy activity centre with tour operators,
bars and restaurants, sports centres and
shopping opportunities for original artwork
and amber jewelry. It’s a departure point for
excellent snorkelling and diving expeditions,
and horseback riding excursions along the
beachfront or scenic jungle trails. Kiteboarding,
surfing and wakeboarding conditions are ideal
along this stretch of coastline – the bustling
town centre is home to many operators
offering lessons, equipment rentals and
sporting excursions.
Las Terrenas has an amazing selection of
eateries – from authentic fishing shacks to
romantic dining experiences. Fresh seafood is
brought to restaurants right from the beach
– it can’t get any fresher than that! On most
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El Limon.
menus, the taste of coconut marks the rich
Caribbean flavours from savoury sauces to
decadent ice creams.
A not-to-be-missed ecotourism adventure is
the day trip to the magnificent waterfalls at El
Limón. Only for the physically fit, the tour is on
horseback through thick, lush forests, followed
by a strenuous hike to the actual site of the
waterfalls, where a torrent of water rushes from
the Limón River, dropping over a 50-metre high
cliff and splashing into a small pool at the base.
The good news is that hikers
are rewarded with the chance
Lo cal artwork .
to dip into the waters of the
very scenic swimming hole.
Las Terrenas is famous
for its beautiful beaches.
Playa Las Ballenas is a good
choice for snorkelling and
diving at the coral reefs,
shipwreck and underwater
caves. Nearby, Playa Bonita’s
13-kilometres of golden
sand and challenging waves
draw a smaller crowd –
good for those wanting to
lay back and chill.
Las Terrenas is a wellpositioned home base for
excursions across the Bay
to Parque Nacional Los
Haitises, another dream
expedition for ecotourists.
The national park is home
to rainforest greenery
and some of the largest
mangrove reserves in
the entire Caribbean.
Trained guides lead
cultural expeditions
to see the drawings
made on cave walls
by the ancient Taíno
peoples. Excursions
can be booked from
most hotels to Parque
incon.
Nacional Los Haitises.
P laya R
Four-wheel drive jeep
excursions are a very
popular way to get out into
the Dominican countryside
to meet the local people,
have a sip of some fresh
coffee, find secluded beaches,
explore caverns and take a
dip in the natural pools at a
waterfall. It’s a wonderful way
to explore the real Dominican
countryside, off the resort. Most
hotels and resorts are able to
book these guided tours. b
urism Board
n Republic To
Dominica
idays
Dominican Republic
The DR
Au Naturel
Watching Wildlife
The enormous depths of the ocean and the
Dominican’s balmy, tropical waters make for
some of the Caribbean’s best whale watching.
From January through March, humpback
whales put on quite an impressive show,
especially offshore from Bahía de Samaná.
The World Wildlife Fund ranks these waters as
one of the world’s best humpback breeding
grounds. For a unique experience, marine
specialists lead ecotours that draw visitors from
all over the globe.
At a slightly slower pace, the languid
waters of rivers, coastal bays and canals
are home to the endangered West Indian
manatee, a passive marine mammal that
grazes on grasses and plants in the shallow
ocean depths. They’re found near Saona
Island, a tranquil spot close to La Romana.
Four types of sea turtles live in the offshore
reefs – from May to October they’re often
sighted coming ashore to lay eggs on the
sandy coast of the Parque Nacional Jaragua (in
the southwest corner of the country).
Hikers who are also birdwatchers can tick
species off their checklists at the national
parks, especially at Parque Nacional Jaragua
(130 bird species), the protected inland forests
of Parque Nacional Valle Nuevo (65 species)
and Parque Nacional del Este in the southeast
end of the country (114 species, including the
rare red-footed booby).
Ocean World in Puerto Plata offers chances
to swim with dolphins and stingrays, and to
get up close to sea lions and sharks.
A Little More Action
The wonders of the island’s biodiversity reach
full throttle on the nature adventures offered
by local ecotourism outfitters. Near Punta
Cana, the naturalist guides at Bavaro Runners
help visitors navigate through 10 zip lines
stretched across 1.6 kilometres of the ancient
Taino Anamuya Mountain range.
Off-road excursions are
always popular with tourists
– beach buggy, 4-wheel ATV and jeep safaris
head off the beaten path, travelling inland
across rivers and rough terrain. Popular
departure points are from Punta Cana, Puerto
Plata and Samana.
Looking to commune with nature? Guided
tours can be booked into ecological reserves,
tropical forest settings, and to caves, mangroves
and waterfalls. These beautiful parts of the
countryside are often overlooked, but always
appreciated by those who do make the effort. b
Dominican Republic
One of the more diverse islands of the Caribbean,
the landscape covers the spectrum from mountainous highland ranges to cacti-dotted semi-arid
deserts, mangroves, lagoons and rivers. Offshore
the world under the water’s surface includes
shallow fringe reefs (perfect for the beginner snorkeller) and deeper, more complex barrier reefs.
The result is an immensely diverse ecosystem
with 20 different life zones, and a huge
assortment of sealife, plants, flowers and trees.
Before the Spanish explorers arrived in the
mid 15th century, the island was covered with
lush forest. Logging and intensive plantation
farming destroyed almost two-thirds of the
original woodlands, but recent conservation
efforts have established national parks and
land sanctuaries to protect almost one-quarter
of the country’s fragile ecosystem.
Photos Dominican Republic Tourism Board
The clear waters and dazzling scenery of the Dominican
Republic are seductive to those hoping to discover the
panorama of life underwater and ashore.
MARCH 2011
23
Dominican Republic
History Lives
In Santo Domingo
With so many beautiful beaches competing for the attention of tourists, it
would be easy to overlook Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican
Republic. But what a mistake that would be! The path of history has touched
Santo Domingo – it is here, in the 500-year-old architecture and the rich historical
sights, that visitors come to appreciate the French, Haitian and Spanish influences
on the island’s history.
Dominican Republic
El Faro A Colon.
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MARCH 2011
The colonial walled city was founded in 1496
by Bartolomé Columbus, the brother of the
famous explorer. When his nephew, Diego
Columbus (eldest son of Christopher) became
the colony’s governor, Santo Domingo rose as
the hub of Spanish commerce and culture in
the New World.
Now a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Site, Santo Domingo claims bragging rights as
the “city of firsts,” including:
• The oldest city in the New World; because of
its strategic site used as a departure point for
the Spanish conquests across the Americas.
• The first road laid out in the New World
– Calle Las Damas – lined with restored
colonial buildings, was a favourite
promenade for elegant ladies of the Spanish
aristocracy.
• The first cathedral in the Americas, Catedral
Primada de América.
Colonial City
At the historical heart of Santo Domingo is
the Ciudad Colonial (also called the Zona
Colonial or the Colonial City), a priceless
collection of 16th-century architecture restored
and preserved in an expansive colonial
neighbourhood of squares, churches, historic
buildings, important monuments, cobblestone
laneways and atmospheric ruins. The
neighbourhood contains most of the historical
sites in Santo Domingo, and a walking tour
through its narrow streets and into its museums
is a must for any visitor.
Today, the Ciudad Colonial is much more
than a collection of glorious architecture; it is
a busy, historic neighbourhood incorporating
lively cafes, romantic courtyard restaurants and
some of the best shopping in the city.
The old town is still partially enclosed by
remnants of the original city wall, that at
one time was a first line of defence for its
Cat edral Pri
Ci udad Colonial
m ada de Am
inhabitants. The grid pattern used by the city
planners became the model for almost all
town planners in the New World. At its centre
is Parque Colón, a popular meeting place for
both locals and tourists and one of the best
people-watching spots in the city. In the centre
of the park stands a large statue honouring
the great explorer, Christopher Columbus. All
of the historic sights in the Ciudad Colonial are
within walking distance of the park.
A Dozen “Don’t Miss” Sights
1. C
atedral Primada de América, the first
cathedral in the western hemisphere, is a
treasure trove of artwork, ancient wood
carvings, paintings and sculptures all inside
a breathtaking building constructed in the
Spanish Renaissance style.
erica .
.
Fortal e
M u seo A lca
zar de Co
z a Oz a m
a.
lon.
MARCH 2011
25
Dominican Republic
6. A
ll that remains of the 16th-century
Monasterio de San Francisco are rubble
and ruins. The once-glorious structure
was looted, burned and damaged by
earthquakes and hurricanes. It was never
fully restored, but the ruins are dramatically
lit at night.
7. T he large Parque de Independencia sits
at the juncture of the old colonial city
and the cosmopolitan, modern section
of Santo Domingo. This popular meeting
place holds a special spot in the hearts of
Dominicans – it was here that freedom
fighters marched for, and won, the
country’s independence from Haiti. It
was this revolution that established the
Dominican Republic as a sovereign nation.
8. The centre for nightlife is along the
Malecón (Avenida George Washington),
the long oceanfront boardwalk lined
with bars, cafes, restaurants, casinos and
hotels. During Carnaval – and especially
on February 27, Independence Day – the
Malecón is closed to traffic and opened up
to noisy festivities including an elaborate
parade, booths and vendors.
9. T he merengue is the national music and
dance of the Dominican Republic, and its
joyful beat is embraced with fervour across
the island. In Santo Domingo, merengue
Dominican Republic
2. The sign out front could say, “Columbus
once slept here.” Built as the Columbus
family palace, the magnificent coral
limestone Museo Alcázar de Colón has
more than two-dozen rooms decorated
with paintings, religious tapestries, period
silverware and 16th-century antiques.
The Alcázar is the most visited museum in
Santo Domingo.
3. The Museo del Hombre Dominicano
contains displays of pre-Columbian history,
including artifacts of Taíno culture and
history. There’s also a section dedicated to
the city’s colourful Carnaval traditions.
4. F or even those with only a passing interest
in history, the rich colonial past portrayed in
the city’s museums is too good to miss. The
excellent Museo de las Casas Reales traces
history from the 15th to 19th centuries.
Housed in the restored palace of the Spanish
court, displays include replicas of the three
ships in Columbus’ maiden expedition, and
loot recovered from sunken Spanish galleons.
5. The imposing Fortaleza Ozama, with
its two-metre thick walls, was once the
first line of defence for the colonial city
(and the oldest fort in the New World). A
narrow staircase in the tower leads to a
spectacular 360-degree view of the city,
the river and the Caribbean Sea.
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MARCH 2011
can be found in the hot dance clubs along
the Malecón and in small bars along the
narrow cobblestone laneways of the
Ciudad Colonial. In July and August, Santo
Domingo hosts its Merengue Festival, where
Dominicans and tourists seem possessed by
the infectious music.
10. The towering El Faro a Colón is an
enormous cross-shaped monument
constructed to mark the 500th anniversary
of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the
Americas. The chapel, guarded by a 24hour honour guard, is said to house the
tomb of Columbus.
11. There is no country in the world that
produces as many Major League Baseball
players as the Dominican Republic – besides
being the national sport, baseball is a
source of immense national pride. Sports
fans should not miss a game at the Estadio
Quisqueya ballpark to see one of Santo
Domingo’s two home teams.
12. Visitors can quench their shopping thirst
along the Calle El Conde, a pedestrian-only
street lined with cafes, restaurants and
shops, and one of the oldest streets in the
city. The best mementos to take home are
amber and larimar jewelry, Dominican rum
and cigars, music, art and crafts made from
native mahogany. b
Photos Dominican Republica Tourism Board
Cultural
Treasures
Dancing the Merengue.
Taino Art Museum.
The Taíno People
Before the arrival of European explorers, the
island of Hispaniola (the eastern two-thirds is
now the Dominican Republic) was inhabited by
several native tribes – the Caribs, the Arawaks
and, most notably, the early cave-dwelling
Taíno people. It was the Taínos that lived
on the island when Christopher Columbus
stepped onto its shorelines in 1492, describing
the sight as “the fairest land under heaven.”
The Taínos were quickly wiped out by both
disease and cruelty at the hands of the Spanish
colonists. But there are still signs of their highly
organized culture around the island, and
steps are being taken to preserve and protect
archaeological findings. In the Parque Nacional
de Este (near La Romana) the Padre Nuestro
Archaeological Trail passes through areas that
were populated by the ancient tribe. Also in the
south-central coast region is the magnificent
Cueva de las Maravillas, where guided tours
explore cave walls covered with a staggering
500 pictographs, petroglyphs and rock art
engravings created by the Taínos. In Puerto
Plata, the Taíno Art Museum provides insight
into the lives of the pre-Columbian inhabitants
of the island. Near Punta Cana, Manatí Park
includes a unique reconstruction of the culture
and folklore of a typical Taíno Village.
First Colonial Capital Of The
New World
One of the first settlements established by
Columbus was the city now known as Ciudad
Colonial, or Santo Domingo, the modern
day capital of the country. As the Spaniards
colonized the new land, this settlement grew
to be a place of great wealth and power. It
was here that the first cathedral, university,
monastery and hospital of the New World
were built. History buffs can pass days of
blissful touring in the Zona Colonial, the
original heart of the old city, where wellpreserved monuments and Old-World Spanish
architecture line cobblestone streets.
Music & Dance
For the Dominican people, a passion for
music and dance is a central, and joyful,
part of their culture and heritage. In every
club, disco and
on many street
corners you’ll hear the
upbeat, hypnotic sounds of merengue bands.
Couples dancing merengue is somewhat of a
practiced art, although there are always locals
eager to teach the steps to visitors from the
north. In early October, the annual Merengue
Festival takes place along the beautiful
seaside Malecón in Puerto Plata. In July and
August, Santo Domingo hosts its Merengue
Festival, where Dominicans dance to the
infectious music they so love.
Through the month of February (on each
Sunday), communities across the whole country
celebrate Carnival with music, food, dancing,
costumes and spectacular masks. The month of
celebrations peaks with the country’s largest and
most elaborate pre-Lenten Carnival Parade in
Santo Domingo on the first Sunday of March.
And every November there’s a different kind
of musical rhythm, flavour and colour being
celebrated in Cabarete – it’s the famous
Dominican Jazz Festival, host to the best of
national and international jazz greats. b
MARCH 2011
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is known for its natural beauty – the pristine beaches
fringed by palm trees, the richness of the rainforest and the sheer wonder of
the biodiversity found in the crystal clear waters. But visitors who step away
from the beachfront will also find a land rich in cultural treasures that whisper
– and sing – of proud Amerindian and Spanish heritages.
27
Dominican Republic
I Do
In The
DR
Altos De Chavon, La Romana.
Dominican Republic
La Romana & Bayahibe
28
On the south-central coast, the resorts of
La Romana and Bayahibe are sprinkled
along never-ending stretches of deserted
white sand beach and the turquoise
Caribbean Sea. This part of the island is
a natural for water lovers – the happy
couple can hop a boat to the country’s best
snorkelling sites at the islands of Saona
and Catalinita. Dolphins often tag along,
jumping in the boat’s wake.
Resorts offering weddings and honeymoon
packages include:
MARCH 2011
Puerto Plata
The naming of
Puerto Plata can only
bring good luck to a
newlyweds: it is said that Columbus picked
the name after seeing the way the sun
shone on the water, creating the illusion of
a mass of silver coins.
Puerto Plata (and next-door Playa Dorada)
is abuzz with lively nightlife, palm-lined
beaches, fantastic windsurfing and classic
golf courses. It’s the perfect location for
couples that like break up their time on the
beach with a round of golf, a rip-roaring
time on the waves or an evening dancing
the sensual merengue.
packages include:
• IIberostar Costa Dorada
• IGrand Oasis Marien
• IBarceló Puerto Plata
Samaná
The peninsula of Samaná is a haven for
nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. An arc
of white sand beach, lush vegetation and
thick coconut groves make Samaná one of
the prettiest areas of the country.
Brides and grooms
planning a green theme
to their honeymoon can
see majestic humpback
whales in their natural
habitat, climb through
rainforested mountains
to sparkling waterfalls
or kick back on a sunset
catamaran cruise.
Resorts offering
weddings and honeymoon packages include:
• IGran Bahia Principe El Portillo
• IGran Bahia Principe Cayacoa
• IGran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado
idays
• Iberostar Hacienda
Dominicus
• IGran Bahia Principe
La Romana Royal
Golden
• IOasis Canoa
It’s a wedding trend that’s a definite winwin. More and more couples are voting
with their passports – they’re choosing
the Dominican Republic for a romantic
destination wedding. Getting married or
honeymooning in paradise is not only gentle
on the budget, but it also is a great stressbuster. Imagine the appeal of a pictureperfect ceremony, followed by an idyllic
honeymoon, just steps away.
At most resort properties, the well-trained
wedding planners focus on one goal: to bring
the couple’s vision of the perfect wedding day
to life. They can arrange a chapel, garden or
beach setting and most resorts offer packages
that include flowers, jewelry, photography,
wedding apparel and music.
With a wedding style to fit every budget,
here are some options for the couple to
consider. Feeling romantic?
Punta Cana.
Punta Cana
This far eastern part of the island is known
for its all-inclusive resorts, some of which
specialize in settings for couples rather
than families (better suited for destination
weddings and honeymoons). The area is
known for the best beaches on the island
– picture-perfect stretches of powder white
sand lined by swaying palm trees. Because
of the large number of resorts, there are a
huge number of shopping opportunities,
excursion tours including popular zip-lining,
golf courses and nightlife.
packages include:
• INH Real Arena Le Mirage
• IBarceló Punta Cana
• IThe Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium b
Dominican Republic
an Republic To
Filling your glass with a taste of the island
is never a problem. Fresh fruits are sold at
most roadside stands – mangoes, passion
fruit, pineapple, grapefruit and guava for
starters, but make sure to try the local
milkshake, batida de lechosa, made with
sweet papaya.
The history of the Dominican Republic
is intertwined with the rise and fall of the
fortune of the sugarcane trade. Whether
dark, amber or white, island rum (made
from fermented sugarcane) is definitely the
beverage of the Caribbean. The three large
Dominican distilleries are Brugal, Bermúdez
and Barceló – and you’ll be inviting a spirited
debate if you ask locals to recommend their
favourite. Try a taste of each – you’ll find
they’re served in every watering hole, upscale
hotel restaurant and resort beachside bar. b
MARCH 2011
Dominican Republic
seasoned with
oregano and garlic.
The roots of
Spanish cuisine
(known as criollo
cooking) have
brought other “must
taste” local dishes
onto restaurant menus
– most consist of meat
(chicken and pork
are popular) with side
dishes of vegetables and
rice and beans. Look for
Sancocho.
la bandera dominicana,
a tasty platter of chicken,
rice and beans (a kitchen staple) served with
a side of plantains.
Learn to snack like the locals.
Plantains are fried into crispy chips and
are irresistible with a frosty bottle of
beer (the Presidente brew is a source
of national pride). Both plantain and
its kissin’ cousin, the banana, were
brought from the Canary Islands to the
Caribbean by Spanish explorers, and
they’ve become dietary staples in snacks,
cooked side dishes and sweet desserts.
Street vendors sell everything from warm,
deep-fried Johnnycakes (known locally as
yaniqueques) to a refreshing, healthy drink
of coconut water. They’ll use a machete to
chop off the top of the nut while you wait
– it doesn’t get much fresher than that!
Photos Dominic
Thanks to a perfect mix of geography
and climate, the farmers’ fields of the
Dominican Republic spillover year-round
with an abundance of fruits and vegetables.
Small fishing boats bob in the surrounding
waters, pulling in fresh catch to supply
local restaurants. Fresh ingredients rein
here, so be adventuresome. Venture out
from the standard resort fare and discover
a Dominican culinary tradition where
Caribbean flavours mingle with distinct
Latino influences.
Foodies often get their bearings at the
local markets. It’s a wonderful way to
discover everything from the spices to the
staples that make the local cuisine tick. A
market visit uncovers the culinary heartbeat
of the Dominican Republic – it’s where
farmers proudly display plantains, cassava,
pineapple, papayas, mangoes, guavas,
bananas, melons and an abundance of
sealife. A jar of local hot sauce, a bag of
coffee beans or a bottle of pure vanilla
essence makes a wonderful gift to bring
back home.
The irresistible scents wafting from a
streetside stall or a small local eatery speak
to the power of food. Stews are popular
at mealtime – the chefs often rely on what
ingredients are available at the local market
on any given day. The national dish is
called sancocho, a thick, slowly-simmered
stew traditionally made with seven meats,
cassava, yams, potatoes and plantains,
urism Board
Delicious DR
29
Dominican Republic
The
Sporting DR
An intriguing hike or an inviting beach is never far away. The diverse island geography includes tropical rainforests, mountain wilderness, mangrove swamps, azure waters and everything in between.
Each setting is a playground for the sports nut. And the forgiving climate means it’s always a good
time to climb, raft, dive or pedal.
World-class golf.
Active Pathways
To fully appreciate the majesty of the
Dominican countryside, visitors must get out
and experience the many superb hiking paths
(most are located within the national parks
system; permits and guides may be required).
But there’s much more to do than lacing on a
pair of boots and taking a stroll through lush,
floral landscapes: canyoning (a combination of
hiking, rock climbing, repelling and swimming),
cascading (scrambling up waterfalls, sliding
down water chutes), whitewater rafting and
mountain biking opportunities are never far
away.
And if it’s preferable to let the horse carry
the load, several resort properties offer guided
horseback riding excursions to both subtropical
forests and sandy beaches.
Year-round play and a selection of worldclass courses make the Dominican Republic
among the Caribbean’s most popular golf
destinations. There is a course layout to
suit every skill level, from resort play to
championship courses with enviable pedigrees
(including designs by Jack Nicklaus, Pete B.
Dye and Tom Fazio). Punta Cana, La Romana,
Playa Grande and Playa Dorada have must-play
layouts on the best course lists.
Baseball is a national obsession as well as
the country’s national sport. During baseball
season (October to January) it’s easy to find a
game between local teams (two dozen major
league teams have training camps here). The
game’s roots go back generations, when
workers learned the sport during downtime in
the sugarcane industry. There’s an unmistakable
passion for baseball in the Dominican Republic,
so it’s no surprise that the country has produced
some of the world’s best professional players.
The Water Beckons
The warm waters and high winds of the North
Coast are seductive to surfers, windsurfers
and kiteboarders. The choppy waters off Playa
Cofresí are excellent for bodysurfing and
boogie boarding. Cabarete Bay (nicknamed
“Kite Beach”) is considered one of the top
five kiteboarding and
Dominican Republic
Adventure includes whitewater rafting.
30
MARCH 2011
windsurfing beaches in the world; it hosts
international championships including the
Kiteboarding World Cup and the World Cup
Windsurfing Competition. Outfitters offer
lessons and equipment rentals.
Just a short drive outside of Cabarete is
Playa Encuentro, known as a hot spot for
surfers hunting for that perfect point break.
Experienced boarders head for the more
challenging waves at Playa Grande, Playa
Preciosa and Playa Boba. Boards and lessons are
available through local tour companies.
The coral beds that fringe the island offer
exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling,
suitable for both beginners and experienced
divers. Take the plunge and explore centuriesold shipwrecks and diverse coral reef formations
teeming with colourful marine life.
A variety of fish is just one reason why the
Dominican Republic is a year-round paradise
for the devoted deep sea angler. They come to
cast a line for billfish, white marlin (especially
off Punta Cana where they’re found in huge
numbers), dorado, wahoo and sailfish. b
H e ll
Say
ing
Hav
o to
l
it Al
Barceló Bávaro Palace Deluxe
All New for 2011
Say hello to the most comprehensive all-inclusive program in all of the Caribbean.
Our collection of properties in the Caribbean is unrivaled when it comes to luxury,
fantastic dining, amazing nightly shows and so much more. And this year,
say hello to the newest addition to our family of all-inclusive classics, the
Bávaro Palace Deluxe. Our most modern and luxurious resort ever, featuring oneof-a-kind amenities including private balconies
with Jacuzzis and breathtaking views from every
junior suite. So say hello to the newest member
of the have-it-all club. Say Hello to Barceló.
Mexico
•
Central America
•
Dominican Republic
•
Cuba
|
For
more
information
v i s i t Tr an s a t H o l i day s .com.

Dominican Republic

Transcription

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