The Dominican Republic is not just an ordinary country. Sharing in the Hispaniola Island with Haiti in the Greater Antilles, it is a perfect destination for those looking for a perfect Caribbean holiday. It is also ideal for those who need to escape from their daily boring routines. They can also be looking to indulge in a Spanish heritage and trudge in the footsteps of Christopher Columbus. He made his first stop in the region back in 1492. There are plenty of Dominican Republic destinations that promise to leave you breathless.
Nowadays, apart from the historical sites for tourists, primary interest is its sandy beaches, water falls, coral reefs, and jungles. Its beauty is worth a lifetime’s experience.
5 Dominican Republic Destinations Not to Miss in a Lifetime
The diverse, spectacular views of the terrain, mountains, water among other places one can hang in the Dominican Republic has over the years attracted flocks of tourists from all over the world. However, if you are new and unsure where to go, here is a list of some of the best places you can visit.
1. Santo Domingo
It is one of the most exciting cities to visit. Santa Domingo is one of the oldest famous cities, and it harbors the UNESCO World Heritage Site for starters. So, you will never run short of what to do in the city.
- Apart from the heritage site, you can visit the well preserved and maintained historic destination, the Colonial City, and stroll around enjoying the breathtaking cobblestone streets and views of the Spanish Architecture that dates many years back.
- While you are at it, you also can dine in its posh restaurants before embarking on your site-seeing of the First Cathedral of America.
- Also, the Museum of the Royal Houses was built in the 16th Century by Christopher Columbus’s son.
- Art doesn’t come short as Plaza de la Cultura offers everything there is to ancient and contemporary art.
- Other places to visit are the Ozama Fort, the National Botanical Gardens, Columbus Palace and Malecon.
- You can find where to stay in the Dominican Republic if you want to visit more than this city.
2. Samaná Peninsula
Whether you are a local or a tourist, you will never get enough of Samaná Peninsula. It is the most spectacular and picturesque place to visit. Also, it is dotted with beach palms, rock that emerges from the water, islets, bird filled caves, the humpback whales, marine habitat and a waterfall worth visiting. Nonetheless, it is the most relaxing places one could ever visit because of its isolation and existence outside the busy world.
- Impressively, you can book a vocational room at the Samaná Hotel and Residence as you get to explore and horse ride, bird and bike around the region.
- While in Samaná Peninsula, you can visit the Las Terrenas, which was once a typical fishing village.
- You can reach there by a taxi from the Sublime Samana or use the ATV and enjoy grand dinners on the beachside restaurants as you await the beginning of a fantastic nightlife.
3. Barahona
Located in the far southwestern region of the Dominican Republic is Barahona. It is a relatively quiet place and doesn’t brim with tourists. This alone makes it attractive apart from the beautiful beaches, the thick rainforests and the beautiful mountainous sceneries around the place.
- Nearby is Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge amidst a paradise of a jungle where you can book a suite to stay. The hotel features organic gardens, an infinity pool that overlooks the forest and the vast sea as well as a river spa. It is also surrounded by the Sierra Barahuco Mountains and the Riosito River.
- Some of the things one can experience in Barahona include horseback riding, picnicking, hiking and a tour through the thick rain-forest.
- You can also visit the national parks, have fun on the underpopulated beaches as well as interact with locals selling antiques, Larimar jewelry, which is made from the blue-emerald-like stones only found in the country.
4. Punta Cana
It is no doubt one of the best destinations for tourists from all over the world. It consistently attracts locals and is packed with breathtaking resorts and pools. These are so charming you wouldn’t want to leave.
- Its sandy beaches like the palm-lined Bavaro is notably one of the most incredible places to be.
- Moreover, the calm waters of Hoyo Azul Lagoon, Scape Park and the dune buggies are worth the places to visit in Punta Cana.
- The fishing village of El Macao offers fishing activities, and the public beaches offer the best surfing and kayaking spots ever. It also has an airstrip with regular flights in and out of the region.
- Punta Cana also has the best golf courses in the world. If you are the game’s enthusiast, taking a trip to the area will allow you to have the best-golfing experience ever.
- You can wine and dine in its luxurious hotels and stay in the best suites during your vacation in this Caribbean destination.
5. Playa Dorada
Away from the Punta Cana beautiful beaches and resorts is Playa Dorada, which is a few minutes’ drive away from the center of Puerto Plata. It is another famous tourist destination for its beautiful sandy beaches dotted with coconut palms under blue skies with deck chairs conspicuously placed at random intervals for your relaxation.
It is often known as the country’s first tourist stop over destination. Also, this is the reason it has the best amenities with five-star restaurants, a shopping center and one of the best golf course in the Dominican Republic, the Playa Grande golf course.
There are lots of things to do and sights to see in Playa Dorada. These include:
- Zip and ride tours horseback riding;
- Paradise cruising;
- Enjoy the Capital Delights;
- Indulge in the regular festivals;
- Bar-hop and shopping;
- Enjoying the local cuisines.
These, among many more activities, are just a tip of the ice berg in Playa Dorada. The fun never ends.
To Vacation
The Dominican Republic is a vocational place worth adding to your bucket list. Unlike anywhere in most regions of the world, it has pristine beaches all over and packs a pile of rich Spanish history. With a lively cultural and beautiful scenery, its endless charm still awes its residents and visitors. They come to have the best moments away from the bustle of their cities.
Visiting the country allows you to indulge yourself in a myriad of activities like golfing, picnicking, zip-line tours, surfing, swimming among many more. Therefore, yes, Dominican Republic has it all.
Images from pixabay.com.
