Published By: Nirtika Pandita

Travel guide to the Dominican Republic

Get lost in the old world charm of this country

A country located on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean region, Dominican Republic is the most visited tourist destination in the Caribbean region. With geographically diverse boundaries, the Dominican Republic comprises both the tallest mountain peak, Pico Duarte, and the largest lake and lowest point, Lake Enriquillo. In fact, Dominican Republic is home to the site of the first cathedral, castle, monastery, and fortress built in the Americas, which is now a World Heritage Site. And one of the biggest attractions in the country is the year-round golf courses. So if you happen to make a travel plan to the Dominican Republic, here are the places you must visit.

The oldest city of Santo Domingo

This city is a fine example of old-world charm as you walk down the lanes of it and witness the remains of colonial past spread all over the city. Santo Domingo is home to the oldest cathedral which is also known as ‘The First Cathedral of the Americas’. The capital of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo has a lot to offer to its travelers such as UNESCO World Heritage Site of Colonial City, historical Spanish Colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, the National Palace, the Museum of Modern Art, The Plaza de la Cultura and the Palace of Fine Arts.

A boat ride to the north coastline- Playa Dorada

A beautiful land of tranquil green and water, Playa Dorada is the first-ever tourist destination in the Dominican Republic. One of the most soothing to the eye destinations in the Caribbean, it has resorts set against the background of beaches and coconut palms. Well, it is mostly a resort town but also offers the Robert Trent Jones golf course which has a shopping center and restaurants.

The colourful Lake Enriquillo

The largest saltwater lake in the Caribbean, and also the lowest point in the Caribbean, Lake Enriquillo is like water covered with a layer of vibrant pink colour. That is, the flock of pink flamingos and iguanas, that makes this lake beautiful. You can hop on to a ferry ride on the island of Isla Cabritos and see the historic Taino rock art. But, what will be remembered worthwhile will be the sea of flamingos covering the lake.

Other places to visit in Dominican Republic are Eastern National Park, Basilica of Our Lady, Samaná Peninsula and Samaná Bay, Bahia de Las Aguilas and Jaragua National Park, Los Pozos de Romeo, Monte Cristi, Buen Hombre, Cayo Arena, Barahona, Punta Cana, Baoruco River: La Plaza & Cueva, Azua, Bani, Jarabacoa, Valle Nuevo & Constanza, Cabarete, Rejoya Guided Waterfall, Samana, Bayahibe, The Pico Duarte, El Limon Waterfall, Las Terrenas, and Jarabacoa.