Overview
The Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is the kingdom of 'all inclusive' holidays, where tourism is booming and attracts tourists all year long to its gigantic, low-cost complexes. It would be a shame however to limit your holiday to the
beaches, because the inland countryside, covering the two eastern thirds of Hispaniola island, is perfect for ecotourism. Numerous tracks penetrate the lush greenery of the natural parks of the
central cordillera, towering at an altitude of more than 9,840ft. A visit to the capital city of
Santo Domingo is a must to admire the colonial legacy of the New World's first city, which is also on the UNESCO list.
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pros
- The climate, the beauty of the beaches and landscape guarantee a total change of scenery.
- The atmosphere on the island, mostly due to the Dominicans' cheerfulness and the omni-present music, is a true delight.
cons
- The huge development of hotel complexes has distorted a great part of the North and South coasts.
- The roads are sometimes unsuitable for driving because they are badly damaged and sometimes even non-existent...
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map The Dominican Republic
Country Guide
Dominican Republic, All you need to know!
Our Editorial team's advice
The Dominicans are very friendly and always ready to help you find your way or repair your car. They really like it if you make the effort to speak Spanish.
Don't stop at the beautiful beaches; go and explore the interior of the country and its magnificent scenery. Meeting with the locals who are not really used to contact with tourists really is fantastic. Little known places or those unmentioned in travel guides are quite obviously unspoilt. Do not hesitate to take up an adventure, even if it means asking the locals where to stay the night, because the home-hosted rooms are hardly ever indicated.
In a summer suitcase you will need light cotton clothing, open shoes, shorts, short-sleeved shirts, T-shirts, without forgetting your bathing suit, but also warm clothes and hiking shoes for mountain escapades. A light rain-proof jacket can be useful during the rainy season. A light jumper comes in handy in the mountains but also on the bus or in restaurants, which are often highly air-conditioned. Remember to bring something smart for stylish restaurants or casinos; the Dominicans love dressing up to go out. Know that decent dress is required to visit places of worship. Essential, especially for children, are a hat and sunglasses, without forgetting high SPF waterproof sunblock. Do not be deceived by the breeze and clouds, the tropical ultraviolet radiation gets through them very easily. Mosquito repellent is also needed. It is advisable to take your own toiletries (nappies for the children). Finally, a good torch can come in useful in case of a power cut, or in poorly lit public places.
If you are itching to encounter authentic Dominican life and go all over the island in total freedom (and safety) use Green Service Tours. Specialised in tourism and created in 1993, the Santo Domingo-based company will offer you both the services of a transport company and of a local agency. Actually, whether you are interested in a transfer, a cruise around the island or a one or several week long holiday, the company can organise transfers, tours, accommodation and other requests. All is custom-made.
It has various vehicles (air-conditioned) of several categories at its disposal, driven by experienced drivers. Just like tour guides, they give you a commentary during the trips, but you should have a minimum of Spanish in order to understand. Of course, these customised services come at a cost. This option may be a good alternative to the classic excursions suggested by hotels or to renting a car personally, considering the uncertain condition of the road network and the fast driving of the Dominicans.
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