My Holiday Expert

The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean’s most popular holiday destinations and it’s not hard to see why. Miles of golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, lush mountains and breathtaking waterfalls are just a few of the things that package holidays in the Dominican Republic have to offer. The North Coast with its livelier feel is popular with families and groups whilst the quieter East coast is perfect for couples looking for a tranquil hideaway.

Places of Interest

Discovered by Christopher Columbus, Santo Domingo is the islands capital and is the oldest city in the new world. Wander through the old quarter full of colonial buildings, see the oldest cathedral in the new world and visit the house of Columbus’s son. A trip to the Santo Domingo Zoo is a great day out for all the family.

Experience Puerto Plata in the north with a fun-filled day trip. Take a trip up Mount Isabella on a cable-car and be blown away by the breath-taking views. Visit the San Felipe Fortress, the Amber Gallery, the botanical gardens and the Brugal Rum Factory. If it’s shopping you’re interested in then pay a visit to nearby Sosua for the beach-front market stalls where you can pick up a bargain!

White sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and swaying palm trees await you at Saona Island on the southeast tip of the Dominican. A thrilling speedboat ride, a chill out on a relaxing catamaran and a stop off at a natural pool in the sea where you can enjoy a tropical cocktail in waist high water make this a trip to remember!

Activities

See the beautiful countryside and glimpse the local village life on a Jeep Safari. Learn about the islands history, discover tropical wildlife and end the day boogie-boarding at one of the islands best beaches.

Ocean World Park on the north coast is home to numerous sea animals including dolphins, sharks, sea lions and stingrays. See a live dolphin show, watch the acrobatic sea lions and visit the bird sanctuary. Make this the trip of a lifetime with a dolphin swim.

Take a catamaran ride to Sosua in the north, home to one of the most spectacular coral reefs in crystal clear waters. Scuba diving is the best way to see the amazing marine life with most hotels offering introductory dive courses and more advanced trips for the experienced diver.

If golf’s your thing there are several golf courses for you to play a round or two. Casa de Campo on the south east coast is one of the world’s most popular courses.

Local Customs

The main religion in the Dominican Republic is Roman Catholic with small Jewish and Protestant minorities.

If you are visiting churches or cathedrals legs and upper arms should be covered.

Food & Drink

Food in the Dominican Republic is Spanish and African inspired. The main staples of the menu are rice and meats and the fresh seafood is superb. The fresh fruit is remarkable and bananas are cooked in many different ways for beautiful desserts. Most of the larger hotels will offer international cuisine. Try the locally produced rum to wash it down with!

Nightlife

Playa Dorada and Cabarete in the north have several bars, nightclubs and casinos for a lively night out. Merengue is the national music and you’ll often find this played out in the local bars. Most hotels will have an entertainment programme with theme nights, shows and discos.

Shopping

The island is famed for its amber and you’ll find plenty of jewellery made with it here. Also look out for larimar (a turquoise stone) and conch shells which are also crafted into jewellery. Local rum and cigars are also good buys. And if you enjoy the local sounds of merengue and salsa then be sure to pick up a CD to take home!

Currency

The currency is the Dominican Peso although US Dollars are also accepted. Major credit cards are also accepted.

Language

The official language is Spanish but English is widely spoken.

Flight Time

Approximately 9 hours.

Time Difference

GMT -4 hours

Transfer Times

20 minutes to 1 ½ hours dependent on resort.

Health & Visa Information

For current vaccination information and general travel advice from NHS Direct please click here.