Take a Caribbean cruise to the Dominican Republic. Discover the oldest city in the Americas, Santo Domingo's Old Town, and explore its UNESCO World Heritage Site. At Amber Cove, you can go underwater scootering or canyoneering in Damajagua National Park. Cruise excursions allow you to lend a hand at paper recycling microbusinesses and chocolate cooperatives owned by women.
Tropical Dominica has remained a nature lover's paradise despite modern civilization's penchant for paving every surface. Experience the Scotts Head Marine Reserve's UNESCO World Heritage Site and its vibrant sea life. The island's interior is adorned with verdant rainforests, botanical gardens, and waterfalls that will take your breath away.
One of the most spectacular ways to start your Dominican Republic visit is to arrive on the Dominican coast on one of the luxurious cruise ships that handle trips anywhere on the island. In addition, to relax and rejuvenate, it is necessary to be near the sea, eat good food, and experience a relaxing atmosphere. You should also know about some highlights of the destination.
Altos de Chavon is a small village tucked away in the Dominican countryside. This marvel is a must-see built in the form of a Mediterranean village in the sixteenth century. Its idyllic cobblestone streets, charming terraced villas, and 5,000-seat Greek-style amphitheater have all hosted famous artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Juan Luis Guerra, Marc Anthony, etc.
You can set those amber stones in any jewelry to take a piece of Puerto Plata with you wherever you go. It is considered the oldest and most transparent amber in the world. Playa Dorada, a complex that stocks bottles of mamajuana (locally grown marijuana), beachwear, and fruits, offers plenty of shopping options.
The food in Dominica has influences from Spain, Africa, and the Middle East, to name a few. You shouldn't miss out on the delights of La Romana, like sancocho, a fish stew said to originate in the Canary Islands, and habichuelas con dulce, a creamy dessert made from sweet beans.
Mount Montaa Redonda, the best viewpoint on the island, is the perfect place for the ultimate selfie. There are shops and a restaurant in the summit area, and you can even take a paragliding flight from the mountain if you dare.
Embark on a walking tour through the colonial district, the first city of the "new world.” A postcard view of palm trees and Caribbean beaches awaits you in La Romana, while Costa Catalina allows you to enjoy an exclusive beach exclusively for Costa guests. You cannot go back without a cup of coffee; the region boasts the best plantations.
This port is a great way to experience a taste of the Dominican Republic. Whether you're an outdoor adventurer, beachgoer, or culinary connoisseur, you'll find something to do in La Romana, Dominican Republic. A massive cave system with ancient Taino pictographs awaits nature lovers at Cueva de las Maravillas. Playa Bayahibe offers secluded shores surrounded by palm trees, ideal for relaxing and just a short walk from local restaurants. Golf enthusiasts are also in luck - La Romana offers several beautiful courses.
For a good reason, Caribbean beach destinations like Punta Cana are in high demand. In this tropical paradise, sugary sands extend into azure waters, and shady coconut palms shade sugary waters. During your cruise, you'll find an all-out adventure just beyond the shores of Punta Cana. You can explore the Astron wreck off Playa Bavaro and snorkel with stingrays in the shallow waters. Take a marlin charter for a trophy catch. Take a horseback ride along the beach at Uvero Alto. Whether you wish to zip line in La Hacienda Park or explore underground caves like La Cueva de Rulfo, there are endless opportunities to explore.
In the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata is the largest and oldest city in the north. With a mountainous backdrop and access to the ocean, the town offers opulent homes from the 1800s,a lively pier called The Malecon, colorful shops, and a vibrant downtown. The city is home to the renowned Parque Independencia (also known as Parque Central), an expansive park flanked by palm trees. Puerto Plata is known for its views from cable cars, cacao farms, and amber.
The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, America's first European-founded city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the perfect place for experiencing local culture and colonial architecture. Afterward, spend some time in Parque Colón, a bustling Spanish-style plaza adjacent to the 500-year-old Catedral Primada de América. It's also worth seeing Diego's Alcázar de Colón, a palace built by Christopher Columbus' son.
A popular whale-watching port in the Caribbean, Samaná is located on the Dominican Republic's Samaná Peninsula. In Playa Rincón, Christopher Columbus landed on his first voyage to the New World in 1493. This is the only place he encountered armed resistance. The beach today is lined with coconut palms and rows of beautiful white sand where you can rent a beach chair and umbrella. Swim in crystal-clear waters with a variety of hues. Experience a lush rainforest in Samana or walk along the mighty Limon falls.
