The Dominican Republic
The Nolitours & Transat Holidays Guide to
All the Hot Spots Plus:
Beaches Sports Dining Nature
A Destination Guide Supplement To The March 2011 Issue Of
VACATIONS ARE SACRED
That’s why Air Transat makes every effort to ensure that you experience the very best of holidays from the moment you step aboard. With unsurpassed on-time performance and the best aircraft reliability in Canada, you can depend on us to get you to Punta Cana, Samana, La Romana and Puerto Plata as quickly and as comfortably as possible.
BEFORE YOU GO
ONBOARD SERVICES FAMILY SERVICES
ONLINE CHECK-IN
CLUB CLASS
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Obtain your boarding card online and simply deposit your luggage at the drop-off counter at the airport. This service is available between 2 and 24 hours before departure from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax, Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver.
A world of comfort and personalized service awaits you. Enjoy exclusive privileges such as wider, more comfortable leather seats with more legroom, complimentary seat selection†, a choice of gourmet meals (preselection offered online) and fine wines, and much more!
We are pleased to welcome families with young children and offer a separate check-in counter, priority boarding and meal service, fun onboard surprises and complimentary transportation of baby equipment. Welcome aboard!
OPTION PLUS An Economy Class option with loads of advantages like priority check-in and baggage delivery, a 10 kg excess baggage allowance, seat selection, a complimentary comfort kit on all overnight flights, headset, and many more privileges!*
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†To take advantage of our seat selection, Option Plus and online check-in, visit airtransat.ca, and for Kiloflex, call 1-877-TRANSAT.
Punta Cana la romana Samana
With more than 20 years’ experience in this idylic destination, Nolitours and Transat Holidays are proud to show you their Dominican Republic. We offer direct flights to Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, Samana and La Romana, along with a world of choices, resorts and excursions. Play golf with your friends, soak up some rays on a stunning beach, go mountain biking or explore Santo Domingo’s historic streets. Whatever your tastes and needs, we have the resort that’s right for you.
For more details or to book, contact your travel agent.
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ParadiSe. by nolitourS and tranSat HolidayS.
The Dominican Republic
Beaches 101
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The DR Au Naturel
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La Romana In A Week
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History Lives In Santo Domingo
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A Puerto Plata Planner
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Cultural Treasures
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The Big Trip: Punta Cana
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I Do In The DR
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Samana: From The Rainforest To The Coastline
Delicious DR
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The Sporting DR
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE MARCH 2011 ISSUE OF CANADIAN TRAVELLER Published 12 times a year by
Written by: Josephine Matyas Cover Photo Credit: Dominican Republic Tourist Board
Printed in Canada
Contents © 2011 by ACT Communications Inc. All Rights Reserved. ISBN 1207-1463
201-2080 Hartley Avenue Coquitlam, BC Canada V3K 6W5 Tel: (604) 699-9990 Fax: (604) 699-9993
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© 2011 PRO RD S.A. (dr1.com)
The Nolitours & Transat Holidays Guide to
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A beach is a beach is a beach, right? Not so fast. While northerners love to travel to the warm Dominican Republic to escape the snow and ice, the exact beach destination they choose requires a bit of fine-tuning.
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Beaches 101
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Isla Saona, La Romana
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Most vacationers head here – to the booming tourist enclaves at Playa Dorada, Sosua and Cabarete. The massive resort complexes at Playa Dorada (just east of Puerto Plata) make it the major destination for package tours. The beautiful beaches are busy, dominated by resort-run activities and services. Sosua has experienced a boom in
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in the day are a magnet for the experts. Indulge in great people watching at Kite Beach.
Samaná Peninsula The peninsula is a thin strip of land jutting out into the green-blue Atlantic Ocean, lined by a coastline of powderywhite sand beaches. Samaná has a peaceful, timeless ambience compared to the bustle surrounding Puerto Plata to the west. The stunning horseshoe-
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The North Coast
development, from quiet fishing village to magnet for tourists from around the world. It has a pretty, Sam ana golden-sand beach and is known as one of the best diving and shaped Playa Rincón is known for the soft snorkelling sites along the North Coast. sands and thick grove of coconut palms. Cabarete has been made famous by Whale-watching has become a major its winds, waves and watersports (it’s the tourist draw – between January and March kiteboarding and windsurfing capital of the thousands of visitors come to watch the hemisphere). The conditions are ideal for giants of the ocean that have migrated to the sports: calm winds in the morning for their wintering grounds. beginners, more challenging trade winds later
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In a country like the Dominican Republic – with almost 1,300 kilometres of shoreline – there are beaches to fit every vacation style. Yes, all are gorgeous (wiggle your toes in the warm sand, take a dip in the blue ocean waters). Each beach region has its own character, flair and best use. Looking for awesome waves to do some kiteboarding? Snorkelling a shallow coral reef on the vacation menu? The Dominican can deliver on all counts; but the end destinations are different. We’re making it easy. Here’s an idea of what you’ll find at the gorgeous beach areas in the Dominican Republic:
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The white sand beach at Cayo Levantado might look familiar – it ISL A SAONA was used as the slice of paradise featured in the original Bacardi Island The town of Las Terrenas may be known advertisements. The picture-perfect island for its shops and restaurants, but it is also still attracts plenty of beachgoers (access by known for the golden sand of its nearby boat from Samaná) to its trademark beaches beaches. Playa Las Ballenas is a good spot and its calm, shallow turquoise waters. for snorkellers and divers to explore an offshore shipwreck. Playa Bonita Cayo Are ana and Playa Cosón have the same beautiful, golden sand, but are a little less crowded.
The Southeast A draw of this area is the long curve of palm-lined beach, anchored at either
end by the resort towns of Bávaro and Punta Cana. It’s a busy area (popular on spring break and with families) known for large resort complexes with a dizzying choice of entertainment and sports options. The 50-kilometre stretch of Playa Punta Cana and Playa Bávaro is one of the finest stretches of sand in the country. The conditions for windsurfing and surfing here are close to ideal. Further to the south, the beaches at La Romana and Playa Bayahibe border on the Caribbean Sea. A very popular day trip from Punta Cana or La Romana is to the quiet, remote Isla Saona; an island of near-perfect coconut tree-lined beachfront that is part of one of the national parks. b
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La Romana In A Week Dominican Republic Tourism Board
It’s a little quieter on the south coast of the Dominican Republic. Mass tourism has made its mark; but the sea is a little calmer here, the pace is dialed down a notch and despite making it onto the main tourist radar, the village of La Romana still exudes a unique, peaceful charm. In days gone by, La Romana was a sugar mill town but nowadays tourism sits front and centre, although sugar production and cigar manufacturing still contribute to the local economy.
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Teeth of the Dog, Casa de Campo.
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Kayaking, Rio Chavon.
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Not far down the road is the seaside fishing village of Bayahibe, a convenient departure point for nature lovers who want to visit the Parque Nacional del Este and its tranquil islands of Catalina, Saona and Catalinita. The village is known for a slow pace of life and as an access point to the ecotourism attractions on the islands and the national park, as well as for some of the country’s best coral reef sites.
Sunday Stash your bags at one of the area’s fantastic resorts and call for tee off times at the luxurious Casa de Campo resort. Golfers come from all over the world to play the classic Teeth of the Dog course, considered by legendary golf course designer Pete Dye to be his finest work. Another world-class course on every golf aficionado’s must-do list is
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Río Chavón and the Altos de Chavón artists’ village.
Monday Stake out a spot on the beach and watch the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Enjoy a stroll along the long, palmfringed sandy crescent of Playa Dominicus just a few kilometres east of Bayahibe. The waters are calm and clear here, so it’s perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beaches in the
Cueva de las Maravillas.
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The Links, also designed by Dye. The challenging inland layout is reminiscent of traditional British and Scottish courses, with its rolling hills and the water of lagoons and lakes coming into play on five holes. Another option is a third Pete Dyedesigned course – the challenging Dye Fore is the newest of the three courses at Casa de Campo. This course is known for its spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, the mountains,
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Dominican Republic Bayahibe area have been certified as Blue Flag, an ecolabel that guarantees the cleanliness of the water and the sustainable development practices of the area.
Tuesday Unleash your shopping side at Altos de Chavón, one of the most visited tourist spots in the southeast part of the country. One would not expect to find a recreated 16thcentury Mediterranean-style village perched above the Río Chavón, but visitors flock here to stroll the cobblestone streets, exploring the artists’ studios, galleries and boutiques for original artwork, hand-crafted jewelry and high quality handicrafts. Then head west along the coastline to explore a more ancient style of art at Cueva de las Maravillas (the name means Cave of Wonder). This protected area contains a beehive of limestone caves, with some of the best-preserved Taíno rock art in the Caribbean. There are more than 500 pictograms and petroglyphs, most dating back thousands of years. The guided tours and museum quality presentation make a visit to the caves one of the best outings in the La Romana region.
Wednesday Leave the resort behind and spend the day reconnecting with nature in the Parque Nacional del Este, one of the country’s protected national parks described by UNESCO as “one of the largest pristine marine and coastal environments in the
Santa Rosa de Lima or walk a block to shop at the town’s outdoor market for souvenirs and handicrafts. In La Romana, visit the Tabacalera de Garcia and take a guided tour led by a cigar education specialist. The facility is the largest handmade cigar factory in the world and visitors get an up-close look at the processes of bunching, rolling, aging and packaging. In the winter months, baseball is in full swing at the Michelin Baseball Stadium, home to the local team, Los Toros del Este.
Saturday One more chance to play in the ocean waters, this time a little further off the beaten path. Shuttle boats and ferry service go to the uninhabited Isla Catalina (it’s part of the Parque Nacional del Este), just two kilometres off the coast of La Romana. Catalina’s offshore shallow coral reefs are perfect for snorkellers and beginner divers. Experienced scuba divers are drawn to the dramatic dive site called The Wall, where colourful sea fans, sponges, coral and fish can be spotted along the dramatically plunging rock face. Also within the protected boundary of the national park is the small Isla Saona, a picture-perfect spot of white-powder sand and swaying palm trees at the juncture of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The island is an ecotourist’s dream: exotic birds, turtles, bottlenose dolphins, sharks, whales and the endangered West Indian manatee make their home here. Just offshore are coral reefs filled with sponges, coral and brightly-hued fish. Most excursions to Isla Saona leave from Bayahibe.b
Thursday Anglers, nature lovers and photographers should plan for an early start to the day if they want to float down the scenic Río Chavón (the lush setting has been used as a backdrop in several feature films). A day on the water passes through mangroves and tropical rainforest. Guides, boats and equipment can all be booked.
Friday Make your way into La Romana to do a little people watching in the shade of the green and tidy Parque Central. From there, cross the street and visit the historic Iglesia de
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Isla Saona, Parque Nacional del Este.
Caribbean.” Birding is popular here – 112 species have been spotted inside the park’s boundaries, including the rare Hispaniolan parrot and the magnificent frigate bird. Four species of sea turtles use the park’s beaches as nesting sites. Manatees, bottlenose dolphins, numerous fish species and an immense coral reef system live in the offshore waters. The park also protects the past of the Taíno people; the Amerindians encountered by Columbus when he first visited the island. Archaeological ruins, ancient burial sites and limestone caves with a treasure trove of exquisite rock art have all been discovered within the national park. Just off the eastern shore of the park is a small, uninhabited island that lies within the park’s protected boundaries. Isla Catalinita is very popular with snorkellers and divers who want pristine coral reefs and a good chance of spotting sharks, eagle rays and sea turtles. Tour operators offer day trips to the islands of the national park.
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Puerto Plata Primer
As planeloads of winter-weary Canadians head south for a mid-winter break, there’s a good chance that they’re headed for the airport at Puerto Plata, one of the budget destination capitals of the Caribbean. To be more precise, they are almost certainly headed for one of the all-inclusive resorts at Playa Dorada, a massive gated resort complex on a long stretch of golden sand beach just minutes east of Puerto Plata. From a tourism perspective, Puerto Plata and Playa Dorada is one region.
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Fort of San Felipe.
For History & Culture Buffs
This is the place for people who crave long stretches of golden sand and the lure of high adrenaline watersports. The coast of Puerto Plata and Playa Dorada catches the trade winds of the Atlantic Ocean. At nearby Cabarete, the ideal wind and water conditions have garnered it the reputation of “windsports capital of the world.” Both Playa Cabarete and Kite Beach attract windsurfers, kiteboarders and traditional board surfers. What was once a sleepy little town has exploded onto the world scene as a busy sports centre, lined with bars, restaurants, souvenir shops and tour operators. The calmer waters at Playa Dorada are protected by offshore reefs, and are a better choice for those looking for a beach chair, a good book, and the occasional dip into the blue-green waters. Non-guests wanting to use the facilities of the resort complex can purchase a day pass. The 14 resorts of Playa Dorada feature shopping, nightlife and casinos, restaurants and bars, horseback riding, tennis, movies and golf. Just east of Puerto Plata, the village of Sosua is known for its calm, clear turquoise waters. Sosua is a popular destination for swimming, snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours of the reefs. Experienced divers come for the wreck of a cargo ship and a dramatic reef wall, home to numerous fish, sponges and corals. At Ocean World Adventure Park in nearby Playa Cofresí, visitors learn about the ocean and have the chance to get up close to dolphins, sea lions, sharks, stingrays and exotic tropical birds. The marine park features the largest man-made dolphin habitat in the world, a bird sanctuary, a coral reef aquarium and dozens of interactive animal programs each day. The Ocean World complex also contains a world-class marina and aquatic-themed casino.
For Adventure Seekers Just a half-hour from Puerto Plata, the beautiful Waterfalls of Damajuagua is a popular excursion for canyoning and cascading. These popular adventure sports involve climbing a series of waterfalls, then jumping off cliffs or sliding down water chutes to get back to the bottom. The cascading course at Damajuagua has a staggering 27 waterfalls.
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Cabarete.
In the times of Columbus, pretty Puerto Plata was a major port for ships heading from the New World to Spain laden with a cargo of silver (the name means “port of silver”). The historic heart of the Old City is the charming Parque Central Independencia, a town square bordered by grand Victorian buildings that were once homes to wealthy landowners and trade merchants. The park is a popular stop on most city tours; many of the stately Victorian buildings have been restored and are now home to the City Hall and Palace of Justice. Close to the park is the unique two-steepled church, Iglesia San Felipe, known for its stunning Italian stained glass windows. The compact Old City is easy to navigate on foot – especially the spacious Malecón, the seaside boardwalk that is the centre of the city’s social life. When the sun goes down, bars, restaurants and food stalls along the Malecón bring energy to this part of town. Just a few steps from the Old City is the Dominican Amber Museum with its unique collection of amber pieces. Included in the displays are leaves, ants, wasps and a perfectly preserved lizard, all caught in pieces of clear, golden amber. The city’s last remaining colonial structure is the 16th-century Fort of San Felipe, built by the Spaniards on the waterfront to fend off pirates and attacks from the sea. Today it houses a small museum. Rising behind the city is Isabel de Torres Peak. Visitors take a popular trip by aerial cable car to magnificent views from the top, a botanical garden, and to the Christ the Redeemer statue (a scaled-down version of the one in Brazil). Puerto Plata is also the cultural centre of the North Coast. The area hosts both the annual Dominican Jazz Festival (each November) and the lively Carnival celebration, a tradition inherited from the Spanish forefathers (February and March).
For Sand & Surf Aficionados
Brugal Rum Factory
Aerial cabl e car , Isabel de
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Luckily, this area has got it all: history, watersports, food, music, nightlife and the beautiful beaches that the Dominican Republic is known for. The dizzying selection can be a bit overwhelming. Point clients in the right direction using our Puerto Plata Primer.
Torr es Peak .
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Dominican Republic Ten platforms plus eight strong cables equals a major adrenaline rush at the zip lining course at Yasika Adventures, just 30 minutes outside of Puerto Plata. With the proper equipment, flying through the air along a zip line is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For Golfers Eighteen glorious holes of challenging golf at the Playa Dorada Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., wrap around the Playa Dorada resort complex and along the coast. Just east of Puerto Plata (close to Rio San Juan) the Playa Grande course – also designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr. – has been described as “the Pebble Beach of the Caribbean.” With 10 of the 18 holes played along the ocean, dramatic cliff-side fairways and wide open vistas, this course provides a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
For Shopaholics
Nolitours & Transat Holidays
With a backdrop of mountains on one side and turquoise waters on the other, Puerto Plata abounds in jaw-dropping natural beauty. And from small local markets to the larger shopping complexes at Playa Dorada, the area’s shopping destinations offer spectacular sights as well. The famous amber of the Dominican Republic can be found at the gift shop at the Amber Museum, at small shops in the Old City and in boutiques in Playa Dorada. The region around Puerto Plata contains among the largest deposits of amber in the world. From Monday through Saturday, the Mercado Nuevo is a local market bursting with Dominican and Haitian art, island rum, cigars, bottles of vanilla, tropical fruit marmalades and souvenir handicrafts. The Playa Dorada Plaza is a must-stop for serious shoppers. The 80-store shopping district includes shops specializing in jewelry and amber, fine fashion, gifts and specialty foods. In Puerto Plata, the popular Brugal Rum Factory Tour guides visitors through the process of making the island’s signature liquor. Tours are followed by a tasting time and a chance to shop for the distillery’s products. A stroll along the beach usually involves chances to stop at the many beachfront stalls that sell local snacks, handicrafts and souvenirs. Besides getting a shopping “fix,” it’s a wonderful way to interact with the locals. b
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The
Big Trip Punta Cana
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Once just a quiet spot on the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, the towns of Punta Cana and Båvaro have exploded into a resort zone of all-inclusive properties that cater to honeymooners, families and spring breakers looking for sports by day and exciting nightlife after the sun goes down. In a word, there’s a lot to do here.
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Punta Cana and Bávaro sit at either end of a long stretch of coconut palm-lined sand. The sugar-white beaches are considered to be the best in the country; the natural beauty and clear waters have earned the area the reputation as a true tropical playground. Together, the two towns and the resorts between form the tourist region known as Punta Cana. Selling paradise in a place like this is the easy part of the equation. With a little extra knowledge it’s possible to recommend the perfect activity fit for every traveller.
An Adult Getaway Punta Cana is home to many luxury worldclass resorts that rate service and amenities as keys to the ultimate vacation experience. This is especially true when choosing a spot for a destination wedding or honeymoon. Many properties offer wedding and free honeymoon packages. Some welcome guests 18 years of age and older only. Luxury services, spa, casino, boutique shopping and golf are some of the more popular amenities at adults-only resorts. Relaxation is the name of the game on a catamaran cruise along the Punta Cana coastline. Different cruises have different themes: a sunset cruise or a snorkelling expedition; many are billed as “party boats” for the open bar and non-stop music on board.
Family Time Mile for mile, the coastline resorts of Punta Cana offer some of the most concentrated family-friendly settings and activities on the island. Many all-inclusive properties offer specials where kids “stay and eat free.” Playgrounds, Kids’ Clubs, Teen Clubs, children’s pools and babysitting services translate to a happier time for all family members. Getting up close and personal with the tropical wildlife is a favourite vacation activity for both adults and children. Animal Adventure Park (near Cabeza de Toro beach) is designed
for the younger set – encounters with sea lions, sharks, stingrays, parrots and turtles. The Marinarium Marine Park offers half-day cruises on a glassbottom catamaran, visits to a coral reef area and the chance to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks. Bavaro Runners operates a exciting ziplining adventure (for age six and over) where kids (and their parents) can screw up their courage and step up to challenge of “flying” through the air from one canopy platform to the next through the lush, tropical greenery of a subtropical forest. All major resort hotels offer jeep safari tours that explore the countryside outside of the resort zone. Trips head to jungle terrain, a sugarcane plantation and remote beaches, with stops at small villages (including perusing the shelves at a local grocery store and stopping for a cup of home-brewed Dominican coffee).
Sustainability Is In Season Kick off an ecotour with a visit to the Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park and Reserve, 600 protected hectares of lush, verdant, subtropical forest known for its lagoon swims, biodiversity, guided and self-guided tours. The park is a natural refuge for local flora, insects and wildlife. A new Segway off-road ecotour is transforming beachfront exploration. The electric-powered, two-wheel self-balancing vehicle has been designed to cover all terrains – from sandy beach to rougher offroad tracks. Punta Cana serves as a home base for ecological excursions to nearby attractions that are keeping sustainability at the forefront. A daylong tour to Playa Limón near Miches is definitely off the beaten track, but adventuresome trekkers are rewarded with unspoiled beaches lined with coconut groves, waterfalls, birdwatching and a sense of peace. In the springtime, turtles use the beach at Playa Limón to come ashore and nest. Full day excursions depart from Punta Cana to Parque Nacional Los Haitises, a national reserve of mangroves,
Family fun.
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Punta Cana’s challenging courses.
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Parque Nacional Los Haitises.
estuaries, bays and coves. The national reserve is memorable for its rugged topography, 700 species of plants that thrive in the subtropical forest, 100 species of birds (including the rare Hispaniolan parrot) and the tortoises and manatees that live in the mangrove system. The extensive limestone cave system is a bonanza for budding archaeologists who will be wowed by the pictographs and petroglyphs left by the ancient Taíno tribe.
Land & Sea Sports The most popular excursion taken by visitors to Punta Cana is by boat to the pristine Isla Saona, a small, undeveloped island with gorgeous beaches that are part of the protected Parque Nacional del Este. The island sits at the juncture of the Atlantic Ocean and
the Caribbean Sea, making for dramatic scenery and rich biodiversity. The island’s lagoons and mangroves are breeding and nesting ground for flamingos, pelicans and parrots. The coral reefs that fringe the island are popular diving and snorkelling sites. Sports fishermen know Punta Cana by reputation: from March to July, white marlin arrive in large numbers just a few kilometres offshore; waters are calmer through the winter months when fishing for barracuda, mahimahi and Atlantic sailfish move into full gear. Near perfect year-round weather and a large number of well-groomed courses has positioned Punta Cana as one of the most popular golf destinations in the Caribbean. Golf’s most dedicated players can choose from a dozen world-class, 18-hole courses, including layouts designed
by Jack Nicklaus, Pete B. Dye and Tom Fazio. The La Cana Golf Course (a Pete B. Dye design with 14 oceanview holes) at the luxury PUNTACANA Resort was named “the number one course in the Caribbean” by Golf Magazine. Built on the site of an old coconut plantation, the challenging Cocotal Golf Course (designed by six-time Spanish champion Jose “Pepe” Gancedo) follows the natural ups and downs of the gently rolling landscape. Dramatic cliffs and crashing ocean waves provide the backdrop at the Faldo Legacy course at the Roko Ki Golf Club. The strategically challenging, 18-hole course includes one of the most dramatic golf holes in the Caribbean – the spectacular 18th hole named Los Dos Rezos (the Two Prayers) where the play is over two ocean inlets. Numerous golf publications have named Faldo Legacy as one of the top courses in the world. b
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The
Palladium
Experience
Mayan Riviera - Riviera Nayarit - Punta Cana - Montego Bay Palladium Hotels & Resorts Sunbathing all morning, a refreshing dip in the pool, a profusion of activity at the beach, a harmonious relationship with nature, letting the children play to their heart’s contentment, sleeping like an angel, relaxing in a Spa, evening shows and scrumptious gastronomy. Luxurious resorts in the most desired destinations. Get to know what everyone is talking about. With facilities and services for all ages as well as the ideal scenery and expert team of coordinators for weddings and other types of events, Palladium is the perfect option.
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Samanรก: From The Rainforest To The Coastline
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Parque Nacional Los Haitises.
On the Samanรก Peninsula, nature occurs in the drama of green, jungle-draped mountainsides, the sensuous curve of a perfect powder-white beach, the sight of a mother whale and her calf frolicking in the deep ocean waters. These are the images that first-time visitors take home from Samanรก, inspiring them to return again and again.
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The Samaná Peninsula is a thin strip of land in the northeast part of the Dominican Republic, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Bahía de Samaná on the other. Considered by some to be the prettiest part of the island, it is Samaná’s extraordinary diversity in geography – romantic beaches, rainforest, waterfalls, mangroves – that makes it an attractive choice for the more independent-minded traveller. For those that want to get out and explore the tropical landscape, Samaná is the perfect destination. The peninsula is easily explored with more than enough to keep ecotourists and sports enthusiasts occupied for a weeklong stay. Use one of these three towns as a base. Each has got its own style and flavour, as well as access to attractions and destinations to please every nature lover.
Santa Bárbara de Samaná Known commonly as Samaná, this pretty little harbour town sits on the Caribbean side of the peninsula. With its winding streets and wide restaurant-lined Malecón (the seaside boardwalk that leads to the port), Samaná is
easily explored on foot. Visitors staying at the nearby all-inclusive resorts use the town as a departure point for whale-watching excursions and daytrips to some of the small islands. The biggest tourism event in Samaná is definitely the arrival of the magnificent humpback whales. Every winter (peak season is January through March), these giants of the deep migrate by the thousands to the warm waters around the peninsula, an important sanctuary for them to breed and calve. The World Wildlife Fund has ranked Bahía de Samaná as one of the best places in the world to observe the humpbacks. Whale-watching tours depart from the town’s waterfront – it is important to choose a tour company that adheres to the whale-watching regulations designed to protect these mammals. Boats also depart from Samaná for daytrips to the very picturesque Cayo Levantado, the original island photographed in the Bacardi Island rum campaign. The small island is made of a protruding coral reef and is a very popular destination for tourists looking for the quintessential white sand beach ringed by calm, shallow turquoise waters. At one time Cayo Levantado was completely off the tourist radar, but construction has been booming and cruise ship passengers have discovered its nearperfect shores. It’s still worth the visit – but you won’t be alone in paradise.
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Las Terrenas beach.
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Whale-watching in Samana.
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Dominican Republic Samaná’s history is very much on view at the La Churcha, the only wooden building to survive a major fire that devastated most of the town in 1946. The Methodist church was originally imported to Samaná from England as a gift to former slaves of the United States who had settled in the peninsula. Re-assembled piece-by-piece, the church is one of the few historical remnants of the old-style architecture of the town.
Las Galeras Known for its remote location (it’s on the far northeast tip of the peninsula), untouched secluded beaches and quiet ambience, the small village of Las Galeras is the stepping stone to many of the most gorgeous beaches in the Dominican Republic. It’s a good choice for the independent-minded traveller who wants to explore outside of the larger resort properties. And a good place to interact with the local people – try a fresh seafood meal at the fishing shacks that line the entrance to the beach. Close to Las Galeras, the remote Playa Rincón has been named one of the top 10 beaches in the Caribbean. It’s the paradise that tourists from the cold north are hoping for – startling aquamarine waters, a deserted three-kilometre stretch of gently curving white sand backed by a thick grove of coconut palms and a dramatic backdrop of towering cliffs and forested hillsides. Just offshore, Cabo Cabrón is considered one of the best dive spots along the northern coast. This challenging dive site is known for its rocky formations, and imposing underwater walls and caves that are home to schools of brightly-hued tropical fish, turtles, fans, sponges and corals.
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Those looking for the island’s trademark long stretches of sand without sacrificing some exciting, fun-filled nightlife should head for the village of Las Terrenas, closer to the neck of the peninsula. Las Terrenas is known as a hub of activity; a very busy activity centre with tour operators, bars and restaurants, sports centres and shopping opportunities for original artwork and amber jewelry. It’s a departure point for excellent snorkelling and diving expeditions, and horseback riding excursions along the beachfront or scenic jungle trails. Kiteboarding, surfing and wakeboarding conditions are ideal along this stretch of coastline – the bustling town centre is home to many operators offering lessons, equipment rentals and sporting excursions. Las Terrenas has an amazing selection of eateries – from authentic fishing shacks to romantic dining experiences. Fresh seafood is brought to restaurants right from the beach – it can’t get any fresher than that! On most
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El Limon.
menus, the taste of coconut marks the rich Caribbean flavours from savoury sauces to decadent ice creams. A not-to-be-missed ecotourism adventure is the day trip to the magnificent waterfalls at El Limón. Only for the physically fit, the tour is on horseback through thick, lush forests, followed by a strenuous hike to the actual site of the waterfalls, where a torrent of water rushes from the Limón River, dropping over a 50-metre high cliff and splashing into a small pool at the base. The good news is that hikers are rewarded with the chance Lo cal artwork . to dip into the waters of the very scenic swimming hole. Las Terrenas is famous for its beautiful beaches. Playa Las Ballenas is a good choice for snorkelling and diving at the coral reefs, shipwreck and underwater caves. Nearby, Playa Bonita’s 13-kilometres of golden sand and challenging waves draw a smaller crowd – good for those wanting to lay back and chill. Las Terrenas is a wellpositioned home base for excursions across the Bay to Parque Nacional Los Haitises, another dream expedition for ecotourists. The national park is home to rainforest greenery and some of the largest mangrove reserves in the entire Caribbean. Trained guides lead cultural expeditions to see the drawings made on cave walls by the ancient Taíno Nolitours & Transat Holidays peoples. Excursions can be booked from most hotels to Parque incon. Nacional Los Haitises. P laya R Four-wheel drive jeep excursions are a very popular way to get out into the Dominican countryside to meet the local people, have a sip of some fresh coffee, find secluded beaches, explore caverns and take a dip in the natural pools at a waterfall. It’s a wonderful way to explore the real Dominican countryside, off the resort. Most hotels and resorts are able to book these guided tours. b urism Board n Republic To
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Watching Wildlife The enormous depths of the ocean and the Dominican’s balmy, tropical waters make for some of the Caribbean’s best whale watching. From January through March, humpback whales put on quite an impressive show, especially offshore from Bahía de Samaná. The World Wildlife Fund ranks these waters as one of the world’s best humpback breeding grounds. For a unique experience, marine specialists lead ecotours that draw visitors from all over the globe.
At a slightly slower pace, the languid waters of rivers, coastal bays and canals are home to the endangered West Indian manatee, a passive marine mammal that grazes on grasses and plants in the shallow ocean depths. They’re found near Saona Island, a tranquil spot close to La Romana. Four types of sea turtles live in the offshore reefs – from May to October they’re often sighted coming ashore to lay eggs on the sandy coast of the Parque Nacional Jaragua (in the southwest corner of the country). Hikers who are also birdwatchers can tick species off their checklists at the national parks, especially at Parque Nacional Jaragua (130 bird species), the protected inland forests of Parque Nacional Valle Nuevo (65 species) and Parque Nacional del Este in the southeast end of the country (114 species, including the rare red-footed booby). Ocean World in Puerto Plata offers chances to swim with dolphins and stingrays, and to get up close to sea lions and sharks.
A Little More Action The wonders of the island’s biodiversity reach full throttle on the nature adventures offered by local ecotourism outfitters. Near Punta Cana, the naturalist guides at Bavaro Runners help visitors navigate through 10 zip lines stretched across 1.6 kilometres of the ancient Taino Anamuya Mountain range.
Off-road excursions are always popular with tourists – beach buggy, 4-wheel ATV and jeep safaris head off the beaten path, travelling inland across rivers and rough terrain. Popular departure points are from Punta Cana, Puerto Plata and Samana. Looking to commune with nature? Guided tours can be booked into ecological reserves, tropical forest settings, and to caves, mangroves and waterfalls. These beautiful parts of the countryside are often overlooked, but always appreciated by those who do make the effort. b
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One of the more diverse islands of the Caribbean, the landscape covers the spectrum from mountainous highland ranges to cacti-dotted semi-arid deserts, mangroves, lagoons and rivers. Offshore the world under the water’s surface includes shallow fringe reefs (perfect for the beginner snorkeller) and deeper, more complex barrier reefs. The result is an immensely diverse ecosystem with 20 different life zones, and a huge assortment of sealife, plants, flowers and trees. Before the Spanish explorers arrived in the mid 15th century, the island was covered with lush forest. Logging and intensive plantation farming destroyed almost two-thirds of the original woodlands, but recent conservation efforts have established national parks and land sanctuaries to protect almost one-quarter of the country’s fragile ecosystem.
Photos Dominican Republic Tourism Board
The clear waters and dazzling scenery of the Dominican Republic are seductive to those hoping to discover the panorama of life underwater and ashore.
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History Lives In Santo Domingo With so many beautiful beaches competing for the attention of tourists, it would be easy to overlook Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic. But what a mistake that would be! The path of history has touched Santo Domingo – it is here, in the 500-year-old architecture and the rich historical sights, that visitors come to appreciate the French, Haitian and Spanish influences on the island’s history.
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El Faro A Colon.
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The colonial walled city was founded in 1496 by Bartolomé Columbus, the brother of the famous explorer. When his nephew, Diego Columbus (eldest son of Christopher) became the colony’s governor, Santo Domingo rose as the hub of Spanish commerce and culture in the New World. Now a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, Santo Domingo claims bragging rights as the “city of firsts,” including: • The oldest city in the New World; because of its strategic site used as a departure point for the Spanish conquests across the Americas. • The first road laid out in the New World – Calle Las Damas – lined with restored colonial buildings, was a favourite promenade for elegant ladies of the Spanish aristocracy. • The first cathedral in the Americas, Catedral Primada de América.
Colonial City At the historical heart of Santo Domingo is the Ciudad Colonial (also called the Zona Colonial or the Colonial City), a priceless collection of 16th-century architecture restored and preserved in an expansive colonial neighbourhood of squares, churches, historic buildings, important monuments, cobblestone laneways and atmospheric ruins. The neighbourhood contains most of the historical sites in Santo Domingo, and a walking tour through its narrow streets and into its museums is a must for any visitor. Today, the Ciudad Colonial is much more than a collection of glorious architecture; it is a busy, historic neighbourhood incorporating lively cafes, romantic courtyard restaurants and some of the best shopping in the city. The old town is still partially enclosed by remnants of the original city wall, that at one time was a first line of defence for its Cat edral Pri
Ci udad Colonial
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inhabitants. The grid pattern used by the city planners became the model for almost all town planners in the New World. At its centre is Parque Colón, a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists and one of the best people-watching spots in the city. In the centre of the park stands a large statue honouring the great explorer, Christopher Columbus. All of the historic sights in the Ciudad Colonial are within walking distance of the park.
A Dozen “Don’t Miss” Sights 1. C atedral Primada de América, the first cathedral in the western hemisphere, is a treasure trove of artwork, ancient wood carvings, paintings and sculptures all inside a breathtaking building constructed in the Spanish Renaissance style.
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Dominican Republic 6. A ll that remains of the 16th-century Monasterio de San Francisco are rubble and ruins. The once-glorious structure was looted, burned and damaged by earthquakes and hurricanes. It was never fully restored, but the ruins are dramatically lit at night. 7. T he large Parque de Independencia sits at the juncture of the old colonial city and the cosmopolitan, modern section of Santo Domingo. This popular meeting place holds a special spot in the hearts of Dominicans – it was here that freedom fighters marched for, and won, the country’s independence from Haiti. It was this revolution that established the Dominican Republic as a sovereign nation. 8. The centre for nightlife is along the Malecón (Avenida George Washington), the long oceanfront boardwalk lined with bars, cafes, restaurants, casinos and hotels. During Carnaval – and especially on February 27, Independence Day – the Malecón is closed to traffic and opened up to noisy festivities including an elaborate parade, booths and vendors. 9. T he merengue is the national music and dance of the Dominican Republic, and its joyful beat is embraced with fervour across the island. In Santo Domingo, merengue
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2. The sign out front could say, “Columbus once slept here.” Built as the Columbus family palace, the magnificent coral limestone Museo Alcázar de Colón has more than two-dozen rooms decorated with paintings, religious tapestries, period silverware and 16th-century antiques. The Alcázar is the most visited museum in Santo Domingo. 3. The Museo del Hombre Dominicano contains displays of pre-Columbian history, including artifacts of Taíno culture and history. There’s also a section dedicated to the city’s colourful Carnaval traditions. 4. F or even those with only a passing interest in history, the rich colonial past portrayed in the city’s museums is too good to miss. The excellent Museo de las Casas Reales traces history from the 15th to 19th centuries. Housed in the restored palace of the Spanish court, displays include replicas of the three ships in Columbus’ maiden expedition, and loot recovered from sunken Spanish galleons. 5. The imposing Fortaleza Ozama, with its two-metre thick walls, was once the first line of defence for the colonial city (and the oldest fort in the New World). A narrow staircase in the tower leads to a spectacular 360-degree view of the city, the river and the Caribbean Sea.
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can be found in the hot dance clubs along the Malecón and in small bars along the narrow cobblestone laneways of the Ciudad Colonial. In July and August, Santo Domingo hosts its Merengue Festival, where Dominicans and tourists seem possessed by the infectious music. 10. The towering El Faro a Colón is an enormous cross-shaped monument constructed to mark the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the Americas. The chapel, guarded by a 24hour honour guard, is said to house the tomb of Columbus. 11. There is no country in the world that produces as many Major League Baseball players as the Dominican Republic – besides being the national sport, baseball is a source of immense national pride. Sports fans should not miss a game at the Estadio Quisqueya ballpark to see one of Santo Domingo’s two home teams. 12. Visitors can quench their shopping thirst along the Calle El Conde, a pedestrian-only street lined with cafes, restaurants and shops, and one of the oldest streets in the city. The best mementos to take home are amber and larimar jewelry, Dominican rum and cigars, music, art and crafts made from native mahogany. b
Photos Dominican Republica Tourism Board
Cultural Treasures Dancing the Merengue.
Taino Art Museum.
The Taíno People Before the arrival of European explorers, the island of Hispaniola (the eastern two-thirds is now the Dominican Republic) was inhabited by several native tribes – the Caribs, the Arawaks and, most notably, the early cave-dwelling Taíno people. It was the Taínos that lived on the island when Christopher Columbus stepped onto its shorelines in 1492, describing the sight as “the fairest land under heaven.” The Taínos were quickly wiped out by both disease and cruelty at the hands of the Spanish colonists. But there are still signs of their highly organized culture around the island, and steps are being taken to preserve and protect archaeological findings. In the Parque Nacional de Este (near La Romana) the Padre Nuestro Archaeological Trail passes through areas that were populated by the ancient tribe. Also in the south-central coast region is the magnificent Cueva de las Maravillas, where guided tours explore cave walls covered with a staggering 500 pictographs, petroglyphs and rock art engravings created by the Taínos. In Puerto Plata, the Taíno Art Museum provides insight
into the lives of the pre-Columbian inhabitants of the island. Near Punta Cana, Manatí Park includes a unique reconstruction of the culture and folklore of a typical Taíno Village.
First Colonial Capital Of The New World One of the first settlements established by Columbus was the city now known as Ciudad Colonial, or Santo Domingo, the modern day capital of the country. As the Spaniards colonized the new land, this settlement grew to be a place of great wealth and power. It was here that the first cathedral, university, monastery and hospital of the New World were built. History buffs can pass days of blissful touring in the Zona Colonial, the original heart of the old city, where wellpreserved monuments and Old-World Spanish architecture line cobblestone streets.
Music & Dance For the Dominican people, a passion for music and dance is a central, and joyful, part of their culture and heritage. In every
club, disco and on many street corners you’ll hear the upbeat, hypnotic sounds of merengue bands. Couples dancing merengue is somewhat of a practiced art, although there are always locals eager to teach the steps to visitors from the north. In early October, the annual Merengue Festival takes place along the beautiful seaside Malecón in Puerto Plata. In July and August, Santo Domingo hosts its Merengue Festival, where Dominicans dance to the infectious music they so love. Through the month of February (on each Sunday), communities across the whole country celebrate Carnival with music, food, dancing, costumes and spectacular masks. The month of celebrations peaks with the country’s largest and most elaborate pre-Lenten Carnival Parade in Santo Domingo on the first Sunday of March. And every November there’s a different kind of musical rhythm, flavour and colour being celebrated in Cabarete – it’s the famous Dominican Jazz Festival, host to the best of national and international jazz greats. b
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The Dominican Republic is known for its natural beauty – the pristine beaches fringed by palm trees, the richness of the rainforest and the sheer wonder of the biodiversity found in the crystal clear waters. But visitors who step away from the beachfront will also find a land rich in cultural treasures that whisper – and sing – of proud Amerindian and Spanish heritages.
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Altos De Chavon, La Romana.
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La Romana & Bayahibe
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On the south-central coast, the resorts of La Romana and Bayahibe are sprinkled along never-ending stretches of deserted white sand beach and the turquoise Caribbean Sea. This part of the island is a natural for water lovers – the happy couple can hop a boat to the country’s best snorkelling sites at the islands of Saona and Catalinita. Dolphins often tag along, jumping in the boat’s wake. Resorts offering weddings and honeymoon packages include:
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Puerto Plata The naming of Puerto Plata can only bring good luck to a newlyweds: it is said that Columbus picked the name after seeing the way the sun shone on the water, creating the illusion of a mass of silver coins. Puerto Plata (and next-door Playa Dorada) is abuzz with lively nightlife, palm-lined beaches, fantastic windsurfing and classic golf courses. It’s the perfect location for couples that like break up their time on the beach with a round of golf, a rip-roaring time on the waves or an evening dancing the sensual merengue. Resorts offering weddings and honeymoon packages include: • I Iberostar Costa Dorada • I Grand Oasis Marien • I Barceló Puerto Plata
Samaná The peninsula of Samaná is a haven for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts. An arc of white sand beach, lush vegetation and thick coconut groves make Samaná one of the prettiest areas of the country.
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Brides and grooms planning a green theme to their honeymoon can see majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat, climb through rainforested mountains to sparkling waterfalls or kick back on a sunset catamaran cruise. Resorts offering weddings and honeymoon packages include: • IGran Bahia Principe El Portillo • IGran Bahia Principe Cayacoa • IGran Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado idays
• I berostar Hacienda Dominicus • I Gran Bahia Principe La Romana Royal Golden • I Oasis Canoa
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It’s a wedding trend that’s a definite winwin. More and more couples are voting with their passports – they’re choosing the Dominican Republic for a romantic destination wedding. Getting married or honeymooning in paradise is not only gentle on the budget, but it also is a great stressbuster. Imagine the appeal of a pictureperfect ceremony, followed by an idyllic honeymoon, just steps away. At most resort properties, the well-trained wedding planners focus on one goal: to bring the couple’s vision of the perfect wedding day to life. They can arrange a chapel, garden or beach setting and most resorts offer packages that include flowers, jewelry, photography, wedding apparel and music. With a wedding style to fit every budget, here are some options for the couple to consider. Feeling romantic?
Punta Cana.
Punta Cana This far eastern part of the island is known for its all-inclusive resorts, some of which specialize in settings for couples rather than families (better suited for destination weddings and honeymoons). The area is known for the best beaches on the island – picture-perfect stretches of powder white sand lined by swaying palm trees. Because of the large number of resorts, there are a huge number of shopping opportunities, excursion tours including popular zip-lining, golf courses and nightlife. Resorts offering weddings and honeymoon packages include: • INH Real Arena Le Mirage • IBarceló Punta Cana • IThe Royal Suites Turquesa by Palladium b
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Filling your glass with a taste of the island is never a problem. Fresh fruits are sold at most roadside stands – mangoes, passion fruit, pineapple, grapefruit and guava for starters, but make sure to try the local milkshake, batida de lechosa, made with sweet papaya. The history of the Dominican Republic is intertwined with the rise and fall of the fortune of the sugarcane trade. Whether dark, amber or white, island rum (made from fermented sugarcane) is definitely the beverage of the Caribbean. The three large Dominican distilleries are Brugal, Bermúdez and Barceló – and you’ll be inviting a spirited debate if you ask locals to recommend their favourite. Try a taste of each – you’ll find they’re served in every watering hole, upscale hotel restaurant and resort beachside bar. b
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seasoned with oregano and garlic. The roots of Spanish cuisine (known as criollo cooking) have brought other “must taste” local dishes onto restaurant menus – most consist of meat (chicken and pork are popular) with side dishes of vegetables and rice and beans. Look for Sancocho. la bandera dominicana, a tasty platter of chicken, rice and beans (a kitchen staple) served with a side of plantains. Learn to snack like the locals. Plantains are fried into crispy chips and are irresistible with a frosty bottle of beer (the Presidente brew is a source of national pride). Both plantain and its kissin’ cousin, the banana, were brought from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean by Spanish explorers, and they’ve become dietary staples in snacks, cooked side dishes and sweet desserts. Street vendors sell everything from warm, deep-fried Johnnycakes (known locally as yaniqueques) to a refreshing, healthy drink of coconut water. They’ll use a machete to chop off the top of the nut while you wait – it doesn’t get much fresher than that!
Photos Dominic
Thanks to a perfect mix of geography and climate, the farmers’ fields of the Dominican Republic spillover year-round with an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Small fishing boats bob in the surrounding waters, pulling in fresh catch to supply local restaurants. Fresh ingredients rein here, so be adventuresome. Venture out from the standard resort fare and discover a Dominican culinary tradition where Caribbean flavours mingle with distinct Latino influences. Foodies often get their bearings at the local markets. It’s a wonderful way to discover everything from the spices to the staples that make the local cuisine tick. A market visit uncovers the culinary heartbeat of the Dominican Republic – it’s where farmers proudly display plantains, cassava, pineapple, papayas, mangoes, guavas, bananas, melons and an abundance of sealife. A jar of local hot sauce, a bag of coffee beans or a bottle of pure vanilla essence makes a wonderful gift to bring back home. The irresistible scents wafting from a streetside stall or a small local eatery speak to the power of food. Stews are popular at mealtime – the chefs often rely on what ingredients are available at the local market on any given day. The national dish is called sancocho, a thick, slowly-simmered stew traditionally made with seven meats, cassava, yams, potatoes and plantains,
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Photos Dominican Republic Tourism Board
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Sporting DR An intriguing hike or an inviting beach is never far away. The diverse island geography includes tropical rainforests, mountain wilderness, mangrove swamps, azure waters and everything in between. Each setting is a playground for the sports nut. And the forgiving climate means it’s always a good time to climb, raft, dive or pedal. World-class golf.
Active Pathways To fully appreciate the majesty of the Dominican countryside, visitors must get out and experience the many superb hiking paths (most are located within the national parks system; permits and guides may be required). But there’s much more to do than lacing on a pair of boots and taking a stroll through lush, floral landscapes: canyoning (a combination of hiking, rock climbing, repelling and swimming), cascading (scrambling up waterfalls, sliding down water chutes), whitewater rafting and mountain biking opportunities are never far away. And if it’s preferable to let the horse carry the load, several resort properties offer guided horseback riding excursions to both subtropical forests and sandy beaches. Year-round play and a selection of worldclass courses make the Dominican Republic among the Caribbean’s most popular golf destinations. There is a course layout to suit every skill level, from resort play to championship courses with enviable pedigrees (including designs by Jack Nicklaus, Pete B.
Dye and Tom Fazio). Punta Cana, La Romana, Playa Grande and Playa Dorada have must-play layouts on the best course lists. Baseball is a national obsession as well as the country’s national sport. During baseball season (October to January) it’s easy to find a game between local teams (two dozen major league teams have training camps here). The game’s roots go back generations, when workers learned the sport during downtime in the sugarcane industry. There’s an unmistakable passion for baseball in the Dominican Republic, so it’s no surprise that the country has produced some of the world’s best professional players.
The Water Beckons The warm waters and high winds of the North Coast are seductive to surfers, windsurfers and kiteboarders. The choppy waters off Playa Cofresí are excellent for bodysurfing and boogie boarding. Cabarete Bay (nicknamed “Kite Beach”) is considered one of the top five kiteboarding and
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Adventure includes whitewater rafting.
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windsurfing beaches in the world; it hosts international championships including the Kiteboarding World Cup and the World Cup Windsurfing Competition. Outfitters offer lessons and equipment rentals. Just a short drive outside of Cabarete is Playa Encuentro, known as a hot spot for surfers hunting for that perfect point break. Experienced boarders head for the more challenging waves at Playa Grande, Playa Preciosa and Playa Boba. Boards and lessons are available through local tour companies. The coral beds that fringe the island offer exceptional scuba diving and snorkelling, suitable for both beginners and experienced divers. Take the plunge and explore centuriesold shipwrecks and diverse coral reef formations teeming with colourful marine life. A variety of fish is just one reason why the Dominican Republic is a year-round paradise for the devoted deep sea angler. They come to cast a line for billfish, white marlin (especially off Punta Cana where they’re found in huge numbers), dorado, wahoo and sailfish. b
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Barceló Bávaro Palace Deluxe All New for 2011
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