Dominican Republic Directory
Dominican Republic Overview
The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Caribbean, largely because it has the largest all-inclusive resort industry in the world. This form of vacation, based on set rates for airfare, hotel, food and drinks and providing carefree vacationing on idyllic beaches, within the protection of a tourist compound, now brings about two million visitors to the Dominican Republic a year. 
Sandwich Bay - Dominican Republic
For the more adventurous, the Dominican Republic has just as much to offer. It has a great variety of terrain – rain forests, lowlands, coastal swamps, desert and the highest mountains in the Caribbean, rising to more than 10,000ft (3,000m).
The Dominican Republic is about the size of Scotland, but contains no less than seven international airports. It shares Hispaniola, the second largest island in the Caribbean, with its smaller neighbour, Haiti. Its capital, Santo Domingo, is the oldest city in the Americas, a cosmopolitan city with much of historic interest and lively nights. The Dominican Republic offers some of the most beautiful and diverse topography in the Caribbean. To give you and idea of its size, The Dominican Republic is larger than the Bahamas, Jamaica, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands combined.
Within the country, vast mountains cover about 80% of the landscape. The "Cordillera Central" which runs northwest to southeast, contains the highest point in the West Indies, "Pico Duarte (3,174m or 10,414ft)." In contrast, "Lake Enriquillo" (148ft below sea level) which lies to the west of the Cordillera Central is the lowest point in the West Indies.
Santo Domingo
The colonial section has been carefully restored to retain its original charm, and is home to the first university, cathedral and hospital built in the New World. The modern city of Santo Domingo, by contrast, is a thriving port city, equipped with discotheques, gambling casinos, shops and the Cultural Plaza which houses the Gallery of Modern Art and the National Theater.
The Atlantic coast of the country is renowned for its miles of unspoiled beaches that surround Puerto Plata, the most popular being Sosúa. Nearby rises Mount Isabel de Torres. It is possible to take the cable car to the summit which sits at an elevation of just over 760m (2500ft) above sea level. The breathtaking views of both the Atlantic and the port of Puerto Plata are well worth the 7-minute climb up to the top of the mountain. 
Layou River - Dominican Republic
Discover our regions world-class resorts and explore the beauty of nature or the excitement of festivals and events. Savor the many delights of fine cuisine or casual fare. Venture "off-the-beaten-path" and browse unique galleries, antique shops, and artists colonies. Challenge yourself with championship golf along the north coast of Playa Grande or just relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of the Island.
The official language is Spanish, so do as much as you can to bone up on Spanish before you go. Officially, nearly everyone involved in tourism speaks English, but in fact many people have trouble understanding English. Waitresses in coffee shops may simply drop their jaws when you speak to them in English. In the outlying areas, it is absolutely necessary to speak Spanish. Do bring along a phrase book and keep it handy in your bag.
City, mountain and beach resorts and hotels offer a wide range of accommodations, featuring palm-fringed beaches, adventure sports, casinos, year-round events and a rich history and culture, amid the renowned hospitality of Dominican people, all of which make this country a prime vacation spot for tourists from all parts of the world.
Dominican Republic Facts
Political status:
Independent nation
Religion:
Mainly Roman Catholic but some Protestant churches.
Business:
Banks are open 8.30am-3pm, Mondays to Fridays, and for foreign exchange between 8am-noon on Saturdays. Airport booths remain open to service all incoming flights, 24 hours if necessary. Shops open Monday to Saturday 8.30am-noon and 2.30-6.30pm. There are duty-free areas. Payment cards only accepted at major tourist areas.
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