Stop at Playa Bergantin for a swimming and beach stop. In Santo Domingo, head to Jet Set Club for weekly concerts on Monday nights. Located in the remote southwest, Lake Enriquillo lies 60 feet below sea level, and is the largest lake in the Caribbean region. Im not sure if that exists anymore, so please dont use that as a likely place to find wifi in Amber Cove. That is, do these two things each day before going to bed. Sip, mingle and enjoy the fresh air. Wander down to the Information Center in Amber Cove. Youve never seen water this blue before. Enjoy the trip to Hoyo Azul, as youll be doing a lot of zip lines. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort, Related: Best Restaurants in The Dominican Republic, Puntacana Resort & ClubPunta Cana, DR 23000(809) 959-1010. In any case, ensure your notes are in good condition and not scribbled on as most shops wont accept them. Or visit the Conquista Park for its beautiful collection of local art and artifacts. While the rest of us might use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step further. If youre into precious stones, opt for larimar or amber jewelry pieces. 1. Web1. Two ships are able to dock at the Amber Cove cruise center at the same time. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Garant & Suites, Calle Duarte 61Puerto Plata, DR 57000(809) 586-2848. The two- to three-day expedition will have you camping under the stars as you make your way to the summit at sunrise. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link. Its a good idea to order a rich cup of coffee to taste freshly roasted beans from the Dominican Republic. Theres really something for everyone! Are you wondering where the Amber Cove beach is? Post contains affiliate links. Its worth the uphill hike, trust me! Driving in the Dominican Republic can be tempting at times like when Look round and compare. Twitter Most GSM networks work flawlessly in the main towns such as Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, but the more you might get lower signals in rural neighborhoods where youd mostly need your online maps. Leave a Comment. Try mang, a deliciously seasoned mound of mashed green plantains topped with sauted red onions, for breakfast or sancocho, a hearty stew combining various meats and roots vegetables, served with a side of white rice and avocado slices. Enjoy your vacation! Playa Rincon is a 5-kilometer undeveloped white-sand beach in the Samana Peninsula. 13 13. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 adventurous things to do in the Dominican Republic. Sure, it aint cheap, but the whole experience is definitely worth it. So if you and your 3 friends are happily travelling to your destination in a taxi cab, dont be surprised if the driver suddenly stops to pick up another person! Among the treats not to be missed are cativia (wheat empanadas), salpicon (chilled seafood and vegetables), sancocho (rich meat stew), and pastel en hoja (boiled root crops and meat in banana leaf). Official taxi cabs stick to designated pickup neighborhoods. The only and largest population thrives in the Estero Hondo lagoon. Theres a tiny water slide and a splash bucket. Youll find them on the beach or at resorts. Bavaro Beach is a white-sand beach and resort town in Punta Cana. I have been told, jokingly, that the loneliest Dominican is the one who arrives on time.. You can always fit one more person into a bus or public taxi. Best Luggage Storage: Where to Store Your Bags While Traveling, Best 7 Days in Israel Itinerary for an Amazing Week. Write it down. I have also been greeting the security guards on my way to work (see tip #1) should something happen to me while walking to work, I know I have someone watching my back. So unless you want to fill your wallet with chewing gum sweets, bring some loose change! If youre going all out, make sure to get the premium tours around the islands. Hey, sharing really is caring. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hodelpa Nicols de Ovando. It allows their cruise ships to dock near Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. These influences are reflected today in the people, the cuisine and the music. Lets explore the best things to do in the Dominican Republic: 1. And if its beaches you want, theres no place better than Punta Cana. Its like being transported into another country. Millions of visitors flock to Punta Cana every year for some of the Dominican Republics longest white sand beaches, but there are other spectacular and less crowded coastlines to explore. Youll be able to admire your ship in port from the hammock. As an aside, people here will wish you Buen Provecho, before eating a meal, the way Americans say Bon Apetit. Do the same for them. Beaches are one of the top places to visit in the Dominican Republic. * Some hotels require you to cancelmore than 24 hoursbefore check-in. Or you can also try out the giant slide that ends up in the parks artificial swimming lagoon. Both my sister and I are in our 30s and we had a blast, too! All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. But, if you dont want the hassle, pick a seafront restaurant. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'kiskeyalife_com-leader-3','ezslot_13',650,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kiskeyalife_com-leader-3-0');When you visit the Dominican Republic, most likely you will have to take a cab (they dont have a taximeter), you will want to buy some gifts, ect, you should know beforehand the local currency and an approximate cost of things. You can choose from Ocean, Poolside, Hillside or Grand Cabanas. Feel the romance at La Yola One of the exciting curiosities in the exhibit is the fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard. Stroll at your leisure, and cool off afterwards at the on site cafe. Read more about the negative impacts of swimming with dolphins, and ethical choices for excursions that are fantastic alternatives. I am used to beans with a savory flavor, so I was hesitant to try this dish. Youll need some small change in the local currency for things like transportation and refreshments. In Santo Domingo, Villar Hermanos and Meson DBari are among the best Dominican restaurants, but youll also find local dishes in comedores or small local restaurants around the country. And youll enjoy a trip with no unfortunate mishaps. Alcanfor is a plant that they use for medicinal purposes to treat arthritis, asthma, back-ache, bronchitis, flatulence, headache and many other conditions. Another addition to your list of things to do in the Dominican Republic for couples is to visit the beautiful St. Stanislaus Church. This parks rainforests were once used as a filming location for the cult classic movie. Pinterest Driving. Go on exciting beach excursions to get a glimpse of dolphins and whales playing in the waters. It can be reached by hiking or riding a cable car. It's this incredible range in nature and culture is what makes the Dominican Republic one of the most interesting destinations to visit in the Caribbean. As youll be out to sea for many days, you might be without Internet for some time. The Dominican Republic offers plenty of opportunities to shop items that are sourced and created locally. Other cities have their own charm and beautiful scenery. At Ocean World Adventure Park, Oceans World Dolphin Encounter is a captive marine mammal park. We participated in the Turkey Trot fun run as our cruise was around Thanksgiving. Aside from better drinks and a tastier menu (hello, lobster! The Dominican Republic counts the highest contribution of baseball players to US Major League Baseball. The Los Tres Ojos National Park is home to an open-air limestone cave with three eye-shaped lakes inside. The effects of the suns rays tend to be stronger around the white-sand beaches. If Im in a public car or a public place, I dont take out my phone, wallet, or anything valuable. The so-called hurricane season should be factored in when planning a trip to the Caribbean islands. Details on site. Santo Domingo Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor. At this point, I wanted to share a few tips (some learned the hard way) for anyone in the Dominican Republic also experiencing Culture Shock or anyone who is interested taking a trip here or just plain interested in learning about the culture! There is a car rental agency inside Amber Cove (Alamo / National), but it is temporarily closed. Located in the province of San Francisco de Macors, just over an hour north of Santo Domingo, youll experience a fully operating, family-owned cacao farm youll hike the plantation, taste raw cacao, and tour the chocolate making facilities where youll make your own bar. She is interested in culture, music, and marketing. The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the El Farallon Cliff. You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more! Need Travel Insurance?You should never leave home without travel insurance! Ecosystems 3. There are tons of local flora and hidden caves to find in the area. You can also lounge around Playa Cabarete, go for a swim in the cool waters, or eat a bite at the many food shops in the area. Check out the best rates to make sure youre covered in case of an emergency or accident. As if the mainland didnt have enough beaches, the Dominican Republic counts a handful of offshore islands with spectacular white sand beaches. Be forewarned: the Department of State advises US citizens to avoid the use of novelty stamps in USA passports, as they deem that it causes damage to the passport. The kids can stay cool and have a blast while you lounge in tropical Dominican Republic on your day in Amber Cove. The Dominican Republic itself lies right in the middle of the Caribbean hurricane belt, getting its fair share of stormy weather usually at its peak in August and September. Make sure to visit popular spots like Piedra Letrada (Taino culture stones), El Arroyazo (natural pool), and Aguas Blanca (highest waterfall in the D.R.). Your Dominican Republic stay is not complete until you experience the 10-minute ride up to the mountains in the Teleferico. Here, youll see a plethora of birds and endangered species like the Hispaniolan Piculet and the Ridgways Hawk. The Dominican Baseball League runs an annual baseball tournament from mid-October through January, and you can catch the games at any of the professional baseball stadiums around the country. Basic Safety Precautions in the DR. Travelling to foreign countries, all tourists Off The Beaten Path In The Dominican Republic, Building And Lodging In The Dominican Republic, Here I leave you the link to a similar and more complete topic, The Best Cigar In The World Is Probably From The Dominican Republic, Are There Dolphins In The Dominican Republic? Art 2. Back in 2016, we sailed with Fathom Cruises on our Dominican Republic cruise, primarily because we wanted to participate in the impact activities. Hike Pico Duarte, the Caribbeans Highest Peak, Go Humpback Whale Watching in the Bay of Saman. The basilicas design is unique, and many architecture fans will enjoy taking photos of it, for sure. In each locale, youll discover even more beaches or features of natural beauty, and there are often easy excursions available such as boat trips, waterfall tours, and even horseback riding to enjoy. These arent too far from the pool area. Take into account where you wish to stay and what types of activities you plan to do during your visit. Well, there isnt a beach at Amber Cove, unfortunately. On shore, you cant miss seeing iguanas freely roaming the grounds. Sometimes, when you pay in dollars at small shops, youd often get change in RD$. WebGolf fans will want to book a stay at Sunscape Puerto Plata Dominican Republic for the chance to experience the resorts beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by the famous Robert Trent Jones. Aside from interesting fossils, youll also learn more about the amber business in the Dominican Republic. If you go out to eat, dont expect to catch the next movie screening, so buy your cinema tickets after you finish dinner. Its wooden deck, rattan furniture, and thatched palm roof really sell the island paradise vibes. What I have noticed, many people inside the pantheon behave inappropriately, talking loudly, posing for photos, some laughing, this behavior may be reprehensible. 1. Christopher Columbus first landed in Hispaniola in 1492, and the Dominican Republic became a Spanish Colony a year later. I get called Rubia (blondie) on the street due to my brown hair. Swim in the capitals main beach when you travel to Santo Domingo. Head two hours east of Puerto Plata city. To stop you receiving Chiclets from a Colmado, or making off with a Sanky Panky youll want to hear our list of 10 things not to do in the Dominican Republic! One of the nicest things to do in the Dominican Republic is to experience the capuchin monkeys, and the best way to do so is to visit a park, such as Monkeyland, where trained guides monitor encounters with the animals. It is where some cultural, architectural, and transportation, If you like nature, beaches with crystal clear waters, a good sunny Caribbean climate and being in contact with great biodiversity that does not represent, Contents1 The Dominican Republic Flag2 Origins of the Dominican Republic flag3 When was the Dominican Republic flag created?4 What does the Dominican flag stand for?5, Your email address will not be published. The country's museums shed an important light on the countrys fascinating history. But the Habichuela con Dulce was actually pretty good! Top 8 Things To Do In Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic | Trip101 Dominican Republic Sightseeing Nature & Parks Outdoor Activities Cafes Restaurants beach getaway whale watching dolphin watch bakery water sports scuba diving mountain biking national park local food Dominican Republic > Las Terrenas The usual access known for the park is via Samana. This applies if youre staying at an all inclusive resort as they also accept U.S.$. History buffs and fans of architecture will be tickled pink when they roam around this ancient city. Its also a good idea to bring along mosquito repellant, your own water bottle, and of course, your camera. Damajaqua Cascades is also known as 27 Charcos de Damajagua. I'm Lauren Yakiwchuk, nice to meet you! Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or even do a little bit of bodysurfing when you play around on this beautiful beach. Source: flickr. 2.What Not To Do in the Dominican RepublicDont stick to a schedule, Dominicans are very relaxed with time and move at a different pace than in the states. Make sure to sample some of their Mediterranean-inspired dishes like the glazed lamb shank and caprese salad. Play and win in pesos, and youll often find it hard to change them to dollars. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Xeliter Vista Mare, Samana, Also See:What to Do in BelizeThings to Do in Costa Rica. Please, please, please do not swim with dolphins. This list of things not to do in the Dominican Republic should keep you on the safer side during your trip to this popular Caribbean destination. This is where youll depart on your shore excursions and activities away from the port. Hoyo Azul is a hidden natural pool found inside Scape Park. The Dominican colmado is a corner mom and pop grocery store that doubles as a neighborhood bar. Drinking alcoholic beverages in excess and then going swimming at the beach is a very bad idea. Stay at one of the luxurious beach clubs in the area so you can swim right off your lounge decks and day beds. You can even touch some of the creatures like a starfish. Dont feel like laying in an ordinary pool lounger? I usually buy the whole beans and it has never been a problem. Tour a number of important museums and colonial buildings, including the first fortress of the Americas, the first cathedral, the ruins of the first hospital, the first convent and the first university. Theres a 650 foot zip line that runs across the Aqua Zone of Amber Cove. The best way to enjoy it is on a boat cruise of the surrounding Bay of Eagles. Amber mining has been a massive business in the country for centuries. Lake Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Dominican Republic and the entire Caribbean. You can reach Sky Bar, a bar up high on the hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps. Aside from the volunteering excursions that I mentioned above, you can also get outside of Amber Cove to see more of Puerto Plata and Dominican Republic. Enjoy fresh catches of seafood cooked from a fire hearth for a more authentic, seaside experience. The flat-topped mountain offers unobstructed views of the northern region of the Dominican Republic. We found that it was fairly speedy, though my connection was slower during the day when many people were using it. Youll even plant your own cacao plant on the farm. The main spoken language in the Dominican Republic remains Spanish. Temperatures in the different regions throughout the island of Hispaniola also vary due to the diverse terrain. You can practice your merengue and bachata dance skills anywhere in the country, whether on the beach or at your resorts nightclub, in local bars and at concerts. Fans of the film, Jurassic Park, should add a boat or kayak trip around Los Haitises to your list of fun things to do in the Dominican Republic. Punta Cana has 48 kilometers of pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters. Learn more about chocolates history and how it became an integral part of the Dominican Republics culture. There are also cigar and rum bars around the country. Here is a full day tour of Puerto Plata with all of the best that the city has to offer. A colmado is primarily a local convenience store. Weve already told you about some awesome things to do in the Dominican Republic, but what about the things NOT to do there? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of centuries-old landmarks like Alcazar de Colon, Puerta del Conde, and Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor. Theres also a duty-free shop with liquor, chocolate, and souvenirs. Since your cruise will likely only stop in Amber Cove for the day, be sure to find it when youre exploring the Amber Cove port for a great photo opportunity. You will certainly like it and you should plan to capture several photos of it. It is also considered the lowest point in the D.R. Make the most of the open bar and get a taste for all the free-flowing delicious local drinks. In Puerto Plata, shows are held regularly at the Puerto Plata Amphitheatre. Enjoy a cafecito during the day, preferably while sitting outdoors and catching up with friends. Its similar to a cruise private island, except it isnt an island and your cruise cards wont work in port (bring cash or credit cards). All rights reserved. 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