September 1, 2014
Cecilia Abad
News Writer
Travel
Photos
courtesy of lonelyplanet.com and tripadvisor.com
The Dominican Republic, a part of the Island of Hispaniola and Haiti’s neighboring country is a tropical paradise. Originally named Santo Domingo in 1947 when Europeans settled it, the Dominican Republic provides its citizens and visitors with a rich history, Merengue dancing, great food, and the island’s breathtaking beaches.
Lodging
For luxurious accommodations, stay at the Casa de Campo resort, considered to be one of the Dominican Republics’ most complete resort with an option of either staying in a hotel room or a villa. The resort extends for 7,000 acres and is home to three prestigious golf courses designed by golf Hall of Famer, Pete Dye. If golfing is not your thing, why not take a stroll at the Casa de Campo’s private beach and enjoy a variety of water sports for all ages. If you are looking for a more culturally diverse and historical experience, why not try out the family-friendly Boutique Hotel Palacio. Located in the oldes t European settlement and now the capitol of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo. The hotel building in itself is historic, being owned by former Dominican Republic presidents: Mr. Buenaventura Baez, his son and Dr. Ramon Baez. It’s in walking distance from other historical landmarks and museums.
Dining
The rich history of the Dominican Republic offers a unique dining experience influenced by African, European, and Indigenous roots. To experience this history, versatile cuisine, and a relaxing atmosphere, stroll down the Colonial Plaza to the restaurant Meson D’ Bari, where you can give your taste buds an authentic criollo taste. For an equally relaxing atmosphere, visit Pura Tasca, located in the Colonial zone of the Dominican Republic. The Spanish restaurant, Pura Tasca, is a reminder of the diverse history of the country and offers a variety of splendid tapas and delicious sangria. If you’re looking for a more adventurous meal try an authentic Caribbean dish while enjoying a not so traditional atmosphere, at the first class restaurant, El Meson de la Cava. In other words, eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner inside the Karst Cave with your family friends. This is a fantastic place to experience first class Caribbean eatery, while creating new memories in this exclusive subterranean restaurant.
Things to Do
The capitol, Santo Domingo, is a perfect place to be exposed to the colonial architecture, historical 
museums and the culture. If the countryside is more ideal to you, hop on the Punta Cana Half-Day Dune Buggy Adventure, which has a manual transmission cart that you can take for a ride throughout the Punta Cana region. Drive through the countryside, witness the colorful homes, banana plantations, and of course, the white sandy and crystal blue beaches. In Punta Cana, don’t forget to take the Catamaran Cruise to Soana Island. In the Soana Island, explore the ‘natural pool’ lagoon filled with starfish or receive a Merengue dance lesson from the locals. For a birds-eye view of the Dominican Republic’s tropical rainforest extending for about 1,000 feet long, ride the Samana zipline. If you had planned for a traditional Caribbean escape, you’re in luck because the Dominican Republic offers a variety of white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters.
For the night, be sure to pack your dance shoes. The country is where the popular Merengue originated. It offers disco bars, lounges, and clubs in any region of the island. The club Mangu Disco bar located in the Occidental Resort in Punta Cana region, is a two-floor club providing its visitors with Latin music on the first floor and electronic/techno music on the second. If you were looking for a less traditional way to experience your night, try stepping inside a subterranean disco. Finally, take 75 steps down into the Guacora Taina dance Club, where you will find yourself 60 feet deep in the cave and surrounded by traditional Latin music.
