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Dominican Republic

There are two sides to the Dominican Republic, just like there are two sides of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola on which the Republic is situated. The Dominican Republic shares the island with neighbouring Haiti. Inside the confines of the many resort hotels along the beautiful coastline, tourists languish in luxury, sipping cocktails under the palm trees and bathing in beautiful blue lagoons. The other tourist spots in the Dominican Republic are the northern Amber Coast region around Puerta Plata, the beautiful Samana Peninsula, and the resort communities of the east coast, where stretches of pristine tropical beach have been bought and developed into all-inclusive resorts. However, those who take the trouble to explore a little behind the scenes will find plenty of unspoilt tropical paradise off the beaten track in the Dominican Republic, and locals ready and willing to offer warm hospitality.

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Independent Dominican Republic resort reviews

 
     
  Puerto Plata Puerto Plata was founded by Nicolás de Ovando in 1502. A personal decree of Christopher Columbus gave the city its name, because of the shimmering silver colour of its coast at sunset. Puerto Plata is cradled between its colonial harbour and a dramatic backdrop and natural reserve, Mt. Isabel de Torres. Still erect from centuries past is the colonial fortress of San Felipe, built in 1541 to defend from possible pirate attack. Many of the turn-of-the-century homes have been lovingly restored, and the charming central park gazebo was recreated from period renderings of the original. The 1970’s brought tourism to the Amber Coast, with a meticulous development program directed by the Central Bank’s Department of Tourism Infrastructure.  
     
  Rio San Juan The town of Rio San Juan has enjoyed development in recent years because of its proximity to some of the most beautiful north coast beaches. A boat ride through the thick, dark mangroves of Gri-Gri Lagoon takes visitors out along the rocky coastline to view cobalt blue waters and caves of crystalline pools. This is our spectacular Atlantic coast at its best.  
     
  Sosua is located in the heart of the popular beach area of the Atlantic Coast, about 20 km east of Puerto Plata and 14 km west of Cabarete. It is divided into two separate villages which are separated by a bay at whose base is a beautiful sandy white beach more than half a mile long. In addition to sunbathing, it is the scene of a variety of watersports such as sailing, water skiing, jet-skiing, and just offshore a short distance there are banks of coral that are excellent for scuba-diving. Not far away to the east is another beach where the conditions are great for surfing (with just a board, without sail). Sosua is great place for nightly entertainment too.  
     
  There are many more resorts on the island but the tourist usually stay within the hotel complex wherever the resort is located. A holiday in the Dominican Republic isn't like one in Europe where you stroll around the shops at night or visit the local bars or disco. So it's important that you choose a hotel complex that has plenty to offer. Also be prepared for what was once known as "Spanish tummy" as this problem is common in most Caribbean resorts. Please read the guidance notes for travellers which can be found here and make sure you have holiday insurance which can be found cheaply here.  
     
 

If you feel that any of our comments about a particular resort is unfair or needs updating then do please send us an email by clicking here. We also welcome photos of your holiday.

 
     
 

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