Your flight to Santo Domingo introduces you to the Dominican Republic’s ancient and charming capital, founded in 1496 by Columbus’ brother, Bartolomé. Explore Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone from the stately limestone Alcázar de Colón (castle) to the first cathedral in the Americas.
Explore times gone by at Santo Domingo’s Museum of the Royal Houses with its exhibits on pre-Colombian cultures, Columbus’ voyage and colonial artefacts. Mix with locals amongst the cigar shops and cocoa stalls of Mella Avenue and Modelo Market in Santo Domingo.
Find a city retreat in amongst the palms of the National Botanical Garden or picnic in Santo Domingo’s Tres Ojos Park. Or spend the day doing water sports and relaxing on the white sands of Boca Chica and La Caleta.
Locals in Santo Domingo live on a diet of rice, beans, salad and meat or fish. Try mangú (mashed plantain, bacon, cheese and milk), sautéed onions and a cup of local cocoa for breakfast, and in the evening enjoy Dominican Republic rum and Presidente beer whilst learning to dance the merengue. |