| | | | | | | REACH OVER 380,000 SUBSCRIBERS EVERY MONTH! | |  LIST YOUR PROPERTY WITH US: on one of the top Caribbean Property Sites. Get your property SEEN!
| | ADVERTISE ON THE FRONT PAGE OF YOUR COUNTRY! Reach your target market - people looking for property, information and opportunities in YOUR country. | | PLACE YOUR BANNER ADD ON OUR SITE FOR HUGE TRAFFIC VOLUME! Click here to find out how we can help you sell your property, business, opportunity, ebook or idea. | | | | NEED EXPOSURE FOR YOUR DEVELOPMENT? Advertise your project, your resort, your spa, your condos, your timeshare... whatever you are promoting - in Caribpro. | | | | | | SUBSCRIBE FREE! Click here and subscribe to Caribbean Property ezine monthly - FREE! We value your privacy (Unsubscribe anytime) | | | |  DOWNLOAD LATEST EDITION AS A PDF : Click here to download the latest Edition of Caribbean Property Magazine in PDF format, June May 2010. Most computers will open PDF documents automatically, but you may need to download Adobe Reader. Download the reader here.
| TELL YOUR STORY! We want your articles, your stories, your experiences, your knowledge and your advice! Tell our readers what you have learned, what you love and what you think other people need to know about living, working, buying, selling, relocating and retiring in the Caribbean. | | CONTACT US/FEEDBACK Want to contact us? Make a comment? Want more info? Different info? We want you to be satisfied, so tell us what you think... | | |  | | A comprehensive list of downloadable ebooks available from Caribpro. Titles include: | | | | | |  Retire In Mexico: Live Better For Less. Live in Mexico and join the many other retires who have done their homework, which resulted in mexico where you can live better for less.
| | Escape The Corporation: How to live the life you have always dreamed of - free from the corporate slog. | | | | Nicaragua: Real Estate Property and land bargain amidst colonial splendour. | | | | Living & Investing: In Panama Find your dream in panama by enjoying an affordable and comfortable setting. | | The Portable Professional:
Using technology, log in from anywhere and earn a living. please yourself and make money doing it. | | | | |  | | | | | OCTOBER  2 0 0 8
Issue 21
| An online magazine about investing, living, working and relocating to the Caribbean. | | | |
C O U N T R Y F O C U S |
| THE DAZZLING DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
By Anjali Wilde
I can truthfully report that after 12 years of travel throughout the Caribbean my favorite island is easily the Dominican Republic. There is just simply no other island like it as no other island offers the plethora of world class activities, upscale resorts and casinos, high end retail, old world charm, new world convenience, dedicated ecotourism - and all at very reasonable prices. There is something for everyone to truly enjoy in the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is that rare colorful tapestry of Spanish, French, Haitian, and African influences woven by a rich and storied history. Christopher Columbus described this lush land as "a beautiful island paradise with high forested mountains and large river valleys". This statement is still as true today as it was in 1492. In addition to the comforts of sun, sea, and sand, the Dominican Republic offers an exciting and unique cultural experience that will captivate your senses.
THIS IS A DESTINATION LIKE NO OTHER – A SENSUAL FEAST OF DAZZLING LANDSCAPES, EXOTIC CUISINE...
This is a destination like no other - a sensual feast of dazzling landscapes, exotic cuisine, and a remarkable variety of arts and entertainment options. The pulse-pounding thrill of the merengue, intriguing relics from centuries past, premium cigars, and even world-class baseball await you. The Dominican Republic is a surprising place that will delight even the most experienced traveler. The Dominican Republic is vast and to introduce you to all of the regions, activities and beaches is more than enough information for this article…so let’s get started.
REGIONS OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Diverse terrain and extraordinary natural beauty is a hallmark of the Dominican Republic's six regions which are a fantastic combination of environments that will capture your imagination and refresh your soul.
Rolling mountains, lush jungles, pine forest, coral reefs, unspoiled beaches, and arid desert coexist side-by-side in this magical land. The magnificence of nature sets the scene for quaint villages, charming cities, and first class accommodations for visitors.
Central Region
Home to some of the country's most lush and fertile lands, the central region of the Dominican Republic includes the towns of Santiago and La Vega, as well as the stunning Cordillera Central mountain ranges and the Cibao Valley. Well endowed with rich soil and incredible natural resources, this region regularly attracts nature lovers, cigar connoisseurs and adventurers.
La Vega
A quiet town with a rich history, La Vega was also blessed with fertile soil and precious gold. It is fairly quaint, with 60,000 inhabitants. However, when February rolls around, the city is anything but quiet and reserved. La Vega is the home of Carnaval, one of the oldest and most vibrant of Dominican traditions.
Santiago
Often compared to Santo Domingo, the city of Santiago, the second largest metropolis, is comprised of natives that prefer a less chaotic and more purposeful lifestyle than its counterpart. Home to over 750,000 people, the heart of this laid back city proves to be the cultured downtown area. In addition, Santiago is where most of the country's presidents were raised; giving the city well-deserved bragging rights.
People from around the globe visit Santiago year-round to stay at some of the finest accommodations that satisfy the needs of any traveler. In addition, the city provides a vibrant nightlife and variety of stores that are comparable to the capital city. Most travelers know that convenience is an added bonus. Santiago provides an additional benefit by serving as an alternate airport to Puerto Plata.
East Coast
The East Coast region contains the most popular and fastest growing tourist area in the country - Punta Cana/Bavaro. One look at the surroundings and there is no question as to why. This is the place to be if tourists are seeking an all-inclusive style vacation set on one of the most picturesque beaches in the world.
Vacationers don't have to travel far for a change of scenery. Just south of the thriving area is environmentally forward Bayahibe. This area not only contains one of the most celebrated national parks, but has also received two awards for its conservation efforts in tourism.
Another popular east coast destination is La Romana. Most people who know a thing or two about the Dominican Republic instantly think of Casa de Campo when asked about this quaint area. While the luxurious resort frequented by many celebrities is a top attraction, the city of La Romana is historically important, especially for baseball fans, and worth a visit.
Punta Cana and Bavaro
In P unta Cana, it's all about the beach. Punta Cana is undeniably breathtaking with tall swaying palms scattered along 21 miles of some of the whitest and finest coral sand beaches in the world. The majority of the over 30 resorts in Punta Cana are all-inclusive, allowing for an easygoing vacation wit with plenty to do. As one of the fastest growing areas in the country, more luxurious and bigger com complexes are planned to open in 2006. Beyond new accommodations, a 24-mile long boulevard is being built to easily move vacationers throughout the area.
La Romana
Known for its sugar factories, the area of La Romana is one of the more industrialized in the Dominican Republic. In fact, it's the sugar that makes La Romana and neighboring San Pedro de Macoris two of the leading Major League Baseball player producing towns.
During the six months when sugar is not in high production, workers often compete in baseball games against other sugar mill workers. This has helped to brew the excitement and passion for baseball that has become synonymous with the country.
CASA DE CAMPO IS ONE OF THE MOST COMPLETE AND LUXURIOUS RESORT COMMUNITIES IN THE CARIBBEAN...
Casa de Campo
Casa de Campo is considered one of the most complete and luxurious resort communities in the Caribbean. Many celebrities vacation at the complex such as George Hamilton, Bill Clinton, Shakira, Elizabeth Taylor, former President George H. Bush, and the country's very own Sammy Sosa.
PGA golf greats including Dana Quigley, Jim Thorpe, Ed Dougherty and Tom Wargo have all made their way to Casa de Campo to play Teeth of the Dog, the first course to open at the resort nearly 30 years ago. Since creating Teeth of the Dog, Pete Dye has designed Links and his newest course Dye Fore. While this new course is receiving rave reviews from international golfers, Teeth of the Dog is still a favorite and for this reason the resort has invested in its extensive makeover, which is scheduled for completion in October 2005. 
This resort area is perhaps the DR's most popular vacation destination. Punta Cana is outlined by a large concentration of all-inclusive resorts, each with their own garden of sun chairs and cabanas. However, despite the number of people who idle the day away here, the beach's size ensures visitors will never feel crowded. Those who don't want to spend their time simply baking in the sun can participate in an array of activities from beach volleyball to parasailing.
North Coast Region
It seems that each of the Dominican Republic's major regions has a nickname and the North Coast is no different. Featuring the popular towns of Puerto Plata, Cabarete and Sosua, the north coast has been referred to as the Amber Coast ,due to the prevalence of this semi-precious gem the Discovery Coast thanks to Christopher Columbus discovery of the island of Hispaniola at Cape Isabela and the Silver Coast, after Columbus named the area Puerto Plata or silver port because of the effect the sun made on the water as he approached.
Regardless of what visitor’s call it, the north coast brings together some of the country's best features - lush jungle forests, rolling mountain ranges, ethereal blue waters and golden sand beaches. And it is because of these characteristics that this area is today considered the country's most versatile playground. Here vacationers can jump river beds on a mountain bike, fight the waves on a kite board, test their strength on a rock face or rub elbows with the rich and famous who come for the north coast's luxurious new accommodations. No matter what activity visitors choose to partake in, however, they'll find that everything here is done with legendary Dominican flair.
Cabrete
Over the past few years Cabarete has grown to achieve international fame and the reason may be found on the town's beach, ranked as one of the world's top five kite boarding and windsurfing destinations. So good are the conditions here, in fact, that Cabarete is regularly a stop in International competitions.
Cabarete offers more than just kite boarding and windsurfing, however. Adventure sports enthusiasts come here for a range of activities including mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, whitewater rafting and the like.
Playa Dorada
Widely known as the world's largest all-inclusive resort complex, Playa Dorada hosts 15 resorts, a mall, restaurants, golf and beaches. In fact, many guests spend their entire vacation within the complex walls. One could spend weeks wandering and shopping in this fabulous complex.
Puerto Plata
With 200,000 residents, Puerto Plata is the largest city on the Dominican Republic's North Coast. The center of the town is called Old City and it is here that Puerto Plata's famed Victorian houses and narrow streets can be found.
Sosua
By far one of the prettiest spots on the North Coast, Sosua is situated on a breathtaking Caribbean bay spotted with white sand beaches, rock formations and luxurious homes and resorts.
Featuring a mix of all-inclusives and luxury boutiques, the town offers a range of activities to fit any visitor. Despite this, Sosua has hung onto a small town charm that is all its own.
FOR THOSE WHO DREAM OF A ONE-ON-ONE WITH MOTHER NATURE, A VISIT TO THE SAMANA PENINSULA ON THE NORTHEAST COAST...
North East Coast
The Dominican Republic really does offer something for everyone. For those who dream of a one-on-one with Mother Nature, a visit to the Samana peninsula on the Northeast Coast is like pulling up a chair on her front porch.
Samana's beauty lies in her simplicity. Here, unspoiled beaches serve as a threshold to vibrant coral reefs while mountain waterfalls intersect lush rain forests. But while Samana is a top destination for eco-tourists and naturalists, some come to this off the beaten path peninsula to interact with humpback whales. After all, Samana is home to one of the largest and best breeding grounds in the world for this elusive mammal.
But while Samana's beauty is the stuff of legends, its history is fodder fit for a fairytale. Columbus stopped here on his discovery of the New World but the area didn't become populated until late in 1756 when people began migrating from the Canary Islands. Soon Samana became a haven for pirates who pillaged passing ships. What followed was a short ownership by Napolean Bonaparte and later, settlement by freed American slaves.
All this history and meshing of cultures has left Samana as one of the most impressive melting pots in the Dominican Republic. Americanos, descendents of the African-American inhabitants, mix with Europeans from France, Spain and Italy. Not only do people here look different from their Dominican brethren, but the food and even the language has a twist all its own
The town of Samana is located on the southern side of the peninsula along Samana Bay. It's a popular base for tourists who plan to participate in whale watching excursions or day trips to Cayo Levantado, both of which leave from the town's port. Samana's Malecon, or beachfront strip, is the center of activity and features outdoor cafes and small shops.
Samana is heavily populated by Americanos, descendents of freed American slaves. Because of this the town holds a series of annual harvest festivals, a tradition dating back to the Yam and Rice festivals of West Africa. These lively events are held on Fridays from late August through the end of October at Samana churches.
South Central Region
While the Dominican Republic's coasts provide relaxation at every turn, Santo Domingo and the South Central Region are all hustle and bustle. With just over three million people, Santo Domingo serves as the Caribbean's most diverse destination and, arguably, the most vibrant. The city itself displays contrasts at every turn. Contemporary hotels sit on ancient cobblestone streets, luxury cars park beside well-worn scooters, and eclectic cuisine at hip restaurants is served next to street vendors serving traditional Dominican fare.
As the oldest city in the New World, Santo Domingo features the first cathedral, first university and first hospital of the Americas. In fact, visitors often note that the well-preserved Zona Colonial makes them feel as though they've been transported in time. | | This is what paradise and luxury living is all about…Cap Cana’s exclusive Las Palmas community. This is a rare opportunity to own a premium lot in Las Palmas, a privileged residential community located on the first of three Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses at Cap Cana, the finest golf destination in the Caribbean.
This homesite is a unique chance for buying a re-sale in a subdivision which has been sold out for quite some time. This golf community is highly sought after and frankly an opportunity like this does not come around too often. |
| Despite all this history, Santo Domingo is quite modern and very continental. The city's restaurants offer just about any cuisine in the world, boutiques and major chain retailers from the U.S. and Europe have set-up shops, and a wealth of museums, galleries and theaters ensure countless cultural events.
South West Coast
If the Dominican Republic has a well-kept secret, the western region of the country is it. Essentially, this region includes the area west of Santo Domingo, and it is still an undiscovered territory by many tourists. Visitors seeking areas less traveled would be wise to experience this peaceful region before it becomes a popular destination. The farthest part of the region is only about a three hour drive from Santo Domingo or Santiago airports.
Although the Dominican Republic provides a change of scenery at just about every turn, this region is the most diverse ecologically. Two salt water lakes, one being the largest in the Caribbean, provide a haven for massive populations of birds and reptiles. And while some sections of the area are mountain rainforest, other parts are pine forest and arid desert.
San Cristobal
The first major city west of Santo Domingo, San Cristobal is considered by many as a small version of the capital. The city of 170,000 thrives on its sugar cane mills and herb fields. Its arid ground and mountain background serve as a gateway to the wild west. Just south of San Cristobal is the village of Nigua where 16th-century and 18th-century ruins of sugar mills can be explored.
THE DR HAS NINE ECOLOGICAL ZONES, A DIVERSITY WHICH MAKES ITS ECO AND ADVENTURE TOURISM SO REMARKABLE AND EXCITING.
ECO AND ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
The Dominican Republic is one of the few countries in the Caribbean with nine life zones, or ecological zones. This diversity plays a major role in making eco and adventure tourism in the country so remarkable and exciting.
The Dominican Republic has the highest and lowest sea level points in the Caribbean with Pico Duarte at 10,128 feet above and Lake Enriguillo at 144 feet below. In between these elevations is a playground of environments from tropical rainforest to arid desert. These areas are matched with adventures and activities designed to get adrenaline rushing, hearts racing and senses bursting.
There are several professional tour companies that offer a variety of activities in the Dominican Republic. Some of these companies offer competitive tours, depending on the location, while others specialize in a particular area, such as rock climbing.
Bird-watching
The Dominican Republic is a haven for birdwatchers with over 300 species of brightly colored birds that call the island home either permanently or as a migration layover. Twenty-seven species are endemic, meaning only found on the island of Hispaniola. Another 15 species are either endangered or threatened, including the bay-breasted cuckoo, LaSelle thrush and Hispaniolan crossbill. One commonly found bird of special interest is the palmchat because it is not only an endemic species but an endemic family.
The Southwestern Region is very popular with birders because it combines a semi-desert zone with coast, lagoons, islands, lakes and cliffs, providing a diverse habitat for a large variety of avian. In fact, more than 130 species are located in the Jaragua National Park alone.
Camping
There are no official campgrounds in the Dominican Republic. However, for those looking for a more rugged camping adventure, the country presents some unique opportunities for camping in its national parks and on a few uninhabited islands.
Canyoning and Cascading
Canyoning is a blend of hiking, swimming, rock climbing, jumping and repelling and usually ends with a dip in a cool mountain pool. The Dominican Republic serves as an excellent arena for this relatively new adventure sport due to its multitude of mountain ranges. Adventure seekers staying on the North Coast can easily find a tour or guide out of Cabarete, but the most popular access point is Jarabacoa in the central region.
Cascading is a variant that uses little equipment and requires the partaker to "cascade" by making multiple jumps with at least one through a waterfall and into the pool at its bottom. The Salto de Jimenoa waterfall is a recommended spot but the pinnacle cascading course is Damajagua, near Puerto Plata.
Caving
There are hundreds of caves spread throughout the Dominican Republic, the majority of which are located in the country's numerous national parks.
Four-Wheeling/ATV
Several countryside tours offer a variety of transportation modes. Some have jeeps or mountain bikes, while others have monster trucks. Depending on levels of adventurism, an ATV may be the right choice. Cruising on the rough roads of the Dominican countryside, the ATVs set course through tropical woods and rushing rivers.
Glass-Bottom Boats
Available by an official tour operators, this is the fastest way to reach the reefs for snorkeling. It's also a great way to see the reefs if tourists prefer to stay dry. Visitors can expect to pay approximately $15 per person. Glass bottom boats can also be arranged in Punta Cana through the hotels.
Helicopter Tours
The Dominican Republic's coastlines are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean thanks to an expansive coral system, unending beaches and lush jungle forests. And there's no better way to see it than by air. Helicopter tours from 10, 20 and 30 minutes are available throughout the country and some operators will create a personalized experience.
Hiking
Abundant trails line the countryside of the Dominican Republic with the most famous leading to Pico Duarte. Most paths are located within the national parks system and require permits from the government in order to be explored. Some trails also request that a certifiable guide accompany hikers.
Horseback Riding
Many tours include horseback riding as a part of the transportation to reach points of interest. But for equestrians seeking a longer, more concentrated time with a horse, the northern mountain range of the Domincan Republic can provide an ideal arena.
Jeep Safaris and Expeditions
Jeep Safaris and Expeditions place visitors behind the wheel of their own four-by-four Jeep or "fun truck" on the rustic roads of the DR. This is the best way to find secluded beaches and learn about local customs while being surrounded by lush vegetation. Tours are out of Samana, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata and often include horseback riding as an option.
Kayaking
Like whitewater rafting, kayaking is most popular in the central region along the Yaque del Norte and Jimenoa rivers near Jarabacoa. Both waterways provide a mix of white water with sharp turns and precipitous drops. Intermediate kayakers will enjoy the challenge of class III and IV rapids, while those with more experience can tackle the advanced sections of class V rapids.
Kite boarding
One of the fastest growing water sports, this surfing-like activity uses a huge kite to capture the wind as participants balance on a board. Kite boarding rentals are available up and down Kite Beach in Cabarete, considered the sport's world capital.
Monster Trucks and Off Road Runners
Very popular with visitors of all ages, Monster Truck and Runner tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the Dominican Republic's countryside while getting a first-hand glimpse of Dominican living. Different from the Jeep or Expedition tours, someone else does the driving while riders sit back and enjoy the view - and the bumps.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is one of the quietest and most exhilarating ways to see the DR. The bikes allow tourists to reach places not accessible to most visitors.
Rock Climbing
The Dominican Republic is considered to be one of the world's best rocking destinations among those who know the rope. With four mountain ranges, the country provides a great landscape for adrenaline.
Sandboarding
Another new sport appearing on the horizon is sand boarding. Requiring a modified snowboard, the sport uses sand as its platform.
Surfing
Just a five minute car ride outside of Cabarete is Playa Encuentro, a beach known throughout the country for great surfing conditions. Boards and lessons are available through a variety of tour companies in Cabarete. Each provides the board, instruction and transportation to and from Cabarete.
Whale watching
From January through March, Samana Bay is nearly taken over by humpback whales. For centuries, thousands of these humungous mammals make an annual trip to spend winter in the warm waters of the Dominican Republic.
White-water rafting
White water flows from the mountains through canyons and jungle and out to sea. The hottest white water rafting location is on the Yaque del Norte in the central mountain area. This is the largest river in the DR and has exhilarating class III to V rapids (using the universal scale of I to VI) including a 12-foot drop named "Mike Tyson."
Windsurfing
Cabarete of the north coast is considered the world capital of windsurfing. It draws many competitions in the World Cup Windsurfing Competition held every June. And for you golf lovers out there, I did not forget you. World class golf is a major highlight in the sports activities industry here in the Dominican Republic and suffice to say there are loads of world class courses to keep an avid golfer busy for months - in fact so many it would make for its own article.
As you can readily see, the Dominican Republic offers a huge array of soft to hard adventures activities, incredible towns and cities along with fabulous resorts - more than enough to make visitors come back time and again to explore this dazzling nation.
AUTHOR: Anjali Wilde poet, artist, writer was born in Africa, schooled in Europe and America, spent her young adult years in the Caribbean and refers to herself as a global gypsy. Anjali divides her time between her homes in the Caribbean and Mexico where she produces art work and writes for publications worldwide.
 Email: Anjali Wilde |
Buy the home of your dreams. Get a 75% mortgage for a home in the Dominican Republic with Caribbean Land and Property Financial Services. Less than 2 hours from Miami, DR is a different world with lush tropical rainforests and miles of white sand beaches. Enjoy the historical legacy and modern day activity of Santo Domingo. There are excellent opportunities for investment and you can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle due to the low labour and living costs. Join a cosmopolitan community of expatriates who add to its already diverse population. Get your piece of paradise with a home mortgage.
|
| |  |  |
|
|
|
Click Here to download this article in PDF format.
SEARCH OUR MAGAZINE ARCHIVES
contact us