DK Travel : Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a country of surprising contrasts and extraordinary variety. From the chilly peak of the Caribbean’s highest mountain to some of the region’s most delightful beaches, the country boasts lush valleys, spectacular waterfalls, and sun-baked deserts. The past and present also blend in a fascinating mix of colonial buildings and modern hotels, sleepy rural villages and lively tourist resorts. The people, too, reflect a kaleidoscope of influences — Spanish, African, indigenous — creating a culture that emphasizes both creativity and fun in the fields of music, sport, and art.

Cycling

Although cycling isn’t safe in most towns and cities, the countryside is full of relatively quiet, if potholed, roads, and there is no shortage of off-road possibilities, especially in the Cordillera Central. Bikes can be hired from specialist tour operators, who also lead organized excursions.
Cycling

Whether on or off road, cyclists will enjoy fantastic views as well as a warm welcome in villages, where you can always buy drinks.
Dajabón

One of three official crossing points with neighboring Haiti, the town’s famous for its Monday and Friday markets. Crowds of Haitian vendors cross the bridge over the dividing river and set up stalls near the crossing. The resulting hubbub of commercial transactions is loud and colorful, as Haitians and Dominicans haggle furiously over basics. The market’s over by mid-afternoon, so it’s worth arriving early to see the action and maybe snap up a bargain or two.
Dally

This bistro is quite famous for its fresh and delicious seafood. There is a disco, The Moon, at the rear, and rooms are available for the night.
DaNancy

Nancy, the owner and chef, cooks delicious lobster and shrimp. Choose your own appetizer from the buffet table.
Day Trip to Lago Enriquillo

Morning

Set off early from Barahona, taking the paved route via Vicente Noble, Tamayo and Galván to the village of La Descubierta . The road passes Haitian bateyes and dusty villages, and provides stunning views of the Sierra de Neiba. Aim to arrive at the Parque Nacional de Isla Cabritos, the lake’s official access point just outside La Descubierta, as early as possible and enquire if a boat will leave soon.

The boat trip takes half an hour each way, and you can wander around the rocky island looking for the tame iguanas, or wait for the return trip, which normally involves crocodile-spotting. A welcome cold drink is normally available back at the park office.

Energy permitting, head back to Postrer Río and look for signs to Las Caritas , a cave filled with Taino carvings that can be reached by a strenuous 10-minute climb. You could even try the natural swimming pool at La Descubierta, a cold sulfur spring. There are some rudimentary eating places here, but it makes sense to bring along some food and drink, especially water.

Afternoon

Return to Barahona around the lake’s loop road, passing the border town of Jimaní , Duvergé, and Cabral, getting a good view of the freshwater Laguna Rincón to your left.
Docia, Samaná

This guesthouse overlooks La Churcha with views of the bay and the dock below. The rooms are simple with private bathrooms and hot water. Each room has a fan. Those upstairs are brighter with large windows to catch the breeze.
Don Gaspar

A hotel, restaurant, and disco, Don Gasper specializes in Dominican and Spanish dishes. Try the eggs and mangú , mashed plantain with onions.
Dress

Even impoverished Dominicans make a huge effort to look well dressed. Scruffiness is not appreciated.
Dulce de Leche

Of all the ultra-sweet desserts beloved by Dominicans, this is by far the most widespread, a simple but irresistible blend of whole milk and sugar stirred together over a low heat until it reaches a cream-like consistency. Look out for variations on this sweet-toothed theme involving coconut and candied fruits.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal and a beer for one including tax and service.
- under $10
- $10–$20
- $20–$30
- $30–$40
- over $40
Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$50
- $50–$100
- $100–$150
- over $150