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.

Acuario Nacional

This technically impressive installation uses natural seawater to fill its various tanks, displaying an enormous and colorful range of tropical marine life. The pride of this place is Tamaury, an orphaned manatee, which was saved in 1995 after its mother was killed and now basks, apparently quite happily, in a large tank. A pleasant snack bar looks over the sea (see Acuario Nacional, Santo Domingo).
Acuario Nacional, Santo Domingo

Flanking the Caribbean Sea, the aquarium features a large plastic tunnel in which spectators are surrounded by water, sharks, rays, and conger eels. Colorful shoals of fish swarm around the tunnel, while exhibits explain different sorts of marine environments. The most popular family attraction, though, is an orphaned manatee.
Adrian Tropical

Local dishes such as mofongo , and international cuisine, in an attractive setting by the sea.
Adrian Tropical, Santo Domingo

A place to try local specialities such as mofongo .
Agua Splash Caribe, Santo Domingo

This theme park has everything for swimmers and water-lovers, including 12 slides and pools of varying depth. There is ample shade, and refreshments are available. Weekends are extremely popular with local families.
Aguaceros

A restaurant and bar serving an international menu of steaks, seafood, burgers, and Mexican cuisine.
Aída, Santo Domingo

A friendly, family-run hotel, set above a music store in the heart of the shopping area of the old city. The rooms are basic but clean and adequate. Those with a balcony have a fan but some rooms have no windows though they have air conditioning. Book in advance as it’s usually full.
Albert Pujols (b. 1980)

A member of the current generation of Dominican exports, and a rising superstar of powerful batting.
Alcázar, Santiago

This Spanish restaurant and bar offers meals or tapas, and there is a casino for adult amusement. The real action begins at around 1am when Dominicans, dressed smartly but provocatively, arrive for a good time.
Alisios Bávaro

A hotel restaurant set by a pool, serving Mexican food four days of the week and Thai food the other three.

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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