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.

Independencia, Santo Domingo

An inexpensive hotel with a convenient location near the Parque Independencia. The rooms are clean, with soap and towels provided. Some rooms have no windows. The downside is the noisy bar, open apparently all night. Art exhibitions are sometimes held here and there is a language school across the street.
Indiana Café

This beachside bar and café-style restaurant at the Pueblo de los Pescadores is a perfect night spot. Jazz, reggae as well house music are usually played on weekends.
Isla Saona

The most popular part of Parque Nacional del Este can be easily reached by regular boat services. Despite the crowds, the island looks like a Robinson Crusoe fantasy.
Jagua

This light brown fruit with a distinctive sweet taste is a member of the sugary custard-apple family.
Jarabacoa

The town provides the perfect base for walking or riding through the lush Dominican Alps (see Constanza & “The Dominican Alps”), where waterfalls, clear rivers, and gorges are to be found among meadows and scented pine forests. There are many well-established trails in the area, varying from gentle strolls through farmland to day-long mountain treks.
Jean-Pierre Boyer (1776–1850)

Power-hungry Haitian president who ordered the 1821 invasion, abolishing slavery but imposing a military rule.
Jet Set

A great place in Santo Domingo for both recorded and live Latin music – mostly traditional. Juan Luís Guerra songs are always played (see Jet Set, Santo Domingo).
Jet Set, Santo Domingo

A casual place where Dominicans come for good Latin dance music. Things don’t get going until after midnight and continue till dawn. Look out for live merengue bands on Mondays.
Jetskiing

These high-speed mini power boats are a familiar sight, bouncing off the water at the established tourist resorts. Hire one and take a quick lesson in steering. Caution is required because accidents with swimmers and other, slower craft can all too easily occur.
Jewish Synagogue, Sosúa

A poignant reminder of the Jewish community that fled Nazi Germany to start a colony here, this modest one-room synagogue, with its distinctive Star of David motifs, is housed in a simple but attractive wooden building.

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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