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.

All Souls

Both Catholics and followers of vodu celebrate the Day of the Dead, when, as elsewhere in Latin America and the Caribbean, families visit cemeteries to commune with the deceased, and take small offerings such as flowers and food. This ritual is taken most seriously in the areas near the Haitian border.
Aloha Sol, Santiago de los Caballeros

Rooms and suites are well appointed with air conditioning, TV, good service, and the benefit of a restaurant on site. Breakfast included in the rates.
Alta Copa, Santo Domingo

Formerly a wine shop, the Alta Copa has been transformed into a wine bar decorated as a Spanish cava. Cocktails as well as wine are served at this sought-after meeting place for the Dominicans.
Alto Cerro

Accommodation ranges from camping to spacious self-catering villas, all spread along the hillside. The restaurant serves local meat, fruits, and vegetables. Horseback riding or quad-bike excursions can be arranged.
Altos de Chavón

This mock Tuscan village stands on a bluff commanding wonderful views of the Chavón River, as it flows gently through a wooded ravine. Thick forest sweeps down to the water’s edge, bordered by coconut trees.
Amber

The golden resin makes beautiful jewelry, but before buying make sure that the piece is authentic.
American Crocodile

Up to 15 ft (4.5 m) in length, these crocs can look fearsome, but are in fact much more timid than their African or Australian relatives. They live up to 50 years on a diet of fish, waterfowl, and small mammals, thriving in the protected salt-water environment of Lago Enriquillo.
Aparthotel Caracol, Cabarete

A 50-room hotel offering studios and apartments, all equipped with kitchenettes. Excellent for families as it has a playground, ice-cream parlour, and baby-sitting facilities. Also caters to kiteboarders, with a kite school and a free lesson included in the rates.
Aqua Sushi Bar

Good Japanese fusion food for lunch or dinner.
Aquarius, Bonao

The rooms and suites offer the latest communications technology and are designed for business travelers as well as vacationers. There is a restaurant, a mini bar, and cocktail lounge.

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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