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.

Arena

The leading gay club in Santo Domingo, Arena (formerlyknown as Aire) hosts popular theme nights, and lots of parties, and plays music from the 1970s and 80s (see Arena, Santo Domingo).
Arena, Santo Domingo

One of the capital’s best gay clubs. Wednesday is the Foam Party, Saturday the Message Party, and on Sunday there’s a drag and stripper show. DJs play house and dance music until dawn.
Asopao

A Dominican cross between a thick soup, a gumbo, and a Spanish paella, this mix of rice, chicken stock and spices can be served with chicken or seafood. A slightly less liquid version is called locrio , again featuring rice, vegetables and your choice of meat or seafood.
Atarazana 9

Located by Alcázar de Colón, Atarazana 9 is acafé and bar offering live musicand a relaxed atmosphere (see Atarazana 9, Santo Domingo).
Atarazana 9, Santo Domingo

Time your sightseeing in the old city so that you can have an evening drink here. It’s one of the many historic buildings around the Alcázar de Colón that have been converted into a bar or restaurant. The bar serves good drinks.
Atlantis, Las Terrenas

This hotel is known for its French food. The rooms are large and comfortable with marble bathrooms, and some have air conditioning.
Azua

Swelteringly hot in the plains between sea and mountains, Azua de Compostela looks like an ordinary Dominican town, but it is one of the New World’s oldest cities. It was founded in 1504 by Diego de Valásquez, who went on to conquer Cuba. The old colonial settlement was ravaged by war and earthquakes, and the town was rebuilt away from the sea. There are some pretty painted wooden houses at a distance from the main road, but most visitors and locals prefer to head for the Playa Monte Río, a quiet and undeveloped beach with fabulous views over the Bahía de Ocoa and surrounding mountains.
Azua (Mar 19 )

A big patriotic celebration commemorating a historic Dominican victory over Haitian forces in 1844.
Bahía Blanca

The restaurant, decorated in cool green and white, is a truly relaxing place to be.
Bahía Blanca, Río San Juan

This is a wonderful place to admire the changing turquoise hues of the sea, so clear you can see the coral. The rooms are simple and clean with basic amenities. Meal plans are available.

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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