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Orchids are big business around Jarabacoa and Constanza, where they are grown commercially for the North American market. The beautiful flowers also grow profusely in the wild, especially in the humid climate of the higher reaches of the Parque Nacional Sierra de Baoruco, where there are over 150 species.

The American oystercatcher is difficult to confuse with any of the other waders due to its large size, striking black and white plumage, and bright orange bill.

The brown sigua palmera is the national bird, nesting high up in the foliage of a palm tree.

Every Dominican town has its own central plaza, shaded by trees, supplied with benches, and often filled with locals. This is the place for people-watching, especially in the early evening, when most of them stroll around. Don’t be afraid to smile and say what you can in Spanish.

On the east bank of the Ozama, overlooked by the imposing Faro a Colón, this stretch of open parkland has a fine selection of trees and makes for a pleasant walk.

A large and pleasant expanse of well-tended grass, trees, and tracks, the park is a magnet for joggers skateboarders, and dog walkers. Younger, health-conscious city dwellers congregate here along with families, especially in the morning and evening, when the through road is shut to cars.

Small but tasty pasties or turnovers filled with a savoury center of minced beef, chicken or cheese.

The huge, heavy brown pelican, with long bill and pouch, can be seen either swimming in the sea or diving spectacularly at a steep angle in search of a fish.

The familiar pineapple is locally grown and is a firm favorite not only in milkshakes but also at buffets.