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Lake and river fishing are popular with locals, but angling-inclined visitors will want to have a go at deep-sea fishing, where sea bass and red snapper are favorites. For those who prefer a Hemingway-style contest, there is big-game fishing for marlin, setting out from Palmar de Ocóa and Cabeza de Toro.

With most adults happy to drive their cars at breakneck speed on the country’s roads, this is normally reserved for children, although there’s no reason why grown-ups can’t roar around the corners. There’s an excellent track on the Malecón at Santo Domingo and another good one inland from the Bávaro beach resort, Costa del Coco. Test your skills if gearing up to compete with your kids.

The two top courses are integral parts of upmarket tourist resorts, but are open to non-residents. Designed by Pete Dye, Casa de Campo’s challenging golf course in La Romana lies right next to the sea, as does the Robert Trent Jones course at Playa Dorada. Other golf sites are the Punta Cana and Playa Grande.

The Dominican Alps (see Constanza & “The Dominican Alps”, are the perfect place for walking, whether short strolls or hikes. Most hotels can recommend a specialist operator for the more ambitious.

Dominicans like to bet, especially on cockfighting, but horses also have their fans, particularly at Santo Domingo’s V Centenario racetrack. Here, gambling alternates with drinking.

The region is well equipped for riding enthusiasts, with several outfits such as Rancho Baiguate offering top-class facilities.

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.

Popularly known as the “Dominican Dandy” for his flamboyant style, Marichal was a record-breaking pitcher.