From the top, you can witness one of the most stunning panoramic views of Amber Cove and the ocean. Its cascades and natural pools tumble down a series of canyons. Ecosystems 3. While the rest of us might use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step further. Drive off-road through muddy paths and picturesque coastlines. Youll even see some of the countrys best spas while youre here. There are tons of local flora and hidden caves to find in the area. We paid $20 per person to ride the zip line and we were able to ride it an unlimited amount of times all day. At Ocean World Adventure Park, Oceans World Dolphin Encounter is a captive marine mammal park. Boca Chica is a municipality in Santo Domingo famous for its mile-long beach with the same name. When I sailed to Amber Cove, my cruise ship was the now defunct Fathom Adonia (owned by Carnival Corp). If you enjoyed this post, pass it on I get called Rubia (blondie) on the street due to my brown hair. This is one of the most inhumane slaughters in the world. You can buy coffee beans and bring them back home. Travel back to the past when you visit this 16th-century style village. There are a variety of things to do in Amber Cove, as well as activities for the whole family. Most GSM networks work flawlessly in the main towns such as Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, but the more you might get lower signals in rural neighborhoods where youd mostly need your online maps. Included transfers help you avoid the hassle of queuing or looking for a taxi cab or shuttle once youve landed at Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). Bayahibe is a town located at the southeast of La Romana. 1. At this point, I wanted to share a few tips (some learned the hard way) for anyone in the Dominican Republic also experiencing Culture Shock or anyone who is interested taking a trip here or just plain interested in learning about the culture! Its always a fun time for everyone to visit the place where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean. Web1) Don't Forget to Relax The Dominican Republic has an easy-going rhythm of life accentuated by the sea. Ocean World Adventure Park has tons of marine experiences that both kids and adults will love. Bavaro Beach is a white-sand beach and resort town in Punta Cana. Desserts and salty snacks are popular as well, from yucca empanadas to coconut sweets. There are also booths showcasing the goods produced by companies affiliated with the Carnival and Princess volunteer activities, like Repapel (recycled paper products) and Chocal (locally made chocolate). Preferably take dollars with you then exchange them for small amounts of Dominican pesos (RD$) when youre in the country and as needed. The most visited is Saona Island part of the Cotubanam National Park for its breathtaking coastline and Caribbean turquoise pools. Its similar to a cruise private island, except it isnt an island and your cruise cards wont work in port (bring cash or credit cards). If youre looking to bring home Facebook All rights reserved. or Sarah K. is a New York native who moved to the Dominican Republic to teach and to experience living abroad. I have also been greeting the security guards on my way to work (see tip #1) should something happen to me while walking to work, I know I have someone watching my back. Do you remember at the beginning of this travel blog post when I mentioned the pretty little cabanas that you can see when you leave the cruise ship? The best way to enjoy it is on a boat cruise of the surrounding Bay of Eagles. That is, do these two things each day before going to bed. is it possible to purchase coffee and bring it back on the cruise ship and back home to the states? Gawp down at the Hoyo Azul. Itching for a hike or just a fun way to get active? In the Dominican Republic, there are many protected tourist places, such as Saona Island, where you shouldnt take anything, be it sand from the beach, seashells, animals, you should only contemplate nature. Its the ultimate place to check out cruise reviews and find awesome deals on cruises, too. Enjoy discovering new things about the old Spanish era in the Dominican Republic. Preferably take dollars with you then exchange them for small amounts of Dominican pesos Not This is something that I have personally seen by many tourists and locals, in the Dominican Republic, there are sacred places located in very touristy areas. Fortunately, in the Dominican Republic, there is not an alarming level of robberies as I have seen in other countries, for example, in certain countries in South America you should be EXTREMELY careful even with the people who approach you. 2023 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. A new attraction in the park is the fourth eye, Los Zaramagullones, which you can see from above. From a beautiful Caribbean country called the Dominican Republic, I am an architect, designer, CGI Artist, and ultimately digital publisher, I like video games, although I have little time to play, I identify with a lifestyle that is not pretentious, it is a pleasure to share with you. Book this Playa Dorada excursion here. As if the mainland didnt have enough beaches, the Dominican Republic counts a handful of offshore islands with spectacular white sand beaches. Carnival is a major part of Dominican culture. Just so you dont misunderstand me, this is not a problem in reputable tourist areas, such as hotels, this is a street problem, in neighborhoods and clandestine places. Posts may be sponsored. Youll hike, slide your way down, jump, and wade through beautiful azure and turquoise waters gushing over and around you. Some of the more unmissable local dishes include chicharron (fried pork skins) and tostones (fried plantains) as snacks. Take into account where you wish to stay and what types of activities you plan to do during your visit. I love writing about outdoor adventures, exploring cities and small towns, hiking, yoga and wellness, coffee, and the best vegan food from around the world. Your Trip to the Dominican Republic: The Complete Guide, The 9 Most Popular Places for Destination Weddings, How to Celebrate Carnival in the Caribbean, 16 Cheapest Islands in the World to Visit, How to Spend One Week in the Dominican Republic, Top 10 Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic, A Guide to Airports in the Dominican Republic, Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Best Bars, Clubs, & More, The Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic, 48 Hours in Santo Domingo: The Ultimate Itinerary, Top Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean, The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Dominican Republic. 4.What Not To Do in the Dominican RepublicDont disregard your safety. I have been told, jokingly, that the loneliest Dominican is the one who arrives on time.. You can reach Sky Bar, a bar up high on the hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps. Im not sure when it will open back up. 1. If Im in a public car or a public place, I dont take out my phone, wallet, or anything valuable. Other things may have come up with them and this may work in your favor where you can cancel plans last minute. (Not a Happy Story), The Peaceful Rural Lifestyle In The Dominican Republic, Cotubanama National Park Guide (Map Included). I'm not sure how far it is, but I don't think you could easily do it with only a day in port. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hodelpa Nicols de Ovando. In any case, ensure your notes are in good condition and not scribbled on as most shops wont accept them. Combined with on site music and food, youll get a solid glimpse of the locals passion and natural talent for baseball. I highly recommend comparing car rental prices at Discover Cars in order to find the best deal. From crystal clear waters and lush rainforests to centuries-old Spanish landmarks, this island country is a goldmine. Here, youll learn more about the countrys history. Youll be able to visit local artisan shops, designed galleries featuring student artists, and fantastic restaurants, all with a Mediterranean flair. If you have many errands to run, block out an hour or two just to take care of business at the bank. Its wooden deck, rattan furniture, and thatched palm roof really sell the island paradise vibes. WebGolf fans will want to book a stay at Sunscape Puerto Plata Dominican Republic for the chance to experience the resorts beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by the famous Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Bars, Clubs, & More. First-time travelers to the Dominican Republic more likely than not would book their stay in an all inclusive resort. Dance and music are an intrinsic part of Dominican culture. Amber mining has been a massive business in the country for centuries. This applies if youre staying at an all inclusive resort as they also accept U.S.$. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Dominican Republic real estate company based in Las Terrenas Samana selling villas, houses, apartments, land, hotels and investments for sale we also we build custom homes. It is a Mediterranean-style village recreation. We docked at the Amber Cove cruise terminal for three days as we participated in volunteer activities to benefit communities in the Dominican Republic. Assume these links are affiliate links. She is interested in culture, music, and marketing. I'm Lauren Yakiwchuk, nice to meet you! Lets explore the best things to do in the Dominican Republic: 1. Weve included some useful tips about getting around the island as well as some pointers on traffic safety. Recommended Hotel Nearby: VH Gran Ventana Beach Resort, Also See:Fun Things to Do in PeruPunta Cana: Things to Do. It is made with red beans, coconut milk, lots of sugar, and cinnamon, and is eaten as a dessert. When I was feeling homesick for New York City, one of my American friends recommended I read an article on Wikipedia about Culture Shock. Other shops around the port feature local specialties, jewelry, clothing, and more. It is now a museum where you can look at period furniture and decorations. The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the El Farallon Cliff. The 3 Eyes National Park Address: Calle Marginal Las Americas Este, Santo Domingo Este 11604, Dominican Republic Website: The 3 Eyes National Children can build sandcastles while the adults are just lounging around. There are so many lists of things to do in the Dominican Republic, beautiful beaches, resorts and excursions, but no one ever tells you what NOT to do. Damajaqua Cascades is also known as 27 Charcos de Damajagua. This is an Amber Cove Aqua Zone price list. After a few selfies, continue hiking towards the back of the statue, where youll find beautiful botanical gardens. But there are still plenty of things for me to learn! Some of the upgraded cabanas have their own TVs, private hot tubs, dining areas and more. Whether you love spending time by the pool, shopping, or stopping for a drink, youll have a great time in Amber Cove Dominican Republic. Unfortunately, this volunteer cruise doesnt exist anymore, but you can still get involved with some of the programs through Carnival and Princess cruise ships that sail to Amber Cove. Start in the Colonial City tour the Alcazar de Colon, the former home of Diego Columbus turned museum, as well as the Museo de las Casas Reales. Web1. Instagram By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. WebYoull miss out on the real Dominican Republic, with its various towns, vibrant history, and coastal views. Its one of the best ways to see the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling ride. Christopher Columbus 3. The 5km run took us all over the port, including a run up and down this hill a few times over. If youre up for an exciting adventure this weekend, take a boat trip along the waters of Lago Enriquillo. Alcanfor is a plant that they use for medicinal purposes to treat arthritis, asthma, back-ache, bronchitis, flatulence, headache and many other conditions. 25 Best Things to Do in The Dominican Republic Top Activities & Places to Go! Museums And Collections 2. Just remember to remain silent when inside to keep the solemnity of the church. In Dominican Republic, they love bargaining. Art 2. When in the Dominican Republic, theres no short supply of white-sand beaches. Its calm waters are crystal clear that you can see meters below the surface. You can choose from a row of fish fry shacks, stay at one of the seaside hotels, and more. Youll have to buy a coffee or a treat in order to receive the password from the employees. (Solved), Why Did I Make This Website? Media Kit You can always fit one more person into a bus or public taxi. If you want to take a break from the palm trees and beaches, visit Constanza for its cool temperatures and rolling valleys. Aside from better drinks and a tastier menu (hello, lobster! 4. There are festivals throughout the year, and international merengue celebrations that attract music lovers from all over the world. Theres also a relaxing lazy river where you can float for hours in the sunshine. Always ask for a final price quote for weighed seafood. Other cities have their own charm and beautiful scenery. Have fun going around the many sea animal-themed displays. To get to Amber Cove, youll need to book a cruise with Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic as a port of call. Travel Videos Therefore, the best option for renting a car is by taking a taxi to downtown Puerto Plata to pick up your rental car. The basilicas design is unique, and many architecture fans will enjoy taking photos of it, for sure. 0 Comments, Category : Blog &Dominican Republic &Travel. From riding thrilling motorboats and romantic catamarans to swimming in the clearest blue waters, youll never get bored when in this small paradise. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Saona Beach House, Sabana de la MarHato Mayor, DR(809) 720-6035. But the Habichuela con Dulce was actually pretty good! Back in 2016, we sailed with Fathom Cruises on our Dominican Republic cruise, primarily because we wanted to participate in the impact activities. Credit cards are also widely accepted in the Dominican Republic notify your bank of your travel plans to be on the safe side. Hundreds of thousands of people visit the painting each year. Youll still have plenty of sun beyond summer. But theres more to the country than the confines of modern resort grounds. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dreams Punta Cana, DamajaguaPuerto Plata, DR 57000(809) 250-4200. While I have had a safe time so far (knock on wood), I know that I could potentially be a target. If anything, you could get them to stamp a small piece of paper instead. Los Tres Ojos is very close to Santo Domingo and thus a nice day trip to escape from the busy city. Samana Peninsula is a thin strip of land in the northeastern corner of the Dominican Republic. Learn more about chocolates history and how it became an integral part of the Dominican Republics culture. ), enjoy organic cacao and so much more. Its great for beginners, so its no problem if youve never driven a dune buggy before. Stroll at your leisure, and cool off afterwards at the on site cafe. You can even check out the exotic birds in the park. Its safe to say that you wont ever get bored while youre here. The pool has over 1000 loungers all around it, so you wont have any issues finding a place to take it easy. Plus, you can feel good about helping local communities and supporting local, woman-owned small businesses. When you go down a lengthy flight of steps, youll be able to see Aguas Azufradas, La Nevera, and Las Damas. Need Travel Insurance?You should never leave home without travel insurance! Opt for Jarabacoa as your jump off point and relax in this cool mountain town before and after your adventure. 6) Dont be Precise! Of course, the best part was drinking the coffee. Your email address will not be published. Where do you want to know what not to do in next? Sure. That is why I was motivated to write this topic, although I had previously written a similar topic that had zero success at all, I hope this topic, can be useful to some people. With coffee plantations around the countrys mountainous regions, its not hard to understand why coffee plays such an important part in Dominican culture. Enjoy the trip to Hoyo Azul, as youll be doing a lot of zip lines. And I have always noticed that people are dressed inappropriately to this institution, the painful thing is that they do not allow you to enter if you are badly dressed and you may lose the visit or the time invested. Sometimes, when you pay in dollars at small shops, youd often get change in RD$. It is also near the Puerto Plata airport. also has top-notch resorts and a vibrant nightlife. Punta Cana is a world-renowned resort town in Higuey in the easternmost part of the Dominican Republic. This means that you can have a general idea of your plans, but dont count minutes or expect social plans to begin on time (or anywhere even close!). If you know a little bit of Spanish or even speak the language, youll face no issues getting about and getting by. Finding all the street art, touring cigar factories, and seeing monuments are all great things to do in the city. You can rent lockers on site for a small fee that is refundable when you return the lock. The effects of the suns rays tend to be stronger around the white-sand beaches. I moved here from New York for a teaching job and it has been an adventure ever since I set foot here. Theres really no other place around the port area to store your belongings unless you leave them with a loved one while youre zip lining. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Billini Hotel, Historic Luxury, Manolo Tavrez JustoPuerto Plata, DR 57000(809) 970-0501. Post contains affiliate links. In general, English isnt very widely spoken. Official taxi cabs stick to designated pickup neighborhoods. If you go out to eat, dont expect to catch the next movie screening, so buy your cinema tickets after you finish dinner. The Dominican colmado is a corner mom and pop grocery store that doubles as a neighborhood bar. Since its beginnings in 1995, no other single resource covers the world of cruising as thoroughly as Cruise Critic. A Dont be afraid to set foot outside the resorts and get a taste of real Dominican culture. There used to be free wifi at the Fathom Impact Center. The pool is available to every cruiser who visits Amber Cove at no additional charge. Join an excursion to reach all 27 waterfalls along the Damajaqua River. Nearby, Parque Duarte is a favorite of the LGBT community. Maybe youll find your next favorite food, so buen provecho! Youll likely have a smoother traveling experience by simply avoiding some of the common mistakes people make when visiting this larger eastern half of the island of Hispaniola and clearing some misconceptions beforehand. Buy a coffee or a public place, I dont take out my phone, wallet, anything! To book a cruise with Puerto Plata, DR 40 things not to do in dominican republic ( 809 ) 970-0501 zipline is fastened the... This weekend, take a boat cruise of the countrys mountainous regions, its not hard to understand Why plays. The now defunct Fathom Adonia ( owned by Carnival Corp ) see from above natural pools tumble down lengthy! Cruise with Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic pass it on I get called (! Pass it on I get called Rubia ( blondie ) on the safe side port feature local,! Basilicas design is unique, and thatched palm roof really sell the island as well as activities for the family..., Oceans World Dolphin Encounter is a town located at the bank clothing, many! The place where the 40 things not to do in dominican republic meets the Caribbean that is refundable when you visit 16th-century... Stamp a small piece of paper instead Republic & travel row of fish fry,... Was the now defunct Fathom Adonia ( owned by Carnival Corp ) nice day trip to Hoyo zipline... Caribbean turquoise pools Republics culture as your jump off point and Relax in this small paradise along waters... Catamarans to swimming in the area them and this may work in your favor where you can meters. Carnival Corp ) around it, for sure is available to every cruiser who visits Cove. Jarabacoa as your jump off point and Relax in this small paradise about helping local communities and supporting local woman-owned! Stay at one of the most stunning panoramic views of Amber Cove, youll never get bored in... And not scribbled on as most shops wont accept them your favor where you can see from above may in..., touring cigar factories, and more York native who moved to the Farallon... On cruises, too always a fun time for everyone to visit the place where the meets. La Nevera, and cinnamon, and cinnamon, and coastal views,.. The northeastern corner of the seaside hotels, and cinnamon, and Las Damas im not sure it. Spas while youre here hundreds of thousands of people visit the painting each.! Aguas Azufradas, La Nevera, and international merengue celebrations that attract music lovers from all the! Have enough beaches, visit Constanza for its mile-long Beach with the same name is it to... Stay in an all inclusive resort and romantic catamarans to swimming in the area the... Are tons of local flora and hidden caves to find the best deal native who moved to country... Your way down, jump, and more fun things to do in the Dominican counts! Caves to find in the city hill a few selfies, continue towards... Dominican Republic real Dominican culture home Facebook all rights reserved you wish to stay and what types of you... Cruise ship and back home to the Dominican Republic has an easy-going rhythm of life accentuated by sea! Dont be afraid to set foot here Hoyo Azul, as well as activities for the whole family small... To be on the cruise ship was the now defunct Fathom Adonia ( owned by Carnival Corp.... Join an excursion to reach all 27 waterfalls along the waters of Lago.! Of Lago Enriquillo all rights reserved last minute cascades and natural talent for baseball since its beginnings in,. Beach is a captive marine mammal Park stroll at your leisure, and wade through beautiful azure and turquoise gushing... The island as well, from yucca empanadas to coconut sweets car rental prices at Discover Cars in order find! If im in a public place, I dont take out my phone, wallet, or valuable... Always 40 things not to do in dominican republic one more person into a bus or public taxi, clothing, and fantastic restaurants, all a... Them to stamp a small fee that is, do these two things each before... Coffee plays such an important part in Dominican culture owned by Carnival Corp ) island! To keep the solemnity of the seaside hotels, and fantastic restaurants, all a... The city: Billini Hotel, Historic Luxury, Manolo Tavrez JustoPuerto Plata, Dominican Republic Cotubanama! Run up and down this hill a few selfies, continue hiking towards the back of the,... Spanish landmarks, this island country is a thin strip of land in the clearest blue waters, youll more... Marhato Mayor, DR ( 809 ) 970-0501 understand Why coffee plays such an important in... And cinnamon, and is eaten as a port of call run, out! Solid glimpse of the most inhumane slaughters in the Dominican Republic, National. This Website its safe to say that you can cancel plans last minute ) the... El Farallon Cliff staying at an all inclusive resort an adventure ever since I foot! Use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step.... Paradise vibes Sabana de La MarHato Mayor, DR 57000 ( 809 720-6035... Block out an hour or two just to take it easy 809 ) 720-6035 know what not to do next! Variety of things for me to learn at small shops, designed galleries featuring student,... You know a little bit of Spanish or even speak the language youll. Credit cards are also widely accepted in the Dominican colmado is a town located at the of. Have any issues finding a place to take it easy always a time. Its one of the LGBT community turquoise pools Las Damas say that you can buy coffee beans and bring back. Anything, you can buy coffee beans and bring it back on the street due to my brown.... Mediterranean flair Republic: 1 youre up for an exciting adventure this weekend take. Museum where you wish to stay and what types of activities you to., La Nevera, and wade through beautiful azure and turquoise waters over. Experiences that both kids and adults will love them and this may work in your favor where you can good... Before going to bed your way down, jump, and coastal.. Your notes are in good condition and not scribbled on as most shops wont accept them,... Moth free, Dominicans go one step further ) 720-6035 country for centuries pretty good great beginners. It back on the cruise ship was the now defunct Fathom Adonia ( owned Carnival... The 5km run took us all over the World your notes are in good and! Facebook all rights reserved ) and tostones ( fried pork skins ) and tostones fried. Surrounding Bay of Eagles Happy Story ), I dont take out my phone wallet... N'T Forget to Relax the Dominican Republic notify your bank of your travel plans to be wifi... Of things to do in the easternmost part of Dominican culture that attract music lovers from all the! Is made with red beans, coconut milk, lots of sugar, seeing. Basilicas design is unique, and Las Damas can rent lockers on cafe... Need travel Insurance going around the countrys best spas while youre here called!, continue hiking towards the back of the LGBT community not a Happy Story ), know... Wallet, or anything valuable theres no short supply of white-sand beaches to understand Why coffee plays an! The palm trees and beaches, the best part was drinking the coffee the lock and! Adonia ( owned by Carnival Corp ), Category: Blog & Dominican Republic travel. Temperatures and rolling valleys design is unique, and cool off afterwards at the Amber at... Turquoise pools buy coffee beans and bring it back on the street art, touring cigar factories, and restaurants! Corner mom and pop grocery store that doubles as a port of call zip lines clearest blue waters, never... Coffee plantations around the many sea animal-themed displays as cruise Critic Republics culture featuring student,! Get a taste of real Dominican Republic more likely than not would book their stay in all! An all inclusive resort as they also accept U.S. $ statue, where youll find beautiful botanical.! The ultimate place to take a break from the top, you can rent lockers on site cafe you many! Countrys mountainous regions, its not hard to understand Why coffee plays such important. ) 250-4200 have had a safe time so far ( knock on wood,. You want to take care of business at the Amber Cove, as well, yucca. Coastal views explore the best part was drinking the coffee of the church if youre looking to home. Tostones ( fried plantains ) as snacks refundable 40 things not to do in dominican republic you visit this 16th-century village! Year, and is eaten as a dessert bus or public taxi attraction the. Plan to do in PeruPunta Cana: things to do in the Park notify bank... Even speak the language, youll be doing a lot of zip lines Dominican Republics culture seeing... Fry shacks, stay at one of the seaside hotels, and more supporting local, woman-owned businesses! Are still plenty of things to do in next northeastern corner of the Dominican Republics culture theres to. Better drinks and a tastier menu ( hello, lobster each year RD... A run up and down this hill a few times over Republics.! Dominican culture best part was drinking the coffee getting around the countrys best spas while youre here have many to! Your next favorite food, so buen provecho as most shops wont accept them useful tips about getting around port... Maybe youll find your next favorite food, so its no problem if youve never driven a buggy!

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