The Dominican Republic (Republica Dominicana)

This once Spanish colony occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola. French speaking Haiti occupies the Western third. The main tourist seasons are from December to February, July to August, and Semana Santa (the week before Easter) when the weather is most favourable. Temperatures range between 27 and 35 degrees Celsius (80 and 95 degrees F) and the majority of rain falls at the end of Summer.

There are lots to do on this popular tourist destination:

• Relaxing on one of the many sandy, sunny beaches.
• Visitors can engage in wind surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and surf boarding.
• In winter, whale watching is a popular activity.
• Santo Domingo, the island’s capital, boasts a number of museums and buildings
  from the colonial period.
• The national aquarium, zoo and botanical garden is also located in the capital.
• Mountain biking and hiking are two ways of enjoying the scenery in the island’s interior.
• Excursions by jeep to the mountains are also available.
• One can also experience the wonder of the tropical birdlife and vegetation by visiting one of the national parks.

Food is another passion amongst the locals. Tourists can enjoy sampling of fruits such as guavas, tamarind and melons in the markets found in the capital. There are many outdoor restaurants that offer good fresh meals for under US$20/£10. The unit currency of the Dominican Republic is the Peso, 30.83 pesos equals US$1. Of the more popular restaurants are Neptuno’s for fresh sea food, El Conuco and Cayo Levantado which not only offers sea food but also grilled meats. Low-priced hotels and beach resorts are located along both the Atlantic and Caribbean coasts. Flamenco beach resort, Hodelpa Gran Almirante Hotel and Casino and Playa Esmeralda are known for top class service with a smile.

The Dominican Republic is famous for its amber and larimar, a beautiful turquoise stone that is crafted everywhereon the island. Rocking chairs, macrame, baskets, lime figurines, leather goods and mink are abundant and offeredat considerable bargains. There are many streets lined with shops that offer these exclusive items and more. Avisit to either El Mercado Modelo, La Atarazana or Calle El Conde will leave you overly excited in those shopper’s paradise.

Cheap flights and holidays to Santo Domingo along with offers for car hire are offered all year round from most ofthe UK’s airports. Visiting Expedia.co.uk to book your trip will not be in vain. Click here now to start on yourjourney to a superb and memorable holiday.

All in all, a visit to this exciting Caribbean Island will be one to remember!!

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