Unearth the real experience of this fascinating country which goes above and beyond its famous stretch of beaches and large all-inclusive resorts.  For those travellers who enjoy a bit of culture and adventure during their journey, Dominican Republic is for you.
 
Santo Domingo
 
Dominicans are rightly proud of their capital city.  It is the oldest European city in the New World and has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List thanks to its rich cultural, architectural and artistic heritage.  On a continent where beach breaks and rainforest expeditions dominate the tourism industry it is always a pleasure to stumble across a city like Santo Domingo, where you can browse endlessly along the cobblestone streets and never tire at what you will find.  Explore the Colonial Zone for its fine collection of 15^th and 16^th century architecture and make sure you don’t miss the Ozama Fort, the Alcazar de Colon and the beautiful churches and convents.
 
Jarabacoa & Constanza
 
Trade the relaxation of a beach for the adrenaline buzz and adventure of Jarabacoa and Constanza.  The two inland cities are the jewels in the crown of the Central Mountain Range, the tallest range in the Caribbean, often referred to as the Dominican Alps.  Climb the mountains at your own pace and enjoy the crisp air and alpine vegetation that is every bit as enthralling as the beaches.  Reach the summit of Pico Duarte, which at 10,164ft is the highest point in the Caribbean, and be over-awed at the incredible visual panorama that unfolds in every direction.  Before you leave this region, throw yourself in at the deep end with the white-knuckle activities such as canyoning, river-rafting and cascading through the cool waters of the Yaque del Norte River.
 
Monte Cristi
 
Located in the north-west, Monte Cristi is one of the lesser known destinations in the Dominican Republic, but its authentic feel and excursions to see mangroves, coral reefs and outlying islands make it worth a visit.  Take in the fascinating sights from the 900ft high Mesa overlooking the splendid coastline and clear blue sea below as well as the small islands located just off shore, known as Los Siete Hermanos (The Seven Brothers).  In the city itself, learn about the close historic ties between the Dominican Republic and Cuba at the Maximo Gomez museum and discover that the Dominican Republic is giving Cuba a run for its money as the prime destination for a good cigar by picking up some of the finest locally handmade cigars in the world.
 
Playa Bonita

While the tourists flock to the world-class but often crowded beaches of Punta Cana and Bavaro, you will be enjoying eight miles of coconut palms, fine white sand and crystal clear water along the secluded beach of Playa Bonita.  The name aptly translates to ‘beautiful beach’ and it is easy to see why.  The aquamarine surf is shallower and prettier than the neighbouring beaches in nearby Las Terrenas and it is both relaxing and quiet making it the perfect destination to recharge the batteries or pick up a new book.
 
Round Up
 
In a sense, it is a bit of a paradox as it is the perfect Caribbean destination for the anti-Caribbean experience traveller.  With so much to see and so much to do, the Dominican Republic does not need to rely on its beaches to attract visitors.
 
Where To Stay: Hostal Nicolas de Ovando, Santo Domingo
Set in the heart of Santo Domingo’s Colonial City, this 500-year-old property still contains the building’s sense of history and charm with exposed original fortress walls, tiled courtyards and brick archways.  The hotel also features all of the modern amenities that you come to expect from a 5-star hotel.
 
Where To Eat: Calle El Conde, Santo Domingo
El Conde’s setting in Parque Colon, opposite the 16^th-century Cathedral Primada de America, makes it a prime spot to unwind and watch the people go by.  Sit at an outside table and soak up the pleasantly quaint ambience while dining on the finest national and international cuisine.
 
What To Do: Punta Cana Festival
The vibrant colours, the long horned masks and explosion of joy make the Dominican carnival one of the best.  The annual parade takes place in March each year after the grand parade in Santo Domingo, but the date is never announced until about 3 weeks before. 

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