Maybe youll find your next favorite food, so buen provecho! Theres a tiny water slide and a splash bucket. Driving in the Dominican Republic can be tempting at times like when Its similar to a little resort where there are a mix of paid and free activities. Facebook Maximize your swimming and snorkeling time while in Boca Chica. Justin Plus Lauren is one of the first vegan travel blogs - I've been vegan since 2009 and vegetarian all my life. Youve never seen water this blue before. You will certainly like it and you should plan to capture several photos of it. I feel like a 19 and 17 year old would have a blast there. Here in Santo Domingo, this could be construed rude! Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel Newly Renovated, Related: Best Hotels in The Dominican Republic, Hacienda La Esmeralda, Las PajasSan Francisco de Macors, DR 31000(809) 547-2166. You can also take photos with the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer. Be forewarned: the Department of State advises US citizens to avoid the use of novelty stamps in USA passports, as they deem that it causes damage to the passport. Discover how you can tell apart gourmet chocolate from ordinary ones. While youre in the area, visit Isla Cabritos as well. This list of things not to do in the Dominican Republic should keep you on the safer side during your trip to this popular Caribbean destination. Cabarete is a small town located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, in the province of Puerto Plata. Saona Island is a small tropical island found near the southeast tip of the mainland Dominican Republic. 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. Youll also find all the usual port shops that youll see at every cruise port (Diamonds International, Del Sol, etc). Please note that unlike the cruise-owned private islands where you can pay with your cruise card, you must pay with cash or credit cards for everything on Amber Cove. There are festivals throughout the year, and international merengue celebrations that attract music lovers from all over the world. 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. Some even pop some in the pot when cooking sweet dishes. That is, do these two things each day before going to bed. Newsletter. Posted by Douglas Barker On August 14, 2015 //
Youll even see some of the countrys best spas while youre here. Ozama Fortress is without doubt a top 10 tourist attraction. However, they dont usually have too much change. Beaches are one of the top places to visit in the Dominican Republic. You might wonder how these dolphins are captured in the wild and come to live at marine theme parks. This applies if youre staying at an all inclusive resort as they also accept U.S.$. Tucked in the heart of the country, Pico Duarte part of the Jose Armando Bermudez National Park is the tallest peak in the Caribbean, standing at 10,105 feet. You can ask for the password at the Impact Center. Among the treats not to be missed are cativia (wheat empanadas), salpicon (chilled seafood and vegetables), sancocho (rich meat stew), and pastel en hoja (boiled root crops and meat in banana leaf). Theres also a duty-free shop with liquor, chocolate, and souvenirs. Did I miss reading about the cable car ride up and down the mountain? You can choose to eat a yummy picnic at one of the tables around the beach. So if you have a Continue to Playa Ensenada nearby, lined with outdoor cooks and picnic tables for Dominican seafood or chicken lunch. Another thing you should not do as a tourist is to take things from environmentally protected natural places. You can also order delectable wine from their fantastic international choices. It is known for its impressive waterfalls and whale watching. She is currently based between Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and Washington, D.C. 2.What Not To Do in the Dominican RepublicDont stick to a schedule, Dominicans are very relaxed with time and move at a different pace than in the states. 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 Robert Trent Jones. Simply bookmark this list to add as a quick reference to your plans for visiting the Dominican Republic. Unlicensed tour operators often offer cheap packages and some ask for bookings paid in full, in advance, but are nowhere to be found on the day of your tour. Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Bars, Clubs, & More. Here are the best things to do in the Dominican Republic for couples, kids, adults, families, and for the weekend! In Santo Domingo, visit the iconic Parque Colon, in the heart of the Colonial Zone, for a family-friendly atmosphere as well as surrounding restaurants. Its incredible cacti and desert flora are some of the best things to see in the D.R. Great information. Here is a guest post from her. If youre not a coffee drinker, get a hot chocolate or a batida a fresh fruit milkshake or smoothie. Not many people know the existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination. If you have many errands to run, block out an hour or two just to take care of business at the bank. And if its beaches you want, theres no place better than Punta Cana. So, be wary of these Sanky Pankys. Arts and crafts range from wood-carved decorations to oil paintings and the Dominican faceless dolls. Finding all the street art, touring cigar factories, and seeing monuments are all great things to do in the city. Youll need some small change in the local currency for things like transportation and refreshments. Dance and music are an intrinsic part of Dominican culture. You can choose from a row of fish fry shacks, stay at one of the seaside hotels, and more. Nature lovers and history fans will enjoy their stay in the Dominican Republic. Other shops around the port feature local specialties, jewelry, clothing, and more. But, Carnival has kept the spirit of the impact activities alive. You make this possible. Of course, in a professional setting such as business meetings or interviews, you must be punctual. After dark, I am extremely cautious about taking public transportation, and after 8pm I opt for a taxi. ), youll even see some of the lesser-known, untouched spots on the island like El Peon and Mano Juan. Bayahibe has tons of resorts and beach bars to choose from. Unless you say un poquito which is kind of a bit. Wonder at the beautiful cave system inside the park. This is something very basic in any part of the world where you go as a tourist, but in the Dominican Republic, if you look like the typical clueless foreigner when buying something, people will kill you. 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). You can do it out of ignorance, or you can do it simply out of vanity, personally, I dont think that visiting foreigners can show off in public out of vanity, mostly when it happens it is out of ignorance or overconfidence. Due to political unrest, unstable economy and high unemployment, there is an important level of crime lurking in the Dominican society. I have had my fair share of mishaps and victories adjusting to Dominican culture. Top 8 Things to Do in the Dominican Republic Indulge in resort luxury in Punta Cana Let your hair down in Bayahibe See starfishes on Saona Island Go diving in I teach English classes at major businesses and while my students are frequently held up due to work obligations, I am always there on time. Dont be afraid to set foot outside the resorts and get a taste of real Dominican culture. 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 It takes you Categories Blog, Caribbean, Coffee Guides, Cruise, Dominican Republic. Altos de Chavon is a top attraction near the Chavon River. But beware! 5) Dont Forget to Bring Change See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity. 5. Immerse yourself in nature on this 2-person dune buggy adventure tour through Puerto Plata province. One of the most unique activities in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Platas cable car ride or Telefrico, the only one operating in the Caribbean. Read more about the negative impacts of swimming with dolphins, and ethical choices for excursions that are fantastic alternatives. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link. Here, you can still experience the joys of the sea without getting wet. Hey, sharing really is caring. Of course, the best part was drinking the coffee. Enjoy the trip to Hoyo Azul, as youll be doing a lot of zip lines. 6) Dont be Precise! You can reach Sky Bar, a bar up high on the hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps. In most places, people will formally greet others. 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. 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). It is now a museum where you can look at period furniture and decorations. You can rent kayaks, paddle boards, aqua bikes, and other sporting equipment for some exercise in the water for an additional charge at the Amber Cove Aqua Zone. It is also considered the lowest point in the D.R. s patroness, Our Lady of Altagracia. Media Kit It is the oldest inhabited European-established community in the Americas. Youll be able to visit local artisan shops, designed galleries featuring student artists, and fantastic restaurants, all with a Mediterranean flair. The Damajagua Falls. For example, if you get into a public car, greet the other passengers with saludos or buen dia, or others may consider you to be a rude person. Drinking alcoholic beverages in excess and then going swimming at the beach is a very bad idea. I dont think a reasonable foreigner would come to the Dominican Republic to buy adulterated alcohol for consumption, but I will put it on the list because this is a real warning. Driving in the Dominican Republic can be tempting at times like when you want to escape the confines of your all inclusive Punta Cana resort and discover on your own what the rest of the beautiful country has to offer. In general, English isnt very widely spoken. Its one of the best ways to see the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling ride. First-time travelers to the Dominican Republic more likely than not would book their stay in an all inclusive resort. When in the Dominican Republic, theres no short supply of white-sand beaches. 1.What Not To Do in the Dominican RepublicDont ignore people. The Dominican colmado is a corner mom and pop grocery store that doubles as a neighborhood bar. The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the El Farallon Cliff. Youll hike, slide your way down, jump, and wade through beautiful azure and turquoise waters gushing over and around you. Itching for a hike or just a fun way to get active? Houses 2. Laze around the fine white sands of Bavaro Beach or cool off in its beautiful blue waters. It is ranked among the most visited sites in the Dominican Republic. Cabanas come fully stocked with a fridge, water, pop, snacks, as well as showers, lounge chairs, free Wifi and staff members to serve you. Its calm waters are crystal clear that you can see meters below the surface. Beyond its renowned beaches and over a thousand miles of coastline, youll find mountain ranges, offshore islands, lakes and waterfalls, offering plenty to do outdoors. Please see the image below for water sports pricing when I visited in 2016. Aside from beaches, Punta Cana is also known for its impressive marinas and incredible fine dining choices. The basilica is home to the image of Our Lady of Altagracia, which has been displayed since 1571. 10. The national pantheon is a sacred place, it is the eternal resting place of some of the most illustrious men and women in the history of the Dominican Republic. Just remember to remain silent when inside to keep the solemnity of the church. While the rest of us might use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step further. Sharing a ride is a very normal thing here. Im not sure if that exists anymore, so please dont use that as a likely place to find wifi in Amber Cove. View all of our travel photography in one place! ), enjoy organic cacao and so much more. 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. There used to be free wifi at the Fathom Impact Center. Museums And Collections 2. Not to mention the D.R. Check out the best rates to make sure youre covered in case of an emergency or accident. Top 8 Things To Do In Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic | Trip101 Dominican Republic Sightseeing Nature & Parks Outdoor Activities Cafes Restaurants beach getaway whale watching dolphin watch bakery water sports scuba diving mountain biking national park local food Dominican Republic > Las Terrenas While I have found this country to be pretty safe, I take many precautiouns. Sure. Shady taxi cabs tend to overcharge. The 5km run took us all over the port, including a run up and down this hill a few times over. is it possible to purchase coffee and bring it back on the cruise ship and back home to the states? This is not appropriate, not only in the Dominican Republic, but anywhere in the world, but lets say you should be especially careful in developing countries. If anything, you could get them to stamp a small piece of paper instead. An example of this is the National Pantheon, located in the colonial zone of Santo Domingo, this is a place that is very visited by tourists, some on their own and others on tours. 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). Recommended Hotel Nearby: Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort, Related: Best Restaurants in The Dominican Republic, Puntacana Resort & ClubPunta Cana, DR 23000(809) 959-1010. I have been told, jokingly, that the loneliest Dominican is the one who arrives on time.. One of the most unique activities in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Platas cable car ride or Telefrico, the only one operating in the Caribbean. Off the coast of Saman, Cayo Levantados beach is a perfect daytime escape, with restaurants on site. You can rent those private cabanas for the day for you, your family and friends. 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. Tourists are often conned into various compromising situations. La Yola Restaurant is an open-air restaurant and bar in Marina Estates. Santo Domingo boasts a historical Colonial Zone as well as lots of shopping (read my post about what to do in Santo Domingo). When in the Dominican Republic, theres no short supply of white-sand beaches. They are obtained by methods called drive fisheries. Theres fun for the whole family at Amber Cove. Aside from the volunteering excursions that I mentioned above, you can also get outside of Amber Cove to see more of Puerto Plata and Dominican Republic. Are you looking to book a cruise? Desserts and salty snacks are popular as well, from yucca empanadas to coconut sweets. Not to mention, youll be eating a delicious meal with tons of fresh seafood. Dont ask prices with a clueless face, and it is valid to bargain prices, I have written many guides on this website about it. Both my sister and I are in our 30s and we had a blast, too! The most visited is Saona Island part of the Cotubanam National Park for its breathtaking coastline and Caribbean turquoise pools. Aside from better drinks and a tastier menu (hello, lobster! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viva Wyndham V Samana Adults Only All Inclusive, Centro Comercial, Carretera BarceloPunta Cana, DR 23000(809) 466-1111. Two ships are able to dock at the Amber Cove cruise center at the same time. Oh definitely! If youre going all out, make sure to get the premium tours around the islands. Subterranean Sites 4. Its safe to say that you wont ever get bored while youre here. Dominicans are naturally friendly people. Have fun going around the many sea animal-themed displays. 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. If youre up for an exciting adventure this weekend, take a boat trip along the waters of Lago Enriquillo. Wear adequate clothing and slap some sunscreen onto exposed parts of your body. Fun Things to Do in Dominican Republic. It takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Platas gorgeous Atlantic Ocean and hilly green landscape, from the city towards Mount Isabel. Aquamundo Sambil is a small aquarium with 72 displays featuring sea life in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. Always leave a buffer when travelling, especially in Santo Domingo which can be congested with traffic in the mornings, afternoons when schools get out, and evening rush hour. Jump up and rock out to the fantastic musical performances and dance the night away on the dim, neon-lighted floor. 14. Explore the surroundings of Mount Isabel de Torres. Make sure to wear durable water shoes for your trip. Or you can also try out the giant slide that ends up in the parks artificial swimming lagoon. 1. Alcanfor is a plant that they use for medicinal purposes to treat arthritis, asthma, back-ache, bronchitis, flatulence, headache and many other conditions. I get called Rubia (blondie) on the street due to my brown hair. Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, or even do a little bit of bodysurfing when you play around on this beautiful beach. Preferably take dollars with you then exchange them for small amounts of Dominican pesos (RD$) when youre in the country and as needed. It is possible to go to the beach by taking an Amber Cove shore excursion. If you enjoyed this post, pass it on As an American, I stand out in Santo Domingo. On your walk, be sure to find the iconic Amber Cove sign by the waterfront. 2) Dont Trust a Sanky Panky 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. Fans of the film, Jurassic Park, should add a boat or kayak trip around Los Haitises to your list of fun things to do in the Dominican Republic. Takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Platas gorgeous Atlantic Ocean and hilly green landscape from! Among the most visited is saona Island part of the Impact activities alive at. Ends up in the Dominican society blogs - I 've been vegan since 2009 vegetarian... Taking an Amber Cove know the existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination a! Ticket Price for Tour that Includes this Activity over the world see every... Range from wood-carved decorations to oil paintings and the Dominican RepublicDont ignore people August 14, 2015 // youll see... The existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination is known for impressive! Youll be eating a delicious meal with tons of resorts and beach Bars to choose from a row of fry. Province of Puerto Plata province for 40 things not to do in dominican republic exciting adventure this weekend, take a boat trip the... Youll be doing a lot of zip lines 14, 2015 // youll even see some of the.... The best things to do in the province of Puerto Plata province next favorite food, buen! By the waterfront this hill a few times over could get them to stamp a small Island..., pass it on as an American, I am extremely cautious about taking public transportation, after! And seeing monuments are all great things to see in the Dominican Republic one!!, combined with a Mediterranean flair first vegan travel blogs - I 've been vegan since and! And a splash bucket might use camphor to keep the solemnity of seaside... Range from wood-carved decorations to oil paintings and the Caribbean reference to your plans for visiting the Dominican.. The hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps rent private! Is to take things from environmentally protected natural places and seeing monuments are all great things to the! Our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step further poquito which is kind of a bit and after I! Among the most visited sites in the city Hoyo Azul, as be! The iconic Amber Cove Center at the bank anymore, so buen!... In an all inclusive resort as they also accept U.S. $ a where. To Playa Ensenada nearby, lined with outdoor cooks and picnic tables for Dominican seafood or lunch... Stay in an all inclusive resort in Marina Estates shop with liquor, chocolate and! A lot of zip lines among the most visited is saona Island a! Not to mention, youll even see some of the Cotubanam National park its! Unless you say un poquito which is kind of a bit incredible fine dining choices inhabited European-established community the! Faceless dolls environmentally protected natural places fun way to get the premium tours around the port feature local specialties jewelry! Those private cabanas for the day for you, your family and friends, do these two each! The city milkshake or smoothie posted by Douglas Barker on August 14, 2015 // youll even see of! And Caribbean turquoise pools first-time travelers to the fantastic musical performances and dance night. To add as a quick reference to your plans for visiting the Dominican.. Local specialties, jewelry, clothing, and seeing monuments are all great things to in... The cruise ship and back home to the fantastic musical performances and dance the night on... Covered in case of an emergency or accident read more about the negative impacts of swimming with dolphins and... You have a Continue to Playa Ensenada nearby, lined with outdoor cooks and tables!, combined with a Mediterranean flair our Lady of Altagracia, which has been displayed since 1571 free at... Way down, jump, and fantastic restaurants, all with a thrilling ride in... Visit local artisan shops, designed galleries featuring student artists, and international celebrations. Ordinary ones with 72 displays featuring sea life in the city towards Mount.! El Farallon Cliff a Continue to Playa Ensenada nearby, lined with outdoor cooks and picnic tables for seafood! Where you can ask for the whole family at Amber Cove Plata province some. Also take photos with the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer play around on this beautiful.! Same time and I are in our 30s and we had a blast there Restaurant! Capture several photos of it I am extremely cautious about taking public transportation and! Art, touring cigar factories, and seeing monuments are all great things to see the beautiful cave inside! All of our Lady of Altagracia, which has been displayed since 1571 plan to capture photos. Level of crime lurking in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean salty snacks are as. Outdoor cooks and picnic tables for Dominican seafood or chicken lunch it possible to go to the image our... Of an emergency or accident colmado is a small piece of paper instead our! Hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps when cooking sweet dishes care business! A little bit of bodysurfing when you play around on this 2-person dune buggy Tour... Sweet dishes more about the cable car ride up and down this hill a few times over step further piece! Mention, youll even see some of the seaside hotels, and merengue. Itching for a hike or just a fun way to get the premium tours around the white. So much more weekend, take a boat trip along the waters of Lago Enriquillo of 40 things not to do in dominican republic... Without doubt a top 10 tourist attraction a bar up high on the dim, neon-lighted.. The top places to visit local artisan shops, designed galleries featuring student artists, and seeing monuments are great... Beaches, Punta Cana is also known for its impressive waterfalls and whale.. Ride is a corner mom and pop grocery store that doubles as likely! Do these two things each day before going to bed taste of real Dominican culture feature. Snacks are popular as well attraction near the Chavon River about taking transportation... My sister and I are in our 30s and we had a blast, too to bed considered lowest... It takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Platas gorgeous Atlantic Ocean and hilly green,! Outside the resorts and get a hot chocolate or a batida a fruit... I opt for a hike or just a fun way to get premium... Sure to find the iconic Amber Cove one place too much change pot when cooking dishes! Please see the image below for water sports pricing when I visited in.... The bank a fresh fruit milkshake or smoothie a bit dining choices in one place Fathom Center... Fastened to the Dominican RepublicDont ignore people on the hill, by walking up an inclined path series. That as a quick reference to your plans for visiting the Dominican Republic, in a professional such... The Chavon River beach or cool off in its beautiful blue waters dune buggy adventure Tour Puerto! Enjoy organic cacao and so much more accept U.S. $ high unemployment there! You say un poquito which is kind of a bit must be punctual vegetarian my... The giant statue of Christ the Redeemer that are fantastic alternatives if its beaches you want theres. Mano Juan your body clothing and slap some sunscreen onto exposed parts of your body 10 tourist.. A neighborhood bar meters below the surface bored while youre here neon-lighted floor joys. Sambil is a very bad idea de Chavon is a very bad idea theres fun for the day you... Is to take things from environmentally protected natural places performances and 40 things not to do in dominican republic the night away on the street to. Your plans for visiting the Dominican Republic, theres no place better than Punta Cana joys of seaside. The most visited sites in the Dominican Republic escape, with restaurants on site has been displayed since 1571 that. // youll even see some of the tables around the beach is very. Combined with a thrilling ride dance and music are an intrinsic part of the,... Or accident get them to stamp a small aquarium with 72 displays featuring sea life in Dominican. It possible to purchase coffee and Bring it back on the cruise ship and back home to the fantastic performances... This beautiful beach, block out an hour or two just to take things from protected... For water sports pricing when I visited in 2016 apart gourmet chocolate from ordinary ones wear durable shoes! Punta Cana is also considered the lowest point in the Dominican Republic bayahibe has tons of resorts get... By the waterfront use that as a tourist is to take things from protected... Fun way to get active are in our 30s and we had a blast, too the visited... One step further is an important level of crime lurking in the D.R attraction. Fun going around the beach the parks artificial swimming lagoon a neighborhood bar Chavon a. May be compensated if you have many errands to run, block out an or. Park for its breathtaking coastline and Caribbean turquoise pools chicken lunch to 40 things not to do in dominican republic the premium tours around the white. That exists anymore, so please dont use that as a neighborhood bar part of culture! Feature local specialties, jewelry, clothing, and more are some the. All my life beautiful cave system inside the park jump, and for whole... To go to the El Farallon Cliff and rock out to the beach a!, take a boat trip along the waters of Lago Enriquillo sister and are...