Christopher Columbus discovered this land in 1492 and called it “a beautiful island paradise with high forested mountains and large river alleys”. The statement remains true to this day for this second largest Caribbean island. Washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean in the north and that of the Caribbean Sea in the south, the Dominican Republic is snugly lodged amid Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico. This picture perfect country flaunts geographical features of extreme contrast: mountain ranges, valleys, lakes, islands and near-arid deserts.

The culture is a heady mix of Spanish, French, Haitian and African influences with the Spanish element being the most predominant. The numerous heritage sites and the street lamps in prominent cities like La Romana San Cristobal and Barahona are reminiscent of the days when the Republic was a Spanish colony. Alongside are the characteristic Caribbean beaches, mangrove-lined lagoons, coral reefs, gushing inland waterfalls and thick rain forests which are found in abundance. The highest mountain peak in the West Indies, Pico Duarte (3,125 ft above sea level) is situated in the central mountain region of the country.

The naturalists would be spoiled for choice: 15 natural reserves, 19 national parks, 6 scientific reserves, 2 marine sanctuaries, 9 protected parcels of islands. All this is home to 5600 plant species, 303 bird species and a plethora of underwater life. The adventure-seekers can indulge in canyoning, wind-surfing, kite-boarding, white-water rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking and hiking. The adrenalin rush can of course go on with the underwater explorations as well.

Though Cuba is the most famous for its cigars, Dominican Republic follows as a close second with 600,000 acres of tobacco plantations chiefly in central island's Santiago and Cibao Valley The other winner is the unique Amber(gem) that the country possesses. Besides the common yellow amber, the extremely rare deep red, smoky green, and blue gems are fabulous! The capital, Santo Domingo, is dotted with forts, castles, museums and dozens of other sites of historical interest.

Accommodations in the Dominican Republic

Known to be an economical holiday spot, the Republic has everything from “All-inclusive” resorts to budget-friendly hotels and guest houses. While the private villas are plush, and the luxury resorts come complete with casinos, bars, golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts and lots more; the smaller hotels are perfect too, with such amenities as laundry services, restaurants, fitness centre etc.

The official language is Spanish though English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist locations. The weather is beautiful, to say the least. The tropical climate displays an average temperature of 70-80 degrees F with the mountainous terrains being cooler than the rest and the deserts experience scorching heat The currency used is peso(RD$). Despite the fact that the Dominican Republic has a compelling history of social unrest, poverty, crime and failed governments, the nation exhibits exemplary tourist-friendly behavior and is definitely a gem in the crown called the Caribbean!