As if the mainland didnt have enough beaches, the Dominican Republic counts a handful of offshore islands with spectacular white sand beaches. There are many beautiful views of the ocean, the little beach huts in Amber Cove and the cruise ships in port. These do come at a cost, anywhere from $300 for a basic cabana to over $1000 a day for a Grand Cabana, but its an incredibly memorable way to spend the day at Amber Cove. If you go out to eat, dont expect to catch the next movie screening, so buy your cinema tickets after you finish dinner. In the Dominican Republic, there is a problem with the clandestine manufacture of adulterated alcohol for consumption, the problem is that this alcohol is pure poison. photo by Puntacanaresort (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified. 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. You can stay in one place and do some beach bar-hopping to enjoy the towns vibrant nightlife scene. Hey, sharing really is caring. Located in the remote southwest, Lake Enriquillo lies 60 feet below sea level, and is the largest lake in the Caribbean region. 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. If youre into precious stones, opt for larimar or amber jewelry pieces. 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. Part saline, part fresh water, its remarkable features attract the only population of American crocodiles in the DR. 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). Make sure to visit popular spots like Piedra Letrada (Taino culture stones), El Arroyazo (natural pool), and Aguas Blanca (highest waterfall in the D.R.). The usual access known for the park is via Samana. Some of the more unmissable local dishes include chicharron (fried pork skins) and tostones (fried plantains) as snacks. 13 13. Tours- which you can book here last about 40 minutes and are offered at affordable package prices. After a few selfies, continue hiking towards the back of the statue, where youll find beautiful botanical gardens. Other things may have come up with them and this may work in your favor where you can cancel plans last minute. is it possible to purchase coffee and bring it back on the cruise ship and back home to the states? Leave a Comment. It's this incredible range in nature and culture is what makes the Dominican Republic one of the most interesting destinations to visit in the Caribbean. I am used to beans with a savory flavor, so I was hesitant to try this dish. The Dominican Republic itself lies right in the middle of the Caribbean hurricane belt, getting its fair share of stormy weather usually at its peak in August and September. Feel the romance at La Yola In an effort to earn some money for my time and effort, I often link to various products. Its cascades and natural pools tumble down a series of canyons. Nature and animal lovers will enjoy a relaxing hike around Park Valle-Nuevo. We leave on February 2nd. There used to be free wifi at the Fathom Impact Center. In any case, ensure your notes are in good condition and not scribbled on as most shops wont accept them. Christopher Columbus first landed in Hispaniola in 1492, and the Dominican Republic became a Spanish Colony a year later. 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. 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. So forget trying to be accurate! Best Things to Do in Amber Cove: Go Shopping The shops at the Amber Cove cruise port are open when the ships are in port. Of course, the best part was drinking the coffee. Yes! I participated in both of these activities during my Fathom sailing, and theyre both worth checking out. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Santo Domingos Zona Colonial is recognized as the first European city built in the New World, serving as a model for the rest of the Americas. Whenever a commercial brand or a person calls their product the best in the world it is something that really borders on the absurd since, The Dominican Republic has more than 55 dolphin species in captivity. Wonder at the Basilica of our Lady in Higuey. I really wish that these kinds of parks no longer existed. It is one of the main attractions in the 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. Im going to show you some of the best free things to do in Amber Cove in addition to the activities Ive already mentioned above. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from Qualifying Purchases. 10. The country's museums shed an important light on the countrys fascinating history. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dreams Dominicus La Romana Resort & Spa, John F. Kennedy AvenueSanto Domingo, DR 10413(829) 547-4014. Its almost like an Amber Cove excursion that you dont need to book in advance and its available at no cost to everyone on the cruise ship. You can ask for the password at the Impact Center. Maybe a hammock is more your style! On shore, you cant miss seeing iguanas freely roaming the grounds. In general, English isnt very widely spoken. Enjoy fresh catches of seafood cooked from a fire hearth for a more authentic, seaside experience. Thank you so much. This is where you can get your passport stamped with an unofficial Puerto Plata stamp. Driving in the Dominican Republic can be tempting at times like when On your walk, be sure to find the iconic Amber Cove sign by the waterfront. Twitter I always expect things to move at a New York Minute and its just not possible, nor is it a good idea! Facebook 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!). Lake Enriquillo is the largest lake in the Dominican Republic and the entire Caribbean. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dreams Punta Cana, DamajaguaPuerto Plata, DR 57000(809) 250-4200. 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. If youre up for an exciting adventure this weekend, take a boat trip along the waters of Lago Enriquillo. We dont get tired of repeating that when travelling, you dont always know where your food has come from. With coffee plantations around the countrys mountainous regions, its not hard to understand why coffee plays such an important part in Dominican culture. In Altos de Chavn, the Museo Arqueologico Regional Altos de Chavn boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Taino artifacts and history. In Santo Domingo, head to Jet Set Club for weekly concerts on Monday nights. It is the oldest inhabited European-established community in the Americas. 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. Experience the wonder of swimming with hundreds of colorful fishes when you snorkel in the parks artificial coral reef aquarium. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Catalonia Punta Cana All Inclusive, Related: Best Beaches in The Dominican Republic. Sure. Laze around the fine white sands of Bavaro Beach or cool off in its beautiful blue waters. I moved here from New York for a teaching job and it has been an adventure ever since I set foot here. 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. But be wise, dont wear expensive jewelry if you want to get a cheap offer, and if you see something you like dont rush in and try to purchase it straight away. Make sure to wear durable water shoes for your trip. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 adventurous things to do in the Dominican Republic. This is one of the best things to do in Amber Cove for free. Source: flickr. The Las Colinas Mall is not only a wonderful shopping spot but also offers multiple best things to do in Santiago Dominican Republic. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Westin Puntacana Resort & Club. 3.What Not To Do in the Dominican RepublicDont only go to tourist locations or resorts. Take a tour of La Aurora Cigar Factory in Santiago, where youll learn about the entire cigar making process. Look round and compare. Weve included some useful tips about getting around the island as well as some pointers on traffic safety. 5 Things You shouldnt Do in the Dominican Republic (As a Tourist), 2-Dressing inappropriately in public institutions, 3-Buying cheap or adulterated alcohol in a clandestine manner, 5-Being very clueless when it comes to paying or negotiating something. If you have many errands to run, block out an hour or two just to take care of business at the bank. Portfolio We found that it was fairly speedy, though my connection was slower during the day when many people were using it. Since youre already in the Samana Peninsula, make sure to visit its incredible beaches like Cayo Levantado, Playa Rincon, and Playa Bonita. One great way to experience the culture of the Dominican Republic is through the exotic flavors of its cuisine. The walk from the ship to Amber Cove is quite scenic. You can rent lockers on site for a small fee that is refundable when you return the lock. El Sendero del Cacao is an interactive and educational tour inside the La Esmeralda farm in San Francisco de Macoris. Fun Things to Do in Dominican Republic. 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. The Basilica Catedral Nuestra Seora de la Altagracia is a minor Roman Catholic Basilica dedicated to the D.R. Those you should be aware of range from easily avoidable ones like fake (professional) beggars and vendors selling fake goods like cigars to shadier practices like bar scams and unlicensed taxi cabs and tour operators. Stroll at your leisure, and cool off afterwards at the on site cafe. Not many people know the existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination. So always remember these three rules: Cook it, Peel it, or Forget it! Before visiting the Dominican Republic, make sure you have left all your worries and troubles at the port of your departure because in the Dominican Republic everyone feels tranquilo (from Spanish tranquilo calm, quiet, and peaceful). Sip, mingle and enjoy the fresh air. 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. Stop at Playa Bergantin for a swimming and beach stop. Play a round of golf in the lush courses over at the White Sands golf course in Bavaro. 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. One day, there was a free coffee tasting in port where we learned about coffee production in the Dominican Republic. Here is a full day tour of Puerto Plata with all of the best that the city has to offer. If youre not into shopping or spending time by the pool, you may want to get out of Amber Cove to see the actual destination itself. Simply bookmark this list to add as a quick reference to your plans for visiting the Dominican Republic. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Presidential Suites by Lifestyle Puerto Plata All Inclusive. 1. 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. It is a little bit too far to walk - you will need to take a taxi, book a tour, or rent a car. Lying on the southwest edge of the country, near the border with Haiti, this undeveloped and protected beach boasts five long miles of brilliant white sand and iridescent turquoise waters. Web1) Don't Forget to Relax The Dominican Republic has an easy-going rhythm of life accentuated by the sea. 8) Dont Forget the Golden Rule! If you want to catch a glimpse of humpback whales while youre in the D.R., then make sure to stop by Samana Peninsula. Here are more of our Caribbean cruise guides: Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. Maximize your swimming and snorkeling time while in Boca Chica. Theres a swim-up pool bar for drinks. Many whales migrate to Samana Bay during the winter season, so sightings are usually guaranteed during that time. Be open to last-minute plans: youll never know when someone will invite you to a concert or on a day trip to the beach. Driving. Back in 2016, we sailed with Fathom Cruises on our Dominican Republic cruise, primarily because we wanted to participate in the impact activities. Continue to Playa Ensenada nearby, lined with outdoor cooks and picnic tables for Dominican seafood or chicken lunch. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. Some of the upgraded cabanas have their own TVs, private hot tubs, dining areas and more. Make the first stop at the Estero Hondo Marine Mammal Sanctuary to spot manatees. Continue to the Museo del Hombre Dominicano, the most comprehensive in the country, covers various eras starting with the origin of Dominicans to its present day culture and society. Dont be afraid to try new food! I keep small bills in my pockets so that I dont have to take out my wallet when in public. Christopher Columbus 3. In each locale, youll discover even more beaches or features of natural 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 one of the top tourist destinations in the country today. Youll even see some of the countrys best spas while youre here. You can learn more about me here. Required fields are marked *, document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","ac5183e358409809e0861593b2d4c548");document.getElementById("e709d2034c").setAttribute("id","comment");Comment *. 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