Located on the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which it shares with Haiti, the Dominican Republic is a lively and festive nation blessed with great natural beauty and glorious white sand beaches. Its friendly and flamboyant people celebrate life and enjoy sharing their rich history and culture with visitors. Christopher Columbus reached the north coast of the island on his first voyage to the New World in 1492 and gave it its name, which means "Little Spain." The colony of Santo Domingo retains much of its colonial architecture, including some of the oldest buildings in the Western Hemisphere.

The tropical wildlife is astounding.  Within 19 national parks, 6 scientific reserves, 32 natural monuments, 15 natural reserves, 2 marine sanctuaries and 9 protected parcels of islands, there exist 5,600 plant species, 303 bird species and a rich underwater world.  Many resorts are all-inclusive including those along the picturesque coastline in the Punta Cana/Bávaro area, where a sizeable coral reef draws scuba divers. 

This often overlooked country offers one of the best vacation values in the Caribbean, as well as one of the most entertaining. Everything is infused with an irrepressible island spirit that enhances your experience, from finally learning to wind-surf, to exploring a bygone world, or getting swept up into a meringue street dance!

 

CLIMATE:  The average temperature is 77 degrees, with August being the warmest month and January the coolest.  Summer temperatures range from 89 to 95 degrees, and in the winter, from 75 to 90 degrees.

LANGUAGE: Spanish is the official language.  English is widely spoken.

NIGHTLIFE:  Entertainment available includes-Casinos.  Bingo.  Discos.  Clubs.  Theaters.  Cinemas.  Bars.  Cafes.  Live Bands.  Shows.