The
Dominican Republic is full of surprising stories, vibrant traditions
and natural contrasts that many travellers never discover. These
insights reveal a deeper and more intriguing side to the country
before you explore it yourself.
The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti — one of the few Caribbean nations with a land border.
Merengue and bachata were born here and remain central to national identity.
The DR has the Caribbean’s highest mountain peak, Pico Duarte.
It is also home to Lake Enriquillo, the Caribbean’s lowest point and a hypersaline lake.
Baseball is the most celebrated sport, producing many world-famous MLB stars.
The Dominican Republic established the first cathedral, hospital and university in the Americas.
Santo Domingo was the first permanent European settlement in the New World.
The country pioneered several early Caribbean trade ports.
Dominican music styles have become globally recognised cultural exports.
Greetings are warm, often including a hug or kiss on the cheek.
Tipping is expected; restaurants often add a standard 10% service charge.
Politeness is valued, especially when interacting with elders.
Dressing modestly is appreciated outside beach areas.
Juan Luis Guerra is one of Latin America’s most celebrated musicians.
Oscar de la Renta, the world-renowned fashion designer, was born in Santo Domingo.
Pedro Martínez and David Ortiz are among baseball’s greatest icons.
Cardi B has Dominican roots and proudly celebrates her heritage.
The Dominican Republic features lush rainforests, high mountains and miles of white-sand beaches.
Samaná Bay is one of the world’s best places to see humpback whales.
The colonial zone of Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cabarete is world-famous for kitesurfing and wind sports.
Dominicans are known for warmth, hospitality and a strong sense of community.
Music and dance are central to daily life.
Meals are often shared with extended family.
Street vendors and open-air markets are key parts of local culture.
Merengue and bachata are celebrated nationally, with festivals throughout the year.
Dominican cuisine blends African, Caribbean, Spanish and Indigenous influences.
Carnival celebrations feature colourful costumes and lively street parades.
Traditional crafts include pottery, jewellery and wood carving.
The Dominican Republic was the site of Christopher Columbus’s first settlements.
Santo Domingo’s colonial district contains many of the Americas’ “firsts.”
The Taíno people shaped early cultural traditions, many still evident today.
The DR gained independence in 1844.
Los Haitises National Park features dramatic karst formations and mangrove forests.
The 27 Charcos (waterfalls) of Damajagua offer natural pools and cascades.
Saona Island is known for its turquoise waters and protected marine life.
The Amber Museum in Puerto Plata displays rare fossils preserved in amber.
Home of merengue and bachata.
Highest Caribbean mountain: Pico Duarte.
Lowest Caribbean point: Lake Enriquillo.
First cathedral and university in the Americas.
Baseball is a national passion.
Samaná Bay hosts migrating humpback whales.
Santo Domingo’s colonial city is UNESCO-listed.
Saona Island is a popular day-trip paradise.
Amber fossils date back millions of years.
DR shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.
Warm, community-oriented local culture.
Over 1,600 km of coastline.