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Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

17 Jun

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic 

The capital of the Dominican Republic is none other than Santo Domingo. It is also the most significant modern metropolis of the Caribbean. To experience the culture of the Dominican, a visit to Santo Domingo is a must. Take in the architecture, history, art, nightlife, and more in the hustle and bustle of Santo Domingo. 

Santa Domingo’s History 

Before Christopher Columbus landed in 1492, the island was inhabited by the Taino people. The Colonial City is recorded as the first European settlement of the Americas. It was founded by the Spanish in 1496 and has been occupied ever since. Ceded to France in 1795 and reclaimed by Spain in 1809, the DR was conquered by Haiti and then became a free nation in 1844. Turbulent years and hurricane devastation dominated for years to come. 

Today, visitors can see the evidence of the years in the ruins and the impressive architecture of the Middle Ages. In 1990, the Colonial Zone was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Culture of Santo Domingo 

The culture of Santo Domingo is a fusion of European, African, and Taino traditions. Spanish is the language of the people speckled with the Arawak language. Here, performing arts are an essential part of the cultural scene. If interested, there is an orchestra, opera company, ballet company, national theater, and even a folklore company. And, the Plaza is the center of the activity. 

What’s more, if you like music, the merenge style is evident along with the African drums, piano, brass, and more. During festivals, the music can be heard in street parades and dance clubs. 

The Culinary Scene 

Foodies love the scene in Santo Domingo. Influences from the Spanish, Taino, and African peoples are captured in the dishes they serve. Most dishes focus heavily on meat and rice, with various fresh fruit juices to wash it all down. With a side salad, plantains, and sofrito, you have a dish that is Santo Domingo approved. The national dish of the DR is La Bandera, a red beans, meat, and rice dish. 

Things to Do 

With unrivaled historic buildings such as churches, castles, palaces, monasteries, and more, the architecture buff is sure to be captivated here. And when touring the city of Santo Domingo, you can take in various activities and sights unique to the area. Here are a few suggestions to get your searches started. 

Monuments to View- Locate the Columbus Lighthouse, the Plaza de la Bandera, El Obelisco, and more. 

The Arts- In addition to the aforementioned, visitors can support the local artists or catch a show at the Coco Bongo Night Club. 

Archaeology Stops- Join one of the local tours to see the fantastic historical structures in the oldest capital of the Americas. And be sure to set foot where Christopher Columbus once walked. 

Nature and Wildlife- Go whale watching, boating, and fishing off the shores of Santo Domingo. Visit the waterfalls, go cave hiking, or take a drive to spend a day on the beach. Be sure to add The 3 Eyes National Park to your list of Santo Domingo sites. 

Shopping and More- With over ten shopping blocks, this is one of the hottest shopping scenes. Calle El Conde is lined with cafes, restaurants, art vendors, and more. 

The streets of Santo Domingo are lively and bursting with history, music, dancing, and delectable food. There is even a “Chinatown” there. When you want a break from the beaches, enjoy a day of fun in Santo Domingo. 

Planning Your Visit 

If you are looking for an all-inclusive resort, the Boca Chica may be just what you are looking for. The experienced traveler would recommend a stay in the El Malecon or the Old Quarter. Boutique hotels can be found in Zona Colonial. Other places to stay include the El Embajador and the Embassy Suites. 

With history, nightlife, and nature, there is something for everyone in Santo Domingo. 

 

CITED: Wikipedia.com, godominicanrepublic.com, thenomadvisor.com 


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