Dominican Republic

Types of trips: Adventure, Geographical, Exploration, Relaxation, Cultural

Best known for: Baseball, Beaches/Sea, Native Music Styles

Why Go?: The landscape of the Dominican Republic is fantastically diverse, with mountains and beaches alike. It's a great destination for both relaxing and adventuring, with busy towns, fun events and stunning scenery galore!

Fact File

Population: 9,500,000

Capital: Santo Domingo

Language(s): Spanish

Ties to the UK?: Increasingly popular travel destination

Landscape: Shares an island with Haiti, with the land consisting of four major mountain ranges and some large plains, valleys and rivers.

Climate/Seasons: Generally warm throughout, except in the mountains where it can get much colder. The wet season runs from May - October but can sometimes run to December, with the peak heat in August.

When to Go: February and August/September have good weather and avoid the peak tourism season

Reasons to Visit: Diverse landscape, friendly culture/people

How to Get There: There are many good international airports you can fly to in the Dominican Republic which is the best way to travel there from the UK.

Places to Go: Museo de las Casas Reales, Cap Cana, Bavaro, 

Famous People: David Ortiz, Albert Pujols, Roselyn Sanchez

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Damajaqua Cascades, Los Haitises National Park

History: Periodically under Spanish control

Architecture: Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, 

Culture: Mixed cultural influences from the islands Taino natives, the past slaves from Africa and Spanish colonists.

Sport: Baseball, Boxing, Volleyball, Tae Kwon Do

Events: Independence Day, Kite Festival, Jazz Festival, Carnaval Vegano

Watch Out For: Hurricanes are most likely from August - October, and you should make sure you keep an eye on the weather forecast and be aware of safety precautions.

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised - check here for a good general overview and always consult with a doctor.