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The Dominican Republic occupies more than half of Hispaniola , the second-largest Caribbean island.  Travelers can indulge in a variety of activities; adventurers might seek out canyoning and windsurfing opportunities.  Hikers can scale Pico Duarte, the Caribbean ’s highest mountain at 10,000 feet, while 1,000 miles of sublime coastline offer relaxation.  For cultural immersion, visit the centuries-old capital Santo Domingo , the New World ’s oldest city. 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. 

 

La Romana has the quaint Altos de Chavon artist enclave and a walled resort compound known for its three challenging golf courses, a polo field, horseback riding, sport shooting, tennis and a marina. Isla Saona, off the southern shore near Bayahibe, is a 45 square mile island with pristine beaches and mangrove-lined lagoons. The tiny 6 square mile Isla Catalina is a popular diving spot.

 

To the west of Cabarete lies Puerto Plata with its lively beaches. San Filepe Fort, used by the Spanish to fight off pirates in the 16th century, is a tribute to colonial days. Ocean World Adventure Park in Cofresi boasts a dolphin lagoon plus a swimmable aquarium and an interactive shark pool. Baní and Las Salinas offer some of the best windsurfing options outside Cabarete, and don’t have the crowds, while the towns of Boca Chica and Juan Dolio are popular for their busy beaches. The fertile lands of Santiago , La Vega and the Cordillera Central Mountain Range are found in the central region. Known as the Dominican Alps, it is prime for hiking, cycling and river rafting.  The island’s highest mountain, Pico Duarte, calls to expert hikers; it takes three days to reach the summit.  

 

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

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.