In 1492, while traveling the world, Christopher Columbus discovered this beautiful island of Haiti. Española – that's what he called this wonderful place. Subsequently, the island was called Kiskeya ("Mother of all lands"), Santo Domingo.
Currently, Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic. The capital boasts a huge number of architectural monuments and historical sites; by UNESCO's decision, Santo Domingo has been declared a "World Heritage Site".
The National Theatre, the Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of History and Geography, the Alcázar de Colón Palace (Columbus Fortress), the sundial, the Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse), an immense number of palaces, cathedrals, monasteries, churches – this is truly a treasure trove of history located in the most wonderful corner of the planet. At the same time, the entire island is immersed in exotic plants – trees, flowers, grasses.
Each province of the Dominican Republic has its own expression. Each of them can rightfully be considered a resort. The Cibao Valley is famous for deposits of gold, nickel, and iron. Here, sugarcane was first cultivated. In the province of Monte Cristi is the company "Grenada Fruit", which exports bananas worldwide.
It was off the coast of the province of Puerto Plata in 1492 that Christopher Columbus stopped. "Amber Coast" – the unofficial name of the province obtained due to amber deposits. The most beautiful beaches, equipped with a special tourist port, stretch for thousands of kilometers. And, of course, the famous national park "Isabela". In the Gulf of Las Calderas (Peravia province) is the Dominican Republic's naval base. Banilejo – mangoes of the most delicate pink color with an extraordinary aroma are grown on exotic plantations of Peravia.
The Dominican elite prefers the resort of Boca Chica. The lagoon, protected by a coral reef, is a wonderful place to relax. A kilometer-long alley of coconut palms stretches along the coast of the golden beaches of the resort Playa Bavaro, or otherwise, Punta Cana.
The resort enclave of Playa Dorada consists of 13 resorts. All of them are equipped and furnished according to European standards. A rum factory attracts tourists.
The Dominican Republic is famous for its rafting routes. And in Cabarete lagoon you can enjoy scuba diving and windsurfing. You can taste the national dishes of the Dominican Republic in numerous cafes, bars, restaurants. "Sancocho" – stewed meat, "La Bandera" – a dish of meat, rice, beans, vegetables, "Pescado con Coco" – a dish of fish in coconut milk.
Particular pleasure comes from experiencing Dominican folklore – dances, playing on simple musical instruments. Updating your wardrobe, buying souvenirs, gifts will not be difficult. Large shopping centers are located in Santo Domingo. The most popular market in the Dominican Republic is Mercado Modelo.
Tours to the Dominican Republic in recent years have significantly surpassed neighboring Cuba and Mexico in popularity among visitors. Many tourists who have been there once strive to visit again this beautiful corner, fragrant with exoticism and the freshness of the ocean.
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