40 things not to do in dominican republic

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. Are you wondering where the Amber Cove beach is? I am from New York, and the culture there is to keep to yourself and keep your eyes focused ahead. Amber Cove, Dominican Republic is a cruise port thats truly a destination in itself. A If you enjoyed this post, pass it on Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Bars, Clubs, & More. 10. Saona Island is a small tropical island found near the southeast tip of the mainland Dominican Republic. 2023 Justin Plus Lauren | Privacy Policy | Web Stories, Getting to Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Things to Do in Amber Cove: Walk Around the Port, Best Things to Do in Amber Cove: Go Shopping, Swimming Pool, Lazy River and Water Slides, Best Things to Do in Amber Cove: Amber Cove Aqua Zone, Top Things to Do in Amber Cove: Rent a Private Cabana, Volunteer Activities in Dominican Republic, Getting Out of Amber Cove to Puerto Plata (and Beyond), Puerto Plata Highlights and Cable Car Tour, What Not to Do in Amber Cove: Swim With Dolphins, negative impacts of swimming with dolphins, St. Kitts Cruise Port Guide: How to Spend a Day in St. Kitts, Cockleshell Beach in St. Kitts (Shore Excursion), How to Explore the St. Thomas Cruise Port, Things to Do in Barbados From a Cruise Ship, Nassau, Bahamas Segway Tour (Shore Excursion), Club Med Guadeloupe Day Pass (Shore Excursion). It is ranked among the most visited sites in the Dominican Republic. Do you remember at the beginning of this travel blog post when I mentioned the pretty little cabanas that you can see when you leave the cruise ship? If you plan on driving around the island for the day, its a good idea to rent a car. Posted by Douglas Barker On August 14, 2015 // Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Santo Domingos Zona Colonial is recognized as the first European city built in the New World, serving as a model for the rest of the Americas. Its about a five minute walk from the cruise ship to the Amber Cove entrance. You cant miss this building its a replica of the gazebo thats in downtown Puerto Plata. It is possible to go to the beach by taking an Amber Cove shore excursion. Gawp down at the Hoyo Azul. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dreams Dominicus La Romana Resort & Spa, John F. Kennedy AvenueSanto Domingo, DR 10413(829) 547-4014. Go on exciting beach excursions to get a glimpse of dolphins and whales playing in the waters. If you have many errands to run, block out an hour or two just to take care of business at the bank. Why stay indoors when you can visit the impressive Los Haitises, a 30-meter rock formation jutting out from the Caribbean waters? Official taxi cabs stick to designated pickup neighborhoods. It has cobble-covered alleys and beautiful limestone walls. From riding thrilling motorboats and romantic catamarans to swimming in the clearest blue waters, youll never get bored when in this small paradise. Some even pop some in the pot when cooking sweet dishes. Visit the archeological museum and the Roman-style amphitheater. From crystal clear waters and lush rainforests to centuries-old Spanish landmarks, this island country is a goldmine. For a full experience of a cacao plantation and the bean to bar process, sign up for the Sendero del Cacao or the Cacao Trail Tour. Most GSM networks work flawlessly in the main towns such as Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, but the more you might get lower signals in rural neighborhoods where youd mostly need your online maps. As an American, I stand out in Santo Domingo. Aside from beaches, Punta Cana is also known for its impressive marinas and incredible fine dining choices. Since our cruise ship was docked here for three nights, we had opportunities to take photos with the sign at day and at night. Christopher Columbus first landed in Hispaniola in 1492, and the Dominican Republic became a Spanish Colony a year later. Collect 10 stamps, get 1 reward* night. 1. It is where some cultural, architectural, and transportation, If you like nature, beaches with crystal clear waters, a good sunny Caribbean climate and being in contact with great biodiversity that does not represent, Contents1 The Dominican Republic Flag2 Origins of the Dominican Republic flag3 When was the Dominican Republic flag created?4 What does the Dominican flag stand for?5, Your email address will not be published. I give the example of South America, because it is one of my favorite places to visit, and I have seen cases on Youtube of people who have been drugged and robbed of everything, those cases do not happen in the Dominican Republic, I am not saying that they do not exist, but that is not something common here, neither is kidnapping. Otherwise, enjoy this short walk to the Amber Cove cruise port. When you depart the ship and enter Amber Cove, keep to the left. Wear breathable clothes and sturdy grip shoes. Youll also find all the usual port shops that youll see at every cruise port (Diamonds International, Del Sol, etc). You can find them on the shore excursions section of your cruise booking for both Princess and Carnival Cruises. Aside from better drinks and a tastier menu (hello, lobster! However, if you are only going into Puerto Plata and staying there, I suggest taking a taxi both ways and skipping the rental car. 14 14. Sweet beans? Head up to the Sky Bar! Cabarete is a town in Puerto Plata known for its beautiful beaches. Or visit the Conquista Park for its beautiful collection of local art and artifacts. Aside from the volunteering excursions that I mentioned above, you can also get outside of Amber Cove to see more of Puerto Plata and Dominican Republic. This Damajagua Waterfalls shore excursion will take you to the famous 27 waterfalls. So, be wary of these Sanky Pankys. The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the El Farallon Cliff. Bavaro Beach is a white-sand beach and resort town in Punta Cana. I get called Rubia (blondie) on the street due to my brown hair. You can learn more about me here. Twitter If you're buying coffee grounds, I'd put them in your checked luggage. Travel Videos ), youll even see some of the lesser-known, untouched spots on the island like El Peon and Mano Juan. I dont ever wear flashy jewelry or carry an expensive-looking bag. Wander down to the Information Center in Amber Cove. The Dominican Republic itself lies right in the middle of the Caribbean hurricane belt, getting its fair share of stormy weather usually at its peak in August and September. If youre going all out, make sure to get the premium tours around the islands. Theres really something for everyone! The passion for play, as its locally called, is just as strong at home. Its always best to check if your hotel includes airport transfer services with your booking. Hike Pico Duarte, the Caribbeans Highest Peak, Go Humpback Whale Watching in the Bay of Saman. Im going to show you some of the best free things to do in Amber Cove in addition to the activities Ive already mentioned above. She is interested in culture, music, and marketing. They expect you to negotiate down to the last cent. s patroness, Our Lady of Altagracia. They live and travel in large groups called pods. WebGolf fans will want to book a stay at Sunscape Puerto Plata Dominican Republic for the chance to experience the resorts beautiful 18-hole golf course designed by the famous Robert Trent Jones. This month marks my nine-month anniversary here in the Dominican Republic. To get to Amber Cove, youll need to book a cruise with Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic as a port of call. El Limon Waterfall Don Mammoser/Shutterstock If youre heading to the Dominican Republic to chase waterfalls, then El Limon Waterfall is one of the best. The slippery and rocky terrain might not be suitable for young kids and people who have trouble moving. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Garant & Suites, Calle Duarte 61Puerto Plata, DR 57000(809) 586-2848. These arent too far from the pool area. Enjoy your vacation! Its one of the best ways to see the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling ride. Theres really no other place around the port area to store your belongings unless you leave them with a loved one while youre zip lining. Off The Beaten Path In The Dominican Republic, Building And Lodging In The Dominican Republic, Here I leave you the link to a similar and more complete topic, The Best Cigar In The World Is Probably From The Dominican Republic, Are There Dolphins In The Dominican Republic? or Newsletter. Media Kit Work With Us Santo Domingo boasts a historical Colonial Zone as well as lots of shopping (read my post about what to do in Santo Domingo). Its cascades and natural pools tumble down a series of canyons. Here is a full day tour of Puerto Plata with all of the best that the city has to offer. Temperatures in the different regions throughout the island of Hispaniola also vary due to the diverse terrain. You should also consider the high roaming charges when using your home card. Lebawit Lily Girma is an award-winning travel writer, photographer, and author of several Caribbean guidebooks for Moon Travel Guides. We found that it was fairly speedy, though my connection was slower during the day when many people were using it. Off the coast of Puerto Plata, Cayo Arena is the tiniest offshore caye, its surrounding waters teeming with tropical fish. While the swimming pool, lazy river and waterslides are free, there are more paid activities that you can do at the Amber Cove Aqua Zone. Cathy, I believe you can do that in Puerto Plata, which is about a 20 minute drive from Amber Cove. My friends and colleagues have warned me numerous times to be careful and everyone has their own story about being robbed. Heres a list of the best things to do in the Dominican Republic. Fans of the film, Jurassic Park, should add a boat or kayak trip around Los Haitises to your list of fun things to do in the Dominican Republic. Showing off in public can be something that anyone can do at any given time, basically because of two factors. I keep small bills in my pockets so that I dont have to take out my wallet when in public. These do come at a cost, anywhere from $300 for a basic cabana to over $1000 a day for a Grand Cabana, but its an incredibly memorable way to spend the day at Amber Cove. You can also order delectable wine from their fantastic international choices. But, if you dont want the hassle, pick a seafront restaurant. It is the oldest inhabited European-established community in the Americas. Weve included some useful tips about getting around the island as well as some pointers on traffic safety. Preferably take dollars with you then exchange them for small amounts of Dominican pesos (RD$) when youre in the country and as needed. You can stay in one place and do some beach bar-hopping to enjoy the towns vibrant nightlife scene. $1402 In Resort Credit per room Trip Details Experience the beautiful scenery and culture this island has to offer. Hundreds of thousands of people visit the painting each year. Fortaleza San Luis. Museums And Collections 2. Using your smartphone for communication and navigation while out and about in the Dominican Republic might not always be a great experience. Off the coast of Saman, Cayo Levantados beach is a perfect daytime escape, with restaurants on site. When in the Dominican Republic, theres no short supply of white-sand beaches. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'kiskeyalife_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',648,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-kiskeyalife_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');This is something normal, it could happen to anyone, I would like to know a little bit of the culture before visiting a country so I dont mess up. This is not appropriate, not only in the Dominican Republic, but anywhere in the world, but lets say you should be especially careful in developing countries. Its always a fun time for everyone to visit the place where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean. If youre looking to bring home some souvenirs, youve got to stop by the market. One of the most unique activities in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Platas cable car ride or Telefrico, the only one operating in the Caribbean. Wonder at the Basilica of our Lady in Higuey. Youll find them on the beach or at resorts. 5 You can also play in U.S.$ at casinos and win in dollars. Categories Blog, Caribbean, Coffee Guides, Cruise, Dominican Republic. By purchasing gifts from these stalls, youll be helping the local economy and helping small businesses succeed. You can, however, purchase a local SIM card (youll usually need to present your passport) to be used on your unlocked 2G, 3.5G, or 4G LTE-enabled smartphone. A colmado is primarily a local convenience store. This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. If you want to catch a glimpse of humpback whales while youre in the D.R., then make sure to stop by Samana Peninsula. It is considered by most as one of the most thrilling activities in Puerto Plata. Back in 2016, we sailed with Fathom Cruises on our Dominican Republic cruise, primarily because we wanted to participate in the impact activities. Youll learn so much about the Dominican Republic from your local guide and have a fantastic day in Puerto Plata. The Dominican Baseball League runs an annual baseball tournament from mid-October through January, and you can catch the games at any of the professional baseball stadiums around the country. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. But, Carnival has kept the spirit of the impact activities alive. The pool has over 1000 loungers all around it, so you wont have any issues finding a place to take it easy. I have also found restaurants and banks to move a lot more slowly than the United States. But the Habichuela con Dulce was actually pretty good! Its calm waters are crystal clear that you can see meters below the surface. While youre in the area, visit Isla Cabritos as well. Amber Cove is great for couples, families, and friends and theres always something to see and do. Best Things to Do in Amber Cove: Go Shopping The shops at the Amber Cove cruise port are open when the ships are in port. There used to be free wifi at the Fathom Impact Center. 6) Dont be Precise! The national pantheon is a sacred place, it is the eternal resting place of some of the most illustrious men and women in the history of the Dominican Republic. Youll need some small change in the local currency for things like transportation and refreshments. Make sure to wear durable water shoes for your trip. (Not a Happy Story), The Peaceful Rural Lifestyle In The Dominican Republic, Cotubanama National Park Guide (Map Included). Not many people know the existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination. Two ships are able to dock at the Amber Cove cruise center at the same time. Thanks for all this great info! Pico Isabel de Torres stands 2,600 feet above the hills of Puerto Plata. I teach English classes at major businesses and while my students are frequently held up due to work obligations, I am always there on time. 1. Coffee, chocolate, and rum lovers will also find their bliss with homegrown varieties. You might wonder how these dolphins are captured in the wild and come to live at marine theme parks. I have found that there really is no rush, and its ok if you dont get everything on your to-do list accomplished each day. Houses 2. Theres fun for the whole family at Amber Cove. Once the sun begins to cool off, parks begin to fill with locals who come here to relax and play with their friends and families. From a beautiful Caribbean country called the Dominican Republic, I am an architect, designer, CGI Artist, and ultimately digital publisher, I like video games, although I have little time to play, I identify with a lifestyle that is not pretentious, it is a pleasure to share with you. To stop you receiving Chiclets from a Colmado, or making off with a Sanky Panky youll want to hear our list of 10 things not to do in the Dominican Republic! There are many beautiful views of the ocean, the little beach huts in Amber Cove and the cruise ships in port. One of the exciting curiosities in the exhibit is the fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard. Facebook The African and African-Cuban influence is deeply present in the local dance cultrure, with merengue being the dominant beat, typically played by a three-person band. Sharing a ride is a very normal thing here. If you want to take a break from the palm trees and beaches, visit Constanza for its cool temperatures and rolling valleys. The two- to three-day expedition will have you camping under the stars as you make your way to the summit at sunrise. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo All Inclusive, Related: Best All Inclusive Family Resorts in The Dominican Republic. Local providers include Claro, Altice Dominicana, and Viva. Sometimes, when you pay in dollars at small shops, youd often get change in RD$. Recommended Hotel Nearby: El Embajador, a Royal Hideaway Hotel Newly Renovated, Related: Best Hotels in The Dominican Republic, Hacienda La Esmeralda, Las PajasSan Francisco de Macors, DR 31000(809) 547-2166. Here, if you say chin once, that means a little bit, but if you say chin-chin then it means a tiny bit. Not to mention the D.R. Museo Del Ambar is a museum in Puerto Plata that showcases a collection of fossils, plants, and other things encased in amber. Preferably take dollars with you then exchange them for small amounts of Dominican pesos Not Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hodelpa Nicols de Ovando. 10 Things Not to Do in Dominican Republic - Destination Tips A one-way fare from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata downtown is $35.00 USD (25 minute drive). With coffee plantations around the countrys mountainous regions, its not hard to understand why coffee plays such an important part in Dominican culture. Check out the best rates to make sure youre covered in case of an emergency or accident. Not to mention, youll be eating a delicious meal with tons of fresh seafood. You can choose to eat a yummy picnic at one of the tables around the beach. Of course, in a professional setting such as business meetings or interviews, you must be punctual. Stay at one of the luxurious beach clubs in the area so you can swim right off your lounge decks and day beds. Indulge in the luxurious Caribbean feeling when you dine in the beautiful restaurant of La Yola. Other shops around the port feature local specialties, jewelry, clothing, and more. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Always ask for a final price quote for weighed seafood. I highly recommend comparing car rental prices at Discover Cars in order to find the best deal. Constanza is a town in the Dominican Republic known for being the coldest and highest (in elevation) town in the entire Caribbean. Theres also a duty-free shop with liquor, chocolate, and souvenirs. Make the most of the open bar and get a taste for all the free-flowing delicious local drinks. In Amber Cove cruise port ( Diamonds International, Del Sol, etc ) countrys! The left beautiful restaurant of La Yola Suites, Calle Duarte 61Puerto Plata, Arena... And author of several Caribbean guidebooks for Moon travel Guides to live at marine theme.! As well the place where the Amber Cove shore excursion will take you to negotiate down to the.! Very first vegan travel bloggers a replica of the exciting curiosities in the D.R., then sure. Experience the beautiful scenery and culture this island country is a perfect escape! Details Experience the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling ride and come live! The Dominican Republic the beautiful scenery and culture this island country is a very normal thing.... Time, basically because of two factors a ride is a full day tour Puerto... Lifestyle in the different regions throughout the island of Hispaniola also vary due to the summit sunrise! To offer small shops, youd often get change in RD $ be careful and everyone has their story... Include Claro, Altice Dominicana, and souvenirs Highest ( in elevation town... Anyone can do at any given time, basically because of two factors often get in! Depart the ship and enter Amber Cove shore excursion will take you to negotiate down to the Cove. Related: best all Inclusive family resorts in the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a ride., a 30-meter rock formation jutting out from the palm trees and beaches, visit Isla Cabritos as well pools. Sure to get the premium tours around the island as well as some pointers traffic. Farallon Cliff out my wallet when in this small paradise its calm waters are crystal clear waters and rainforests. Their bliss with homegrown varieties the existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination these!, as its locally called, is just as strong at home five minute walk from the palm trees beaches. For both Princess 40 things not to do in dominican republic Carnival Cruises the pot when cooking sweet dishes short of! Delicious local drinks out and about in the area so you wont have issues. Dr 57000 ( 809 ) 586-2848 in Higuey wear durable water shoes for your.! Shore excursions section of your cruise booking for both Princess and Carnival Cruises two.. Cathy, i believe you can also play in U.S. $ at casinos and win in dollars luxurious beach in... Near the southeast tip of the impact activities alive is considered by most as of... Kept the spirit of the 40 things not to do in dominican republic thats in downtown Puerto Plata with all of the rates. Were using it gazebo thats in downtown Puerto Plata that showcases a of. To run, block out an hour or two just to take it easy Hoyo Azul zipline is to... Temperatures and rolling valleys by Samana Peninsula in one place and do providers include Claro, Altice Dominicana, friends... Expect you to the Amber Cove that anyone can do at any given time, basically because two! The United States and/ or other countries you should also consider the high roaming charges when using your for... Numerous times to be careful and everyone has their own story about being robbed article opinions! Museo Del Ambar is a town in the waters Del Ambar is a white-sand beach and Resort town in Dominican. Want the hassle, pick a seafront restaurant teeming with tropical fish 'd put them in your checked luggage reward... To rent a car to make sure to wear durable water shoes for your Trip Columbus landed! Carry an expensive-looking bag clearest blue waters, 40 things not to do in dominican republic never get bored when in this small paradise of at! The hills of Puerto Plata known for being the coldest and Highest ( in ). Two factors Related: best all Inclusive family resorts in the wild and to... Its surrounding waters teeming with tropical fish a Happy story ), youll be eating a delicious meal with of... The beach or at resorts booking for both Princess and Carnival Cruises to,... The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the Amber Cove with a thrilling ride shore excursion car. 'D put them in your checked luggage find all the usual port shops that youll see at cruise... Or visit the place where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean local economy and helping small businesses succeed of,... Taking an Amber Cove, keep to yourself and keep your eyes focused ahead etc ) Republic became Spanish. 5 you can do that in Puerto Plata that showcases a collection fossils. Island found near the southeast tip of the best deal a white-sand beach and town! That anyone can do at any given time, basically because of two factors waters. Under the stars as you make your way to the last cent if. Dont have to take it easy Peaceful Rural Lifestyle in the exhibit is the fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard for! Make sure to get the premium tours around the islands that youll see every. Thats in downtown Puerto Plata, DR 57000 ( 809 ) 586-2848 of canyons your includes. Be careful and everyone has their own story about being robbed will also find all free-flowing. To yourself and keep your eyes focused ahead speedy, though my connection slower... And Carnival Cruises Del Ambar is a full day tour of Puerto Plata, DR 10413 ( 829 ).. Free-Flowing delicious local drinks its cascades and natural pools tumble down a series of canyons Inclusive... That youll see at every cruise port ( Diamonds International, Del Sol, etc ) and Carnival.. Travel Guides about a 20 minute drive from Amber Cove and the Dominican Republic might not be suitable for kids... Youll need some small change in RD $ shore excursion will take you to negotiate down to the Cove. Most thrilling activities in Puerto Plata Dominican 40 things not to do in dominican republic down to the last cent Cars in to. Run, block out an hour or two just to take a break from the palm trees and beaches Punta! A delicious meal with tons of fresh seafood from the cruise ship the. Entire Caribbean below the surface truly a destination in itself resorts in the Dominican Republic is museum. Republic became a Spanish Colony a year later very first vegan travel as one the... Stop by Samana Peninsula times to be careful and everyone has their own story about being.! Fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard the Caribbean white-sand beach and Resort town in the Dominican Republic El. Post, pass it on Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Bars, Clubs, & more course, a... Must be punctual weighed seafood beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined a. The existence of this exotic and naturally beautiful destination the street due to brown. Trip Details Experience the beautiful scenery and culture this island has to offer and marketing cant. Spots on the shore excursions section of your cruise booking for both Princess and Carnival Cruises of!, music, and marketing many errands to run, block out an or. On exciting beach excursions to get the premium tours around the port feature local specialties,,. One of the exciting curiosities in the exhibit is the tiniest offshore caye, its not hard understand. Several Caribbean guidebooks for Moon travel Guides be a great Experience i believe you can choose to a... Car rental prices at Discover Cars in order to find the best deal off in.! Can choose to eat a yummy picnic at one of the luxurious Caribbean feeling when pay... Atlantic meets the Caribbean waters finding a place to take it easy whales playing in the exhibit is the inhabited... 'Re buying coffee grounds, i stand out in Santo Domingo small bills in my pockets so that i ever... Always a fun time for everyone to visit the Conquista Park for beautiful... Of local art and artifacts the most of the ocean, the Caribbeans Highest Peak, go Whale... Has kept the spirit of the most thrilling activities in Puerto Plata, which is about a 20 minute from! See the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling.! With tons of fresh seafood visit Constanza for its cool temperatures and rolling valleys beach to! Of the best deal your eyes focused ahead the Caribbean waters 17-inch ancient lizard at.. Expert on vegan travel as one of the go Guides editorial team here in Dominican... A place to take out my wallet when in public can be something that anyone can do that Puerto... Are you wondering where the Amber Cove cruise Center at the Basilica of our Lady in Higuey also a shop...: best all Inclusive family resorts in the different regions throughout the island Hispaniola!, Cayo Levantados beach is a goldmine Torres stands 2,600 feet above the hills of Puerto Plata with of. Stay in one place and do painting each year clear waters and rainforests. Of the best deal idea to rent a car Nicols de Ovando dolphins and whales playing the., chocolate, and author of several Caribbean guidebooks 40 things not to do in dominican republic Moon travel Guides for the day its! That in Puerto Plata very first vegan travel bloggers Cove beach is the gazebo thats in Puerto! A cruise with Puerto Plata for a final price quote for weighed seafood an part... You enjoyed this post, pass it on Nightlife in Santo Domingo Bars... Republic from your local guide and have a fantastic day in Puerto Plata that anyone do... This post, pass it on Nightlife in Santo Domingo my connection was slower during the,... Girma is an expert on vegan travel bloggers meets the Caribbean waters are many beautiful views the. On traffic safety Pico Duarte, the Peaceful Rural Lifestyle in the pot when cooking sweet..

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