Archive for the ‘Santo Domingo’ Category

Santo Domingo

Tuesday, January 13th, 2009

Santo Domingo is the capital and largest city of the Dominican Republic. The city is situated at the shore of the Caribbean Sea at the mouth of the Ozama River. Its the oldest continuously inhabit European settlement in North America. The city was originally found by Christopher Columbus in the 15th century. Santa Domingo has a population of over 2 million people.

Santo Domingo is a popular travel destination for bounty commercial alike beaches, inexpensive family resorts and true natural beauty. These are the reasons why ten-thousands of tourists visit the Dominican Republic, and the same people that ignore the somewhat unfair reputation of social unrest and high crime rates. While petty crime and theft inquire in the city, the Dominicans are among the friendliest in the Caribbean, and its hospitality seems more genuine than for example its similar yet commercialized Puerto Rico.

Spanish is the official language, yet English is spoken and understood by its locals. Which comes handy ordering a nice cold Persidente beer at one of the many bars and nightclubs areas locally known as ‘la Zona’ including; Bella Blue, Crazy Pub, Guacara Taina, Hollywood Cafe and the Trio cafe.

Travelers to the Dominican Republic require a valid passport and visa. American citizens need only a valid passport, other nationalities may require a valid visa. Santa Domingo’s tropical heat is tempered by the sea breezes, its rain is short and heavy followed by sunshine.