Santo Domingo, the capital city of the Dominican Republic, is a fascinating mix of old and new. Founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, it’s the oldest city in the Americas and its historic zone, the Colonial Zone, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's rich history and culture, along with its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and luxurious resorts, make it a great destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Santo Domingo has plenty of luxury hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals that offer world-class amenities and comfortable accommodations. You can choose to stay in the Colonial Zone, where you'll be surrounded by historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets, or in the modern areas of the city where you can enjoy the beaches and nightlife.
One of the most popular hotels in Santo Domingo is the JW Marriott, located in the Piantini neighborhood. The hotel features 150 rooms and suites equipped with all the amenities you could need, including flat-screen TVs, WiFi, and mini-fridges. The hotel also has a rooftop pool and bar, a spa, and an on-site restaurant.
Another great option is the Hilton Santo Domingo, which is located in the heart of the city's commercial district. The hotel has spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, a rooftop pool with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, and an on-site fitness center and restaurant.
If you're looking for a more secluded option, Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge in Barahona is a luxurious eco-retreat nestled in the mountains of the Dominican Republic. The lodge has 12 villas and suites, each equipped with a private balcony and outdoor shower, surrounded by lush gardens and tropical forests. The lodge also has two infinity pools, a restaurant, and a spa.
Santo Domingo has a lot to offer in terms of activities and attractions. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there's something for everyone.
One of the must-visit attractions in Santo Domingo is the Colonial Zone, also known as Zona Colonial. This historic district is home to some of the oldest buildings in the Americas, including the Alcazar de Colón, which was once the residence of Christopher Columbus' son, Diego. You can also visit the Catedral Primada de América, the first cathedral in the New World, and the Fortaleza Ozama, a 16th-century fortress that was once used to defend the city from pirates.
If you're interested in art, the Museum of Modern Art and the Bellapart Museum are worth a visit. The Museum of Modern Art has a collection of over 4,000 pieces of contemporary art from the Dominican Republic and Latin America, while the Bellapart Museum has a collection of modern and contemporary art from around the world.
For nature lovers, the Los Tres Ojos National Park is a must-visit. The park has a system of underground caves and natural limestone lakes, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning rock formations.
If you want to experience the nightlife in Santo Domingo, head to the Malecón, a seaside boulevard with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. You can also take a salsa or merengue dance lesson and show off your new moves at one of the many dance clubs in the city.
For adventure seekers, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as ziplining, horseback riding, and hiking in the nearby mountains.
Santo Domingo has a diverse culinary scene that reflects its rich history and cultural influences. From traditional Dominican cuisine to international fare, there's something for every palate.
One of the most popular restaurants in Santo Domingo is Pat'e Palo, located in the Colonial Zone. The restaurant offers a mix of Dominican and international dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients. Try the churrasco, a grilled steak served with chimichurri sauce, or the mofongo, a traditional dish made with mashed plantains and your choice of meat or seafood.
For seafood lovers, Boca Marina in Boca Chica is a must-visit. The restaurant serves fresh seafood dishes, such as ceviche, lobster, and grilled fish, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
If you're in the mood for Italian food, head to Lulú Tasting Bar in the Piantini neighborhood. The restaurant offers a variety of Italian dishes, including homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, as well as a extensive wine list.
For a more casual dining experience, head to Colmado 77 in the Colonial Zone. The restaurant is a modern version of a traditional colmado, a Dominican corner store, and serves a mix of classic Dominican dishes and international street food.
Santo Domingo is a city that has something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, it's a great destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. With plenty of activities to do, sights to see, and delicious food to try, Santo Domingo is a luxurious getaway in the Caribbean that you won't want to miss.
