Fly to Santo Domingo to get a Glimpse of the Dominican Republic
Tucked away on the banks of the Ozama River, Santo Domingo is the capital as well as the largest city of the Dominican Republic. It is one of the most dynamic and modern metropolises in the Caribbean region. Also affectionately referred to as La Capital, the city gives a glimpse into the Dominican culture, where the new and the old merge seamlessly, from colossal shopping centres, scintillating nightlife, happening gastronomy scenes, and aesthetic art galleries, to age-old architecture and epoch-making history. Santo Domingo is that Caribbean destination that should have a place on the travel bucket list of every globetrotter.
The historic neighbourhood of the Dominican Republic Capital boasts pedestrian-friendly cobbled streets teeming with architectural wonders belonging to the 16th to 20th centuries. These streets lead to colonial buildings that have turned into shops, museums, restaurants, hotels, and lovely sidewalk cafes. There are plenty of ways to travel the length and breadth of Santo Domingo – from hopping on the Chu Chu Colonial train to immerse in the 45 minutes of culture and history to hiring a guide who will usher you through America’s first paved road and renting a bike to gallivanting around all by yourself.
Those who get their jollies from natural surroundings have National Botanical Garden and Malecón at their disposal. Enjoy a picnic amid the plush greenery of the garden or saunter Malecón during sunset to catch stunning sea vistas, relish roadside snacks, and indulge in people-watching.
Why people must visit Santo Domingo?
Not for nothing hordes of people catch flights to Santo Domingo throughout the year. Besides interest-evoking sights, Santo Domingo offers ample other things that never fail to catch the fancy of tourists and locals alike. Eclectic neighbourhoods dotted around the city render a cultural experience hard to find anywhere else. Whether you’re a shopaholic, history buff, food junkie, or beach lover, Santo Domingo has something for every sort of traveller.
Go on a shopping spree at one of the ritzy malls or to an aesthetic artisan gallery sitting pretty in the Colonial City – whatever suits you best. A linen shirt, a ceramic faceless doll, or a leather handbag – there is plenty of stuff to shop for as per your choice. When you’re exhausted from shopping and your stomach is rumbling for grub, go for dining at one of many finest restaurants, Santo Domingo is home to, where eminent chefs prepare international as well as Dominican cuisines.
When it comes to beaches, white sandy beaches, stretching as far as the eye could see and punctuated with lofty coconut trees kissing the sky, are the favourite place for tourists in Santo Domingo to indulge in. Sipping on cocktails while watching waves crashing on the shores is how tourists and locals alike get their jollies on scores of secluded beaches dazzling with black sands. The north coast is teeming with the myriads of beautiful beaches, where recreation and seafood eateries await, and travellers are often spoilt for choice.
Best places to visit in Santo Domingo
Zona Colonial
Zona Colonial is one of the top tourist attractions in the city, which is also a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. Owing to its cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks, and awe-inspiring colonial architecture, it is reckoned a significant historic centre. Zona Colonial features points of interest, such as Alcázar de Colón, Catedral Primada de América, and Columbus Park. The park in itself is the most enticing and lively square in the city that’s frequented by street performers, musicians and thus, visitors.
Los Tres Ojos
Also referred to as Three Eyes National Park, Los Tres Ojos is a natural reserve where a string of limestone caves boasts crystal-clear lagoons known as the “eyes.” It is a hotspot that provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and catches the fancy of travellers to the utmost. It is a delight for them to explore the sui generis underground environment and catch the awe-inspiring beauty of the stalagmites, abundant vegetation, and stalactites.
Malecon
Malecon is a picturesque waterfront promenade that sprawls as far as eyes can see. It draws visitors in droves and offers them striking ocean vistas, excellent street art, and a high-spirited atmosphere with plenty of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options to choose from. Beginning from early noon to late in the night, the bustling place is perfect for retail therapy and enjoying one’s time to the fullest. Tourists take delight in scores of activities, including skating, jogging, strolling, sprinting, biking, or simply kicking back.
National Botanical Garden
Those who are fond of outdoor spaces brimming with greenery must make their way to the National Botanical Garden to explore the diverse flora and fauna the garden is home to. You can explore the expansive collection of cacti, orchids, and tropical plants, and lose yourself amid the serene surroundings of this tranquil oasis.
Santo Domingo’s Leading International Airports
Situated in Punta Caucedo, Las Américas International Airport is the leading airport in Santo Domingo. The airport is just half an hour away from the city centre and serves as a hub for Air Century, Arajet, RED Air, Sky High Aviation Services, and Sky Cana.