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AskMen.com: 3 Days In The Dominican Republic

VITAL INFORMATION

Population 8,850,000

Languages spoken Spanish

Currency Dominican Republic Peso (DOP);

(appr.) 1 DOP = 0.0298 USD

Average temperature Summer: 80°F; Winter: 75°F-77°F

High season December to April (dry season)

Note: All prices are in U.S. dollars.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean is the picturesque Dominican Republic. Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, the Dominican Republic offers white-sand beaches, a long and vibrant history, local hospitality, and plenty of activities to satisfy any traveler seeking warm weather. As the most geographically diverse of the islands, the Dominican is the center of the all-inclusive resort industry in the Caribbean. It has choices to suit any traveler, including the history buff, the eco-tourist, the water sports enthusiast, and the sunseeker. Choices range from modest to luxury and can accommodate just about any budget.

Because of the great package deals that include airfare and accomodation at an all-inclusive resort, it is not usually cost-effective to organize a specialized trip prior to your arrival. Your best bet is a centrally located resort as your main focus, with separately planned side trips to various destinations and sights around the island. A rental car is a great option to get you from place to place and allows you to see the countryside at the same time; I recommend the popular roofless Jeep for cruising around the island and taking in the sights.

Day 1: Discovering the capital

The country itself is unique in the Caribbean, as it retains a much more Latin flavor than many of its neighbors that display strong British, French or Dutch influences. To fully experience the Latin heritage of the island, spend your first day in the capital city of Santo Domingo and soak in the rich local history.

Situated at the mouth of the Ozama River where it meets the Caribbean Sea, Santo Domingo began as the major port for the Americas. Established in the late 15th century as the first permanently settled Spanish outpost, the entire city is dotted with landmarks of its formative years. The city is home to many firsts -- the first cathedral, university and hospital to be built in the Americas -- yet today it is a bustling metropolitan city that is home to over 2 million citizens.

In the heart of the city, in the Zona Colonial on the western side of the Ozama River, you will find Old World Spanish colonial architecture along cobblestone streets, complete with monuments commemorating various people and events that have contributed to the city's long history. As a major tourist destination, the area is also full of stores selling not only standard souvenirs, but also the arts and crafts that are indigenous to the area.

Pick up some unique jewelry and other souvenirs?