Dominican Republic Introduction
Occupying the eastern half of the island of Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic (the DR or Dom Rep, as it's often known) is a hugely popular destination, thanks to the portion of the country that most resembles the image of a Caribbean playland: the crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches lined with palm trees, of which the DR has plenty. This vision of leisurely days spent by the sea and romantic nights filled with merengue and dark rum is supported by what turns out to be the largest all-inclusive resort industry in the world. Set on the most geographically diverse Caribbean island, the DR also boasts virgin alpine wilderness, tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps, cultivated savannas, vast desert expanses and everything in between within its relatively small confines - slightly smaller than the US states of New Hampshire and Vermont combined - providing staggering opportunities for ecotourism and adventure travelling.
Dominican Republic Map
The DR also lays claim to some of the more intriguing culture and history in the area, dating back to its early cave-dwelling groups, the Taínos , who recorded much of their activities in the form of rock art - it's quite likely you'll find yourself clambering down a dark cave to view some of these preserved paintings during your stay. In addition, as Dominicans are often quick to point out, their land was the setting for Christopher Columbus's first colony, La Isabela, and Spain's first New World city, Santo Domingo , at the end of the fifteenth century. Though the island quickly lost this foothold, the events that took place during its brief heyday did much to define the Americas as we know them.
Extortion Caught on Tape at Dominican Airports
Caught red handed on security video tapes has seen 15 inspectors fired for allegedly extorting money from passengers at Dominican Airports, and we are not just talking about the extortionate prices for a Presidente Beer either! The big boss of Immigration, Director Carlos Armante is not at all pleased with this conduct from his Department.
Dominican Republic Cockfighting
As to your wallet, it isn't to guard against pickpockets but to guard against laying out your last peso as you get swept into the frenzied betting that is going on all around you. The noise level rises and falls as the matches progress and people cheer on their champion. With blinding speed money changes hands and folk win or lose large and small sums. A Vagas betting parlor holds no candle to the activity that goes on in a cockfighting arena here in the Dominican Republic.
If you are visiting this island and are interested in seeing a match just ask a Dominican and he or she can direct you to the local arena giving you times and entry fee costs without a blink of an eye.
For those who find the sport too agressive or disturbing you might just want to go to take in the atmostphere in and around the arena. There is food and drink on tap and other less legal activities being offered by local women. No matter your reason for attending you will have something definitely different to talk about when you return home.
