Lebawit Lily Girma - Moon Dominican Republic

road to Miches.

Its no surprise that the Dominican Republic consistently ranks as the most visited country in the Caribbean, with no signs of slowing down. The diamond-white beaches and lavish resorts, from Punta Cana to La Romana, attract millions of sun worshippers every year. And while the blue waves, swaying palm trees, and sparkling sand are worth the trip, its the rest of the country that will make you fall in love.

Santo Domingos restored Colonial City brims with grand Spanish-style architecture, 16th-century cathedrals, and wrought iron balconies. Outside the capital, beaches are lined with rows of frituras (fried-food shacks) selling the days catch, served with red onion-spiced avocados and tostones (crispy fried plantains). Avid surfers and divers flock to the north, while the countryside offers enriching cultural expeditions to cacao and coffee plantations. Adventure awaits in the mountainous heart of the country, where you can hike through cloud forests and horseback ride to crisp, cool waterfalls. In the southwestern corner of the island, the possibility of sheer isolation still exists among the peaks, sand dunes, and deserted beaches.

Regardless of where you find yourself in the DR, at the center of it all are unmistakably Dominican experiences. The sound of merengue and bachata in the air invites you to dance, whether in the middle of a park or at a rancho tpico (open-air roadside club). People gather on street corners, playing dominoes and throwing back Brugal rum or ice-cold Presidente beers from the colmado (corner shop). Youll find constant celebration, most notably during Februarys countrywide carnivals, which offer a glimpse into the countrys eclectic African, Tano, and Spanish heritage. Music mixes with laughter to create the daily soundtrack, because Dominicans enjoy every day to the fullest.

market

countryside home

view from Montaa Redonda

The Dominican Republic oozes life. They say New York City never sleeps, but the DR never stops dancing.

ouvenirs along Calle El Conde in Ciudad Colonial

stand in Constanza.

Salto de Jimenoa Dos

Celebrate

Hit the : Enjoy miles of white or golden sand and clear water, for sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the waves.

Catch a Game: Passions for baseball run deep for baseball in the Dominican Republic. Join in the fun.

Get to Know the Real DR: Dance to , snack on local cuisine, and explore the bustling markets.

Go Back in Time at Santo Domingos : Stroll along cobblestone streets and admire 16th-century churches, palaces, courthouses, and statues.

Make an : Travel with a local guide and stay in green lodging. Experience the DR with the people who live here.

: Explore reefs and shipwrecks teeming with life.

See Wildlife: From golden swallows to humpback , the countrys parks, sanctuaries, and reserves are home to beautiful creatures.

Get into the : Surfing, kayaking, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding are just a few of the ways to find aquatic adventures.

Take a Hike: Discover mountain caves, climb , and wander through cloud forests.