Dominican republic - Travel Guide
Description
Claimed by Columbus on his first voyage in 1492 as Hispaniola, the western third of the Hispaniola Island became Haiti in 1804. It remained as such until 1844 when the eastern side was renamed The Dominican Republic. Formed by the peaks of two undersea mountains, ¨ø of the Hispaniola Island is the Dominican Republic and it is situated in the heart of the Caribbean. It is a country of rugged highlands and mountains interspersed with fertile valleys where crops of coffee, sugar and tobacco are produced.
Dominican Republic¡¯s tropical climate means that it is a favoured destination for sun-lovers from all over the world and a top destination for adventure holidays. With perfect beaches, hidden waterfalls and vast mountains covering around 80% of the landscape, the facilities for all kinds of sports (kayaking, climbing, mountain biking, windsurfing and kite surfing) are varied and plentiful.
Of the three major cities in the Dominican Republic, Santa Domingo, the seaside capital, is a main attraction for tourists. It blends modern sophistication with traditional old world charm to excite and energise any visitor. Dominican Republic is also blessed with over 400km of stunning white sand beaches, the best of these are Punta Cana and Bavaro in the southeast. The highest point on the island, Pico Duarte at an elevation of 3,175m is a truly fabulous landmark and offers some of the best views and most diverse landscape you will ever see on the island.
Driving Guide
Look out for pedestrians! In the Dominican Republic, walking traffic can be a major hazard, as people tend to step into the road without warning, even though they have no right of way. Driving is on the right side of the road, and drivers can also be erratic, and sometimes drive in an aggressive manner. Motor cycles and scooters are very often ridden in a similar "cavalier" manner. You are advised to drive "defensively" - with due care and attention for other drivers, and expecting the unexpected! Please note that a truck has priority over a car. Speed limits vary from 28mph in the city to 48mph on rural roads, although they are not generally enforced. Turning right on a red light is permitted, providing you have ensured that your way is clear. Seat-belts are required by law, and you will be fined for not wearing them. There are no child car seat laws. Do not change your direction too quickly - indicate in plenty of time and turn slowly; Dominicans will lower their speed for you when they wave a hand out of the window. If you turn left, it is possible that local traffic will still try to pass on the left, so, again, be alert. Do NOT drink and drive.