Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

by Isiah Lacefield March 9, 2023

Santo Domingo is vibrant city. The sounds of the waves near the Malecon, the busyness of the Conde, and the music sporadically along the streets keep the city engaging and lively. The people are beautiful, kind, and are at your service for pesos due to the poverty that exist here.

Areas:

Colonial Zone

Colonial Zone is also known as Zona Colonial is the historic central neighborhood in Santo Domingo. There are many sites, restaurants, markets, clubs, and people.

Boca Chica

Boca Chica is known for it's beach life. The town is about 30 to 40 minute drive depending on traffic from Colonial Zone. Many people like to take day trips to Boca Chica for the beach.

Stays:

Renaissance Santo Domingo

The Renaissance is beautiful. The pool and view is amazing. There is also a casino, and there are live performances at the casino at certain hours.

Boca Beach Residence Hotel

The Residence Hotel is near the beach. Some of the rooms have ocean views and balconies. There is a modern design and a nice pool.

Restaurants:

Meson De Bari

This is place is delicious. I recommend the Empanadas de Res and the Pechuga Meson. I frequently visit this place for the calm atmosphere and the great food.

Grand's Cafeteria & Bar (Paco's)

Paco's is open 24/7, and there are several dishes (pastas, sandwiches, grilled chicken, etc.) When everything else is closed, you can count on Paco's!

Activities:

Los Tres Ojos (Three Eyes Cave)

Ojos is a interesting sight. It is a cavern made up of a large freshwater lagoon which was divided thousand of years ago due to a natural phenomenon and ended up originating four beautiful and unique interconnected pools.

Boca Chica Beach

One of the closest beach resorts to the Dominican capital, Boca Chica is great for a day trip from the city. Boat tours and water activities like jet skiing, snorkeling, and diving are also popular in the area.

Gyms:

Family Fitness Gym

This is a small gym with all the equipment needed to have a great work out. The day pass here is 200 pesos (approximately 4 dollars).

Gimnasio Colonial

This gym has two gym dogs (real pets). The dogs are friendly and they enjoy the attention from others. The gym has some outdated equipment, but it's a convenient gym if you are in the Colonial Zone. The day pass is 150 pesos.

Drinks:

El Buho Eatery

El Buho Eatery has great tasting cocktails, and the food is also delicious.

Rooftop Tasting Terrace

This place has outdoor seating with great views of the cathedral. If you go on a sunny day and want the view be prepared for the heat.

Smokes:

La Leyenda Del Cigarro Cigar Shop

It’s on the Conde with many types of cigars. You can also see someone making the cigars in the front of the business.

I Want All The Smoke

Vapes and flavors are sold here.

Festivities:

https://www.spanish.academy/blog/10-amazing-festivals-in-the-dominican-republic-you-want-to-take-part-in/