Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo was Spain’s first capital in the New World, and its Ciudad Colonial is now a World Heritage site. After centuries of political turmoil, the Dominican Republic has begun to move toward representative democracy. At the eastern end of the island, Punta Cana is the principal upscale resort area. Twelve golf courses have been built since 1991 by designers such as Jack Nicklaus, P.B. Dye, Tom Fazio, Nick Faldo and Nick Price. Punta Espada and Teeth of the Dog in Casa de Campo generally make lists of the 50 best golf courses in the world.

WHEN TO GO : As elsewhere in the Caribbean, the dry season extends from January to June. Summer brings increased rainfall and humidity.

CURRENCY : Dominican peso (DOP). Fluctuating rate valued at DOP$39 = US$1.00 as of March 2012. Note: Our suggested hotels quote rates in US$.

U.S. EMBASSY : Santo Domingo, Tel. 731-4294.

DIRECT DIAL CODES : To phone hotels in the Dominican Republic, dial 1 + 809 (Dominican Republic code) + local numbers in listings.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS : Passport. Visit travel.state.gov, and for travelers’ health information, cdc.gov.