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Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic or Dominicana (not to be confused with the tiny island of Dominica) shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti. The second largest Caribbean island after Cuba, Hispaniola is a land of rugged mountains and palm-lined beaches. The Dominican Republic has long been heralded as one of the least expensive Caribbean destinations, some sources estimating it to be as much as 50 to 70 percent cheaper than its neighbors. Many resorts are found on the Dominican Republic's north side, a region nicknamed the Amber Coast as well as Punta Cana. On the north side, the city of Puerto Plata is home to
the Amber Museum where you can have a look at amber-encased mosquitoes,
termites, ants, fern, cockroaches, and even a tiny lizard. This Caribbean
nation is one of only a few sites on the globe where amber is found. Santo Domingo is located on the island's southern reaches. Here history buffs will find a wealth of Spanish Renaissance architecture to explore. The city was the first permanent European settlement in the New World and has been honored for its cultural landmarks by a United Nations proclamation. Fast Facts: Language: Spanish Population: 7.8 million Recommended for: budget travelers, all-inclusive lovers,
ecotourists, history buffs Information: Tourist Information Center, www.dominicanrepublic.com
Map
courtesy the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and
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