Where is Dominican Republic?   by priyanka rashmi

in Travel    (submitted 2012-02-21)

The Dominican Republic is growing to be one of the favorite destinations for Caribbean Holidays. Do not confuse it with Dominica, which is a much smaller island located further to the south east, and closer to Venezuela. The Dominican Republic shares the larger island of Hispaniola with its neighbor, Haiti. The island is the second largest island in the Caribbean, and is just to the south east of Cuba, its larger neighbor. The Dominican Republic is located about 750 miles south east of Miami, FL. It is a quick flight.

The Dominican Republic has a population of 10 million. Santo Domingo is its capital city. The capital has 3.2 million people and it is located on in the middle of the southern coastline. Santo Domingo was found in 1496. It is known to be one of the oldest European settlements, and has been continually inhabited. The city has many "firsts" in the new world. It is home to the first schools, church, hospital, and even the first cathedral built in America.

Tourism is one of the largest employers, with 14% of the population employed by or in an industry related to tourism. Tourism is one of the major contributors to the Dominican Republic's economy. Tourism is a growing factor for the Dominican economy. The Dominican Republic is now considered one of the favorite Caribbean destinations. The island is close to the major US market, and is an easy place for a quick get away.

The country's currency is Dominican Peso. When you travel keep in mind that while foreign currencies are often accepted in top tourist spots, you will pay more if you use foreign money. You should always get some local money and learn to negotiate like a local. Even though the island is a hot spot for the Americans and European travelers it is best to use the local currency when you are making purchases. Spanish is the main language spoken by locals in the Dominican Republic, but don't let that scare you away from visiting. The vast majority of tourists speak English, French, Russian, or some other language. Particularly in tourist areas it is common for employees to speak several languages.

Locals are very passionate about baseball, which is by far the most popular sport. Many Dominicans play in the major leagues, and come home to play with their home team during the winter months.

The tourist industry has brought other sports like golf and water sports like swimming, scuba diving, wind surfing and water skiing.

The island is also home to some important historical settings, with historical buildings dating back to the times of Christopher Columbus. Tourists are encouraged to take at least one day off from the beach and visit the historical landmarks. There are a number of forts, cathedrals, and homes dating back to Columbus' time. The island also has a number of artifacts from Tiano people, who inhabited the island before it was found by Columbus.

Tourist areas have a multitude hotels and resorts to entertain visitors from all parts of the world. There are also a growing number of villas that are available for rent throughout the country. Most of them have swimming pools, air conditioners as well as tennis courts. Make the Dominican Republic top on your list of vacation spots. You will be happy you did!

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Where is Dominican Republic