Study Abroad in Dominican Republic

Study Abroad in Dominican Republic

Known for its old Spanish ruins, beaches, and baseball players, the Dominican Republic is located about 600 miles southeast of Florida. It occupies two-thirds of Hispaniola, an island discovered by Columbus when he ran the Santa Maria aground on Christmas Day 1492. The island’s strategic position between the Panama Canal and Central and South America has made it a natural gateway to the Americas. Here one can hike on mountains, travel through lush jungle and semi-arid deserts, or enjoy the sea from white sand beaches. Despite a booming tourist industry attracted by the natural beauty, upscale casinos, and low cost of living, the country is still largely undiscovered today.

The Beaches – Depending on your tastes, you can find every type from upscale resort beaches to remote hideaways. All beaches are public. The locals say the nicest ones are located on the Samana Peninsula.

Pico Duarte – At 3,175 meters, it is the highest peak in the Caribbean. Renting mules for the ascent is popular. This peak is located in the Cordillera Central, also home to the Armando Bermudez and Jose del Carmen Ramirez national parks.

Santiago de los Caballeros – Filled with history, the second largest city in the Republic is also the center for tobacco and rum. One can spend the day in museums or at the markets on the main streets where handicrafts and food are sold. Here, ladies on mules still compete with taxis for road space. Santiago is also close to beautiful towns: San Jose de las Matas to the SW, Moca (with its faceless dolls) and El Morro National Park.

La Caleta – Located a few kilometers from Boca Chica beach, which is about 25 km east of Santo Domingo. It is the only Taino burial site on display. Reproductions of Taino artifacts are on sale here.

Boca de Yuma – An interesting fishing village which is the scene of deep-sea fishing tournaments every June. Two kilometers away is Ponce de Leon's restored home.

Monasterio de San Francisco – These are ruins, Hostos esquina E Tejera, the first monastery in America. Constructed in the first decade of the 16th century.

Puerto Plata – Located 20 miles west of Sosua, dates back to the colonial period and is marked by Victorian buildings. Enjoy a national park, botanic garden, and museum.