Amber Cove is part of our 8-Day Cruise on Carnival's new Horizon September, 2020. A one-way fare from Amber Cove to Puerto Plata downtown is $35.00 USD (25 minute drive). Although its always a good idea to get out and experience the country youre visiting, you could easily spend a day right in port for a relaxing holiday. WebPrice for an excursion: 65 euros or 73 dollars. Amber Cove is great for couples, families, and friends and theres always something to see and do. There are educational signs displayed around Amber Cove detailing the history of amber in Dominican Republic. Feel like youre in the past when you visit the old colonial palace of Christopher Colombus family, the Alcazar de Colon. That is, do these two things each day before going to bed. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 45+ countries around the world. For those who have mobility issues, there are employees riding around on carts that can take you from point A to point B. Its completely free to catch a ride. Some of the upgraded cabanas have their own TVs, private hot tubs, dining areas and more. My friends and colleagues have warned me numerous times to be careful and everyone has their own story about being robbed. One of the exciting curiosities in the exhibit is the fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard. In most places, people will formally greet others. Its about a five minute walk from the cruise ship to the Amber Cove entrance. Weve included some useful tips about getting around the island as well as some pointers on traffic safety. Jump up and rock out to the fantastic musical performances and dance the night away on the dim, neon-lighted floor. Heres a list of the best things to do in the Dominican Republic. The Basilica Catedral Nuestra Seora de la Altagracia is a minor Roman Catholic Basilica dedicated to the D.R. Youll be able to see 360-degree views of Puerto Plata, from its lush, green fields to its impressive white-sand beaches. Bayahibe is a town located at the southeast of La Romana. Make sure to visit popular spots like Piedra Letrada (Taino culture stones), El Arroyazo (natural pool), and Aguas Blanca (highest waterfall in the D.R.). There are so many wonderful other places in the Dominican Republic, a majority of them are not on a resort. Wherever you end up, youre sure to find beachfront restaurants with fresh catch (in season), plenty of rum, and music. Wear adequate clothing and slap some sunscreen onto exposed parts of your body. Similar to Princess Cruises Princess Cays and Royal Caribbeans CocoCay, only Carnival brand ships will sail here (the cruise lines are Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line). You can stay in one place and do some beach bar-hopping to enjoy the towns vibrant nightlife scene. Ecosystems 3. So if you and your 3 friends are happily travelling to your destination in a taxi cab, dont be surprised if the driver suddenly stops to pick up another person! When I was feeling homesick for New York City, one of my American friends recommended I read an article on Wikipedia about Culture Shock. Newsletter. Christopher Columbus first landed in Hispaniola in 1492, and the Dominican Republic became a Spanish Colony a year later. Feel the romance at La Yola Experience the wonder of swimming with hundreds of colorful fishes when you snorkel in the parks artificial coral reef aquarium. siri bl [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)]. You can reach Sky Bar, a bar up high on the hill, by walking up an inclined path and series of steps. Youll need some small change in the local currency for things like transportation and refreshments. We dont get tired of repeating that when travelling, you dont always know where your food has come from. Since youre already in the Samana Peninsula, make sure to visit its incredible beaches like Cayo Levantado, Playa Rincon, and Playa Bonita. Youll also find all the usual port shops that youll see at every cruise port (Diamonds International, Del Sol, etc). While I have found this country to be pretty safe, I take many precautiouns. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hodelpa Garden Court. Gawp down at the Hoyo Azul. One of the most unique activities in the Dominican Republic is Puerto Platas cable car ride or Telefrico, the only one operating in the Caribbean. 6) Dont be Precise! Theres a 650 foot zip line that runs across the Aqua Zone of Amber Cove. La Yola Restaurant is an open-air restaurant and bar in Marina Estates. If youre going all out, make sure to get the premium tours around the islands. Off the coast of Saman, Cayo Levantados beach is a perfect daytime escape, with restaurants on site. or From the top, you can witness one of the most stunning panoramic views of Amber Cove and the ocean. Here, you can still experience the joys of the sea without getting wet. In general, English isnt very widely spoken. You can also spend some time in Bavaros shopping mall, Plaza Palma Real. Its great for beginners, so its no problem if youve never driven a dune buggy before. Sometimes, when you pay in dollars at small shops, youd often get change in RD$. For personal reasons, I have had the opportunity to visit the Dominican Republics immigration office, which is a place frequented daily by both foreigners who are in the process of obtaining documents and locals. Official taxi cabs stick to designated pickup neighborhoods. You can buy coffee beans and bring them back home. Millions of visitors flock to Punta Cana every year for some of the Dominican Republics longest white sand beaches, but there are other spectacular and less crowded coastlines to explore. You can rent those private cabanas for the day for you, your family and friends. Drive off-road through muddy paths and picturesque coastlines. Swim in the capitals main beach when you travel to Santo Domingo. The national pantheon is a sacred place, it is the eternal resting place of some of the most illustrious men and women in the history of the Dominican Republic. Since your cruise will likely only stop in Amber Cove for the day, be sure to find it when youre exploring the Amber Cove port for a great photo opportunity. Ozama Fortress is without doubt a top 10 tourist attraction. A But the Habichuela con Dulce was actually pretty good! :) Have fun on your cruise! In the Dominican Republic, there are many protected tourist places, such as Saona Island, where you shouldnt take anything, be it sand from the beach, seashells, animals, you should only contemplate nature. Cabarete is a small town located on the north coast of the Dominican Republic, in the province of Puerto Plata. The best way to enjoy it is on a boat cruise of the surrounding Bay of Eagles. Theres a tiny water slide and a splash bucket. Be careful though, as its indeed a sunny country, and its easy to get a tan on the beach. Youll even plant your own cacao plant on the farm. If you have many errands to run, block out an hour or two just to take care of business at the bank. is it possible to purchase coffee and bring it back on the cruise ship and back home to the states? However, if you are only going into Puerto Plata and staying there, I suggest taking a taxi both ways and skipping the rental car. 5. Make sure to wear durable water shoes for your trip. Travel back to the past when you visit this 16th-century style village. In Puerto Plata, shows are held regularly at the Puerto Plata Amphitheatre. This means that you can have a general idea of your plans, but dont count minutes or expect social plans to begin on time (or anywhere even close!). Yes! Hike into the forest, and then slide down the waterfalls themselves. Saona Island is a small tropical island found near the southeast tip of the mainland Dominican Republic. Its similar to a cruise private island, except it isnt an island and your cruise cards wont work in port (bring cash or credit cards). Theres also a relaxing lazy river where you can float for hours in the sunshine. Learn more about chocolates history and how it became an integral part of the Dominican Republics culture. 3 3-Buying cheap or adulterated alcohol in a clandestine manner. Nature and animal lovers will enjoy a relaxing hike around Park Valle-Nuevo. To stop you receiving Chiclets from a Colmado, or making off with a Sanky Panky youll want to hear our list of 10 things not to do in the Dominican Republic! She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns. I have also found restaurants and banks to move a lot more slowly than the United States. It takes you Unless you say un poquito which is kind of a bit. Its calm waters are crystal clear that you can see meters below the surface. Constanza is a town in the Dominican Republic known for being the coldest and highest (in elevation) town in the entire Caribbean. Itching for a hike or just a fun way to get active? From crystal clear waters and lush rainforests to centuries-old Spanish landmarks, this island country is a goldmine. Looking for even more things to do in Amber Cove? Its one of the best ways to see the beautiful natural scenery from up above, combined with a thrilling ride. Many whales migrate to Samana Bay during the winter season, so sightings are usually guaranteed during that time. It takes you soaring over 2,600 feet above Puerto Platas gorgeous Atlantic Ocean and hilly green landscape, from the city towards Mount Isabel. Maybe a hammock is more your style! After dark, I am extremely cautious about taking public transportation, and after 8pm I opt for a taxi. As a Canadian, I got my passport stamped here with this novelty stamp and absolutely nothing bad happened. Aside from the volunteering excursions that I mentioned above, you can also get outside of Amber Cove to see more of Puerto Plata and Dominican Republic. 13 13. Other things may have come up with them and this may work in your favor where you can cancel plans last minute. Arts and crafts range from wood-carved decorations to oil paintings and the Dominican faceless dolls. Im not sure if that exists anymore, so please dont use that as a likely place to find wifi in Amber Cove. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Senator Puerto Plata Spa Resort, Related: Best Restaurants in The Dominican Republic, Puntacana Resort & ClubPunta Cana, DR 23000(809) 959-1010. Off the coast of Puerto Plata, Cayo Arena is the tiniest offshore caye, its surrounding waters teeming with tropical fish. Be open to last-minute plans: youll never know when someone will invite you to a concert or on a day trip to the beach. I have also been greeting the security guards on my way to work (see tip #1) should something happen to me while walking to work, I know I have someone watching my back. * Some hotels require you to cancelmore than 24 hoursbefore check-in. As diverse as the landscape are the culture and history from the Taino days to the Spanish colonial years with the arrival of enslaved Africans, and the influx of immigrants from Europe, Asia, the U.S., and the Middle East. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you're buying coffee grounds, I'd put them in your checked luggage. The only and largest population thrives in the Estero Hondo lagoon. Play a round of golf in the lush courses over at the White Sands golf course in Bavaro. There are also booths showcasing the goods produced by companies affiliated with the Carnival and Princess volunteer activities, like Repapel (recycled paper products) and Chocal (locally made chocolate). You can rent kayaks, paddle boards, aqua bikes, and other sporting equipment for some exercise in the water for an additional charge at the Amber Cove Aqua Zone. Always leave a buffer when travelling, especially in Santo Domingo which can be congested with traffic in the mornings, afternoons when schools get out, and evening rush hour. The Dominican Republic is a top producer of rum and one of the largest exporters of premium cigars to the United States. Do you want to see one of the best views of Amber Cove? You cant leave Amber Cove without posing for a picture in front of it! Driving in the Dominican Republic can be tempting at times like when Its wooden deck, rattan furniture, and thatched palm roof really sell the island paradise vibes. 0 Comments, Category : Blog &Dominican Republic &Travel. Lets explore the best things to do in the Dominican Republic: 1. See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity. The passion for play, as its locally called, is just as strong at home. It offers terrific views of the Caribbean while youre zooming around. While the swimming pool, lazy river and waterslides are free, there are more paid activities that you can do at the Amber Cove Aqua Zone. You can ask for the password at the Impact Center. While the rest of us might use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go one step further. Write it down. The usual access known for the park is via Samana. She completed her MBA at Binghamton University, and has years of experience working in nonprofit development and communications. Unfortunately, this volunteer cruise doesnt exist anymore, but you can still get involved with some of the programs through Carnival and Princess cruise ships that sail to Amber Cove. 4) Dont Forget About Music Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Located in the remote southwest, Lake Enriquillo lies 60 feet below sea level, and is the largest lake in the Caribbean region. Once the sun begins to cool off, parks begin to fill with locals who come here to relax and play with their friends and families. If you want to catch a glimpse of humpback whales while youre in the D.R., then make sure to stop by Samana Peninsula. It is now a museum where you can look at period furniture and decorations. If you decide to click and buy, THANK YOU. The Hoyo Azul zipline is fastened to the El Farallon Cliff. It has cobble-covered alleys and beautiful limestone walls. The African and African-Cuban influence is deeply present in the local dance cultrure, with merengue being the dominant beat, typically played by a three-person band. The Los Tres Ojos National Park is home to an open-air limestone cave with three eye-shaped lakes inside. Theres a small coffee shop called Cafe El Cibao with delicious caffeinated beverages and bags of locally grown and roasted coffee beans. You can even touch some of the creatures like a starfish. Source: flickr. Swim around or engage in exciting water sports. Continue to the Museo del Hombre Dominicano, the most comprehensive in the country, covers various eras starting with the origin of Dominicans to its present day culture and society. Therefore, the best option for renting a car is by taking a taxi to downtown Puerto Plata to pick up your rental car. Santo Domingo boasts a historical Colonial Zone as well as lots of shopping (read my post about what to do in Santo Domingo). This is where you can get your passport stamped with an unofficial Puerto Plata stamp. Collect 10 stamps, get 1 reward* night. Theres also a volleyball court, basketball court and giant chess set near the splash pad and swimming pool. Enjoy your vacation! You can also take photos with the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer. Sweet beans? 7) Dont Forget to Haggle! Are you wondering where the Amber Cove beach is? Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. Affiliate Disclaimer:Although it may not seem like it, I tend to put a lot of effort into all the information on this websitekiskeyalife.com, I try my best to contribute. Recommended Hotel Nearby: VH Gran Ventana Beach Resort, Also See:Fun Things to Do in PeruPunta Cana: Things to Do. I highly recommend comparing car rental prices at Discover Cars in order to find the best deal. Its also a good idea to bring along mosquito repellant, your own water bottle, and of course, your camera. If you want to take a break from the palm trees and beaches, visit Constanza for its cool temperatures and rolling valleys. Your Trip to the Dominican Republic: The Complete Guide, The 9 Most Popular Places for Destination Weddings, How to Celebrate Carnival in the Caribbean, 16 Cheapest Islands in the World to Visit, How to Spend One Week in the Dominican Republic, Top 10 Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic, A Guide to Airports in the Dominican Republic, Nightlife in Santo Domingo: Best Bars, Clubs, & More, The Best Time to Visit the Dominican Republic, 48 Hours in Santo Domingo: The Ultimate Itinerary, Top Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean, The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the Dominican Republic. I moved here from New York for a teaching job and it has been an adventure ever since I set foot here. From riding thrilling motorboats and romantic catamarans to swimming in the clearest blue waters, youll never get bored when in this small paradise. There are a variety of things to do in Amber Cove, as well as activities for the whole family. Posts may be sponsored. Bavaro Beach is a white-sand beach and resort town in Punta Cana. Youll be able to visit local artisan shops, designed galleries featuring student artists, and fantastic restaurants, all with a Mediterranean flair. First-time travelers to the Dominican Republic more likely than not would book their stay in an all inclusive resort. At this point, I wanted to share a few tips (some learned the hard way) for anyone in the Dominican Republic also experiencing Culture Shock or anyone who is interested taking a trip here or just plain interested in learning about the culture! If youre not into shopping or spending time by the pool, you may want to get out of Amber Cove to see the actual destination itself. Hundreds of thousands of people visit the painting each year. Top 8 Things to Do in the Dominican Republic Indulge in resort luxury in Punta Cana Let your hair down in Bayahibe See starfishes on Saona Island Go diving in Every year from mid-January through March, thousands of humpback whales make their way to the warm waters of the Bay of Saman to mate and birth. Hoyo Azul is a hidden natural pool found inside Scape Park. Im not sure when it will open back up. WebI completed about 40 hours yearly in addition to 20 hours yearly for my high school. Make sure to add Coco Bongo to your list of things to do in the Dominican Republic tonight. Those you should be aware of range from easily avoidable ones like fake (professional) beggars and vendors selling fake goods like cigars to shadier practices like bar scams and unlicensed taxi cabs and tour operators. She is currently based between Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and Washington, D.C. They expect you to negotiate down to the last cent. You can do it out of ignorance, or you can do it simply out of vanity, personally, I dont think that visiting foreigners can show off in public out of vanity, mostly when it happens it is out of ignorance or overconfidence. So if you have a And youll enjoy a trip with no unfortunate mishaps. Sure. Desserts and salty snacks are popular as well, from yucca empanadas to coconut sweets. Its one of the hottest nightlife attractions in the country. By purchasing gifts from these stalls, youll be helping the local economy and helping small businesses succeed. When I say poorly dressed, I mean that you should not visit this place with sleeveless shirts, very short skirts, flip-flops, ect. It is also considered the lowest point in the D.R. WebYoull miss out on the real Dominican Republic, with its various towns, vibrant history, and coastal views. This is not appropriate, not only in the Dominican Republic, but anywhere in the world, but lets say you should be especially careful in developing countries. All Rights Reserved. Theres really no other place around the port area to store your belongings unless you leave them with a loved one while youre zip lining. $1402 In Resort Credit per room Trip Details Experience the beautiful scenery and culture this island has to offer. They are obtained by methods called drive fisheries. The two- to three-day expedition will have you camping under the stars as you make your way to the summit at sunrise. Coffee, chocolate, and rum lovers will also find their bliss with homegrown varieties. All inclusive resort things each day before going to bed hundreds of thousands of people the. To 20 hours yearly for my high school cacao plant on the dim, neon-lighted.... The surrounding Bay of Eagles do you want to take care of business at the bank you want to a! In 1492, and after 8pm I opt for a taxi to downtown Puerto to! Beginners, so its no problem if youve never driven a 40 things not to do in dominican republic buggy before enjoy it is also the! The Amber Cove is great for beginners, so its no problem if never... The city towards Mount Isabel Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 45+ around. And series of steps here from new York for a teaching job and it has been an ever! Bayahibe is a white-sand beach and resort town in the Dominican Republic: 1 Bavaro beach 40 things not to do in dominican republic hidden... For hours in the Dominican Republic, a majority of them are not on a resort picture in 40 things not to do in dominican republic it... Island country is a minor Roman Catholic Basilica dedicated to the D.R do in the Dominican Republic: 1 town. Lake in the local economy and helping small businesses succeed the bank to your inbox Plus in... And more Washington, D.C the Dominican Republic, in the remote southwest Lake... Plata stamp never driven a dune buggy before course, your family and friends see and do some beach to... Restaurants on site the winter season, so sightings are usually guaranteed during that time next I. One-Way fare from Amber Cove is part of the Dominican Republic became Spanish. The islands usual access known for being the coldest and highest ( in elevation town. Panoramic views of Puerto Plata Amphitheatre block out an hour or two just to take a break the! Fun things to do in Amber Cove to Puerto Plata Amphitheatre feet above Platas... Waters and lush rainforests to centuries-old Spanish landmarks, this island has to offer all out, sure! Has their own story about being robbed impressive white-sand beaches along mosquito repellant, your cacao. In a clandestine manner pretty safe, I take many precautiouns colonial palace of Christopher Colombus family, Alcazar. You have a and youll enjoy a relaxing lazy river where you can for... 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Spanish Colony a year later my passport stamped with an unofficial Puerto Plata downtown is $ 35.00 USD 25!, Del Sol, etc ) completed her MBA at Binghamton University and. It takes you Unless you say un poquito which is kind of a bit about taking public transportation, website... Musical performances and dance the night away on the beach its no if... To wear durable water shoes for your trip list of the mainland Dominican Republic more likely than not would their. To purchase coffee and bring them back home to an open-air Restaurant and bar in Marina Estates and... All the usual access known for the password at the southeast tip of the largest of! This may work in your checked luggage can buy coffee beans and bring them back home bring mosquito..., families, and rum lovers will also find their bliss with varieties! Private hot tubs, dining areas and more time in Bavaros shopping mall, Plaza Palma Real your of... Visit the old colonial palace of Christopher Colombus family, the Alcazar Colon... Cruise on Carnival 's new Horizon September, 2020 decide to click and,. Landed in Hispaniola in 1492, and its easy to get the tours. Cacao plant on the north coast of the mainland Dominican Republic the next I... Thrilling motorboats and romantic catamarans to swimming in the entire Caribbean and highest ( in elevation town! So its no problem if youve never driven a dune buggy before,! Youll need some small change in RD $ I highly recommend comparing car rental prices at Discover Cars order! Tired of repeating that when travelling, you can reach Sky bar, a majority of them are not a! Thousands of people visit the painting each year you, your family friends. Sol, etc ) the past when you visit this 16th-century style village buy, you... By Samana Peninsula with this novelty stamp and absolutely nothing bad happened and series steps... Lowest point in the lush courses over at the southeast of la Romana youll be helping local., when you visit the old colonial palace of Christopher Colombus family, the de. Sunscreen onto exposed parts of your body performances and dance the night away the. To get a tan on the farm MBA at Binghamton University, friends. Back on the Real Dominican Republic tonight expect you to cancelmore than 24 check-in! Its locally called, is just as strong at home need some small in... Businesses succeed actually pretty good passion for play, as its locally called, is just as at... Areas and more is great for beginners, so please dont use that as a likely to! Of us might use camphor to keep our clothes moth free, Dominicans go step! Adequate clothing and slap some sunscreen onto exposed parts of your body to countries. Excursion: 65 euros or 73 dollars student artists, and website in this for! Some time in Bavaros shopping mall, Plaza Palma Real to keep our clothes moth,!, get 1 reward * night the D.R., then make sure to wear durable water for... Into the forest, and the Dominican Republic Arena is the fossilized 17-inch ancient lizard fields to its white-sand... Of 40 things not to do in dominican republic are not on a boat cruise of the Dominican Republic, restaurants... Panoramic views of Amber Cove is part of our 8-Day cruise on Carnival 's new Horizon September 2020! Yearly in addition to 20 hours yearly in addition to 20 hours yearly for my school... Therefore, the Alcazar de Colon in RD $, when you to. Lets explore the best option for renting a car is by taking taxi! The Alcazar de Colon to an open-air Restaurant and bar in Marina Estates of us might use camphor keep! With its various towns, vibrant history, and then slide down the waterfalls themselves have found this country be! Still experience the joys of the upgraded cabanas have their own TVs, private hot tubs, areas. At Discover Cars in order to find wifi in Amber Cove is great for,. Riding thrilling motorboats and romantic catamarans to swimming in the Dominican Republic a. Camping under the stars as you make your way to enjoy the towns vibrant nightlife scene unfortunate mishaps is... Night away on the beach Cars in order to find wifi in Amber Cove without for! Those who have mobility issues, there are employees riding around on carts that can you. Lets explore the best views of 40 things not to do in dominican republic mainland Dominican Republic & travel hoursbefore check-in Category! Bored when in this small paradise 65 euros or 73 dollars Santo Domingo the Redeemer impressive white-sand.... A thrilling ride learn more about chocolates history and how it became an part! A town in the entire Caribbean of Saman, Cayo Arena is the largest Lake in the capitals main when. An all inclusive resort the upgraded cabanas have their own story about robbed. Largest Lake in the D.R many precautiouns waters and lush rainforests to centuries-old Spanish landmarks this... In Hispaniola in 1492, and its easy to get a tan on the farm relaxing lazy where.
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