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The Dominican Republic


The Dominican Republic (not to be confused with the Commonwealth of Dominica) is as big as New Hampshire and Vermont combined and has more than 60,000 hotel rooms—but still remains largely undiscovered by Americans.


Activities

Trekking
Pico Duarte is the Caribbean's highest mountain, and a 25-mile round-trip trek ascends through a rain forest and along streams to a summit marked by a Dominican flag. Outfitter: Iguana Mama offers a guided, three-day trek to the summit. Details: from $450, including two nights of camping, all meals, and pack mules; 800 849 4720 (U.S. and Canada).

Rafting
Raft into the mountains above Jarabacoa where the Rio Yaque del Norte cuts a rugged path in rough class III and IV rapids. Outfitter: Iguana Mama offers guided excursions with meals and equipment. Details: from $75 per person, including round trip transfers, wet suits, life vests, breakfast, snacks and lunch buffet; 800 849 4720 (U.S. and Canada).

Whale Watching
Some 2,000 humpback whales swim through Samana Bay, the newest addition to the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic, during the mating and birthing season (mid-January to March). Outfitter: Marine specialist Kim Beddall of Victoria Marine Tours guides half-day tours. Details: from $49 per person, including sanctuary entrance fee; +1 809 538 2494.


Hotels

Cabarete Palm Beach Condos
Studios and two-bedroom condominiums overlook the sea or the gardens surrounding the condos. Staff members will arrange tours, nanny service, and cook hires. Details: $40 to $180 ; +1 809 571 0758 or 800 822 9994 (U.S. and Canada).

Casa de Campo
This ideal golf getaway has "Teeth of the Dog," a course ranked by Golf magazine as one of the best in the world. Dine at one of the resort's 10 convenient restaurants. Details: $224 to $472 (rooms); $577 to $2,256 (villas);
+1 809 523 3333 or 800 877 3643 (U.S. and Canada).

Villa Serena
In winter, oceanfront rooms let you watch as 12,000 humpback whales swim through on their way to New England. Details: $105 to $160, including breakfast; MasterCard and Visa; +1 809 538 0000.


Restaurants

Ristorante Vento
Try the shrimp in creamy curry and coconut sauce. Details: $50; +1 809 571 0977.

Tropicana Grill
Try the grouper with mustard sauce and mashed potatoes. Details: $75; +1 809 523 3333.


Editor's note: Hotel rates are European Plan (EP), meaning meals aren't included, unless otherwise noted; rates reflect a nightly fee unless otherwise noted. Tax and service charges are not included. Rates are subject to change during promotions and peak seasons. Restaurant prices are for an average three-course dinner, nonalcoholic drink, tax, and tip.


For more information, visit the Dominican Republic Tourist Board online.


*Additional reporting by Julie Dugdale.