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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | XXX
FROM THE EDITORS OF
DOMINICANTHE DR ISSUE #01 REPUBLIC What’s Inside: Punta Cana Cap Cana La Romana
PLUS FEATURED LISTS: Beautiful Beaches Books to Bring to the Beach Perfect Day in Santo Domingo
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | GREETINGS READER
Editor’s Letter Table of Contents: By Paula Keung 02 Editor’s Letter If I’m being perfectly honest, my idea 03 Santo Domingo Eateries of the perfect vacation has never in- In speaking with Reynaldo Infante, a by Alex Gil volved the mountains, snow, or any- local news anchor living in Santo Do- 04 Spend a Day in Santo Domingo thing that doesn’t involve lots of sun, mingo, I learned all about the beaches by Aimee Sehwoerer sand, and many fresh seafood din- of the beautiful Dominican Republic. 05 The Beautiful Beaches of ners. In putting together this special Tanya de los Rios, Manager at Punta the Dominican Republic issue of Travel Savvy with the Apple Cana’s Hard Rock Café, shared with by Reynaldo Infante Vacations user in mind, I feel like I’m me a great excursion package with 07 Delicioso! Punta Cana Dining working with thousands of kindred Tropical Storm cruises, where you can by Nelson Pereira spirits. We all seem to have the same spend the day on a catamaran drink- 08 Points of Interest In Punta Cana goal: relax on the beach with nothing ing cocktails and swimming with the by Tanya de los Rios to do but figure out whether we’ve beautiful tropical marine life. And of slathered on enough SPF. If the mood course, you’ll probably bring a book 09 Recommended Reads strikes, perhaps we might dive into or two with you, so I asked Forbes col- Inspired by the Dominican Republic by Elisa Mala the crystal clear water to visit with the umnist Elisa Mala to provide me with pretty fish. Well readers, I’m happy to a list of DR-inspired novels to pack. My 10 Traveling in Tropical Climates: report that the entire country of Do- Travel Savvy team has laid everything Photography Tips from Leica by Justin Stailey minican Republic is filled with locals out here in the following pages, com- who share the same love of this re- plete with links and photos so you 11 Cap Cana Luxury laxed lifestyle. can start planning your perfect stay. by Reyson Pimentel Read on, and learn all about the many 12 Cap Cana at a Glance activities you’ll enjoy in the paradise by Evelyn Miranda-Mirabal that is Dominican Republic. 13 Visit La Romana and Bayahibe by Ricardo Dominguez Paula Keung Travel Savvy www.trvlsvvy.com
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | SANTO DOMINGO Santo Domingo Sushi-Ya Eateries Ave Sarasota No. 133, Bella Vista, Santo Domingo, By Alex Gil Dominican Republic. Telephone 809 331 1110 Add Images Sushi-Ya is the best place to eat sushi in Alex Gil’s well-written and thought- the whole world-and I’ve been around, ful blog Cafe Amargo (www.elotroalex. trust me. It’s a chain and they have sev- com/cafe) focuses on topics ranging eral in the city; this is a location I like. from reviews of literature old and new, pop culture, globalization, and a variety Creperie Soleil of other topics that interest him. As he Gustavo Mejia Ricart 72, Santo Domingo, Adrian Tropical puts it, Cafe Amargo is “like a good little Dominican Republic. Telephone: 809 683 9291 cup of coffee, served in that fragile little Website: www.creperiesoleil.com ceramic kiss, it is a prelude to good af- `There is a menu of crepes that is incon- ternoon conversation.” Alex hails from ceivably long and inviting. They have the Dominican Republic capitol of Santo crepes of all kinds..Mexican crepes, Teri- Domingo, where his parents, both tour- yaki crepes, you name it, they’ve got it. ism executives, raised him on a steady Delicious and interesting! stream of Encyclopedia Britannica and Star Wars. He came to the United States when he was 17, lured by the world he saw Adrian Tropical depicted in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Since Ave George Washington 5, Santo Domingo, then he has had ample time to change his Dominican Republic. Telephone: 809 221 1764 mind about America and has gone back If you want local cuisine, you go to Adri- to the Dominican Republic every summer, an’s. Many tourists and locals come here, consistently. Here, Alex shares his favorite because it’s the perfect place to have dining choices in Santo Domingo, where mofongo (made with plantains, garlic and his parents still live. spices, and pork cracklings). Creperie Soleil
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | SANTO DOMINGO
Segafredo Caffé Adrian Tropical Ciudad Colonial, aka Boutique del Spend Zona Colonial Restaurant ‘Zona Colonial’ Fumador Calle El Conde No. 54, Av. George Washington 5, This area, casually called Calle el Conde No.109, Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo a Day Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo Santo Domingo ‘Zona Colonial’ by locals, is Tel: 809 685 4440 Tel: 809 221 1764 Tel: 809 685 6425 a downtown district in Santo in Santo Domingo that features many Located in the unique Colo- 100% Dominican Food This is the first cigar shop important historic landmarks nial Zone of Santo Domingo, Located right on the beach, established in the Colonial Domingo such old churches, the New By Aimee Sehwoerer Segafredo Caffé is a sprawl- this is where you should go Zone, where you can watch World’s first hospital, and sev- ing indoor/outdoor cafe that’s for excellent regional cuisine. the cigar makers roll Cohi- eral small museums. There are Aimee Sehwoerer is a back- the perfect place place to stop A few things to try: the ‘’San- bas as well as a local brand also many quaint shops, din- packer, traveller, diner, proud for a cup of coffee and an el- cocho,’’ which is a hearty called Caoba. You can try the ing establishments and cafes, Boutique del Fumador momma, culturephile, twit- egantly prepared Italian meal. stew with chicken and beef, smokes as well as get tastes of and boutique hotels. The area terer, SEO-marketing specialist, You can dine on the outdoor regional vegetables, and the locally grown organic cof- dates back to the 1500’s and and most importantly, 100% patio area or choose the air- herbs; the ‘’Mofongo’’ which fee. You’ll also love the selec- was part of the explorer Chris- Dominican. Here, she offers conditioned interior; either is made from mashed fried tion of dark, smoky chocolate topher Columbus’s first settle- you a look at how to spend a way, you’ll enjoy the service green plantains with bits of and of course, the Dominican ment in the New World. Walk- day in Santo Domingo. and excellent pizzas, pastas, fried and mashed pork; and rum! ing through the district, which Follow Aimee at www.twitter. and salads. The coffee is ex- the ‘’Dominican Flag’’ or ‘’La borders the Ozama River, is com/aimeesehwoerer, or reach pertly brewed, and the locals Bandera’’ which consist in a Backpack enthusiast like perfect way to spend an after- her via her Linkedin profile: meet here for the happy hour. plate of white rice, meat (pork Aimee? She recommends noon in Santo Domingo. http://do.linkedin.com/in/ai- or chicken) and red beans. checking out the coastal fish- meesehwoerer You’ll cherish the culinary ex- ing town Las Terrenas and perience, and you’ll love the Jarabacoa, in the mountains warmth of the service from the of Dominican Republic where Dominican waiters dressed in you can visit the famed Mon- tropical outfit and a big smile!! astery Waterfalls. Segafredo Caffé Zona Colonial
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Travel Savvy Magazine Advertising Operations: Eva Kulova 495 Communications LLC 917 428 0671 495 Communications Email us: Craig M. Pavia Editorial: [email protected] Bret Polansky Operations: [email protected] Advertising: [email protected] Travel Savvy Magazine Trvlsvvy.com are Trademarks owned by 495 Communications Editorial Director: Paula Keung Creative Director: Ken Thelian WWW.APPLEVACATIONS.COM WWW.DOMINICANREPUBLIC.COM 5
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Cabarete Beach, Driving to this beach requires a all year long and some of the best The Beautiful Beaches of Puerto Plata 4x4 vehicle and an expert driver; hotels in the country dot the area. Sports Enthusiasts’ Choice by water, the journey takes around There are several all-inclusive and 15 minutes bordering the coast. “boutique” hotels for the more so- the Dominican Republic With one of the most beautiful Regardless of your transport, visi- phisticated traveler. It is an easily by Reynaldo Infante beaches on the North Coast of the tors can hire drivers or boat cap- accessible area, as there is an in- island, exceptional seafood res- tains near Pedernales, a village ternational airport nearby. If you Local prime time news anchor Rey- (www.reynaldoinfante.com), provid- taurants, and an active night life, that’s a short distance away. It is are looking for great beaches and naldo Infante was born in Salcedo, ing Spanish voice over narration for Cabarete Beach promises a pas- truly a virgin area; located within quiet nights, this is the place to a small province in the Northern re- projects like video games, commer- sionate experience. Widely known the national park Parque Nacional visit. as the ‘Windsurfing and Kite surf- gion of the Dominican Republic. His cials and video. Jaragua, there are no accommoda- ing Capital of the Caribbean,’ peo- entire family--including his parents tions or restaurants to disturb the ple flock to Cabarete Beach year pristine beach. Many local travel and all six brothers and sisters and An avid golfer and beach-goer, Rey Bayahibe beach, after year for the annual waters- agencies or your hotel concierge their families--live in various parts of enjoys traveling to the various parts ports competitions. At night, the La Romana can arrange visits to the beach Start point towards Saona Island the DR, making reunions busy and of the DR coast with his wife Cinthia hotel zone--where visitors can find that should be made during the colorful. In addition to reporting the and his daughter Elizabeth. Here he a place to stay to fit any budget- day only, so people get to know Bayahibe is a rural community news to fellow Dominicans on DR’s shares with you the best beaches of -takes on a magical feel with the this marvel of Mother Nature. of fishermen with a great beach. sound of rock music and crashing The charming town offers white Channel 37, Rey is also a voice talent his homeland. waves, making Cabarete Beach sand beaches, humble houses, one of the most popular places to Punta Cana, and a host of modern hotel facili- visit in the Dominican Republic. ties. Scuba lovers delight in Baya- Cabarete Beach, Puerto Plata La Altagracia hibe’s many dive sites; dive shops For the sophisticated traveler are plentiful here. It is also a great looking for the All-Inclusive start point for a journey by sea to Bahía de las Aguilas Experience Beach, Pedernales the famous Saona Island and Cata- The Adventurous Punta Cana is one of the most lina Island to enjoy their protected Traveler’s Destination popular destination for tour- areas that belong to the National ists coming to the Dominican Park, Parque Nacional del Este. The Bahia de las Aguilas, a 8 kilome- Republic. It is an expansive area beaches on these islands offer the ter stretch of isolated white sand composed of several beautiful most gorgeous blue-green waters beach and crystal clear blue wa- beaches: Fat Sand Beach, the fa- and stretches of impossibly beau- ters, is arguably one of the most mous Bavaro beach, Ubero Alto tiful white sand beaches. On the beautiful beaches in the Domini- beach, Macao beach and El Cor- way to Saona Island by boat, you can Republic and the Caribbean. tecito beach. Here, summer exists will likely anchor for a moment
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
near La Piscina (the Pool) which is a spot of high sand in the middle of the sea. Jump in and swim in this natural wonder that makes dos, bungalows, and even rooms you feel as though you are in a for rent, which makes Las Terrenas pool since it is not deep. Bayahibe a very special place. Visitors can beach is located about 10 miles really get a feel for local everyday from La Romana; both areas are life in this town. There are few cars; home to many all-inclusive hotels people mostly use bikes, horses, in the area and it is only 45 min- or motorcycles for transporta- utes from the capital city, Santo tion. Most of the restaurants are Domingo. located on the beach, side by side. You can also fish your own dinner Las Terrenas, Samaná and then have a local or a beach “Boutique” Tourism, and my restaurant cook it for you. In ad- personal favorite destination dition, there are small markets at Las Terrenas is a very small town the beach early in the morning located in the province of Samaná, where you can welcome the fish- Bavaro Beach, Punta Cana Bahia Aguilas Beach, Pedernales in the northern part of Dominican ermen and buy fresh fish, shrimp, Republic. This area has the biggest and lobster directly from them. concentration of coconut trees in The most famous dishes in Las the world. The town has only two Terrenas are seafood dishes and a streets which are the only ways in variety of old-style cooked pizza. and out of Las Terrenas. In all, Las Water sports are a popular activity Terrenas has about 15 kilometers in the area, and the clear waters al- of great beaches; Playa Bonita, Co- low you to see the colorful coral at son, Las Ballenas, and Portillo are shallow depths. Get to know the some of the most famous in the town residents; you’ll find that al- area. You can find hotel and lodg- most half are foreign citizens that ing accommodations of all kind: came to visit once and never left all- inclusive hotels, cabins, con- this enchanting little town.
Planning on swinging the wrenches in the DR? Rey recommends 2 courses in particular: Punta Espada at Cap Cana and Diente de Perro at Casa de Campo.
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | PUNTA CANA Apple Vacations Hotels: -> La Romana When he’s not gliding across the We asked Nelson where to grab Cappuccino Mare a bite before coming to Imagine; Ave Estados Unidos, Delicioso! ocean or diving the depths of the Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana great blue, Nelson manages and he obliged with the following list. Arena Gorda , Bávaro Tel: 809 468 4646 Dreams Palm Beach Punta Cana Punta Cana promotes Imagine, the largest nightspot in Punta Cana which Jelly Fish Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa On the beach between Melia Caribe is nestled in a converted under- Dining Tropical Hotel and Ifa Resort, Bavaro Soles Resto Bar Iberostar Grand Hotel Bavaro ground cave with a capacity for Very chill place where you can By Nelson Pereira, Tel: 809 868 3040 Iberostar Bavaro All Suite Resort Imagine Nightclub 1000 people nightly. The sub- www.jellyfishrestaurant.com/jelly- hang out and relax while enjoying Carretera Arena Gorda, Coco Loco terranean club offers visitors a fish.html a nice meal. Melia Caribe Tropical Resort Los Corales Beach, Bavaro Friusa, Bavaro, Punta Cana unique place to dance to global Jelly Fish Facebook Page Riu Palace Punta Cana Tel: 809 446 1049 beats while enjoying cocktails Tel: 809 910 4371 Soles Resto Bar Facebook Page www.imaginepuntacana.com like “Mamajuana,” made with La Yola Page rum, honey, a special tree root, In the Punta Cana Marina at the Punta Cana Resort. and red wine. The club has three Tel: 809 959 2262 ext 8002 Nelson Pereira has been living separate ‘caves’ each with a dif- in the Dominican Republic for 8 www.puntacana.com/dining-recre- La Yola ferent DJ and music style, and ation/restaurants/la-yola years. Originally from Argentina, the bartenders entertain with Nelson moved to the DR to pur- fire-breathing tricks of their own. Beautiful restaurant! Check out the sue two of his beloved hobbies: There’s even a bus service to- see-through portal on the floor kite surfing and scuba diving. and-from most Punta Cana ho- where you can watch the fish swim “The Dominican Republic is wide tels that starts at around 11PM. as you dine. open in terms of where you can Bus passengers can pay one fee pursue your sport of choice--I for a one-time visit, or $55 for the Chez Mon Ami can kite surf on any beach, and Adorable place for French Cuisine. ‘Open Bar’ package that includes Bring cash; they don’t accept credit the scuba in this country is un- entry for an entire week. How’s cards. matched. There’s so much to that for planning ahead! Plaza Nautica, Av. Alemania, El Cor- explore: sunken ships, coral reefs, tecito, Bávaro Jelly Fish it’s all open to you,” he explains. Tel: 809 552 6714 Chez Mon Ami Facebook Page
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | PUNTA CANA
and a theme park. Here you can Plaza Palma Real Hard Rock Cafe, spend the entire day taking in Shopping Village Punta Cana Points of the natural wildlife and flora of Carretera El Cortecito #57 Carretera El Cortecito #57 Interest the Dominican Republic, enjoy Punta Cana Punta Cana themed shows and dances that Tel: 809 552 8725 Tel: 809 552 0594 recreate the history of the Do- www.palmarealshoppingvillage.com www.hardrock.com In Punta minican people, visit the iguanas and watch the sea lions, and even Spend a nice afternoon at Plaza While you’re happily shopping Cana swim with dolphins. When you’re By Tanya de los Rios Palma Real Shopping Village. at the Plaza Palma Real, certainly hungry, dine at one of the restau- The atmosphere is excellent, and make sure to visit Tanya and her rants on the property, and pick up Hard Rock Cafe Manager Tanya the partially-outdoor mall itself team at the Hard Rock Cafe. Tanya a souvenir in the many gift shops. de los Rios has been living in the is swanky yet still charming. You explains, “Hard Rock has the best Punta Cana area for more than 3 can pick up clothes from famil- rock museum in all of the Do- years after moving from the bus- iar high-end brands like Diesel, minican Republic. We also offer tling metropolis of Mexico City. A Tropical Storm Guess, Puma and Geox; there is delicious American food and an world-traveler, Tanya has been all Bavaro Cruise also a wine shop, a cigar bou- unforgettable experience. My over the globe as a team member Plaza Vecarian, Playa Jellyfish, Båvaro tique, and an Amber and Larimar team is eager to meet you while with the Hard Rock Corporation, Tel: 809 552 8788 Museum where you can pick out you’re in town!” www.tropicalstormdr.com including Cancun, Venezuela and beautiful pieces of jewelry and Barcelona, and now has settled in home accents made from these If you’re coming to Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic. natural substances. The dining chances are you love the water. areas are well appointed and the Make sure to fit in a day on a cata- Wondering what to do in Punta selection of restaurants is varied. maran with the Tropical Storm Cana? Here’s a few ideas from They have beautiful water fea- team. There’s a daily day-cruise Tanya: tures and panoramic terraces. out into the crystalline waters, or Manati Park you can charter one of their other full-service options. You’ll do a Ctra. Manatí, s/n, Bávaro little snorkeling with the abun- Tel: 809 221 9444 dant marine wildlife, and you’ll www.manatipark.com relax while listening to the sound of the waves. Note: They offer Need a place that will entertain pick-ups from any hotel in Punta the entire family? Visit the won- Cana; just ask your concierge or derful Manati Park--it’s a cross contact the Tropical Storm team between a botanical gardens directly.
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | BOOKS
We asked Elisa to give us a How the Garcia Girls Lost The Brief Wondrous Life Drown list of Dominican-inspired Their Accents of Oscar Wao Junot Diaz Recom- Julia Alvarez Junot Diaz reads that will move you to For a detailed snapshot of mended connect with this beautiful Presented in reverse chrono- Just as the title pays homage the Dominican-American ex- culture in ways beyond the logical order, these are the to literary legends - Heming- perience, this collection of Reads average 5-day Caribbean adventures of four sisters who way penned a short story 10 stories traverses the space vacation. These stories will seem to share nothing other with a similar title, while Oscar between the DR and the US, Inspired stay with you long after than blood. Trading an op- Wilde serves as a namesake between Spanish and Eng- lish, and between hopes and you’ve returned from your pressive Dominican regime - the novel itself is a blend of for the Land of the Free, they story-telling styles, often in nightmares, but in a very di- by the tropical getaway. soon discover the darker side ways that turn convention on gestible format. Domini- Geographies of Home of the American Dream, and its head. What begins as a sci- that in a strange land, even fi geek’s search for love spirals Loida Maritza Perez can Re- perfect language skills can into a multi-national hunt for When a college student puts only go so far. insights about responsibility, public her studies on hold to return fate, free will and ultimately, to Brooklyn and help her be- redemption. Weaving many a leaguered family, it seems by Elisa Mala science fiction reference be- like just another case study tween moments of crushing of social mobility gone awry. reality, this thought-provok- Dashed dreams are the least A columnist for the Booked ing tragicomedy explores the of anyone’s problems, for sex- painstaking expectations that blog of Forbes.com, Elisa ual assault, domestic abuse, are set forth by society. Mala has contributed to mental illness are never too far the New York Times, News- in the distance for this Domin- week, ESPN The Magazine, ican-American family As these New York Post, Psychology complicated dynamics unfold Today and a cover story at a quick and addictive pace, for Rolling Stone Bulgaria. the questions that arise - Is home really where the heart Read her column at: blogs. is? Does your home leave you forbes.com/booked/au- just because you leave it? - are thor/elisamala/ at once microscopic and uni- versal. Click to Purchase at Amazon
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | PHOTOGRAPHY
Overexpose. Washed-out colors diminish the Carry a bag. Changes in temperatures are Travelling appeal of a beautiful beach shot. Because yet another environmental factor that can of the tropical sun’s intensity and power- put your camera at risk. When entering in Tropical ful reflection, don’t hesitate to overexpose an air conditioned room, be mindful of beach scenes by 1-2 stops. Slightly under- the temperature drop. While temperature Climates: exposed images will have more saturated changes do not create risks in and of them- and intense colors. selves, they can produce condensation and Photography fogging, which affect both lenses and cam- Pay attention to your surrounding elements era bodies. Keep your equipment protected Tips by Justin to add character to a beach shot. Palm trees in a camera bag or Ziploc bag and slowly Stailey and rocks are wonderful details to help introduce it to the ambient temperature by frame your picture. gradually opening the bag. This should pro- tect your equipment from condensation and Leica Camera Product Specialist Justin Watch out for humidity. When travelling in fogging. Stailey shares tips to help protect your pho- tropical climates, be mindful of the signifi- tographic equipment when travelling to trop- cant moisture found in the air. While some Wipe down. Don’t let a defective equipment ical destinations and improve your pictures’ water resistant cameras are manufactured cause you to miss priceless vacation pic- quality. Being mindful of the tropical sun, for such conditions, most photographic tures. Salt spray from the ocean will cause extreme temperatures and great amount of equipment can be severely damaged by high your equipment to corrode. Stailey always moisture in the air should be the first step humidity. Carrying desiccant packs in your keeps a damp cloth in a Ziploc bag to wipe to capture images of unmatched brilliance camera bag is a great way to help absorb off his tripod and camera. and protect your equipment. For more infor- unwanted moisture and protect your gear. mation, visit us.leica-camera.com. Also consider changing lenses as little as possible, preferably at night when the tem- peratures are cooler.
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | CAP CANA
Located in the Eastern part Play Golf On One of the Enjoy Deep Sea Fishing ran daytrip to nearby beach- of Dominican Republic, Cap Most Beautiful Courses and Ocean Excursions es including world famous Cap Cana is a new development Juanillo Beach; visit www.rh- The view from the bluffs over- Cap Cana boasts the largest designed with truly luxurious tours.com. looking the Caribbean Sea is marina in the Caribbean and Cana living in mind. The area over- a stunning backdrop for golf, the largest private marina in looks more than 3 miles of particularly when the course, the Dominican Republic. Sev- Adventure Luxury pristine sugar sand beaches Punta Espada, is a Jack Nick- eral deep sea fishing trophies Scape2CapCana is the new- by Reyson Pimentel and is centrally located to both laus Signature course that are disputed here every sum- est attraction to open in Cap Director of Sales the Punta Cana International has taken its place among the mer in what’s know to be “The Cana, offering exciting eco Secrets Sanctuary Cap Cana Airport and the La Romana world’s foremost golf experi- Marlin’s Highway”....great fish- trails to blue water holes, bug- Tel: 809 562 9191 ext. 5121 International Airport. Cap ences. Las Iguanas, the sec- ing spots for billfish and Mar- gy rides, horse back riding as Tel: 888 892 0587 Cana’s marina is the biggest in ond Jack Nicklaus signature lins of every kind are located well as paint ball and moun- the Caribbean, with over 1,000 golf course, is scheduled to just offshore in the Mona Pas- tain bikes. Dine with us at Secrets slips for those who’ve sailed to open in 2011, offers perfectly sage that connects the Carib- The website provides all infor- Cap Cana’s marina offers excel- the country on their yachts. placed holes to exhibit the bean with the Atlantic and mation and activities: www. lent gourmet dining options. Soon, Cap Cana visitors will natural splendor of the sur- stands between the DR and scape2capcana.com. In particular, Faith at Farallon be able to enjoy the new Las roundings. Many ecological Puerto Rico. If is a unique Asian-Fusion res- Iguanas golf course, to be cen- areas with its unique beauty you want to ar- taurant set in a Japanese style trally located in town. have been incorporated in range for deep villa, offering gorgeous views the design of this spectacu- sea fishing, call of the Caribbean Sea 300- Reyson Pimental is the Direc- lar course, to achieve both, Cap Cana’s man- feet elevation. On the Secrets tor of Sales for the magnificent the protection of the area as agement team property, there is Blue Marlin Secrets Sanctuary Cap Cana, well as to provide necessary at (809) 227 2262 Restaurant, well-known for its an all-inclusive, adults-only experience to the golfer. The or e-mail anew@ fresh catch suggestions and resort nestled atop a cliff over- Cap Cana Championship of capcana.com. Seafood Paella, and The Steak- looking its own picture-per- the PGA Champions Tours has You can also house, with authentic Argen- fect half moon beach. The ho- been played here since 2008. catch a Catama- tinian-style Empanadas and tel, a distinguished Preferred For more information about delicious “Churrasco” which is Hotels Group® property, is the this excellent course, visit: grilled Argentinian-style flank flagship of the Secrets brand www.nicklaus.com/design/ steak. operated by AM Resorts®. capcana/ Here, Reyson offers a look at Apple Vacations Hotels: the splendid activities that visitors can enjoy in Cap Cana. -> Cap Cana Secrets Sanctuary Cap Cana
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | CAP CANA
she was 7. She continued to elegant and relaxing at the Mitre And when you’re in Cap Cana come back to her homeland same time; it’s perfect for any At the Marina de Cap Cana, Santo Domingo, go to: annually, and moved to Cap occasion- a romantic dinner, Punta Cana El Meson de Bari Cana permanently over a year a family outing, or even just Tel: 809 562 9191 Ext. 5185 Santo Domingo at a www.mitre.com.do ago. What brought her back? for drinks or dessert. On the 302 Calle Hostos, She came to live near “one of weekends you can dine while Santo Domingo Glance Mitre Cap Cana offers diners the most beautiful beaches listening to live music. Tel: 809 687 4091 by Evelyn Miranda-Mirabal (she) has ever seen,” and to an upscale Italian experience enjoy life in the DR where she with a modern flare. In par- Order the Caprito en fricase, Evelyn Miranda-Mirabal is Faith at Farallón could pursue her passions: ticular, Evelyn recommends which is a goat meat stew. I al- an owner at Aquamarina At Farallon, Cap Cana dining, cooking, swimming, Tel: 809 469 7450 the Foie Gras appetizer, the ways run into friends and fam- Luxury Residences (www. snorkeling and photography. www.faithrestaurant.com ceviche, and because she’s a ily here. The place is filled with capcanaluxury.com), a con- Below are three places she big fan of this dish- the Os- locals--which is a good sign in dominium and marina com- recommends in Cap Cana, as Faith Restaurant, which is lo- socbuco. During the day, din- any country! plex that has been designed well as her favorite place for cated in Cap Cana’s Farallón ers can enjoy the lovely ter- with luxury in mind. The com- authentic Dominican cuisine Estates section in the marina, race with its spectacular views plex is located in the heart of in Santo Domingo. has an oriental flair and a beau- of the sea surrounding it. At Cap Cana’s marina, making tiful interior garden. Among night, the restaurant takes on the condo complex a perfect other things, their menu in- three very different personas; choice for boating and fish- Acqua Mare Bar and cludes Caldo Farallon, Lob- the terrace becomes a roman- ing fans seeking a long or Lounge Restaurant ster Croquettes, Blue Cheese tic candle-lit spot, the lounge short term rental. In addition At the Marina de Cap Cana, Punta Cana Salad, several sushi options, opens and offers guests a to providing top-notch crea- Tel: 809 469 7342 traditional ceviche, fresh fish, posh spot to have a drink and ture comforts within each www.aquacapcana.com and top meats. Aside from the catch up with friends, and the unit, the complex is within food, the one thing that must dining room becomes a cozy walking distance to the fa- The Asian-Fusion restaurant be experienced at Faith is the space to share a family dinner. mous white-sand beaches Acqua Mare is located in Cap breathtaking views from the and nearby the world-class Cana’s marina. Order from top of the restaurant. Bring a golf course, Punta Espada. their great selection of sushi, camera--you won’t want to pastas, risottos, and grilled miss the bird’s eye views of A self-proclaimed foodie and seafood--and for meat lovers, the entire Cap Cana complex. travel enthusiast, we asked Ev- their signature burger is very elyn about dining in the area. good.. and huge! The ambi- Originally from La Vega, DR, ance of the restaurant is both Evelyn moved to the US when
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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | LA ROMANA
Altos de Chavon We asked Ricardo what to do in the area to expe- Journey to the shores of the National rience in and around La Romana and Bayahibe. Park of the East. With fine white sandy beach- Visit Here’s what he suggested. es, crystal clear water, extensive coral reefs, co- La Romana conut forests and mangroves swamps, this park Eat fresh fish. The Bayahibe – Dominicus area is an ecological wonder. Somehow there’s even and is a rural community of fishermen and features a cacti and dry scrub scattered around the Park. beautiful beach. It is one of the most spectacular Stick close to the shore where you can enjoy Bayahibe Caribbean sites in the Dominican Republic. Also, the view and avoid getting lost. You’ll also find the La Romana International Airport is easily ac- several Taino sites in the park; Taino refers to the by Ricardo Domínguez cessible and located about 15 minutes away by indigenous population that the explorer Christo- car to the Bayahibe area. Make sure to visit any pher Columbus came upon in the 15th Century. Director Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus, Bayahibe beach restaurant along the shore to enjoy the It’s only about 2 miles from the hotel, but a cab is Tel: 809 688 3600 ‘Catch of the Day,’ usually something that is just recommended. Ricardo’s Web Page out of the ocean. Spend the day in Altos de Chavón. This Ricardo Dominguez has a great job. He’s the Di- Visit Catalina and Saona Islands. Enjoy re-creation of a medieval Mediterranean village, rector of the all-inclusive 5-star resort, Iberostar the beautiful beaches and the pristine shallow originally designed by a Paramount set designer, Hacienda Dominicus. This means he enjoys the waters, and watch the colorful fish swim along sits overlooking the Chavón River. Nowadays, National Park of the East beautiful beaches of Bayahibe and is a stone’s with you. An occasional group of dolphins may this vibrant cultural village features many of Do- throw from picturesque La Romana. He’s got even come along on your journey. The excursion minican Republic’s finest tradition of crafts and what we all crave at his fingertips: sunny white can be booked through almost any tour opera- art. The distant mountains of eastern Hispaniola sand beaches, gorgeous marine life and the natu- tor. They have representatives at most resorts. merge with the sea to create the perfect setting ral wonders of Dominican Republic, and cool sea Scuba diving fans particularly like Catalina Island- for this charming village complete with cobble- breezes at night. The resort offers loads of choic- -which leads me to the next activity: stone walkways that lead to artists’ studios, crafts es in terms of food and entertainment, and he workshops, art galleries, and fantastic restau- particularly recommends the Japanese Teppan- Dive and snorkel in the coral reefs. La rants and cafés. There’s even a small church that yaki-style dining at La Geisha. For after dinner en- Romana and Bayahibe are the best areas in the is popular for weddings, and an amphitheater tertainment, “Our theater is the perfect place to country to enjoy scuba. Contact Dressel Divers at which hosts talents as wide-ranging as Andrea delight in the live music shows. This is where you www.dresseldivers.com/en; their website is com- Bocelli and Alicia Keys. A cab is the best way there. can get the most out of true Caribbean rhythm.” prehensive and a great way to book an excursion. Snorkeling off Bayahibe Apple Vacations Hotels: -> La Romana
Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus Gran Bahia Principe La Romana Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus Oasis Canoa Beach Resort & Spa
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