If you live in a place with cold winters and looking for a warm escape, the Dominican Republic is the perfect getaway!
When most people think of the Dominican Republic, they picture all-inclusive resorts and endless beaches—but we took a different approach. Instead of staying at a hotel, we booked an Airbnb in a local neighborhood of Santo Domingo, which gave us a more authentic experience and a real taste of local life.
What we did
Santo Domingo is one of the oldest cities in the Americas, and its colonial history is everywhere. We explored:
Christopher Columbus House (Alcázar de Colón) – A palace built by Columbus’ son, Diego, and a major piece of history.
Faro a Colón (Columbus Lighthouse) – A massive monument to Columbus with an odd, blocky design. It supposedly holds his remains.
Fortaleza Ozama – The oldest fortress in the Americas, built by the Spanish in the 1500s.
New Year’s Eve
We celebrated NYE in Plaza de la Hispanidad, surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, lively energy, and delicious food. After dinner, we found a local outdoor club where we danced the night away to bachata, merengue, and reggaeton—such a fun way to ring in the new year!
Island Life
A catamaran tour to Saona Island was a highlight of the trip. Swaying palm trees, soft white sand, and clear blue water—basically, a tropical dream. We enjoyed a delicious beachside lunch, swam in the shallow turquoise water, and relaxed in the sun with a drink in hand.
Food
One of the best parts of the trip? The food! We tried so many local dishes, and everything was packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients:
Mofongo – Mashed plantains with garlic, pork, or shrimp.
Plantains – Served fried (tostones) or sweet (maduros).
Avocados – Huge and buttery soft, served with almost every meal.
La Bandera – The classic Dominican lunch of rice, beans, and meat.
What We Missed
We really wanted to visit Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos, a series of stunning underground caves and blue lagoons, but there was no availability while we were there. Definitely on the list for next time!
The Dominican Republic is so much more than just resorts—it’s full of rich history, vibrant culture, and incredible food. Whether you’re dancing in Santo Domingo, sailing to Saona Island, or exploring ancient forts, there’s something for everyone.
Samantha Shammas, Author
A true travel enthusiast, Samantha has been going around the globe her entire life and has visited over 35 countries and counting. With a lust to wander, she’s always excited to visit new places and soak in inspiration for her artwork.
