Flamingo puerto rico: Visit “Pinky”, The Flamingo of Camuy
Flamenco Beach, Culebra, Puerto Rico – 2022
The following are some of the reasons Flamenco Beach is such a special place… words and photos can’t really capture the glory of this beach. You have to be here to experience it.
The Water & Sand at Flamenco – Culebra, Puerto Rico
Perhaps is the crystal clear water with gentle waves tinted in unending shades of blue. Flamenco Beach provides a high dose of Chromotherapy (color therapy) to visitors. If you were to spend the entire day at Flamenco, you’ll observe a spectacular show of color changes on the water, ranging from clear like glass, soft baby blue to turquoise to deep emerald green. Take a photo of the same spot throughout the day so you can capture the ever-changing color scene and take the memories with you.
The sand of Flamenco is light, white, soft… making sandcastle building fun and romantic long walks on the beach a treat to your feet. If you get there early in the morning, you may find the sand beautifully undisturbed with few or no steps…since the evening breezes erased the steps from visitors of the previous day.
The Landscape of Playa Flamenco
Perhaps, it’s the perfectly landscaped shore with green rolling hills as the backdrop, lush tropical plants providing shade to visitors, a home to birds, and a hideout for honeymooners wishing to have a romantic kiss. Unlike most Caribbean beaches, Flamenco is free of concrete buildings and big resorts giving visitors a sense of being in a faraway paradise.
Snorkeling at Flamenco Beach
At Flamenco, not only can you go for a wonderfully refreshing swim, bring your snorkel gear, and explore the coral reefs below the surface. Swim with turtles, manta rays, and a variety of multicolored tropical fish.
On the other side of the stone bridge and “natural toddler pool”, (the far right end of Flamenco), you can disconnect from the world and explore the coral reefs beneath.
Perfect for Honeymooners & Romantics
Flamenco Beach feels really big, yet provides many intimate spots, perfect for love birds.
If you’re longing to feel like you have your own piece of paradise, you won’t have a problem finding a quiet spot even on a busy summer day.
Perfect for Families
Safe waters for swimming, snorkeling, kid-friendly food, bathrooms, outdoor showers, easy beach access, and an ambiance that allows families to reconnect. If you have small children, Flamenco’s waters are calm with gentle waves, perfect for the whole family to enjoy a day at the beach.
On the far right end of Flamenco, you’ll find the most perfect spot for toddlers. A very shallow area with crystal clear water with spectacular views of the curvaceous landscape of Flamenco.
The Crowds at Flamenco Beach
Flamenco beach only gets crowded during holidays and summer months, during winter months when most islands throughout the Caribbean are crowded, Flamenco is blissfully quiet even on a busy day. Most visitors tend to park their lounge chairs on the main beach off the main entrance if you want more privacy and quiet, just a few minutes walk towards either side, will give you more solitude.
The Navy Tanks at Flamenco Beach
A famous and unique landmark at Flamenco beach you won’t anywhere else on earth is the old Navy tank parked on the sand, a reminder of the past when the United States Navy used the island as a gunnery range. The residents of Culebra protested and four years later in 1975, the US Military left the island and sadly moved to the sister island of Vieques. Along the way, you’ll see another tank on the interior of the beach. The Navy tank is one of the most photographed artefacts on the island fully rusted with ever changing art by locals. Once in Flamenco just walk west of the beach, the walk there is marvellous.
The food at Flamenco Beach
When you get hungry, you can head to the outdoor food stands serving our Puerto Rican street food so yummy that it’s worth leaving the sands of Flamenco for a little while.
Among popular food choices Puerto Ricans love offered at Flamenco are:
- Empanillas (pastry fried turnovers filled with beef, chicken, crab, shrimp, and shark, and more).
- Alcapurrias – made of fried plantain or yucca dough filled with ground beef.
- Surrullos – our son calls them “Puerto Rican fries”. At Flamenco, the big surrullos are sold. Typically, they are finger size and dipped in mayoketchup (a delicious mix of mayonnaise and ketchup). They are made with cornflour and filled with a string of cheddar cheese in the middle and fried.
- Pinchos (Meat Skewers / Kebabs) – Puerto Ricans love pork and chicken but they’re also made with fish and served with tostones (fried mashed plantains).
- You can also enjoy fish platters.
- Tostones – twice-fried mashed plantains.
For the less adventurous, you can also find pizza and more typical American foods.
Camping at Flamenco Beach
Flamenco is one of the most desirable beaches for developers, but Culebra has managed to protect this beach from commercial development. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars for a beachfront guest room, you can reserve a spot under the stars and camp at Flamenco.
News: For those that prefer more comforts, we are happy to inform you that management is working on offering the first “glamping” accommodations on a public beach in Puerto Rico. Management is collecting donations to help build permanent camping wooden tents for rent.
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
You found it! Perfection in a beach. Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is an amazing destination, and one you’ll swoon over.
Quite possibly the softest sand on earth and most turquoise water you’ll ever see is met with the most picturesque backdrop of the rolling hills of the island of Culebra Puerto Rico. With a natural, palm tree-lined ocean and not a hotel in sight, Flamenco Beach is what some would describe as Heaven on Earth.
Seriously does it get more stunning than this?😍
This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosures.
Flamenco Beach is on a tiny island off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico, and it’s a truly unbelievable destination.
What makes Flamenco Beach in Culebra amazing?
Here are the top 3 reasons why you should visit Flamenco Beach (AKA Playa Flamenco)!
Even the entrance to this beach is mesmerizing!
1. It’s stunning (you won’t believe your eyes)
Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is such a stunning sight, it’s been rated as a Top 10 Beach in the World over and over again. And as someone who’s been to other beaches in the top 10, like Palm Beach in Aruba and Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos, I can tell you it deserves all the accolades it’s received!
Wait, it actually might deserve the top spot on any best beaches list!
You’re gonna want to get here ASAP!
2. There’s truly something magical about it
The island of Culebra is largely undeveloped, which lets it’s natural beauty shine. Unlike other popular Caribbean destinations with hotel-lined beaches and restaurants with great views, Flamenco Beach offers none of that.
Instead, you’ll get to enjoy the island in it’s gorgeous natural state.
3. Flamenco Beach in Puerto Rico isn’t crowded
Even more spectacular? It’s remote location makes it harder to get to, and the beach is not over crowded. The crescent-shaped beach is large with enough room to spread out and sit away from the crowd.
Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is most busy over the summer months and during the peak of winter. However, just walk left or right of the main entrance and you’ll be able to find solitude.
Alright, enough about why you should visit. Let’s chat about how to get there…
Where is Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico?
Just 18 miles to the east of the mainland Puerto Rico is the tiny island of Culebra, Puerto Rico. It’s only 10 square miles, and the perfect island escape. Playa Flamenco is on the northwest part of the island.
Here’s a map of Flamenco Beach in Culebra, as well as the location of the port for the ferry, the airport and a couple of mainland spots.
This will give you a sense of the island. Zoom in as needed to check out Culebra Island and Flamenco Beach on the map!
While Flamenco Beach is the main attraction in Culebra, there’s actually quite a bit to see and do on this tiny island. Check out this Ultimate Guide to Culebra Puerto Rico for more!
How to get to Flamenco Beach, Culebra
To get to the stunning Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico, you have 3 options…
1. Day trip to Flamenco Beach
Take a yacht or catamaran to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico for a day trip
This is ideal if you’re only spending a few days in Puerto Rico and you want to maximize your time. There’s a few options departing from mainland Puerto Rico that visit Flamenco Beach for the day.
Best day trips to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico
- Departing from San Juan, take a speedboat to Culebra and Flamenco Beach.
- If you’re in the Ceiba area, join a snorkeling tour to Flamenco Beach.
- From Ceiba, this tour includes kayaking and snorkeling in Culebra plus time on Flamenco Beach.
These Flamenco Beach tours have your whole day planned out for you, minimizing your stress on your vacation! From food to snorkeling gear plus local expertise, this is a great way to experience Flamenco Beach in Culebra!
If booking a tour, just remember to pack your ocean-safe sunscreen and beach towel. This is going to be amazing!
2. Ferry to Flamenco Beach (Culebra) from Ceiba
Take the Culebra Ferry to Flamenco Beach
If you’re staying on Culebra longer than a day – and I highly recommend it – you can take the ferry over to the island, then rent a jeep or golf cart to get to Flamenco Beach. (For more info on logistics, read this post.)
While extremely affordable at less than $5 per person, I personally found the ferry to Flamenco Beach to be risky. Advance reservations are difficult because the ferry prioritizes spots for locals first (which honestly they should do). But that means you could show up the day you’re planning to go to Flamenco Beach and find out you actually can’t get a seat on the ferry.
Additionally, the Puerto Rico Ferry doesn’t release tickets very far in advance – it’s only a month at a time. So for instance, June’s tickets for the Flamenco Beach ferry would be available for purchase very late May, until they’re sold out.
So because of that, I’d recommend the next option if you have more than a day to spend here.
3. Fly to Flamenco Beach in Culebra
Flying to Culebra from San Juan
While more expensive than taking a ferry, flying to Culebra Island/Flamenco Beach is quick and reliable. You can fly there via Cape Air or Air Flamenco. Flights depart from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan directly to Benjamin Rivera Noriega Airport, Culebra’s small airport.
Once you arrive on the island, you’ll need to rent a golf cart or Jeep through Carlos Jeep Rental or Jerry’s Jeep Rental. With less than 2000 residents, there’s no ride share option!
Pro tip: during peak season, be sure to reserve your rental car in advance because there’s a limited supply.
Driving to Flamenco Beach
Once you’re on the island, GPS can be unreliable. To get to the main entrance to Flamenco Beach, pick up a map at your Jeep rental spot. It’s a helpful visual. 😊
You’ll want to take highway 251 on Culebra and stay on the paved road drive it all the way to the end of the island. GPS will tell you to turn right before the lake, but that’s not where you want to go. Drive past the lake – Laguna del Flamenco (on the right side of the road) and continue on until you see the entrance to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico.
Note: it does cost $5 per vehicle and $2 per person, per day to enjoy the amenities at Flamenco Beach Culebra. Pay at the main entrance and they’ll guide you where to park.
The stunning Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico
Alright already let’s see the beach!
Flamenco Beach in Culebra is the kind of place that you truly cannot believe until you see it.
As someone who’s actively crossing places off my bucket list, I’ve only felt this way about 3 other spots in this world: the gorgeous Leeward Beach in Turks and Caicos, the majestic mountains of Glacier National Park in Montana, USA and while hiking the NaPali Coast in Kauai, Hawaii.
Anyways, you’re gonna love it!
Best spots to sit on Playa Flamenco
Rent chairs and an umbrella for a comfortable beach day
Once you walk through the designated path and onto the beach, you can turn left towards the end of the island, or right up the crescent-shaped beach. I personally feel it’s more peaceful to enjoy the beach further from the crowds, so that’s what I typically do. But being close to the amenities has it’s advantages, too!
I’d recommend walking in either direction up the beach if you plan to get in the water. The waves are the biggest and most powerful right in the middle when they come in directly from the Caribbean Sea.
Far end on the west side has more palm trees and spots to cozy up under.
If you don’t want to pay for an umbrella, grab a palm tree! You might want to get there early to snag one though, especially in peak summer travel or the dead of winter when the beach is busiest.
If you’re feeling adventurous, bring a hammock and hang it between palms for the afternoon. This is the travel hammock I have and it’s perfect for this kind of beachy getaway!
But basically, sitting anywhere on Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is like eye candy for you. You’ll love this beach!
Painted Tanks at Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico
Painted tank at the end of Flamenco Beach Culebra
All the way to the west end of Flamenco Beach is an interesting sight: a tank left over from when the U.S. Navy used the island for target practice.
It’s a sad time in the islands history. You can read more about it here. There’s another tank just off the beach you can see on land, too.
Unfortunately, the tank was left sitting on the beach to rot. As you walk on the sand towards the tank, you’ll begin to see black sediment on the sand from the disintegrating tanks.
It’s really sad.
But the locals have done something to turn that dark period into some thing beautiful. The tanks are regularly painted to make them more visually appealing, giving them their name.
It’s now a feature on at Puerto Rico Flamenco Beach, and one that makes for an interesting walk. Kids especially love to look at the old tanks!
Flamenco Beach snorkeling
Calm waters for Flamenco Beach snorkeling
Real talk: snorkeling Flamenco Beach is great for seeing sting rays and the occasional sea turtle. But you won’t see a lot under the water because there’s not really a good reef system close to the shore.
As someone who’s snorkeled the best reefs in Belize like Laughing Bird Caye and the best snorkeling beaches in Kauai, this just doesn’t compare to that.
But honestly, it shouldn’t! Part of the allure of this beach is the fine white sand and perfect turquoise water. If there was a large reef for snorkeling you wouldn’t have those other aspects that make it perfect!
Those Caribbean views tho😍
So if you’re looking for the best snorkeling on Culebra, I’d highly recommend heading to Tamarindo Beach or Melones Beach.
There is much better snorkeling for sea turtles, sting rays and a variety of fish.
Note: if you do want to snorkel to see the amazing white sand under the water, you can rent snorkel gear from one of the vendors (details below). You can also bring your own snorkel gear.
My husband and I travel with snorkel gear so we have the ultimate flexibility to snorkel when and where we want, for free. This is the snorkel set I took to Culebra and love it.
Amenities at Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico
One of the nicest amenities on Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico is the fact that you can rent chairs and an umbrella for the day. It’s not super cheap at $10 per chair and $20 for the umbrella (prices accurate based on article publish date). Snorkeling equipment is available to rent from the on-site vendors, too.
Renting an umbrella will help you from getting sunburnt while putting you close enough to the water to watch the waves crash.
You’ll also find restrooms, rinse stations and even restaurants at Flamenco Beach. So you can sit your happy self on the beach all day and not have to go into town!
Food and drinks
When you’re hungry after spending time on Playa Flamenco, grab a burger or kabobs. For more traditional Puerto Rican food, have some rice and beans or try the empanadas, stuffed with all kids of goodies like chicken, crab, shrimp or octopus.
Need water? They’ve got that too!
Cocktails and beer are also available. Or, pack a cooler and bring your own!
Unlike other cushy Caribbean destinations, here’s not service directly on the beach (so nobody will bring you drinks). Again, I think that’s part of the allure of Flamenco Beach Culebra! But the food stands are between the parking lot and beach, so they’re close.
Note: there is construction happening at the time of this article’s publication, which will expand the services at Flamenco Beach in the future.
Puerto Rico Flamenco Beach with kids
Check out this shallow entrance – perfect for young kids!
If you’re visiting Flamenco Beach with kids, here are a few suggestions for you…
- If you walk towards the hillside on the far end of the crescent (towards the east), the water is really shallow and the ideal spot for kids to play.
- The waves are most gentle on the ends of the crescent. The waves can be really strong in the middle of the beach, where there’s direct access from the open Caribbean Sea.
- There’s not sand toys available at Flamenco Beach. I recommend bringing your own sand toys, like this set.
What to bring to Flamenco Beach
This beach is gorgeous and I hope you enjoy your time here! These are the things you might want to bring to Flamenco Beach.
- GoPro for the best photos and videos. By taking a GoPro you’ll get super crisp video and photos in and out of the water. And bonus – the lens doesn’t fog or get spotty like other cameras. It can seamlessly go underwater for beautiful shots, like in the video at the beginning of this article. Just be sure to grab a float strap, too!
- Snorkel gear. Mentioned earlier in this post, bringing your own snorkeling gear means you can snorkel when and where you want to!
- Detangler for long hair. If you’re swimming or snorkeling and get your hair wet, this stuff is a life saver! Grab a wide-tooth comb and spray it for
And bonus – the lens doesn’t fog or get spotty like other cameras. It can seamlessly go underwater for beautiful shots, like in the video at the beginning of this article. Just be sure to grab a float strap, too!You’re gonna want to get here ASAP!
- Reef-safe sunblock. This is a must! The sun is hoooot in the Caribbean and you’ll want to slather the sunblock. Make sure it’s reef safe so it doesn’t hurt the fish and reefs in the ocean. This is my favorite reef-safe sunblock. And bonus – it actually smells great
- Cash and credit card. I’d highly recommend cash for Playa Flamenco entrance fee and tips, and credit or debit card for food.
- Bug spray. Guyyyyyys. I cannot stress this enough. The mosquitos are thick in Puerto Rico. So while you’re on the island and not directly in the water, make sure to apply bug spray. This is my favorite all-natural bug spray and it works great!
- Beach Towel with hidden pocket. If you’re weary of sticky fingers, bring a beach towel with hidden pocket. I put my phone and keys in it and it’s pretty much non-existent for someone looking to grab my stuff.
- Snacks or food. If you have food allergies or just like to snack, consider bringing your own to the island. If you pack a lunch, there are picnic tables available along the trees to sit and eat.
To view a full list of things to bring to Flamenco Beach, check out this beach packing list.
Where to stay near Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico
Alright before I wrap up this post on one of the most gorgeous spots on the planet, let’s talk accommodations.
Because of the natural state of the beach and Culebra in general, you won’t find Flamenco Beach resorts right on the water. It’s what keeps the beach so beautiful!
There are no high-rise hotels or large chains on Culebra Island. But you will find locally-owned vacation rentals and villas.
I recommend using Booking.com to find the right spot because they have a variety of properties at affordable prices. I used them and found the cutest villa, perfect for 2, Aleli Cottages.
There is one tiny resort right on the beach with just a few rooms, Villa Flamenco Beach. Otherwise the entire island is only a 20 minute drive from one end to the next, so anywhere you stay will be close to Flamenco Beach. 😊
Most accommodations are just a few minutes away from Playa Flamenco
Flamenco Beach hotels & vacation properties
- Aleli Cottages. Pictured above – it has spectacular views of the island. Perfect for couples, it’s affordable and is a great little vacation property.
- Ulala Culebra. With water views, these rental units are just a short drive from the beach and town.
- Island Charm Culebra. With picturesque balcony views, you’ll love these accommodations.
If you’re planning to stay a night (or more) on Culebra, you’ll want to book accommodations early to get the most variety.
Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico – that’s a wrap!
You’re not going to want to leave this paradise!😍
Have you seen enough to book your trip? Or maybe it’s already booked and now this just teased you a bit more!
It’s a truly stunning beach that deserves to be seen. But shhhhh – don’t tell everyone you know because the small crowds are part of the allure 😉.
Whether you have 2 hours or a week, enjoy your time at Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico. You’re gonna love it!
Related content:
Culebra Puerto Rico: 25 Things to Do + Best Beaches and How to Get There
28 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Old San Juan Puerto Rico
Beach Packing List: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)
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Weather.
Flamingo Garden. Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Accurate weather forecast
Date
Local time
temperature, ° C
is felt, ° C
City conditions
Cloudness, %
precipitation, mm
Atmospheric pressure, GPA
Wind speed, m/s.
Wind direction
Humidity
Sun
Moon
Moon phase
Tue, 08/11
11 :00 14 : 00 17 : 00 20 : 00 23 : 00
9005 +28 9005 +25 9005 +2 +25 +2 + 24
+32 +32 +32 +28 +27
40 59 53 65 71
0.69 0.25 0.16
1014 1013 1012 1013 1013
3 3 2 2 2
83 77 77 85 88
6:30
17:46
18:03
06:29
Wed, 09/11
2 :00 5 :00 8 : 00 11 : 00 14 : 00 17 : 00 20 9003.
2 : 00
4: 00,000,00034: 00,000 $ 9000: +24 +25 +29 +29 +28 +25 +24
+27 +29 +29 9003.3 +29 9003.3 +29 9003. +32 +29 +28
79 33 31 25 52 64 64 57
0.15 0.27 0.93 0.23 0.28
1012 1012 1013 1014 1011 1011 1013 1014
2 2 3 4 9 9,99,99,49,9 3 2 2 2
90 86 68 69 77 88 89 89
0 9000 9000 9000
17:46
18:46
07:25
Th for 10/11
2 : 00 5 : 00 8 11 : 00 14 : 00 : 00 9: 00 : 00
36
17 : 00 20 : 00 23 : 00
+24 +24 +26 9005 +28 9ATHER 25 +24
+28 +28 +30 +32 +32 +31 9005 +28 +28
74 74 74 74 74 74 74 74 74 74 74 9003A 50 44 66 70 51
0.
57 0.51
1013 1012 1014 1015 1012 1012 1014 1014
2 1 2 3 3 3 2 2
90 90 84 72 59 74 85 88
6:31
17:46
19:32
08:20
Fri, 11/11
2 : 00 5 : 00 8 : 00 11 : 00 14 : 00 : 00 : 00 : 00 : 00 : 00 : 00 ) :00 20 :00 23 :00
+24 +24 +26 +29 +29 +27 +24 +23
+28 +28 +30 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 8 +30 9ATH +30 +27 +27
47 97 86 28 63 79 65 83
1013 1013 1014 1014 1012 1012 1014 1015
2 2 1 3 4 4 3 2
92 92 83 69 65 75 87 90
6:31
17:45
20:21
09:15
Sat, 12/11
2 :00 5 : 00 8 : 00 11 : 00 14 : 00 20 : 00 : 00 : 00 : 00 :
+23 +23 +25 +29 +28 +27 +24 +24 9000 9000 +27 +286 +27 +286 +27 +288 + +32 +31 +30 +27 +27
89 74 54 44 61 95 92 96
1.
14 2.22
1013 1013 1014 1014 1012 1013 1014 1015
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0033 3 3 2 2
91 88 81 69 74 81 88 90 9000 9000 6:
17:45
21:13
10:08
Sun, 13/11
2 : 00 5 : 00 8 : 00
+23 +23 +25 99 9 +25
+27 +27 +29
91 93 78
1014 1014 1015
1 1 1
91 90 86
6:32
17:45
22:05
10:58
+28°C
Feels: +32 °C
Light rain
Wind speed: 3 m/s
Atmospheric pressure:
1014 hPa
Humidity: 83%
Dominican Republic | Flamingo Travel company “Flamingo”
The Dominican Republic occupies two thirds of the island of Haiti (central and eastern part), which is located in the center of the Caribbean archipelago, is the second largest island in the archipelago after Cuba.
The Dominican Republic covers an area of 48 sq. km. In the north and east it is washed by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, in the south – by the Caribbean Sea. It borders with the state of Haiti. The nearest neighbors of the Dominican Republic are Cuba in the northwest, Jamaica in the west and Puerto Rico in the east. It is predominantly a mountainous country. The mountains are covered with dense evergreen forests with valuable tree species. The highest mountain peak is Pico Duarte, 3,174 m.
About 8 million people live in the Dominican Republic. About 50% of the population is young people under 20 years old, and it is predominantly the urban population of the country. The Dominican diaspora has about 1.5 million people, two thirds of which live in the United States and one third in Puerto Rico and other islands of the Antilles archipelago.
The local population is very welcoming and friendly, its roots go back to the Spanish and African settlers. Keep in mind that the pace of life of the Dominicans is different from the European one.
When they say to you: “Momentido”, this does not mean at all that someone is going to run to fulfill your request. Maybe no one is going to do it. It is better to accept this as a national feature of the Dominicans and try to live at their pace. The whole life of the Dominicans is spent in dancing. It seems that there are no lyrical songs, only dance tunes.
The language of the Dominican Republic
The national language is Spanish, but English, German, Italian are used in resort areas, and almost all hotels have at least one Russian-speaking representative.
Dominican time zone
The difference with Kyiv is minus 6 hours in winter and minus 7 in summer.
Dominican currency
The national currency is the Dominican peso, equal to 100 centavos. In circulation are banknotes of 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20. 10, 5, 1 pesos and coins of 1 peso, 50, 25, 10, 5, 1 centavos.
Money can be exchanged upon arrival at the airport, as well as at the hotel and exchange offices. 1 USD is approximately equal to 44.8 Dominican pesos. Currency exchange is carried out in hotels or commercial banks, which are open from 8 am to 3 pm. You can also use US dollars almost everywhere. All major credit cards accepted: Visa, Master Card, American Express, etc.
Features of Dominican cuisine
Dominican cuisine is full of exotics for a person unaccustomed to such delights. Fried bananas, mashed wild bananas and cassava, various fruits – mangoes, coconuts, guava, bananas, and many other fruits unknown to the inhabitants of the northern latitudes. Dominicans love meat, although they rarely can afford pork or chicken delicacies. The meat is cooked with vegetables, red beans or other legumes, rice, root vegetable puree, the same green fried bananas (“bandera”) are served as a side dish. Soups are also a frequent guest on the table: asopao puree soup is beyond praise.
The role of bread is assigned to kasaba cakes, they are prepared both with filling and without.
Typical dishes: “Bandera” – Dominican daily food, consisting of meat, beans, rice, lettuce and “frites”. Locals also love fish under coconut sauce and various dishes called “sancocho” and “locrio”, San Cocho (different types of meat cooked in broth with vegetables), fish with coconut, Mangu (mashed wild bananas, prepared for breakfast) , Pignonate (dessert made from milk and coconuts).
Seafood and fish dishes are not very popular among the local population, but are highly valued by tourists.
In seaside cafes and restaurants, you can find a rich menu: crabs with various sauces, many varieties of baked and fried fish, and “combined hodgepodge” – “moriscos”.
Coffee and rum are the perfect addition to any meal. Local coffee has a rich, rich aroma, and rum-based cocktails can delight even the most capricious layman.
Typical drinks: fruit juices (papaya, coconut milk, orange, pineapple, passion fruit, etc.), “seniza” beer (very cold), as well as rum and piña colada, “free cube” (pom-clak ), as well as a large selection of exotic cocktails. Rum is the national alcoholic drink of the Dominican Republic, without which not a single celebration is complete anywhere in the country. Rum is widely popular among the local population of the Dominican Republic along with local brands of beer “Quisqueya”, “Presidente” and “Bohemia”. Rum of various quality and bottling can be purchased at any store or tent. Among the 15 varieties of rum produced in the country, the main positions are occupied by Brugal, Barselo and Bermudes. Rum is made dark (with a classic golden hue) and light (white, often with the addition of lemon, which gives the drink a refined taste). Rum is drunk neat or added to cocktails. For example, “Pina colada” (Rum, often 3 types, coconut milk and pineapple juice, ice), “Daiquiri” (rum, lemon juice, ice chips) and, of course, the famous and most common “Free Cuba” (rum with coca-cola and ice).
Dominican climate
Tropical trade winds, marine. The average monthly temperatures fluctuate slightly – from +25 C to +27 C. The hottest month is August (up to +31 C), but sea winds blowing from the northeast soften the heat even at this time. The “coldest” is January (about +22 C). The local climate is characterized by high humidity – from 65% to 80%. Precipitation falls from 1000 to 2000 mm. in year. The rainy season lasts from May to August-September, when tropical air masses bring rain to the island, which mainly fall at night or early in the morning and last no more than 20-30 minutes. Frequent but short showers are also possible in November-December. The rest of the time, dry and warm weather prevails.
Customs regulations of the Dominican Republic
The import of foreign currency into the country is not limited, the export of more than 10 thousand US dollars in cash is prohibited.
Import and export of local currency is prohibited. Allowed duty-free import of up to 1 liter of alcoholic beverages with a strength of up to 22%, up to 2 liters of less strong drinks, up to 500 gr. coffee, up to 200 cigarettes or one box of cigars, up to 2 bottles of perfume, as well as personal items and gifts worth no more than $100.
It is forbidden to export, without special permission, objects and things of historical and artistic value, some types of orchids and the core of a palm tree, as well as cigars in quantities of more than 50 pieces per person.
Shops and shopping in the Dominican Republic
A unique souvenir from the Dominican Republic is a piece of stone called larimar. This turquoise-like stone is mined only on Dominican soil. It is classified as a semi-precious stone and is used to make various jewelry – from inexpensive amulets to expensive jewelry made of precious metals. An equally beautiful souvenir will be an item made of amber, especially since in the Dominican Republic this stone is found not only in the usual honey color, but also in red, black and blue.
It is better to buy jewelry and jewelry in specialized stores so as not to get a fake.
Dominican cigars are recognized as the best in the world, and they cost much less than Cuban ones. Such a souvenir will be a good gift for smokers. The most popular cigar brands are Casa Blanca, Fonseca, La Aurora, Cubita.
You can bring coffee as a tasty and fragrant souvenir from the Dominican Republic. Fans of this drink will appreciate its taste. Cafe Santo Domingo is considered the best coffee in this country. Also, in memory of the Dominican Republic, you can bring the famous Imperial rum and coconut oil.
If you are wondering what to bring from the Dominican Republic as a souvenir of this colorful country, you can opt for mahogany or colorful Haitian naive paintings. Almost half of the population of this country is engaged in this art, so such canvases can be bought inexpensively.
Shops are open on weekdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00.
Opening hours on weekends depend on the profile of the store. Tourist areas of the country offer tourists numerous boutiques and souvenir shops. Santo Domingo has the largest commercial centers where you can buy clothes, shoes and other goods of local and foreign production of good quality and at affordable prices.
Bargaining is possible almost everywhere, except for supermarkets. Most often, prices for tourists are initially overpriced, so you can usually agree on half the original cost of the goods.
Resorts and attractions of the Dominican Republic
Bavaro resort and Punta Cana
The most popular holiday destination in the Dominican Republic is the eastern part of the island – the resorts of Bavaro and Punta Cana. It is here that the best all-inclusive hotels are concentrated. The eastern part of the island has gained great popularity due to its coastline. Its length is estimated at hundreds of kilometers. And thanks to the coral reef that surrounds the eastern part and holds back strong waves from the Atlantic Ocean, the sand on the beach has acquired an amazing color and consistency.
The name Punta Cana comes from the cana palm, the leaves of which form the famous Indian hut roofs. Punta Cana is a cape where a huge number of these palm trees grow.
Punta Cana and Bavaro are the most visited tourist area in the Caribbean after Cancun. Punta Cana Airport has become the third most important after Cancun and Miami. The resort features hotels from the world’s leading hotel chains. The most common are Sol Melia, Paradisus, Barcelo, Princess and Iberostar. Hotels usually consist of two- or three-story buildings and bungalows scattered among lush tropical vegetation and palm trees. Most of these hotels, regardless of whether they are “three-star” or “five-star”, operate on an all-inclusive basis.
Nightlife in Punta Cana – Bavaro
Mostly concentrated in hotels where you can visit evening shows, discotheques, casinos, but outside the hotel you can plunge into the nightlife of shows and discos Mangu, Imagin, Luna del Caribe, Areito, Pacha, Sazino Tower, Oro Hard Rock Hotel, or go to a typical Dominican, noisy and crowded, parties until the morning, where they do not stop merengue, bachata and salsa on Saturdays, or sit in charming restaurants and bars, such as Pulpo Koho, Captain Cook, Jelly Fish.
Entertainment
Fans of outdoor activities will definitely like Fun-Buggy. These are small sports cars, tourists drive them themselves.
A trip on a catamaran will be very memorable. You can see all the diversity of coral reef life, watch tropical fish.
A Jeep Safari will give you an unforgettable walk along the roads of the island, to see its magnificent landscapes, to observe the daily life of very cheerful and friendly locals.
Punta Cana Attractions
Punta Cana’s most famous attraction is the Manati Zoological Park. What and who is not here! Hundreds of bird species, sea turtles, iguanas, crocodiles, sea lions.
Here you can also visit wonderful shows of dolphins, fur seals, performances of horses and parrots.
Resorts in La Romana and Bayahibe
The second most popular resorts in the Dominican Republic are located 140 kilometers from Santo Domingo (the capital of the Dominican Republic) and 100 kilometers from Punta Cana.
If in Bavaro vacationers splash in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, then the Caribbean Sea dominates here. The southern coast of the Dominican Republic is not as long as the eastern one. It is a rocky coast and many coral reefs. But among this there are small sandy areas on which resort hotels are located in the La Romana and Bayahibe zones.
To the east of La Romana lies one of the island’s most picturesque agricultural areas: sugar cane valleys and citrus orchards.
Here, above the deep gorges by the Chavon River, is the artists’ village of Altos de Chavon, built in the style of a medieval Italian town, and a unique amphitheater.
Bayahibe Beach is the highlight of the resort, which features picturesque beaches with fine soft sand. Holidays with children, a measured beach holiday, the calm serenity of a secluded holiday – these are all the advantages of La Romana.
Entertainment and Attractions:
On any Saturday, you should definitely visit the city landmark – the local colorful market.