Its colonial heritage is preserved in the Colonial Zone, where you can see the first cathedral, the first monastery, first hospital, first university, and first court of law, all dating back to the 16th century.Near Santo Domingo is Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes), a series of caves and freshwater lagoons used by the Taino Indians for religious ceremonies. Also, see Faro del Colon, built in the shape of a cross, which is projected into the sky at night.

15 minutes east of Santo Domingo Airport is the town of Boca Chica. Boca Chica boasts the largest reef-protected ocean lagoon in the Caribbean – the waters here are shallow, crystal clear, and calm. There are several all-inclusive hotels in Boca Chica, as well as many smaller hotels, restaurants and bars.

A little further east is an area called Juan Dolio, more tranquil and less hectic than Boca Chica. Here you will find a mix of private villas, condominiums and all-inclusive hotels, as well as the 18 hole Los Marlins Golf Course. Ten minutes away is San Pedro de Macoris, the nation’s third largest city, renowned for endowing the Major Leagues with many illustrious baseball stars.

La Romana is located approximately 90 minutes east of Santo Domingo. Nearby is Casa de Campo, a 7,000 acre property including two 18 hole championship golf courses, including the famous Teeth of the Dog, There are exclusive private villas as well as regular hotel accommodations. Just east of the resort is Altos de Chavon, an art/culture area designed to look like a 16th century Mediterranean village, and including a 5,000 seat amphitheatre as well as shops, restaurants, and a museum of Taino artifacts.

Just east of La Romana and approximately 90 minutes from Santo Domingo is Bayahibe, a small fishing village surrounded by a number of beautiful all-inclusive resorts on white-sand beaches. Ongoing expansion in this area will see several new resorts over the next year or two.

A popular excursion from this region is to take a boat to Catalina Island, a small island located 2 kilometers offshore that is a very popular snorkelling and diving spot, one of the best in the country.

Another excursion to take is a trip to Saona Island, located about 45 minutes from shore.. This picturesque island is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, tall coconut palms and great snorkelling.