As an avid traveler, it is my habit to read as many things as I can before visiting a country. It helps me understand the people, culture, norms, and laws of the place better and lets me gel in there without too much fuss. This little habit of mine has made my trip comfortable and convenient many times.
A few months ago, I visited the beautiful Dominican Republic, a beautiful Caribbean country known for its beaches, music scene, and lively culture. Although I travelled like a random tourist by booking one of the best Dominican Republic holiday packages from the UK, I had the unassailable power of knowledge at my back, like most of the time.
My trip was a success and far better than I expected. The country is amazing and a must-visit place for everyone who is a fan of the Caribbean lifestyle or wants a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. And by this, I mean a pure and virgin holiday vibe, which is a totally different experience than urban holiday centers.
This success was based on the knowledge about the place, which I am sharing here for your ease.
11 Interesting Facts about the Dominican Republic
1. Two Independence Days
As the country was colonized by the Spanish and also got independence from Haiti, the people here celebrate two independence days. The one on which they got freedom from Haiti is celebrated on the 27th of February each year, and the other one is on the 16th of August, also known as the restoration day.
I was lucky enough to catch the first one during my trip. The celebrations are at their peak, with everyone enjoying themselves to the fullest. Dominicans are very patriotic people, and they love their country too much; this is why they celebrate both days with equal energy.
2. English Is More Common Than You Think
Although the official language is Spanish, people here are quite fluent in English. Most of them can easily speak and understand English, so you don’t have to worry about translating and other things. This will make your time there more convenient, especially during Punta Cana holidays, as this place is filled with Europeans and Americans almost all the days of the year. The staff, waiters, bartenders, cab drivers, and almost everyone know English, and you will not have any major constraints during your time there.
3. The Secret About Its Flag
The Dominican Republic has the honor of being the only country in the world with a Bible on its flag. Muslim countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran have religious elements on their flags, but in the Christian world, the Dominican Republic is the only country with such details.
There is a white cross in the center of the flag with two red and blue sections located diagonally. The blue part tells the world that land is free and accepting, the red reveals the blood of the heroes, and white is for salvation. Each country has a story about its flag, but the Dominican one is quite vivid.
4. The Land of Dances
This is not an official title but the one I gave to the Dominican Republic in my head. Well, I have my reasons behind it. Merengue and Bachata originated in the Dominican Republic, and these are not only the most famous dances in the country but also all over the world.
These dance and music genres draw inspiration from the island’s rich culture. If you analyze the moves, you will come to know that they are inspired by the Indigenous Taíno people and then by African and European traditions.
Merengue is much more fun and lively with upbeat and energetic music behind it. Even if you aren’t a dance person, it will inspire you to move a leg or two. Bachata is like a slow and romantic dance, which is quite famous all over the world as well.
5. A Big Coastline
I won’t say that the Dominican Republic has one of the biggest coastlines in the world, but I will definitely highlight that it has the most beautiful beaches in the world, and plenty of them too.
My most favorite one is Punta Cana, which spreads around 32 kilometers, but these are the most beautiful beaches with turquoise water and long palm trees that I have ever seen in my life. Then there is Samaná Bay with a stunning and amazing background formed by limestone cliffs. Puerto Plata, my third favorite beach town in the country, is best for family visitors due to the plenty of options available there.
6. The Dominican Cigars are one of the Best in the World
You might have heard a lot about Cuban cigars, but the ones made in the Dominican Republic are amazing as well. The island’s fertile soil and climate support tobacco growth, and this results in some of the most amazing cigars all over the world. If you smoke, you will enjoy your time here and will want to bring some back home.
7. The Rum Is a Class Above the Rest
Rum is not only a drink in the country; rather, it is a centuries-old tradition. The high-quality flavors, taste, and aroma are achieved after aging rum in the tradition. Many of the world’s leading brands originated in the Dominican Republic. Whether you like cocktails or prefer your drink neat, you will love rum here.
8. Coffee is a Daily Ritual
For almost every Dominican, coffee is the best way to start their day or end their evenings. It is not just a drink there but part of the culture. Coffee is the go-to drink in the country, just like tea in most parts of the world.
9. The Most Popular Sport in the Country
While cricket is the national sport and football is the most popular sport in the UK, baseball is both in the Dominican Republic. The sport is entirely famous among people of every age. Those who don’t play watch it lovingly. You will find people playing baseball in every corner of the island, and it is being played on almost every public TV. The country has also produced some of the big names in the sport that have made it to the US leagues. Some examples include the likes of David Ortiz, Willy Adames, Rafael Devers, and Luis Garcia.
10. The People Are Always Party Ready
You don’t need to provide an excuse to the locals or travelers there to start a party. The locals are big drinkers, and they’ll drink their fill at any event. For someone like me, it was quite a task to avoid getting boozed up every single night, especially when I became friends with the locals there.
11. Grocery Stores Are More Than a Simple Shop
The grocery stores in the country are like small supermarkets where you can find plenty of things, including meat, fresh produce, sweets, cigars, and even rum at a few. Plus, most of them have chairs placed outside, where you can sit with your friends and order a chilled beer or two to enjoy with your buddies.
Final Words
The facts I have mentioned above will definitely reduce the anxiety around your trip and make you more comfortable even before landing there. So, pack up your bags and get ready for one of the most amazing trips of your life.
