Plan your trip to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and the oldest city in the Western Hemisphere. The old city is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Until recently, it was a huge city, but it has now been split into 5 independent municipalities: Distrito Nacional, Santo Domingo Este, Santo Domingo Oeste, Santo Domingo Norte and Boca Chica. Fortunately, nearly all tourist attractions and shopping, dining and entertainment venues are located relatively close to each other in the Distrito Nacional, making it easy to get around and see the sights.

Santo Domingo was the first major European settlement in the New World. The Colonial Zone offers many examples of 15th and 16th century architecture. Don't miss the Ozama Fort, the Alcazar de Colon and the Cathedral, all built in Columbus' lifetime. Also worth a visit is Atarrazana Street after dark for a variety of romantic outdoor cafes with a spectacular view of the bay.

This waterfront boulevard (George Washington Avenue) is home to several huge hotel/casino complexes and dozens of small restaurants, clubs and cafes. Go there to people watch, take a romantic carriage ride or just have a few beers. Nature lovers should find their way to the Parque Mirador Sur, an impressive park overlooking the coast. From there, visit the Jardin Botanico, a vast, beautiful and lush park situated near one of Santo Domingo's most exclusive neighborhoods.