THE CARIBBEAN

Planning your trip to the Dominican Republic

The Caribbean nation loves the grand old game, but its history, water sports and spirit of fun are more than between-inning attractions.

By Dean R. Owen, Special to The Los Angeles Times
02:56 PM PDT, October 01, 2008

THE BEST WAY TO THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

From LAX, American, Continental, Copa and Delta offer connecting service (change of planes) to Santo Domingo.

Restricted roundtrip fares begin at $409. Visas not required for U.S. residents; however, there is a $10 fee payable upon entry.

WHERE TO STAY

Casa Doña Elvira, 207 Padre Billini, Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo; (809) 221-7415,

www.dona-elvira.com. Renovated 16th century villa; doubles start at $90.

V Centenario Santo Domingo (InterContinental), 218 George Washington Ave., Santo Domingo; (888) 424-6835, www.ichotelsgroup.com/inter continental. Hotel with casino. Doubles from $105.

WHERE TO EAT

Pata é Palo, 21 La Atarazana, Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo; (809) 687-3171. Excellent food in the heart of Zona Colonial in a building dating to the 1500s. Dinners from about $20.

WHERE TO PLAY

Rancho Baiguate, Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic; (809) 574-6890, www.ranchobaiguate.com. This outfit organized our hike up Pico Duarte. Cost for party of five, including one night at guesthouse, transportation, guides, mules, food and camping equipment, $1,050.

TO LEARN MORE

Embassy of the Dominican Republic, 1715 22nd St. N.W., Washington, D.C.; (202) 332-6280, www.domrep.org.

Where am I?

This is a city known for great old architecture. And it's a desert spot and has a long-standing tradition of hospitality.


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