The Dominican Republic’s capital city, Santo Domingo is also the most modern and dynamic metropolis in the Caribbean.

Blessed with one of the Caribbean region’s longest white sand coastlines–a whopping 48 kilometers (30 miles), punctuated with sky-reaching coconut palms–Punta Cana is the land of rest and relaxation by the sea.

Jutting out of the DR’s northeastern shore and basking in the ocean, the nature haven that is the Samaná Peninsula is as coveted today as it was in the 16th century.

The birthplace of tourism in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata continues to pack a mighty punch. Its spectacular, sprawling landscape combines sea, mountains, lush valleys, rivers, and a multitude of beaches.

Overflowing in natural riches—from a poster-worthy Caribbean coastline to world-class golf courses—La Romana is one of the country’s top destination picks.

Boasting an average elevation of 1,200 meters (4,000 feet), Constanza is the highest altitude town in the Caribbean region.

Santiago de los Caballeros–named after the 30 Spanish aristocrats who followed Columbus and settled here in 1495–was the country’s first capital before it suffered an earthquake in 1562.

The jewel of the northwest, the border province of Montecristi presents a wild and striking landscape ripe for off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Located an hour east of the capital city of Santo Domingo, and closer still to Las Américas International Airport (SDQ), the cosmopolitan beach town of Juan Dolio offers an easy and tranquil tropical escape near the capital city.

The deep southwest of the Dominican Republic, dubbed “El Sur Profundo,” is geographically removed from the country’s primary tourist destinations – but those who get closer will find that remoteness has its perks.

Tucked in the southwestern most corner of the Dominican Republic, bordering Haiti, the Pedernales province is as remote as it gets.

La Vega has gained its place in the book of tourism for the colors and sights of its Sunday carnivals in February.

On weekends Boca Chica caters to Santo Domingo city residents who come for the shallow turquoise-colored waters. Boca Chica is the place to eat fried fish or seafood with a view at one of the many beachside restaurants.

Midway between Santiago and Santo Domingo, Bonao is often considered just a stop for a meal but its natural beauty high in the hills and the local art make it more of a destination.

Perched at an altitude of 529 meters (1,736 feet), this scenic mountain resort town is a favorite escape of Santiago and Santo Domingo city dwellers.