Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republics capital, has the distinction of being the oldest colonial city in the Americas. This city, located on the southern coast of the island, bordering the Caribbean Sea, has a population that surpasses the three million people and a land area of approximately two hundred and thirty square kilometres.

Considerably larger and more cosmopolitan than most Caribbean destination cities, offers its visitors the same sun and surf as other islands plus sophisticated nightlife and world class sports facilities. Extensive rain forest and mountain regions lie close to the city, ideal for the eco adventurer.

The Mirador Sur Park is one of the largest green areas of the city. Also, you will be able to admire the endemic fauna at the interesting Botannical Garden, while the National Zoo is one of the largest in Latin America.

At night, Santo Domingo lights up with a flair and tempo that rivals any Latin American city, with a good measure of cosmopolitan chic and Caribbean style. Caribbean rhythms set the tone, with the Dominican and Puerto Rican salsa leading the way. The parties at the discos and in the streets go on all night, especially on weekends.

Most cafes and discos come into and go out of fashion frequently as people decide what the place of the moment is and generally go out of business after the excitement is gone. Other remains as a traditional part of the Dominican nightlife. Nowadays, the most popular and frequented places include Montecristo Cafe, Trio Cafe and Beer House Cafe as well as Pate Palo European Brasserie, among others. Other places, worth visiting are Hollywood Cafe, Bizarro Cafe and Grill and Cafe Concierto Bachata Rosa.

Traditional Events held every year in the month of February the traditional Carnival is well worth attending if you are in town. In the celebration, people wearing colourful and unique costumes flood the streets, while dancing to the contagious rhythm. Another event is the Festival Del Merengue, celebrated in late July. The typical local music attracts a large crowd, including both tourists and locals.

As a major tourist destination in the Caribbean, its hotel and resort industry has developed to include every level of luxury, from five star hotels with casinos and health clubs to youth hostels for the backpacking crowd. Most of these accommodations are available in the Colonial Zone, Santo Domingos most important tourist location, and its adjacent areas.