One hour 45 minutes east of Santo Domingo is the city of La Romana, home to the understated elegance and graceful charm of the 7000-acre Casa de Campo resort, designed by Oscar de la Renta. Guests can relax in the luxuriant tropical setting, spending their time swimming, snorkeling, playing tennis, horseback riding, or engaging in a round of golf on one of the Caribbean’s finest courses.
Also part of the complex is Altos de Chavon, a recreation of a medieval Spanish village situated on a bluff overlooking the Rio Chavon. Its cobble stone streets are enhanced by lanterns and wrought-iron balconies, while courtyards are swathed with bougainvillea. In the village live a number of artists plying their trade, and there are handicraft shops and chic boutiques selling jewelry and fashions by such designers as Oscar de la Renta. Altos de Chavón also hosts major events in a 5000-seat Greek amphitheater, built in the traditional design of Epidaurus.
Things to See & Do
*Casa de Campo resort
* Altos de Chavón village
* Saona Island excursion
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Dominican Peso
Language – Spanish
Land Area – 48,072 sq km
Population – 26,000,000
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT minus four hours
International Country Telephone Code – 1 + 809
Port Location – The cruise terminal lies between the village of La Romana and the resort of Casa de Campo. There are minimal services at the dock so one must either take a tour or negotiate for a taxi (limited and expensive).
Transport Links – International flights to and from the US, London and Europe are available from Santo Domingo), 18km (11 miles) east of the city.
Cheap and efficient air-conditioned bus and coach services run from the capital to other major towns. Travelers are recommended to hire tourist taxis or radio taxis that can be arranged in advance. Avoid unmarked taxis. There are several car hire companies in Santo Domingo. Santo Domingo has flat-fare bus and minibus services, and an estimated 7000 share-taxis called Carro de Conchos. These operate a 24-hour service in Santo Domingo, Santiago and Puerto Plata.