Revisit Where Dominican Republic's Tourism Started

The North Coast Boasts Unique History, Natural Beauty and Exciting Activities

News provided by

Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

May 29, 2013, 03:15 ET

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, May 29, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism is encouraging travelers to visit one of the first cities to capture the attention of tourists, Puerto Plata. The area's long stretches of unspoiled beaches, spectacular scenery and blends of history and adventure make it the perfect destination for every interest. This versatile Caribbean playground has developed dramatically since it initially caught the public eye nearly 40 years ago. Packed with affordable and adventurous activities, and with the upcoming completion of the modern Amber Cove Cruise Center on the Bay of Maimon, the city is ready to welcome an influx of visitors.

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"Puerto Plata's an enchanting province where culture, history and nature collectively create an atmosphere fit for free-spirits," said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. "Whether visitors surf along the coastline, experience energizing nightlife, feel the rush of the region's waterfalls or visit the Amber Museum, it will be an unforgettable escape."

Revisit the destination that had it all first and enjoy an incredible array of activities:

Water Sport Wonderland: When it comes to water sports, your selections are limitless. Cool breezes and gentle swells make Puerto Plata a world-renowned area for kitesurfing, wakeboarding and windsurfing. Visitors are drawn to Cabarete, the popular town recognized as the world's kiteboarding capital because of its warm waters and trade winds. Snorkelers gravitate toward Sosua, a small town where the water is decorated with spectacular coral reefs and a wide variety of fish.

Adrenaline Adventures: The 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua is nature's waterpark that features a series of spectacular waterfalls. Courageous visitors are encouraged to slide down natural water chutes or jump in the waters' peaceful pools. Those who prefer activities outside of the water can take a 30-minute scenic drive from Puerto Plata to Yasika Adventure Park and zip-line up to 30 mph at heights of 100 feet.

Golf Greens: Puerto Plata has three expertly-designed golf courses framed by the region's striking scenery. The Playa Dorada Golf Club, designed by world-renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., is in the Playa Dorada Resort Complex and known for its outstanding conditioning and greens. Los Mangos Golf Course is a diverse 18-hole course with nine sea views located in the Costambar residential development. Playa Grande Golf Course in Rio San Juan cuts into the cliffs overlooking the ocean with lush land and royal palms neighboring the course. No matter your skill set, Puerto Plata's courses are fit for both champion and leisure players.

Exciting Culture: Puerto Plata is an area with unbelievable architecture through which visitors gain insight into Dominican Republic's incredible history. Housed in an epitome of Victorian architecture known as Villa Bentz, is Puerto Plata's Amber Museum. It showcases some of the world's best and most rare amber collections dating back millions of years. While amber is one of Dominican Republic's staple products, so is its rum, which is often referred to as the world's best. The Brugal Rum Distillery produces more than one million liters of white and dark rum each year, and offers free guided tours.

Download our Puerto Plata brochure and visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com for more information.

About Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic's first tourist was Christopher Columbus in 1492. Rich in history, Dominican Republic has developed into a diverse destination offering both Dominican and European flavors to approximately five million global visitors in 2012. Named #1 Golf Destination in Caribbean & Latin America by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, Dominican Republic boasts 28 designer golf courses, upscale resorts, pristine nature reserves, sophisticated cities and quaint villages filled with friendly Dominican people. Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families alike. Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism's official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.