Last week I enjoyed one of the best vacations I’ve had in a long time in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Our resort and room were comfortable and well maintained, the water was warm and inviting, and the beach was spotless. The pool and beach bars kept a steady flow of drinks, and relaxing by the shore was effortless.
The view of the ocean was spectacular. The water was warm, clear, and exactly what I wanted for a tropical break.
One day we took a long day trip—about 2.5 hours each way—to Santo Domingo for a historical tour. It was an all-day outing with a lot of walking, and the tropical heat made it feel even longer. Still, the sightseeing was worth it.
Highlights from Santo Domingo
Alcázar de Colón (Columbus family palace)
The Alcázar de Colón was built by Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus. It overlooks the River Ozama and the large Plaza de España, and it offers an intriguing glimpse into colonial life and history.
We also explored the caves and underground lakes known as Los Tres Ojos (The Three Eyes). The caverns are striking, with clear blue lagoons that were once a sacred site for the native Taíno people—historically used for ritual bathing. These caves have also served as film locations for a few movies, so the setting felt cinematic.
Back at the resort, the surroundings and amenities were fantastic, but the food didn’t always meet expectations. Several guests I spoke with felt the same: the buffet and desserts were uneven. There were a few restaurants on the property where the food was noticeably better, yet overall it didn’t match the quality I expected for the price. For a truly memorable meal, I preferred the authentic Dominican cuisine we found at Atarazana Restaurant in Santo Domingo—fresh flavors and well-prepared dishes.
The final night of the trip I tried banana tempura for dessert, which was surprisingly delicious and inspired me to create a banana dessert back home. I’ll be sharing that recipe soon. If you’re planning a trip to Punta Cana or Santo Domingo and want recommendations or have questions about logistics, restaurants, or tours, feel free to comment below or contact me directly.