Sosúa, the Dominican Republic

We take a flight from Newark Liberty to Aeropuerto Internacional del Cibao in north-central Dominican Republic and check into a quintessential all-inclusive resort in the outskirts of Sosua on the northern shore of the island just east of Puerto Plata. Over the next few days, we explore beautiful lush green rural countryside along pretty towns like Barrabás, Imbert and Damajagua and learn how coffee is traditionally ground from fresh beans and cigars are rolled while immersing ourselves in ancient culture and fabulous people. Here is a complete map of our driving route in the Dominican Republic.

Final approach to Cibao International Airport (STI)

Located on the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea, the Dominican Republic shares its western border with Haiti. As the second-largest Caribbean nation by area and population, it boasts a diverse landscape encompassing mountains, rainforests, and pristine beaches. In terms of politics, the Dominican Republic operates as a representative democracy with a presidential system. The President, elected by popular vote every four years, serves as both the head of state and government. The country's political landscape has been marked by a history of democratic governance, although challenges such as corruption and social inequality persist. Political parties play a significant role in shaping policy and governance, with periodic elections serving as a cornerstone of the nation's democratic process.

The Dominican Republic stands as a testament to the region's rich heritage, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. From its colonial past to its bustling cities and pristine beaches, this island nation offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and adventure for travelers and locals alike.

The Dominican Republic located in the island of Hispaniola is, of course, a completely different country from Dominica which is located at Windward Islands halfway between Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago.

The history of the Dominican Republic is a tapestry woven with threads of indigenous Taino culture, European colonization, African heritage, and modern influences. The island of Hispaniola, which the Dominican Republic shares with Haiti, was the site of Christopher Columbus's first landing in the Americas in 1492. Santo Domingo, the capital city, boasts the distinction of being the first European settlement in the New World, with its charming Colonial Zone designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, including the iconic Alcázar de Colón, once the residence of Columbus's son, Diego.

Cibao International Airport (STI) serves as a vital gateway to the northern region of the Dominican Republic, particularly the city of Santiago de los Caballeros and its surrounding areas. Its history traces back to the mid-20th century when it was initially established as a military airfield during the Second World War. Over time, as the demand for air travel in the region grew, the airfield was expanded and developed into a civilian airport. In 2002, it was officially designated as Cibao International Airport to reflect its increasing importance as an international hub. Today, the airport plays a crucial role in facilitating both domestic and international air travel, connecting the northern region of the Dominican Republic to destinations across the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. Its modern facilities, efficient operations, and strategic location make it a key asset in the country's transportation infrastructure.

Outside the doors of Cibao International Airport (STI)

Cibao International turns out to be an excellent well-organized, clean and shiny airport unlike the other chaotic Caribbean airports in our experience, like airports at the Bahamas and Jamaica.

The Dominican Republic's culture is a vibrant mosaic shaped by its diverse heritage. Influences from Spain, Africa, and indigenous Taino peoples blend harmoniously, reflected in the island's music, dance, cuisine, and festivals. Merengue and bachata, two popular musical genres born on the island, provide the soundtrack to daily life, while colorful carnivals and lively street parades celebrate the nation's rich cultural traditions.

From Cibao International airport, we head to our resort via the local big town of Puerto Plata. Founded in the 16th century, Puerto Plata boasts a rich history reflected in its well-preserved colonial architecture, including the iconic Fortaleza San Felipe, a historic fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The city's golden sand beaches, such as Playa Dorada and Playa Long Beach, offer visitors the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun or enjoy a variety of water sports. Puerto Plata is also known for its bustling Malecón, a scenic oceanfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and lively bars, where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Puerto Plata

With a rapidly growing economy fueled by tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and services, the Dominican Republic has emerged as one of the Caribbean's leading destinations for investment and trade. Among other prominent cities, Punta Cana on the country's eastern coast is renowned for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and world-class golf courses, attracting millions of visitors each year. Meanwhile, Santo Domingo serves as a hub of commerce and industry, with a thriving business district and bustling markets offering everything from handmade crafts to designer fashions.

We reach Casa Marina Beach Resort a bit east of Puerto Plata along the pristine shores of Sosúa Bay.

Entrance of Casa Marina

With its sprawling grounds, lush gardens, and panoramic ocean views, this all-inclusive resort offers guests a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Casa Marina Beach Resort

Whether lounging by one of the resort's multiple swimming pools, indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or partaking in exciting water sports activities, there is no shortage of ways to unwind and enjoy the Caribbean sunshine.

Casa Marina Beach Resort

The resort's comfortable accommodations range from cozy rooms to spacious suites, each designed with modern amenities and thoughtful touches to ensure a comfortable stay.

Casa Marina Beach Resort

With a variety of dining options serving up delicious international cuisine and local specialties, as well as lively entertainment and activities for guests of all ages, Casa Marina Beach Resort promises a memorable experience.

Casa Marina Beach Resort

The coastal water of República Dominicana often takes on shades of turquoise and azure, thanks to the Caribbean Sea's shallow depths and the presence of coral reefs. These vibrant hues are accentuated by the sunlight reflecting off the sandy ocean floor, creating stunning vistas that attract travelers from around the world. In contrast, in deeper waters or during certain weather conditions, the color may appear deeper blue or even greenish, influenced by factors such as sediment content, algae, and plankton.

Caribbean waters of the Dominican Republic

Overall, the Dominican Republic's coastal waters are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and inviting colors, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the Caribbean's warm and crystal-clear embrace.

Note: We are not affiliated with Casa Marina and this is not a paid promotion for the property.

Beyond its cities and towns, the Dominican Republic is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. From the lush landscapes of the interior to the sun-kissed shores of its coastline, the island offers a wealth of outdoor adventures for nature enthusiasts.

After we check into Casa Marina, the management of the neighboring Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort at Puerto Plata offer us free transport to their resort along with free access to their amenities for a day, obviously in the hope of selling some of their timeshares.

Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort

Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort is a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury, relaxation, and endless entertainment. Spanning over 1,000 acres along the northern coast of the island, this expansive, all-inclusive resort offers an unparalleled array of amenities and activities to cater to every guest's desires.

Cofresi Beach, Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort

From its exclusive beaches, including the breathtaking Cofresi Beach, to its world-class golf courses and luxurious spa facilities, Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort ensures a truly indulgent experience.

Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort

Guests can choose from a variety of accommodations, ranging from elegant suites to private villas complete with personal concierge service. With over 30 restaurants and bars serving up a diverse range of culinary delights, along with nightly entertainment, water parks, and an array of sports and recreational activities, this resort promises a vacation of a lifetime amidst the stunning beauty of Puerto Plata.

Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort

We took the opportunity and lounged around at Lifestyle for a while. It turned out to be a nice upscale resort well worth the time we spent there relaxing.

Note: We are not affiliated with Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort and this is not a paid promotion for the property.

We return to the Casa Marina in time for night time entertainment events and dinner. As the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea, the resort comes alive with bonfires around which a variety of nightly shows and performances showcase the vibrant culture and rhythms of the island.

Night time bonfire and entertainment

Guests can enjoy live music, dance performances, and themed parties, providing the perfect opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic.

Night time bonfire and entertainment

Meanwhile, the resort's restaurants offer a tantalizing array of dining options, from sumptuous buffets to gourmet à la carte menus featuring international cuisine and local specialties.

República Dominicana boasts of no less than four major and many minor mountain ranges. The Cordillera Septentrional, Cordillera Central, Sierra de Neiba and the Sierra de Bahoruco are the most prominent ranges. After a sumptuous buffet breakfast the next morning, we head south towards the Central Cordillera mountains and lush tropical valleys.

Foothills of Central Cordillera Mountains

The Cordillera Central mountain range, home to Pico Duarte which is the Caribbean's highest mountain peak, beckons hikers and climbers to explore its rugged terrain and verdant valleys. Meanwhile, the country's coastal waters are a playground for snorkelers, divers, and water sports enthusiasts, with coral reefs, mangrove forests, and marine sanctuaries teeming with life. We meet some children with happy beautiful smiles that lift our spirits up!

We head south away from the shore into the countryside towards Barrabás which is surrounded by charming villages that offer a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage and rural way of life. Nestled amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, these villages exude a tranquil ambiance, inviting visitors to explore their picturesque streets and interact with friendly locals.

The Dominican Republic countryside

From the vibrant colors of traditional wooden houses to the sounds of children playing in the central plaza, each village has its own unique charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by sampling traditional Dominican dishes at family-owned restaurants, browsing colorful markets filled with handmade crafts and fresh produce, or participating in community events and festivals that celebrate the region's history and traditions.

The Dominican Republic countryside

Whether strolling through cobblestone streets or hiking along scenic trails, the villages around Barrabás offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, where visitors can connect with nature and experience the true essence of Dominican hospitality.

Brewing Tradition: The Art of Growing Coffee and Traditional Processing

As visitors to the Dominican Republic,  we experience the magic of coffee cultivation firsthand through a tour of a local plantation where we witness the entire process from tree to cup and savor the rich flavors of freshly brewed Dominican coffee.

Traditional Coffee Grinding

The art of coffee cultivation and traditional bean processing has been a cornerstone of the Dominican Republic's culture and economy for centuries. From the fertile slopes of the Central Cordillera mountain range to the lush valleys of Jarabacoa and Constanza, coffee plantations dot the countryside, producing some of the finest Arabica beans in the Caribbean.

The journey to a perfect brew begins with the careful cultivation of coffee plants, which thrive in the country's rich volcanic soil and temperate climate. Smallholder farmers and large estates alike meticulously tend to their coffee trees, nurturing them through each stage of growth. From planting the seeds in shaded nurseries to transplanting the seedlings into the fertile soil of the mountainside, the process requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the land. The Arabica variety, prized for its smooth flavor and aromatic profile, dominates the plantations, though some regions also cultivate Robusta beans for their boldness and strength.

Traditional Coffee Brewing

As the coffee cherries ripen on the trees, skilled pickers carefully hand-select each one, ensuring only the finest fruit is harvested. This labor-intensive process, often carried out by local families during the harvest season, requires precision and expertise to pick only the ripest cherries. Once harvested, the cherries undergo traditional processing methods that have been passed down through generations. In the wet method, the cherries are pulped to remove the outer skin, leaving behind the seeds, or beans, which are then fermented, washed, and sun-dried on patios or raised beds. Alternatively, in the dry method, the cherries are left to dry in the sun before being hulled to reveal the beans inside. These methods impart unique flavors and characteristics to the beans, resulting in the distinctive taste profiles that Dominican coffee is renowned for.

While modern technology and mechanization have made their mark on the coffee industry, many farmers in the Dominican Republic continue to uphold traditional methods of processing, believing that it yields superior quality and flavor. This dedication to tradition, coupled with sustainable farming practices and a commitment to environmental stewardship, has earned Dominican coffee a reputation for excellence on the global stage. 

Traditional Coffee Brewing

The coffee that was finally served to us in little glasses is incredibly strong and concentrated, being pure coffee extract direct from what started off as coffee beans. One sip of this brew is many times the strength of a shot of espresso and the flavor is beyond compare!

Crafting Excellence: The Art of Hand-Rolled Cigars in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is renowned for its rich tobacco heritage and the artistry of hand-rolled cigar production. From the fertile fields of the Cibao Valley to the bustling cigar factories of Santiago and La Romana, the country's cigar industry is steeped in tradition and craftsmanship.

Hand rolling a cigar

The journey of a hand-rolled cigar begins in the fields, where skilled tobacco farmers carefully cultivate and harvest premium tobacco leaves. The Dominican Republic's fertile soil and favorable climate provide ideal conditions for growing tobacco, yielding leaves prized for their flavor, aroma, and texture. Once harvested, the tobacco leaves undergo a meticulous curing process, where they are dried and fermented to develop their unique characteristics. This process can take several months and requires careful monitoring to ensure the leaves reach their optimal condition for rolling.

Hand Rolling a Cigar

After curing, the tobacco leaves are sorted and graded based on size, texture, and flavor profile. Master blenders, often with years of experience and a refined palate, meticulously select and blend different tobacco varieties to create the desired flavor profile for each cigar. This art of blending is where the true craftsmanship of cigar making shines, as blenders strive to achieve the perfect balance of strength, complexity, and aroma in each blend.

Lighting up a traditional hand-rolled cigar

Once the tobacco leaves are sorted and blended, skilled torcedores, or cigar rollers, begin the delicate process of hand-rolling each cigar. Sitting at their workbenches with precision and dexterity, torcedores carefully arrange layers of filler, binder, and wrapper leaves, skillfully shaping the cigar with expert hands. This meticulous process requires years of practice and a keen eye for detail to ensure each cigar is rolled to perfection.

Lighting up a perfect blend traditional hand-rolled cigar

After rolling, the cigars undergo a period of aging, where they are stored in climate-controlled aging rooms to allow the flavors to meld and mature. This aging process can last anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the desired flavor profile of the cigar. Once aged, the cigars are carefully inspected for quality and consistency before being packaged in elegant boxes or bundles, ready to be enjoyed by aficionados around the world.

The last stop on our tour before returning to our resort is for lunch at the Damajagua Centro de Visitante Río Damajagua (Damajagua Visitor Center) which serves as the gateway to one of the Dominican Republic's most exhilarating natural attractions - the 27 Charcos (waterfalls) of Damajagua.

Lunch at Damajagua Visitor Center Restaurant

Located near the town of Imbert, this visitor center provides essential amenities and information for visitors embarking on the adventure of exploring the cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear pools of Damajagua.

Fresh and Pure Coconut Water at Damajagua Visitor Center

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by friendly guides who provide safety briefings and equipment, including helmets and life jackets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The visitor center also features facilities such as changing rooms, restrooms, and a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase mementos of their adventure.

Damajagua Visitor Center

With its convenient location and comprehensive services, the Centro de Visitante Río Damajagua serves as the perfect starting point for an unforgettable day of adventure in the Dominican Republic's spectacular natural landscape.

The Sosúa Crafts Market

Back at our resort in the town of Sosua, we rent a little two-wheeler scooter and head to the the Sosúa Crafts Market not too far away from the resort gates.

Rented Scooter

The crafts market at Sosua is a treasure trove of handmade crafts, local artwork, and traditional souvenirs.

Crafts Market

As visitors stroll through the colorful stalls, they're greeted by a kaleidoscope of offerings, including intricately woven textiles, handcrafted ceramics, carved wooden sculptures, and vibrant paintings depicting scenes of Dominican life.

Crafts Market

Local artisans, often hailing from nearby villages, showcase their skills and techniques, providing visitors with a firsthand glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes into each unique piece.

Crafts Market

Beyond shopping, the market is a lively cultural hub, with musicians playing traditional tunes, food vendors serving up savory delights, and the air alive with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. Whether browsing for keepsakes or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, a visit to the Sosúa Crafts Market promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Dominican creativity and tradition.

Crafts Market

This concludes our vacation this time at the Dominican Republic and we head back to the airport to fly back home.

Aeropuerto Internacional del Cibao

The Dominican Republic, to summarize, is a destination that delights the senses and captures the imagination with its rich history, vibrant culture, bustling economy, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins in Santo Domingo, dancing the night away to merengue rhythms, or soaking up the sun on a secluded beach, this island nation offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return again and again.

Sunset over Caribbean Sea seen from air

Note: Prose in this post received AI assistance from ChatGPT and  Gemini.