Things to do in the DR

[Smokin_Safari]

Hey Y'All,

It's been a long since I visited, being stuck here in deepest, darkest Africa (oh, & the Sunshine Coast & it seems every bloody ariport in the world!!).

I am spending 3 weeks in the Dominican Republic this coming November & was wondering (particularly our USA & Latin America members) what else there was to do - we're staying with friends on the eastern beaches.....

Keen to hear from some experienced smokers!!

Many cheers (& G'Day Ken!), Marty

[tinknocker924]

I'm actually going to DR in november too I'm not 100% sure about this but I don't think there is a casa del habano in DR so I'm a little iffy on buying CC over there..maybe ill jus stick to fuente nd la aurora

[Colt45]

I've never been, but it's my understanding that the fishing is supposed to be very good.

[thechenman]

The cigar scene in the DR, from my visits, is limited. Prices aren't cheap because of the number of tourists...and don't hold out hopes for CCs. I haven't seen an authentic CC in the numerous times I've been there. That said, NCs are in abundance, and there are plenty of good ones to be had.

As far as activities go, yes sunbathing is big. Of course there is drinking as well, lots of bars. As Colt mentioned the fishing is great and there are many charter boats available. Snorkeling and diving are also very good in this area. The women will enjoy the shopping an checking out the stores in town. There are endless miles of beach to walk and restaurants to explore. Really, I don't think there is a shortage of activities at all, unless you limit yourself.

Have fun...

[Rushman]

My fiancé knows the HSA distributor in DR. Lemme check if they have reccomendations.

[Smokin_Safari]

Thanks Rushman. I used to live in Cuba also & we're certainly not into the tourist scene. Anywhere & anything 'para los vecinos' would be much appreciated.

[brazoseagle]

Punta Cana is a great destination to spend a day or two. Beach, Golf, Fishing, Cigars, Mountains. There is an excursion you can take that lasts most of the day that starts in town, goes to a sugar cane field to eat it fresh picked, to a cigar factory and museum, to a farm growing wonderful coffee and cacao beans and fruits, up in the mountains to a huge ranch to eat a home cooked lunch, down the mountain back to the beach to ride horses and get some rum. It is a great excursion! So are some of the boat excursions. Enjoy as much Presidente beer as you can, it is awesome and depressing once you get home, finding out how hard and expensive it is to find. Do yourself a favor and take home as much Presidente beer, chocolate, coffee and rum home with you as you can. After 3 weeks you will get addicted to all of those there. If you do try to seek out some quality smokes, stick to the reputable resorts, be aware of fakes and be ready to spend a lot. If you are drinking at some resorts, try these local specialties. The Coco Loco, The majestic, the Mono susio. (dirty monkey). I highly recommend the majestic colonial and majestic elegance properties!!!!! Hands down!!!!! Dont drink the water, make sure you are at places that use purified water to wash their dishes and make their ice. Carry small bills only! Most places will charge you or make you purchase something to break larger bills, even $20's. Close your eyes while riding through towns in vehicles. Travelers checks and credit cards are useless, unless at a high end resort.

Best advice........ Have fun, enjoy, but the key to getting the best , safest and most quality service and attention is to tip everyone no matter where you go, even if the drinks are free. Average monthly income in DR is like $200 us dollars. Every dollar makes a difference. I always tip a dollar a drink, every drink, and you would be amazed what kind of attention and service you get!!! Stay clear of casinos unless playing poker. Any other questions, let me know.