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WHY SANTO DOMINGO

Plan your next Incentive Travel Santo Domingo with IVI DMC!

It is the capital of the Dominican Republic . The city is located facing the Caribbean , at the mouth of the Ozama River, on the South coast of the island. It was founded by Bartolome Colon on August 5, 1498 on the eastern bank of the Ozama River; it was later moved by Nicolas de Ovando in 1502 to the western bank of the same river.

Dominicans are justly proud of their ranking as the oldest continuously settled European city in the western hemisphere, and for being the first seat of the Spanish colonial government in the New World. Its metropolitan area already surpasses 4 million inhabitants.

Planning an incentive trip to Santo Domingo ? Then, we have good news for you. The Dominican Republic’s capital city, Santo Domingo , is also the most modern and dynamic metropolis in the Caribbean. La Capital —as it is affectionately called—epitomizes the pulse of Dominican culture, where the old and the new converge seamlessly from centuries. Exquisite architecture, rich history, fancy shopping malls, art galleries, a vibrant nightlife, and a seducing gastronomy await you. Visit historical icons such as the Catedral Primada de America and Columbus Lighthouse.

1

Catedral Primada de America (First Cathedral in Americas)

This impressive basilica, set on the South side of Parque Colon, was completed in 1540 and was the first cathedral built in the Americas. It remains intact in spite the passing of time and maintains the original features from the 16th century; it continues to serve as a place of worship.

The original Mahogany doors lead to the silver altar and a painting of the Virgin Mary from 1520. Although the real name is Basilica Catedral de Santa Maria la Menor, tourist maps list this site as Catedral Primada de América.

2

Don Domingo Terminal

Located to the West of the city, Don Diego Terminal is a seaport that features a contemporary, functional design that takes advantage of natural light; once you disembark and within walking distance, you’ll have easy access to the colonial part of city.

3

Plaza España

Plaza España is a large square located at the edge of the historic center. It is found near the Ozama River. It is mostly used as a venue for events and public gatherings.

Now, if what you want is to sit outdoors and sip a coffee under a tree, around the park there are a number of restaurants with outdoor dining. Tour guides often hang out in the vicinity of the cafés and approach visitors to offer them a guided tour. Not far from here is the citadel of Columbus.

4

Boca Chica

Drive about 40 minutes East of Santo Domingo and you will find a quaint town with white sand beaches.

The town is known for its coral reef and a sandbar in a protected bay with turquoise waters that never go above your waist, which makes it ideal for snorkeling or diving. The restaurants offer authentic, delicious seafood.

5

Ozama Fortress

It is a symbol of Santo Domingo. Built in 1502, the fort served the military interests of Spain, England, France, Haiti, Gran Colombia, and the U.S. Most of the visitors agree that the views offer a great backdrop to take pictures.

6

Columbus Citadel (Alcazar de Colon)

Looking for a museum? Alcazar de Colon is the best option to learn about our history.

This gothic style museum was the home of Diego Columbus, son of Christopher Columbus, the man who discovered the American continent.

7

Parque Independencia

It was built to commemorate Dominican independence. The square is lined with busts that lead to the Altar de la Patria (Homeland altar) and to a mausoleum where the founders of the Dominican Republic are laid to rest.

8

Las Americas International Airport

Las Americas International Airport (SDQ), also known as José Francisco Peña Gomez Airport, is 30 minutes from the capital city of Santo Domingo and very close to the tourist areas of Boca Chica and Juan Dolio.

9

Malecon (Promenade) at Night

When was the last time you took a pleasant walk along a promenade? This boardwalk is the meeting point for most events such as live concerts, parades, and family get togethers. The sunsets over the ocean are a magnet since they are simply breathtaking.

10

Shopping

Time for a wardrobe change? Then, let's go shopping along El Conde street. On both sides of the street and the cross streets, you will find a variety of boutiques and reasonably priced stores.

Also, if you are looking for amber and larimar, this is the place!.

TESTIMONIALS

Brent Ritchie

Director group & Incentives / Destinations Inc

Excellent job! Great partners and friends thanks! Laura is amazing.

Laura thank you and your team for such a wonderful trip! This was a by far your best trip yet! I’ve absolutely loved working with you! We will be back and asking for you very soon. Laura and the entire team did a great job.

Kelley Beaudoin

National Account Manager / ConferenceDirect

Laura is an exceptional person, her heart is in the right place. She strives for excellence. I would encourage her to communicate any foreseeable challenges to the client — always better to be privy in advance. I KNOW she will head one of IVI’s divisions in the future.

Challenges with décor first event, firework expectations Laura and her IVI team were wonderful to work with; always striving to exceed, helpful and dedicated to serving the client and its attendees.

Ana Laura Gianperi

Consultor de Viajes Meetings & Events / American Express Global Business

La verdad son impecables y tenerlos como proveedores estratégicos, nos ayudará a que nuestros eventos están garantizados en calidad y servicio. Esperemos pronto volver a vernos.

Muchas gracias a los 3 por tan cordial bienvenida a vuestro país.