Located in the Caribbean Sea, Dominican Republic is a nation with a mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous heritage. Its pristine beaches, lush forests, and urban landscapes attract millions of tourists every year. With a burgeoning economy built on sectors like services, tourism, and agriculture, Dominican Republic offers expats a world of opportunities and experiences.
Expat destinations in Dominican Republic
Demographics of Dominican Republic:
Ethnic groups
Other: Less than 1%
Haitian: Over 3%
Dominican: Over 95%
Languages
Spanish: Official
Haitian Creole: Spoken by some Haitians in the border areas
Religion Overview
The majority of Dominicans identify as Roman Catholics, with other Christian denominations and sects also present.
Major Religions
Climate
Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and milder winters. The country experiences a rainy season from May to November, with peak hurricane season in September.
Economy Overview
Dominican Republic's economy has grown steadily in recent decades, with an emphasis on services, tourism, and agriculture. It is a member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Alliance for Progress, and has received assistance from international lending institutions like the World Bank.
Key Industries
- Tourism
- Agriculture (sugar, coffee, cocoa)
- Services (banking, finance, IT)
- Mining (gold, silver)
Major Companies
- Banco Santander Dominicano
- Banco Popular Dominicano
- Bancamía Dominicano
Culture and Language Overview
Dominican culture is a blend of Hispanic, African, and indigenous influences, resulting in unique music, dance, food, and traditions. Spanish is the official language, but Haitian Creole is also spoken in border areas.
Cultural Highlights
- Merengue: A fast-paced and energetic dance music originating in the Dominican Republic.
- Carnaval: A lively and colorful street festival celebrated before Lent, with parades, costumes, and music.
- Chicharrónes: Crunchy fried pork rinds commonly eaten as a snack or appetizer.
- Baseball: The national sport, with a rich history and passionate following.
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Dominican Republic is situated on the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, sharing a border with Haiti to the west. Its terrain is varied, featuring mountains, forests, beaches, and plains.
Notable Landmarks
- Alpine Botanical Garden: A lush and diverse garden with hiking trails and scenic views.
- El Conde: A historic pedestrian street in Santo Domingo filled with shops, restaurants, and street performances.
- Monte Cristi National Park: A protected area with rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life.
- Haitises: A series of limestone formations off the coast of Samaná known for their diverse marine ecosystems and stunning vistas.
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Three Kings Day (January 6)
- Carnaval (February or March)
- Juan Pablo Duarte Day (February 27)
- Catholic Holy Week (March or April)
- Salvador Allende Gossens Day (September 5)
- Constitution Day (September 25)
- All Souls' Day (November 2)
- Feast of Christ the King (Last Sunday of November)
Political Stability
Dominican Republic is a presidential republic with a multi-party system. The constitution guarantees civil liberties and human rights, but there have been concerns in recent years about freedom of the press and freedom of assembly. The country's economy has shown resilience despite periodic economic crises, and it maintains cordial relations with neighboring countries and major international actors.
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