Celebrate your Happiness with Family Friendly Gites South of France

BY  Sibashree Sep 8, 2025

Santo Domingo, “The Capital” of the Dominican Republic, harbors the most happening Caribbean city life along with architecture that goes back centuries.  Further, with the whiff of cigars, the art galleries, and the most happening gastronomic scene, Santo Domingo offers the most vibrant experience.  However, in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss the Zona Colonial or the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, its unique attractions, and the things to do in Santo Domingo.  The Key Areas Covered Are:What Is Santo Domingo Most Famous For? What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo? My Ultimate Bucket List1. Visiting The Ozama Fortress2. Exploring The Colon Park3. Visiting Columbus Lighthouse4. Exploring The Ladies Street5. Feeling The Connection At Our Lady Of The Incarnation6. A Session With History At The Cathedral MuseumA Food Tour: Where To Eat In Santo Domingo?Is It Worth Visiting Santo Domingo?Things To Do In Santo Domingo: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What Is Santo Domingo Most Famous For?  Santo Domingo is most famous for its Colonial City of Santo Domingo. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.  Christopher Columbus arrived here in 1492, and after that, it became the “site of the first cathedral, hospital, customs house and university in the Americas.”  It was established as a colonial town in 1498, and it is called the “First permanent establishment of the New World.”  Moreover, the Dominican Republic got its capital, Santo Domingo de Guzmán, from the Colonial City of Santo Domingo.  Also, with its Plaza Mayor and the unique grid pattern, it became the benchmark of new American cities. The establishments, which have especially served as the model, are: Palace of the Viceroy Real Audiencia (Royal Court of Justice) Chancery  Cathedral Moreover, Santo Domingo is the place where Leyes de Indias, or the first laws of the West Indies, were first proclaimed.  In addition, the social fabric, traditional architecture, and the symbolic value of the architecture and the Colonial City of Santo Domingo are well-preserved even today, standing the test of time.  What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo? My Ultimate Bucket List Visiting Santo Domingo has now become easier than ever with direct flight connectivity to Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo from CDMX or Ciudad de México.  So, there will not be annoying stopovers, and the journey will be more comfortable. Nevertheless, once you reach the first city of the New World, you can explore the following iconic landmarks.  1. Visiting The Ozama Fortress A Spanish architecture built under the guidance of Fray Nicolás de Ovando, the Ozama Fortress has a quintessential medieval vibe.  Many people refer to this as the “Walled Fortress,” as it is, of course, the “first permanent military structure in America.”  The 21-meter central tower of the fortress stands tall, while the canons facing the Ozama River, which were used to drive the pirates away, are still inside the fortress.  2. Exploring The Colon Park Parque Colón or the Plaza de Mayor is the epicenter of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. It has an impressive statue of Columbus in the middle, and it is surrounded by the iconic architecture of the Colonial City, such as the Cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Cathedral Museum. Every corner of this place is Insta-worthy.  3. Visiting Columbus Lighthouse El Faro a Colón or the Columbus Lighthouse is a 37-meters high architecture, honoring Christopher Columbus, the man who discovered America.  The cross-shape of this lighthouse refers to America’s Christianization.  John Paul II inaugurated this structure in 1992, and today it is a museum and a popular venue for conferences and temporary exhibitions.  4. Exploring The Ladies Street Las Damas Street or Ladies Street has the distinction of being the “first street of the colonial city.” The government of Nicolás de Ovando built this street.  It got its name as ladies used to walk here, and today, the street has notable locations such as the Trampolín Museum, House of Hernán Cortés, and the Cocoa Museum.  5. Feeling The Connection At Our Lady Of The Incarnation The Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Encarnación, or the Primate Cathedral of America, Our Lady Of The Incarnation Cathedral, impresses with its unique Gothic architecture.  Inside the church, you will find Pagan, Christian, and Apostolic details.  6. A Session With History At The Cathedral Museum The Cathedral Museum celebrates the history of the First Cathedral of America through exhibits and objects related to the cathedral.  This museum has candelabras, paintings, and many other exhibits dating from the 16th to the 19th century. The museum also has a souvenir shop for collectibles.  A Food Tour: Where To Eat In Santo Domingo? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ajualä (@ajualard) Santo Domingo has many cafes and eateries, especially around the Plaza Mayor. However, if you are looking for a fine dining experience, you can try the following places.  Places to Eat in Santo DomingoAddress and Contact DetailsSpecialtyMorisoñandoAddress: Las Américas Int'l Airport, Route 66, Cargo CityPhone: +1 829-659-5555 / Dominican Cuisines such as Travesía Callejera and Lambi. AjualäAddress: Calle Andrés Julio Aybar 13, Santo DomingoTelephone: +1 829-545-7503• Creole Duck• Kingfish Eyes• White Fish with Wild MushroomsLarimarAddress: Torre Altri Tempi , Av. Roberto Pastoriza 412, Santo DomingoTelephone: +1 849-449-1394• Shrimp Rice and Crab• “Black Truffle Cream with Mushroom Threads” Is It Worth Visiting Santo Domingo? Yes, Santo Domingo is worth visiting. There is something astonishing about how the city, with its colonial past in its heart, grows as one of the vibrant epicenters of Caribbean life.  Today, the Colonial City of Santo Domingo stands as the guardian angel, who watches over the city and adds wind beneath its wings to have modern infrastructure developments, the swankiest mall, restaurants, and hotels.  So, for anyone interested in the Colonial past or the history of America, Santo Domingo is a must-visit. Things To Do In Santo Domingo: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about things to do in Santo Domingo.  1. Do They Speak English In Santo Domingo? Yes, many people in Santo Domingo, especially in tourist areas, speak English. However, Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic.  2. Is It Safe To Walk Around Santo Domingo At Night? While Santo Domingo is not dangerous at night, there have been instances of crime against tourists at night. So, stick to exploring areas such as Zona Colonial and use apps such as Cabify and Uber for a safe ride.  3. Can You Drink The Water In Santo Domingo?  The Santo Domingo Tourism has confirmed that you cannot drink tap water in Santo Domingo. You have to drink water from packaged bottles available at local shops, hotels, and restaurants.  4. Can You Wear Shorts In Santo Domingo? The Dominican Republic Tourism says that you should wear shorts at the beach. However, for casual strolling across the city or visiting its important landmarks, you must wear regular casual daytime wear. Also, Dominicans love to dress up, and especially in the evening, you will notice everyone decked up in nice outfits.  5. Does Santo Domingo Have A Nightlife? Yes, Santo Domingo has a vibrant nightlife. The Zona Colonial, with its old heart, is the epicenter of all nighttime fun. Furthermore, you will find upscale clubs in Avenida Venezuela, and Maleco is the place where you can catch stunning live performances.  6. What Is The Best Time To Visit Santo Domingo? December to April is the best time to visit Santo Domingo. Lower humidity, less rainfall, and moderate temperatures make these months ideal for tourists.  Read Also: Unique Things To Do In Montreal: Things You Must Not Miss In Canada’s Cultural Capital Unique Things To Do In Tuscany: What Is A Must-See In Tuscany? Valladolid Mexico: Exploring The City That Was Built In 1543

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 7, 2020

Australia is a beautiful country with a lot of sights to see, but if you are at a point where it is all starting to look the same, perhaps it is time to see things from a new perspective. Nestled up close to Australia’s biggest city is a remote area that can only be fully appreciated from the air and the very best way to do that is from a helicopter. Taking a helicopter tour of the Southern Highlands is just the thing to wake up the adventurer in you and a great thing to do with someone close to you. Here are some of the features you can expect on a helicopter tour of the Southern Highlands. Sydney From The Air: You may think you know Sydney, but have you had the opportunity to look at it from the air. From the wide windows and low altitude of a helicopter, you will get a new look at the iconic Sydney Harbour, the downtown core, and the 2000 Olympics site. Photography: Do not forget to bring your camera. If you have never been on a helicopter before. You will be pleased with how much easier it is to get those amazing aerial photographs through the helicopter’s wide, nearly 360-degree view. On a helicopter experience for two, you will have full access to the scenery during the 90-minute flight. Three Sisters: One of the main attractions of the Southern Highlands is the Three Sisters at Katoomba, which is a spectacular rock formation that can be seen from lookout points on the ground, but in a helicopter, you get a view from all sides and a view of the beautiful valley that surrounds them. Legend has it that three maidens were transformed into a rock to save them from an angry neighboring tribe. But the witch doctor who transformed them was killed so they could not be changed back, a truly tragic tale for the young ladies. Jamison Valley: No visit to the region would be complete with a look at the majestic landscape of the Jamison Valley. Sharp sandstone cliffs down towards the Cox River which become Lake Burragorang created by the Warragamba Dam. Blue Mountains: The Blue Mountains are legendary for their vast eucalyptus forests and the iconic blue haze that gives them their name. The haze is created by eucalyptus oil that is released and suspended in the air. The result is a very specific blue filter over the whole area, making it a wonderful opportunity for scenic photography. Warragamba Dam: Constructed between 1948 and 1960, the Warragamba Dam is the main water supply for Sydney. It is a marvel of engineering, 142 meters tall and nestled aesthetically into the canyon walls of Lake Burragorang. The dam and lake can only be appreciated properly from the air and you will receive the full view as you arrive from the Jamison Valley. A helicopter tour is the most exciting way to explore this rugged region of New South Wales, and the only way you can see it all at once. You will be amazed at what beauty lies so close to Australia’s most vibrant and populous city. An experience like this won’t be soon forgotten. Read Also: The Best Tips To Travel Around The World 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai Should You Book a Hotel or an Apartment for Your Vacation? 15 Best Places For Adventure Dates With Your Loved One

BY  Mashum May 25, 2021

The thought of driving around. And using it as some form of vacation is well and truly out of the question for some people. For others, it's the definition of heaven. However, Your next road trip is going to be quite fun and interesting. In short, road trips are making something of a resurgence. Sure, they might not be for everyone, but the thought of being utterly flexible with your trip is something that is starting to become more appealing. Why The Road Trips Are The Best Experiences? Of course, there are various degrees of road trips. It might be all about hopping in camping and physically sleeping on the road for some people. A greater degree of luxury might be required for others, and this can involve stopping off in hotels in Edinburgh or London - the choice is yours. It’s essential to have a general idea of the visitor sites you want to view during your stay. But it’s fairly essential to building a unique event for yourself. If you want to ask questions, think outside of the box and talk to locals, chances to discover and learn and grow will automatically find you. In fact, there is no other best way to plan out the way you'll develop through your road tour. The main thing is to be faithful to yourself. Will you be less emphasized if you map out all your stops forward of time, or does it develop a set schedule during your holiday sound like a dream? You need your road trip to be a great, pleasant experience, so take a minute to question yourself what will form best for you and prepare consequently. 4 Road Trip Tips Before You Depart There are most certainly right and wrong ways to approach road trips, though. Suffice to say, the rest of this page will now look at the former. The roads and journeys are the two separate sides of one single coin. But one thing you must admit the endless enjoyments with your friends are only possible during a road trip. Here are the four tips and road guides for your next traveling plan. 1.Pick Out Your Peak Spots Granted, you shouldn't plot your entire trip around rush hours, but there will be some points on your journey in which you need to be particularly careful. For example, if you happen to be traveling through London at 5 pm, it goes without saying that several hours out of your trip are going to be ultimately wasted. You will be stood still for hours, which takes up a fair proportion of your overall trip. As such, at least circle the main areas, and make sure your trip doesn't cross through them at the wrong times. So, picking out your peak shots is vital for your next road trip. 2.It's All About The Paperwork A Road trip is all meant to be about the freedom of travel, but unfortunately, you do have to leave some room for the paperwork. This will obviously depend based on the country you are in, but in most cases, you'll need to take along your vehicle documents and driving license. If you know that you'll be venturing well and truly off the beaten track, consider some sort of breakdown cover as well. The last thing you need is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere, frantically wondering how you are getting back onto the road. 3.Know When To Quit No, this next point isn't quite as drastic as the subtitle might suggest. There will be days in which you are sick of the sight of your steering wheel, though, and you'll pull off and not want to get back in the car for the rest of the day. If this happens, listen to your body. Remember, this is a "trip", and if you're not enjoying the days’ worth of driving, then it's time to stop off somewhere. It is logical to think that you will want to take a rest from driving every two or three hours. If there is an exciting city, park, shop, or eatery that you would prefer to see on your road tour, the plan stops respectively. It is all a portion of the road trip adventure. Granted, if this is happening too frequently, you might have to ask if this is the right holiday for you, but don't be surprised if there is the odd day where things all become too much. 4.Don’t Have A Route Planning Following the last point, this next one hopefully makes complete sense. If you go on a road trip with an itinerary, it’s far too structured. The beauty about these trips is flexibility, and when you have already pre-booked all of your hotels, this fun has evaporated. Go through the road map several times. And plan your halting spots prior to your trip. In these road trips, route planning and research are playing a vital role. And it will be more precise when you are appointing some professional route guide. Because when you are on the road, your safety and security is the only important aspect. Wrapping It Up: There are a number of circumstances you might not be aware of before departure for your next road trip. So in this article, there are some vital tips. These traveling tips, are going to need special consideration; before you next plan a road trip. Road trips area and the map both are playing the important role.so do not neglect these two and go through the traveler’s experiences. What is your next traveling planning? How are you going to organize your next road trips? Do not forget to share your experiences with us.   Read Also: The Easy Way to Travel in India 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love Why Engage Competent Tourism Companies For Executing Best Leisure Time 10 Travel Tips For Singles Who Want To Journey Solo This Valentine’s Day