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Joy Cho Death At Grand Teton National Park: How To Remain Safe While Hiking In This Beautiful Yet Dangerous Land

Joy Cho Death At Grand Teton National Park: How To Remain Safe While Hiking In This Beautiful Yet Dangerous Land

Sep 5, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 24, 2025

August 12, 2023, and the news of Joy Cho death at Grand Teton National Park was the most shocking thing one could hear. It was hard to believe how the most pristine national park with scenic vistas and rich wildlife could be the last resting ground for a woman. Nevertheless, on 12th August, the mountains, which stand for human connections, saw the fall of human life.

The death of Joy Cho at the Grand Teton National Park has once again proved why hiking in this national park needs to be a careful outdoor pursuit. It is “dangerous” to go for a solo hike in this national park. However, finding a hiking buddy is not always easy.

So, here, I will discuss the safety concerns at Grand Teton National Park and how you can overcome those. However, before that, let’s discuss a little more about Joy Cho Death at Grand Teton National Park.

Joy Cho Death At Grand Teton National Park: What Happened To The California Hiker?

Joy Cho, 47, lost her life at the Grand Teton National Park in the Death Grand Teton National Park where she was hiking with seven other group members. A deeply spiritual soul, she was also very much drawn to nature.

According to reports, the rangers found that she “had succumbed to significant injuries during the fall and was pronounced dead at the scene,” and her body was turned over to the coroner’s office, according to the release.”

Tim Hopkins, one of Cho’s friends, further mentioned that the malfunctioning of her ledger caused the fall of Joy Cho.

Joy Cho was on her attempt to climb Teewinot, a part of the Teton Range, and the elevation reached here was around 12,325 feet above sea level. After her death, many people have started talking about the steep and exposed sections while hiking to Teewinot.

So, are there really some serious safety concerns while hiking in Grand Teton National Park? It’s time to know the concerns and safety measures to avoid accidents and unfortunate incidents.

What Are The Safety Concerns At Grand Teton National Park?

Joy Cho death at Grand Teton National Park has made us examine safety concerns. From altitude sickness to unpredictable wildlife, many elements in the park need your attention.

You must be respectful, and your gear, shoes, and clothes should be on point. Even if you cross a stream with ankle-deep water, you must not be complacent or careless about protection.

Having said that, here are the major safety concerns at Teton National Park.

Altitude Sickness

With the highest altitude reaching 4199 m, you can experience altitude sickness in Grand Teton National Park. Muscle pain, lack of appetite, fatigue, and headaches are common symptoms of altitude sickness.

Weather Conditions

Teton National Park is home to Mount Moran, Buck Mountain, Grand Teton, Middle Teton, South Teton, and many other mountains that reach a height of more than 3000 m. Rainfall and snowfall are common at such high altitudes, causing the blockage of the hiking trails and hypothermia.

However, the Grand Teton also receives moderate rainfall and snowfall every year. Hiking there can also be a challenge. Further, Lightning and mid-afternoon storms in summer are other weather challenges in this park.

So, if you are hiking in the park in the summer, try hitting the high Alpine terrains. Thus, by the late afternoon, you are already back into lower altitudes.

April to June have moderate days and cold nights filled with snowfall and rain. Snowfalls and rain are also frequent at night from September to November. In addition, you will encounter the coolest nights between December to April.

Moreover, July and August are the most tumultuous in the national park due to thunderstorms in the afternoon. Have a clear idea about the weather conditions if you do not want something like Joy Cho death at Grand Teton National Park to happen.

Wildlife

Wildlife at Grand Teton National Park is extensive. However, grizzly bears and mountain lions (not always seen) are the biggest challenges for hikers and trekkers. Moose and elk are other animals that you will find in this national park. The park also has wolves, and they are not the friendliest of animals you will come across.

Looking for fresh feces, signs, and fresh tracks is the only way to know if an animal is around.

Moreover, you can occasionally find rattlesnakes in the Grand Teton National Park, especially near Montana and Gardiner. Ticks, spiders, and mosquitoes are the insects you will encounter the most here. So, don’t forget to carry repellent creams and other measures as instructed by your trekking guide.

Terrain

The habitats of Teton National Park are the most versatile. However, for a hiker, the change of habitats every 4-5 miles is a major problem. Suppose you just passed a rock wall going up vertically, and the next moment, you are at a cliff that drops dramatically.

Even the woods in the park are quite tricky to walk through. The trails are filled with small and gigantic trees. You can easily cross the smaller trees. However, a hiker can easily get hurt when they have to jump over a huge trunk or climb a tree.

Further, boulder fields in the park do not look like a threat usually. However, accidents and injuries can happen at the most unexpected times. The boulders can roll down, block tracks, and cause casualties.

So, always be aware of your ability and skill before you attempt hiking the 250 miles of trails the park has to offer.

Moreover, the talus slopes and the snow-clad mountains are perilous if you are not prepared with your gear. These areas have high sliding risks and the chances of false stepping. The smartest way here is to look for a level ground trail that takes you to the accessible parts of the park.

How To Remain Safe At Grand Teton National Park?

The National Park Service has detailed guidelines to ensure safety in the Grand Teton National Park. Before you start exploring this park, you must get all the instructions right at a visitor center.

In addition, you can ask questions to get clarification from the rangers before you access various parts of the park.

The table below shows how you need to maintain safety during various outdoor activities or just while exploring the national park.

Concerns	How To Remain Safe
Climbing Mountains and Hiking	Solo hiking is risky in Grand Teton National Park. Further, you must hike on the established trails. Otherwise, you may have to face soil erosion. Be particular about your hiking boots, axes, crampons, and other accessories. Learn about route conditions and weather from a climbing ranger at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station.
Backcountry Safety	Maintain good physical endurance. Be sure to use proper equipment and gear.
Prevention Of Human-Caused Fire	Fireworks and pyrotechnic devices are not allowed in the park. You must be responsible for properly extinguishing and disposing of your cigarettes or pipes. In addition, you are only allowed to light a campfire at a designated site. You must tend to the fire and make sure that it is extinguished as you leave.
Bacteria And Other Microorganism Transmission	You must boil water collected from a stream or lake for at least 3-5 minutes, or you can use treatment tablets to avoid transmission of microorganisms. Campylobacter and Giardia are common bacteria found in untreated water in the park.
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (Lesser Risks)	Stay away from deer mice and their feces.
Driving	Wear seatbelt. Understand road conditions. Be watchful of animals. Maintain the speed limit of 45 mph on the highway at night and other speed limits throughout the day.
Exploring Wildlife	Maintain a minimum of 300 feet distance from wolves and bears. Further, the distance between you and any wild animal should be at least 75 feet. Also, you must not try to feed any wild animal. Moreover, make sure that you are not in between the mother and her cubs.
Boating	You must wear a life jacket all the time. Further, check out the bulletin boards before you start boating for the day. You must carry a patch kit, air pump, and bucket for bailing if you are riding in an inflatable boat. Moreover, boaters in the Snake River must be extra careful.
Biking	You must not bike on trails. Roadways and pathways are suitable for biking. In a single file, stick to the right side of the road. Further, wear helmets and communicate with other drivers through hand gestures.
Lightning	Avoid exploring the park during afternoon storms in the summer. Further, try to reach the shore quickly when it starts raining, or the wind is rough. Also, know the basics of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) guidelines.

In addition, the National Park Service has a separate guideline regarding bear safety. The first step begins with the identification of the beer.

Also, if you notice a beer at any site in the national park, you must immediately inform the ranger station or the visitor center.

Final Words

We surely don’t want something similar to the Joy Cho death at Grand Teton National Park to repeat. Along with being respectful to your wildlife and following the safety guidelines, you will also have to be smart enough to know your boundaries.

The tempting landscape of the park and the magnificent Grand Teton Mountain will inspire you. However, you must check your experience and expertise first.

Climbing high and steep terrains needs skills such as route-finding and rock climbing, along with excellent physical and mental endurance. Again, acclimatization and finding a knowledgeable trekking partner (for beginners) are crucial.

So, follow the safety guidelines and enjoy a delightful tour of the national park. Don’t forget to carry the trekking poles or walking sticks, by the way!

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

What Are The 10 Things To Do In Madeira Beach That Will Make Your Time And Money Worth It?

BY Sibashree May 20, 2022

"The sea cures all the ailments of man" – Plato. I took these words of Plato in my heart and started to build a connection with the ocean and the beaches that adorn them – in the course of all that; I found Madeira beach; it was full of fun, amusement and relaxation. Just like they say – an ocean breeze puts your mind at ease– if you want to put your mind at ease, then there are plenty of things to do in Madeira beach. Florida is rich with ocean life and beach activities. You can go deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, boating and more fun things in Florida. You can take the warm and sunny weather to your face upon visiting a bar. Several attractions like Walt Disney, Kennedy Space center, St Petersburg and especially John’s Pass Boardwalk are some of the attractions of Florida. If you are thinking of visiting Madeira Beach, then I will be happy to indulge you in finding out the most interesting aspects of this pretty beach in Florida. I have prepared this article with ten amazing things to do in Madeira Beach, Florida. If you are dead set on going to Madeira Beach, be my guest. What Are Some Fun Things To Do In Madeira Beach? Be it for relaxation or just for having fun, an ocean breeze can fill your mind and your soul with refreshment. When you want refreshment, there is no better place than the edge of the world, the beach. Madeira is one of the best beaches in Florida, and you will love doing these fun things mentioned below. 1. John’s Pass Boardwalk John’s Pass Boardwalk is the primary attraction of Madeira Beach. This is a sea-themed fishing village turned into a fun place you can go to in Madeira. In John’s Pass Boardwalk, you have many things to do for fun in Madeira beach. Things to do: Have Fun In John’s Broadwalk: John’s Pass Boardwalk overlooks the crystal blue ocean. You can spend a day or two there. Attend John’s Pass Food Festival: The food festivals attract around 130000 audiences every year; you can have plenty of fun as a part of the festival. Dine At The Restaurants: More than 130 restaurants and boutiques are there to entertain you with good food that waters your mouth. You can have an exquisite dinner in one of these restaurants. 2. Parasail Flight Not everyone is laid back or the relaxing type. If you want to do something daring and fun on the Madeira beach, then you won’t be disappointed if you take part in parasailing activities. All you need to do is go on the water on a boat and take yourself to the sky. You can take your go pro or your camera along to record the moment. You have many fun things to do on Madeira beach; parasailing is among many of them. But you need to remember all the terms and conditions of the parasailing crews. Things to do: Book Your Tickets Through Mobile: You need to book your ticket for one hour-long parasailing. The parasailing boats also offer free cancellation. Go On A Boat Ride: You need to go on a boat ride with the parasailing group; this is a dual opportunity of both a boat ride and parasailing. Take Pictures & Videos: If you are looking for family things to do in Madeira beach, then parasailing can be a good option. You can take pictures or record memories of parasailing once you take off. Read More: 10 Best Places To Travel In November 3. Dolphin Watching Cruise For more fun and relaxing things to do in Madeira Beach, you can try dolphin watching. Many beautiful boats on the shore of Madeira beach are waiting for you to visit the deep waters and meet the dolphins. These boats offer mobile booking and free cancellation on demand. You can book one of these boats and go on a one hour journey of dolphin watching. Things to do: Book Tickets Online: You can book online tickets through your smartphone and go on a boat journey of one and a half hours to watch dolphins. These boats offer free cancellations of your journey. Take Your Friends & Family: The boats can take up to 76 people on board. They have plenty of room for more people on the boat. Also, the boats have restrooms, snack bars, and so many fun things to do on the boats. Watch Dolphins & The Wildlife: The gulf coast of Florida is full of vibrant sea life and the exotic dolphins who love your company. You can take a camera or binoculars to watch the dolphins and other sea life. 4. Waverunners & Jet Ski Rentals If you enjoy water sports, you have more exciting things to do in Madeira beach. You can rent a wave runner or jet ski and roam around the soothing water of the gulf coast of Mexico. You can go to Woody’s Watersports and get all the watersports gears you need. Things to do: Book Jet Ski Tickets: Many jet ski and wave runner rentals are available near public transportation places. They offer mobile booking instant confirmation of your booking. You can also cancel your booking on-demand. Ride Jet Ski & Waverunners: Once you have rented your wave runners, you can travel around the gulf coast of Florida. These wave runners and jet skis offer life jackets. You will have full protection, and you can watch the dolphins while moving around in the ocean. 5. Go Fishing In The Gulf Coast Of Florida It is very convenient to have the urge to go fishing at Madeira Beach ocean. You can book a charter from the beach and go catch some tuna, kingfish, grouper, Mahi, amberjack, and so much more. There are many state-licensed fishing charters at Madeira beach. Things to do: Catch Fishes: The gulf coast of Florida is rich in healthy fishes; you can catch groupers, tuna, kingfish, amberjack, Mahi and many other fishes. The characters offer mobile booking and free cancellation of the tickets if you need it. Store & Cook Your Fishes: The fishing charters let you keep and store your catch. Many of them help you catch and clean the fish. You can take your catch to any of the restaurants of John’s Pass and have it cooked just the way you want it. Have Fun During Fishing Cruise: Fishing cruises are more fun than you can imagine. You can also have a fun time on the boats while fishing with experienced fishing crews and boat captains. 6. Take A Trip To The Seixal Black Sand Beach and Sea Pools Seixal is a village on the north coast of Madeira known for its beautiful scenery. It features a unique black sand beach created by the island’s volcanic history. This beach is surrounded by steep sea cliffs that resemble a scene from Jurassic Park. The village also has several natural sea pools made from volcanic rock. These pools are free to visit. Additionally, they provide a safe, sheltered place for swimming and relaxing while enjoying Madeira's impressive coastline. 7. Enjoy Food & Nightlife Ran out of things to do in Madeira beach? If that is the case, then you are not taking the taste and the thrill of the Nightlife and the food in Madeira Beach. The food festival at John’s Pass and the different restaurants there are calling you. Foods of diverse tastes and flavours make Madeira Beach an attraction. The wine shops in Madeira Beach are also among the best in Florida. The wines available at the winery shops are of exotic taste and quality. Things to do: Enjoy Foods: If you are a foodie, you will love the different foods available at the beach restaurants. Different kinds of seafood and fish are the main attraction of the Madeira Beach restaurants. There are hundreds of famous restaurants just waiting for you. John’s Pass becomes a place for great food during the Food Festival. Enjoy Nightlife: The nightlife at John’s Pass and the concerts are some of the nighttime activities to keep you happy and occupied. Know More: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 8. John’s Pass Mangrove Paddle If you are sore from all the exhilarating fun and beach hopping, there are some relaxing things to do in Madeira Beach. Paddling through the Mangrove islands and the tunnels is among the most relaxing things you could do in Madeira Beach. Once you reach the Sandbar, you can do plenty more things, like swimming and looking for seashells. Things To Do: Paddle Through The Mangrove Islands: You can rent a Kayak and paddle out to the Sandbar. There are many kayaks to rent at the beach; they also offer free cancellation and full refund. If you want, you can also take your animals. Have Fun At Sand: You can Paddle out to the Sandbar and get on the shore to have fun. The water there is calm, so you can swim or look for some seashells at the beach. Meet The Wildlife: You will often see dolphins and some manatees; a paddling session will help you lose lots of physical and mental tension. Paddling through the mangrove tunnel is yet another fun and relaxing activity. 9. Sunset Cruise When it comes to spending an evening, you can go from both exotic fun beach hopping to relaxing. You can watch the sun drop into the deep blue of the gulf coast of Florida as you take a sunset cruise. There are many boats to take you on a sunset tour of the ocean. Things To Do: See The Sunset: Seeing the sunset into the deep blue of the ocean is a wonderful feeling you can have while enjoying a sunset cruise on the gulf coast of Florida. The boats offer mobile booking and free cancellation when you need it. Enjoy The Cruise: The boat will pass along the beautiful houses of the coastal area. The boat captains are closely acquainted with the history of the area. They can share their experience along the way. You can bring your pets and the drinks that you need to enjoy on the boat. 10. Take A Serene Walk Alongside The Santana Houses The Santana Houses, or Casas de Santana, are iconic, triangular-shaped homes with thatched roofs made of straw or reeds, found in the town of Santana on Madeira Island, Portugal. These colorful, traditional structures represent a significant part of Madeira's historical heritage, with the roofs designed to shed rainwater and the wooden construction providing insulation. While no longer the primary dwelling type, they serve as a major tourist attraction and cultural symbol. Things To Do: Take A Look At The Traditional Houses- Visit the Casas Típicas de Santana to see the charming, colorful, thatched-roof houses that are an icon of Madeira. Local farmers once used these structures and are now preserved as a cultural symbol. Pay A Visit To The Santana Theme Park: Step into the Parque Temático Madeira for a fairy-tale-like experience. Inside the park, you'll find dozens of meticulously recreated cottages with traditional interiors, vintage furniture, and farm tools. You might also catch folklore performances of Madeiran songs and dances if you time your visit for July. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): If you have made up your mind about visiting Madeira beach, then you must follow the above recommendations. These are some of the best things to do at Madeira beach. But if you have any further questions related to Madeira beach, then you can follow these questions that I have answered below. 1. How Many Days Do You Need In Madeira? There are hundreds of fun activities and sites you need to do in Madeira beach. That is why we recommend you spend at least a week there. But, you won't need more than 10 to 15 days to experience all the fun there. 2. Is The Water At Madeira Beach Clear? Madeira beach is known for the clear water and the white sand. 3. Is It Safe To Swim At Madeira Beach? If you want to swim at Madeira beach, you will probably have no problem there. But some people do get some problems from the red tides; problems like burning eyes and skin irritation are among the most common problems. 4. Is Madeira Beach Kid Friendly? Madeira beach is very much kid-friendly. They can play around on the soft and cost sand and build sandcastles. The beach is safe for the kids, so there is no need to worry about it. Things To Do In Madeira Beach Discussed Madeira beach is rich in fun activities; you can enjoy the food there, play beach sports, go on boat cruises, and enjoy watersports. Spending a few days at John’s pass boardwalk brings a sense of pleasure and relaxation to you. The pristine water of the gulf coast of Florida is a sight your eyes will never forget. Would you visit Madeira beach? Please let us know your opinion. Read Also: Top Trips For Travelling With A Big Group Of People 10 Best Fishing Charters In Florida To Visit In 2022 10 Best Hotels In Sanibel Island

Top 4 Reasons to Visit Les Deux Alpes for Your Ski Break

BY Barsha Aug 16, 2023

There's something magical about the snowy mountainside that can entice even the most reluctant of travelers to take a chance and experience the exhilaration of skiing. And when it comes to skiing destinations, few places compare to Les Deux Alpes in southeastern France. In this article, we'll explore the top four reasons why you should visit Les Deux Alpes for your next ski break. 4 Reasons To Visit Les Deux Alpes During Ski Break Situated right at the center of the French Alps, Les Deux Alpes offers breathtaking views, endless slopes, and an abundance of activities for all levels of skiers. Reason 1: Extensive skiing terrain One of the biggest draws of Les Deux Alpes is its extensive skiing terrain. With over 220 kilometers of slopes, skiers of all levels will have plenty of runs to choose from. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs, there's something for everyone. The resort also offers off-piste skiing for the more adventurous skiers, with opportunities for heli-skiing and ski touring. The resort is also known for its high-altitude skiing, with runs reaching up to 3,600 meters. This means that skiing is possible even in the late season, making Les Deux Alpes a popular destination for spring skiing. Don’t forget to book your ski pass at Erna Low in order not to waste your time waiting in long lines. Reason 2: Great for families and beginners While Les Deux Alpes offers plenty of challenging runs for experienced skiers, it's also a great destination for families and beginners. The resort has a dedicated beginners' area with gentle slopes and ski schools for all ages. The ski institutes provide a range of lessons, from group lessons to private lessons, which is relatively easy for everyone to gain knowledge at their own speed. The resort also has a range of activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and tobogganing. There are also child-friendly activities, like a sledding area and a snow garden, making Les Deux Alpes a great choice for families with young children. Reason 3: Apres ski and nightlife Les Deux Alpes isn't just about skiing - it's also one of the most awesome Alpine Apres-ski resorts. The resort has a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs catering to all tastes. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet drink after a day on the slopes or party until the early hours, you'll find something to suit your mood. One of the most popular apres-ski activities in Les Deux Alpes is ice skating. The resort has a large ice rink that is open throughout the day and into the evening, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. There is also a range of restaurants and cafes around the rink, serving everything from hot chocolate to cocktails. Reason 4: Stunning scenery Finally, Les Deux Alpes is known for its stunning scenery. Located at the heart of the infamous French Alps, the resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There is also a range of activities for those who want to take in the scenery, including snowshoeing and guided mountain walks. One of the most popular activities in Les Deux Alpes is a ride on the Jandri Express cable car. Tips To Keep In Mind While Visiting Les Deux Alpes Who doesn’t enjoy a holiday with their favorite set of people at Les 2 Alpes? The snow across the glacier and cannons surely make you refreshed and energized. But there are certain factors one should keep in mind while traveling to Deux Alpes. Shortlist The Places You Wish To Travel Visiting a ski resort is fun, but not everyone in your group will agree on a common plan. Different people would want to travel to different parts of the city. Hence, in order to avoid confusion and conflicts, prepare a list beforehand. Hand out the list of common places everyone will visit collaboratively to each group member. This way, each one of you can enjoy without worrying about individual interests. Catalog Skiing Needs People with their personal cars and ski equipment have no worries about storing the boards, skis, and shoes in their trunks. But what about the rest? They might want to try new skis. The skis technology never stands still- a titanium and carbon plate adds extra speed to the ski. Choose an all-mountain freeride ski if you wish to travel off-piste. In case you are a technical skier, rent an additional sharp-carved ski. Maximum hotels have preset agreements and collaborated with ski rental companies offering extra discounts. Check Out Fun Things To Do In Les Deux Alpes It’s time to spice things up a bit. This step is also important to determine the individual interests of each group member. Les Deux Alpes offers everyone a range of entertainment zones. Check them out here: Ice Glider Who doesn’t love to drive bumper cars? But would you dare to drive them on icy ground? This activity might charge you around 5 euros for 5-6 minutes, and only two people are allowed in a single Ice Glider. Also, it is open from 4 pm to 10 pm on Thursdays. Bowling At 12 Place de L’Alpe de Venosc, you get bowling with six lanes. A maximum of 8 players in each lane can play, which makes advance booking highly significant. The cost is somewhere around five euros for each person in the game. There are also darts and air hockey, along with a minibar. Wrap Up Winter sports holidays are totally fun for your physical and mental well-being. And when you visit Les 2 Alpes, fun is guaranteed. Make sure you take note of the aforementioned tips to make your stay a pleasurable experience. So, this was all about it. I hope you liked the article which guided you all the way through ski holidaying in Les Deux Alpes. Don’t forget to share your experiences with us. Happy reading! Read Also: Taco Bell Breakfast Hours: When Does Taco Bell Serve Breakfast? You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Romantic Weekend Breaks Scotland

What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? (The Site Of The First Cathedral In The Americas)

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

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