Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, the Caribbean Island that it shares with Haiti.  Founded in 1498, it is located just next to the mouth of the Ozama Rivier and was the first colonial city that the Spanish Crown granted.

Full of life both day and night, this city boasts a population of over 2 ½ million people and a cosmopolitan feel.  The brother of Christopher Columbus, Bartholomew Columbus, founded Santo Domingo, which is the oldest European city in the New World.

Couples that love art and history should not miss a visit to the Colonial area, bordered by the Ozama river, with stunning sixteenth-century buildings, including houses and churches that reflect the architectural style of the Renaissance period. The Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor, which is the first Catholic cathedral in America and the Alcazar de Colon, the most emblematic monument of the entire colonial city that was once the residence of Don Diego Colon, son of Christopher Columbus are exciting sites to visit during your stay in Santo Domingo. The Museum of the Royal Houses, which was the palace of the Governor and the Palace of Royal Audiences; Columbus Park, a the Ozama Fortress, the oldest fortress in America, the National Pantheon, a Jesuit building which now contains the remains of renowned Dominicans and the Church of the Convento Dominico, the first convent in America.

Aside from being an ideal site for history lovers, it is also the perfect destination for those who like shopping and romantics! The bustling Mercado Modelo, the largest flea market in the capital, sells all kinds of typical arts and crafts from this Caribbean country, paintings, tobacco, liquor and many other interesting items.

Only 25 minutes away from Santo Domingo one will find the BOCACHICA BEACH, which is surrounded by a large coral reef and boasts spectacular, turquoise blue water. Sun  bathe on the beach, take a romantic walk at sunset or even try a water sport…the options are endless at this beautiful beach just minutes away from the capital.
Most streets are laid out in a grid, similar to large cities in America. American influence is felt in the names of many of its avenues and streets - Winston Churchill, John F. Kennedy and Abraham Lincoln, among others. Newlyweds and/or their guests can enjoy restaurants of all kinds, a cosmopolitan nighlife and meringue, salsa, bachata, bolero music on every corner.  The larger discotheques can be found on George Washington Avenue, better known as EL MALECON, which runs from the seaside port across the city of Santo Domingo where the great obelisk of St. Dominic, popularly called “El Macho.”

Combining Latin flavor, a cosmopolitan air and a rich history, this Caribbean island provides the perfect scenery for fabulous Caribbean wedding, vow renewal or honeymoon.  With plenty of excursions, restaurants, night clubs and beaches to visit, your stay in the capital city is sure to be an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish forever.