| The white-sand beaches,
impressive mountain ranges veined with spectacular
rivers and waterfalls, and saltwater lakes teeming
with exotic wildlife are just part of the Dominican
Republic's appeal. Steer a small boat through
endless mangrove forests in search of gentle manatees.
Spy on lovesick humpback whales in the Bahía
de Samaná. And once you've had your fill
of this exquisite island's natural wonder, get
back to civilization and prepare to party.
Folks in the Americas' first European city,
Santo Domingo, don't just spend their time admiring
the fine colonial architecture gracing their
home. Nope, this town has not one, but two complete
Carnivals, complete with parades, elaborate
floats, lots of live music and plenty of dancing
in the streets. Pre-Lent Carnivals are celebrated
in Santiago, Cabral, Monte Cristi and La Vega
as well. If that's not enough, check out the
country's two major merengue festivals, the
annual Latin Music Festival and the national
surfing and windsurfing championships. Whether
you're looking to party, relax or explore, the
Dominican Republic has a lot to offer.
Full country name: Dominican Republic
Area: 48,730 sq km (18,814.8 sq mi)
Population: 8.5 million
Capital city: Santo Domingo (pop: 2 million)
People: 73% mulatto, 16% European descent, 11%
African descent
Religion: 95% Roman Catholic
Government: Representative democracy
President:Rafael Hipólito Mejía
Domínguez
GDP: US$43.7 billion
GDP per head: US$5400
Annual growth: 8.3%
Inflation: 5.1%
Major industries: Tourism, sugar refining, nickel
and gold mining, cement, tobacco
Major trading partners: USA, Venezuela, Belgium,
Mexico, Japan
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