It is a place of warm tropical breezes. Of clear blue waters. Of sandy beaches and exotic island cuisine. It is an oasis of natural beauty where tropical jungles and renowned native hospitality combine to make this a vacation paradise 365 days a year.

When Christopher Columbus first saw the land that is now the Dominican Republic, he proclaimed it "One of the most beautiful islands I have ever seen." Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago between Cuba, Jamaica and Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, site of the Caribbean's highest mountain, Pico Duarte.

The country features 1,288 km of mostly unspoiled coastline with some of the finest beaches in the Western Hemisphere, as well as excellent dining and shopping attractions. A land of verdant jungles, sparkling blue waters and historical architecture that dates back to the time of Columbus himself, the Dominican Republic is a delightful island paradise that's just waiting to be enjoyed.