One of the most popular souvenirs from the D.R are figures made from Guayacan wood. The English name is Lignum vitae and it is Latin for "wood of life", and in parts of Europe known as pockenholz.

It is  from trees of the genus Guaiacum. It is the hardest wood in the world and will easily sink in water it also is referred to as ironwood. This wood was once very important for applications requiring a material with its extraordinary combination of strength, toughness and density.

Demand for the wood has been reduced by modern materials science, which has led to polymer, alloys and composite materials which can take lignum vitae's place.

This Taino Indian figure is hand made in the Dominican Republic from Guayacan.

Taino people who inhabited the Caribbean Islands before the arrival of Columbus used it as a good luck charm and against the evil spirits.

This Turtle is also made from Guayacan "wood of life".

If you are interested you can obtain these Taino replicas made from Guayacan from us.

Interesting web site about Guayacan http://guayacane.com/

The Dominican Republic has many inviting and cozy restaurants. Most restaurants begin serving around 6 p.m., but it is customary for Dominicans to dine late. There are French, Italian, Mexican and Chinese restaurants, as well as those serving traditional Dominican food.

The Dominican cuisine is very rich and varied. Some favorite local dishes you should try while you are here are rice and beans with fried platanos (plantains), Sancocho (a thick stew usually made with different meats), arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), Casabe (flat and round cassava bread).

There are many good brands of local beers and rums. A variety of drinks are prepared with rum. A variety of wines imported from all over the world are also available.

Restaurants charge a 10% service fee and 18% tax. These charges are imposed by law. In spite of this, it is customary to leave an additional tip at the discretion of the customer if the 10% service fee is not charged.

The electrical outlets on the walls are of the American type. The electrical output stands at 110 volts instead of the standard European 220 volts. You can purchase an adapter for your appliances in many local supermarkets. There is a shortage of electricity and there might be occasional black-outs during your stay. However, all hotels have back up generators.

Popular Dance Clubs and Lounge Bars

Santo Domingo

• Atarazana 9
  This is a two-tier club that mixes merengue, bachata, salsa and reggaeton. If you want to have fun you should definitely visit this place.
• BeAT
  One of the top dance clubs, featuring many types of music and a very crowded and fun atmosphere.
• Bottom's Bar
• Cafecito
  If you're into a karaoke night this is definitely a place to visit. Cafecito is frequented by a mature audience.
• Docks
  Located right by the entrance of the Acropolis Mall, this open air disco features contemporary music and a very nice place to meet with locals.
• El Sartén
  This vintage latin bar is usually visited by a crowd of very experienced and mature dancers. If you're deep into merengue and salsa you can't miss this fantastic place.
• Guacara Taína
• Hard Rock Café
  Featuring rock music and rock bands this is an international renowned club.
• Jet Set
  This is a very renowned club frequented by locals that features live music on Mondays.
• Kanta Bar
• LED
  This is a very spacious club with a wide range of music. Best place to look for the best nightlife experience. There's a specific music genre for every night of the week.
• Merengue Bar
• Platinium
  A very spacious club that usually features live presentations, mixing merengue, salsa, bachata and reggaeton.
• Praia Bar & Wine Lounge
  Renowned for it's many theme parties, special guests, contemporary singers and DJ's from around the world, this is a place you must visit!
• Red Room
• Retro Café
  Retro is a very good place to dance with locals.
• Shots
  Located at Plaza Uris.
• Sinatra
  Located at Plaza Uris.
• Taboo Bamboo
  Located at Plaza Uris.
• The Beer House
• Tonic Bar & Lounge
• Trio Café
• Vié
  Located at Plaza Uris.
• Zambra
  Located at Plaza Uris.

Puerto Plata

• The Lighthouse

Punta Cana

• Mangú Disco Bar
  Considered by many the best disco of the country because every floor features a different kind of music.
• ORO
  by Hard Rock
• Jewel
  in Melia

La Romana

• Victory Club