Tips on Puerto Plata

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Established in 1502, Puerto Plata earned its name, Port of Silver, from the glistening silver colour of its coast at sunset. The seaside city served as the last stop for ships carrying goods back to the Old World. Today, Puerto Plata welcomes those taking a different type of journey: from hectic real life to tranquil, all-inclusive decadence.

Its beach-town neighbour to the east, Punta Cana, offers the coddling comforts of the all-inclusive but with very little authenticity. Puerto Plata’s appeal, however, is in fusing the two. In addition to the spectacular beaches of the Dominican Republic’s north coast or the activities along the lively Malecón boardwalk, there’s also the crumbling yet majestic colonial architecture of the historic district or the breathtaking views atop Mount Isabel de Torres in the morning. In short, Puerto Plata’s virtues include plenty of off-resort activities to placate the curious and plenty of all-inclusive activities to entertain the laid-back – and for a reasonable price. Need even more diversions? This Port of Silver is just a quick flight away from the DR’s capital, Santo Domingo, and the thriving nightlife, shopping and burgeoning food scene found there.

How to save money in Puerto Plata

• Push your bargaining skills: Barter and barter low when boarding a minibus or catching a taxi. And remember to agree on your fare with the driver before entering the vehicle.
• Pick a pad in town: Although the all-inclusive resorts are some of the cheapest around, even cheaper accommodations can be found downtown.
• Practice good planning: Planning your visit in the shoulder months of May and June can save you up to 50 per cent on your accommodations, never mind the crowds have died down.

What to eat

Even if you’re enjoying a pre-paid food plan, you shouldn’t pass up the chance to sample some D.R. cuisine. La bandara – the national dish of red beans, stewed meats, rice and fried green plantains – is a must-try, and samaná’s pescado con coco (fish with coconut sauce) will be appreciated by any seafood lover. And caffeine addicts will have no problem finding their fix in this city. The Dominican Republic as a whole is known for its coffee bean production, and you can expect your Puerto Plata cup o’ joe to taste fresh and flavourful.

Source: http://travel.usnews.com/Puerto_Plata_Dominican_Republic/

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