Dominican Republic Meeting & Incentive Planner 2011/2012 - (Page 30)

Below: 27 Waterfalls at Damajagua PUERTO PLATA Not far from where Christopher Columbus established the first settlement in the New World, Puerto Plata began as a trading post where ships from Spain could deliver goods to all the Spanish colonies. By 1540, the first fortress of the New World was constructed: El Castillo de San Felipe, which buttresses the winding seaside promenade running along the entire span of the downtown corridor. Many times throughout the year, varied festivals can add a touch of local color to any group event. During the era of European colonization, sugar, leather, tobacco and rum were traded between sailors from the seven seas. Today, tourists can walk around the old city to see the many Victorian homes laced with delicate gingerbread trim. The #1 attraction in town is the Amber Museum, housed in a 2-story neo-classic home built in 1918. The top floor of the museum features a wealth of exhibits examining the history of exploration for the semiprecious stone, along with rare amber samples containing ancient fossils within the resin. On the museum’s ground floor, there’s a well-stocked shop selling a wide range of bright amber baubles in all price ranges, which is always popular with visiting groups. Just outside of town, the Teleférico (cable car) ride to the top of Isabel del Torres mountain offers stunning views of the entire town and the northern coast. At the summit, a Cristo Redentor (Christ the Savior) statue protects the souls below, much like the monolithic Christ figure overlooking Río de Janeiro. Another reason to make the trip are the brilliantly colored flowers spread throughout the botanical gardens covering the entire summit of the mountain. that’s getting harder and harder to find these days. Side streets are filled with colorful shops selling handmade gifts, and the town is known for its active nightlife. The local community is primarily made up of expatriates from around the world. Once an important haven for Jewish settlers escaping persecution in Europe during World War II, the beach town is home to a synagogue that welcomes all faiths— and that pretty much sums up life here. There’s a little bit of this and a little bit of that and a whole lot of harmony thanks in no small part to the gorgeous setting. Ocean World: World’s Largest Dolphin Home Located in quiet Cofresi just west of Puerto Plata, the fun Ocean World Adventure Park, Marina & Casino features the world’s largest man-made dolphin habitat in the world. Organize events to feed dolphins, sharks and stingrays, or wander among the park to see tigers and exotic aviary. The venue is perfect for large groups due to the massive size and plenty of activities to split the group into. While one group scuba dives with dolphins, another group can sit in on the Sea Lion Show & Encounter. These amazing creatures, originating in Uruguay, do tricks and stunts in the 350-seat stadium for guests. Meanwhile, another group can snorkel in the Snorkel Reef, a coral reef aquarium filled with exotic fish including angelfish, puffers, butterfly fish and lobsters. The facility also features a 104-slip marina, a full service casino and the 102-seat Poseidon Restaurant, specializing in local seafood. This is a perfect spot for creating culinary teambuilding activities. 30 GoDominicanRepublic.com  http://www.GoDominicanRepublic.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Dominican Republic Meeting & Incentive Planner 2011/2012

Planning Points
Meeting Hotels
Punta Cana & Bavaro
La Romana, Bayahibe & More
Cruise
Puerto Plata
Samana
Santo Domingo
Santiago & Central Region
Food & Music
DMC List
Tourism Offices

Dominican Republic Meeting & Incentive Planner 2011/2012

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