Martinair

Puerto Plata: in the footsteps of Columbus

Puerto Plata is located on the Atlantic Coastal Plain on the north coast of the Dominican Republic. It is the third-largest city on the island after Santo Domingo and Santiago. The city was founded in 1496 by Bartholomeo, the brother of Christopher Columbus. This makes it among the oldest settlements on the island. Today, Puerto Plata is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean. And it’s no wonder since everyone sees it as the perfect combination of opportunities for activity and (maybe more importantly) relaxation.

  • Sun and beach
  • Natural beauty and whales
  • Tropical climate
  • Sports and relaxation

A capital city with gingerbread houses

Until now, Puerto Plata has not undergone the massive development and traffic congestion that so often plague other cities. During your expedition of discovery through the city, you’ll undoubtedly come across the beautiful Victorian warehouses and wooden homes with verandas characteristic of the time when Puerto Plata experienced its major growth spurt. This architecture provides a charming old-fashioned atmosphere that makes the city look like a collection of irresistible gingerbread houses.

Wide white sand beaches

Naturally, it’s the pristine white sand beaches that have made Puerto Plata one of the most popular tourist resorts. What’s more, the northern coast of the Dominican Republic offers visitors who enjoy sports activities plenty of opportunities for golf, tennis, boating and swimming.

Good to know

Languages Spanish (and also Creole French and English)
Currency Dominican Peso
Time difference from Western Europe 5 hours earlier (winter) or 6 hours earlier (summer)
Flight time about 10 hours (about 12 hours if including a stopover) on average from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Best time to travel January to May
Electricity 110 volts (adapter necessary)
Visa required
Vaccinations Vaccinations recommended for hepatitis A, malaria and typhoid

Safe & Easy

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