Dominican Republic, Caribbean nation on Hispaniola island
The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern part of Hispaniola, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south. The interior consists of mountain ranges, river valleys, and flat coastal plains.
The Dominican Republic declared independence from Haiti in 1844 and went through many government changes and conflicts in the following decades. The dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo, from 1930 to 1961, left a deep mark on the country's political life.
Baseball is the most popular sport in the country and has sent many players to professional leagues in North America. Every February, Carnival fills the streets with colorful costumes and street parades across the country.
Most travelers fly into Punta Cana, though Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata also have international airports. The period from December to April falls outside hurricane season and tends to offer the most reliable weather.
Lago Enriquillo sits about 144 feet (44 meters) below sea level, making it the lowest point in the Caribbean. The lake is saltwater and home to American crocodiles and iguanas that can be seen from tour boats.
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