Understand

Paraiso is a vibrant town along Highway 2, nestled between Bani, Azua, and Barahona. It may seem small, but it buzzes with the exciting sight of zooming motorcycles and trucks equipped with massive speaker systems that blast music well into the night. The beach at Paraiso is a breathtaking stretch of white pebbles, extending for miles. Unfortunately, there are patches of trash that mar the scene. The waterfront near the town center, where the square is located, has a powerful shore-break and is not advisable for swimming. A few kilometers down the highway lies Los Patos beach, a paradise for both beach enthusiasts and light sleepers. This area also boasts a stunning white pebble beach, accompanied by a delightful boardwalk instead of unsightly garbage. The deep turquoise waters here are perfect for ocean swimming. Just behind the main beach, you'll discover a natural swimming hole, a flowing freshwater lagoon. Stands selling beer, fried meats, and cheap fry bread add to the lively ambiance. In the afternoon, local tourists flock to the swimming hole and enjoy a refreshing swim at the beach. Despite being the high season in December 2016, the entire area surprisingly lacked Western tourists. Throughout our stay, we didn't encounter a single native English speaker. Don't expect to find Western-style restaurants or many English speakers, even though the beaches are astonishingly beautiful and the locals embrace a relaxed beach lifestyle. Los Patos stands out with its unique and incredibly loud music scene, where cars and vans have been converted into mobile speaker-boxes. However, unlike Paraiso, the music quiets down at night. At first glance, it seems like these towns know how to party. Overall, Paraiso city may not be the best choice for Western beach seekers, but just a short distance down the road, you'll find the hidden gem of Los Patos. It offers a couple of unforgettable beach days off the grid and provides a genuine local experience. Additionally, Los Patos serves as an excellent starting point for a visit to the stunning Bahia de las Aguilas.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dominican Republic's most popular dish is known as La Bandera, which consists of white rice, red beans, and chicken. The chicken is often marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled or roasted, imparting a savory, slightly smoky flavor. The beans are cooked until tender and infused with the flavors of garlic, pepper, and other seasonings, while the rice is plain but serves as an excellent backdrop for the other components on the plate. This hearty meal represents the nation's diverse culinary heritage and is enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.

Another popular Dominican dish is Sancocho, a hearty stew typically made with chunks of beef, tubers such as yams and potatoes, and various root vegetables like cassava and plantains. This filling dish is often prepared with a blend of spices, including garlic, oregano, and cumin, giving it a bold, robust taste. Sancocho is commonly eaten during special occasions and gatherings, embodying the warmth and hospitality of Dominican culture.

The third popular dish hailing from the Dominican Republic is Mangú, a popular breakfast meal consisting of mashed green plantains, seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices. This side dish resembles mashed potatoes in texture and is often served alongside fish, eggs, or other proteins. Mangú can be found in numerous eateries and homes across the country, reflecting its widespread appeal and cultural significance.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing