The El Camino Travel Guide to Santo Domingo, DR
Written by Kayla Doris
Welcome to the oldest city in the Americas! Santo Domingo—the capital of the Dominican Republic—was Spain’s first capital in the so-called “New World,” a term used by European colonizers to describe the lands they claimed to discover. As a result, the city is home to some of the first European-built landmarks in the Western Hemisphere, including the oldest cathedral, the first university, the first paved road, and the ruins of what was once the first hospital in the Americas. Naturally, most tourists are drawn to the Zona Colonial—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s undeniably beautiful with its crumbling facades, sun-washed plazas, and centuries-old buildings. Don’t just stop there if you’re planning to visit. Beyond the historical district, you’ll find residential streets where daily life unfolds, up-and-coming neighborhoods, pockets of green space, and stunning natural landscapes within driving distance. Those who think the Caribbean is just for beaches and resorts should think again. Santo Domingo covers it all—historical sites, contemporary art, eclectic musical heritage, and an emerging food scene—all served with a dose of island attitude, of course.
We’ve collaborated with local insiders, Joarla Caridad—jewelry designer and founder of JOARLA, Ricardo Fernández—co-owner of La Alpargateria, and Jose Luis—co-owner and designer at Fixie Lofts. We’ve also included tips from ECT Clubhouse members, Victoria Benson and Chenille Ali to curate a list of recommendations for eating, drinking, shopping, and sightseeing your way through the city.
Eat
Head to Curcio for a quick and casual lunch. “I love this pizza place,” says Joarla. “It’s yummy and fast—pizza al taglio (pizza by the cut). My go-to order is the one with corn, pancetta, garlic, and parsley. Also, their tiramisu is truly amazing.” Take your slice to go, or enjoy it on the patio with an Aperol spritz. Find it in Ciudad Colonial.
Also included in the guide:
A must-do restaurant that’s been described as being unlike anything else in the whole of the Caribbean
Dominican fine dining complemented by an extensive wine lis
Where local entrepreneur, Joarla Caridad, goes to dance and enjoy “amazing cocktails”
Image credit: JOARLA
Stay
Embrace slow living at Fixie Lofts, a stunning private villa with a garden, pool, and tranquil courtyard. Set in a restored 16th-century villa, the building was once part of the San Nicolás de Bari hospital—the first in the Americas. Now owned by Meyling Wetto, she took the space over in 2017 with her partner, Jose Luis, who’s in charge of the design and architecture. He describes the style as “simple luxury, not based on marble floors, but rather on a unique local private aesthetically pleasing experience.” That means raw textures and concrete floors, furnishings crafted by local weavers, earthy tones, and plenty of natural light. The villa is made up of seven lofts which feature kitchenettes, a dining area, and access to the gorgeous arched pool and courtyard. Alternatively, the entire villa can be booked out for up to 16 guests.
Also included in the guide:
A new concept in luxury hotels; private residencies with butler service and premium amenities
The boutique hotel that’s embracing tropical modernism
Apartments that have been tried and tested by an ECT member
Image credit: Curcio
Shop
Shop the ultimate souvenir with a handcrafted keepsake made from Larimar, a rare blue gem that’s unique to the Dominican Republic. JOARLA is an avant-garde jewelry brand with a store inside the Amber World Museum. The brand style is playful but sophisticated, capturing the essence of the Caribbean through bold, artful creations made from silver, gold, and Dominican gemstones. Founded by second-generation artisan Joarla Caridad, each piece is handcrafted by local artisans in her family workshop. Browse earrings, ear cuffs, bracelets, and the signature pool ring.
Also included in the guide:
A handmade shoe store, combining local artisans and good taste
A stunning stoneware workshop reviving the island’s pottery industry
High-end beachwear rooted in Caribbean culture
Image credit: Fixie Lofts
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