Sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, the Dominican Republic is not your typical Caribbean destination.

While it does have the idyllic beaches and aquamarine waters the archipelago is famous for, it also has unique geographical and cultural features that set it apart.

From its vibrant, rhythmic merengue music and warm, party-loving people to its lonely desert lowlands and ancient Taino rock art, it certainly keeps travellers on its toes with its diverse offerings.

There’s so much to do, see and explore here: sunbathing on exquisite beaches; snorkelling, scuba diving and whale-watching along the coast; experiencing the island’s fauna and flora on ecotourism tours; dancing the night away at clubs in the many cosmopolitan cities; enjoying fabulous local cuisine; and playing golf on world-class courses.