Private Historical Scenic Tour in Santo Domingo Colonial

The scenic views were a pleasure to see and the well-preserved architecture were impressive. We were fascinated by blend of cultures in this region. The guide provided interesting stories and insights about the historical landmarks and it all made for a memorable experience.

My wide and I had booked this tour for our free day in Sta Domingo before flying back home after a two-week Caribbean cruise. Our flight from Brdigetown to Sta Domingo via Panama City was extremely delayed, so instead of arriving in the Dominican Republic capital at 9 pm, we arrived at 3 am! But the tour was scheduled for 10 am so we slept for just a few hours after settling down at the Crowne Plaza before going down to meet our pick-up. But there was no pickup! So we frantically call the tour operator - and it looks like our booking - an expensive private booking at that - had slipped through the cracks! So they said we're remedying it - we're sending someone to pick you up right now! So I thought we were back on track. It turned out that the tour guide the operator had contracted couldn't find his way to our hotel and gave up. So the tour operator had us join a Spanish language tour of 15 people consisting go Argentinians and Colombians, most of whom knew each other! They were already quite cramped in their small van so when we joined, it got really extremely tight. And since we were 'late', the tour guide hurried us through the taino caves before we left for the next stop. And the stops were quite different from what was promised in our private tour! They even had a lengthy lunch which we didn't participate in so we walked around while the others were dining. At the end of the tour, we had not seen half of what was in our private tour itinerary. The tour guide was extremely sympathetic to our plight but he could only give English translations once in a while since his real group was Spanish-speaking. And no word from the operator about getting a rebate on our 'private tour'!

It started with a brief orientation. The guide spoke fluent English and Spanish, answered some questions we had. The pacing of the tour was just right and we also had time for taking photos. We ate some mashed plantains, which were delicious. By the end we not only had amazing photos of the Caribbean coastline, but also got a good understanding of Santo Domingo’s heritage.

Thoroughly enjoyed the fine tour of Santo Domingo. Jesus' commentary was perfect in scope and delivery and the sights visited were a superb balance of the attributes of this wonderful city.

I am from Italy and the culture of Santo Domingo is such a nice contrast for me. This tour exposed to me, the rich history of Santo Domingo. This was an unforgettable tour, thanks to the friendly and knowledgeable tour guide.