Here's what people are saying about it:

"a complete practical guide"Wisconsin Bookwatch

"The history section is a wonderfully succinct and powerful description of the island from Columbus to post-Trujillo. The section on Trujillo's rule is outstanding."--Howard Zinn, author of A People 's History of the United States

"A frank and thorough rundown...Maps and a Spanish vocabulary embellish the down-to-earth text." -- Jack Adler, Prodigy Travel Board

Lively merengue and haunting Spanish ruins. The Caribbean's lowest point and its highest mountain peak. Waterfalls, spectacular beaches, natural parks, multicolored tropical birds, rolling fields of sugarcane, baseball, and savory food. These are but a few of things the Dominican Republic has to offer. A cultural melange, the nation occupies the eastern half of Hispaniola, the largest island in the Caribbean. Long a favorite among US visitors--hundreds of thousands visit annually--the Dominican Republic offers some of the lowest food and accommodation prices in the Caribbean along with some of its friendliest inhabitants.

While Old Santo Domingo has been restored to its colonial grandeur, many of the nation's thousands of miles of palm-lined beaches remain pristine and sedate. The capital's frantic pace contrasts favorably with the resort town of Puerto Plata, Sosua's European sophistication, the Samana Peninsula's sprawling jungle, and deserted beaches. The more adventurous will want to climb Pico Duarte or visit the other national parks, all of which are described in detail in this comprehensive guide.

EXPLORE THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC also includes:

• Maps and color photos
• Extensive information on history, culture, and food
• Information on all types of accommodation--from the most spartan family-run hotels to luxurious resorts such as sprawling Casa de Campo
• Where to play tennis, ride horseback, hike, and swim
• The best snorkeling and diving spots
• Car rentals, local transportation, and tips on saving on airfares and visitor's cards
• Local carnivals and patron saint festivities
• All local services including shopping, changing money, bus companies, and transport to and from airports