We heard a rumor you’re contemplating a vacation in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic but not quite sure if it’s the right move. Well, we have some tempting information that may persuade you to plan sooner than later, the flavorful culinary scene. When visiting, indulge in the African, Spanish and Taino influences.

Taino? Christopher Columbus was the Dominican Republic’s first documented visitor in 1492 and when he came aboard, he came in contact with the already settled Tainos natives. Columbus brought Spanish fare to the Caribbean island and the culinary flavors have evolved over the centuries but still grasp traditional roots.

Dominicans prepare meals with fresh ingredients and don’t include hot spices in traditional recipes. Each region of the Dominican Republic has its own flavor. The Northwest Coast’s rugged terrain is perfect for goat grazing and oregano bushes. The northeastern area has vast amounts of coconut palms and abundant fishing, while the central region cultivates vegetable crops and non-tropical produce such as strawberries.

What’s for breakfast? The most important meal of the day typically consists of mangu, a puree made of mashed plantains and a combination of bacon or salami, cheese and fried red onions. At lunch, a salad, fried plantains and La Bandera, is the most popular dish. La Bandera but generally consists of rice, red beans and a meat such as chicken, beef or goat. Dinner is a light meal and auyama, a pumpkin-like squash, is typical.

Sugar and cocoa are two of the Dominican Republic’s main agricultural products so desserts are typically sweet and based on milk and fruit. Majarete, a popular dessert, is a sweet corn pudding mixed with a blend of sweet potatoes. Beverages with meals or alone typically range from local rum or Presidente beer, to ginger and lemon grass teas, fresh fruit smoothies and hot chocolate drinks.
A deep fried bulgur roll form the Middle East called quips, is a common snack. Empanadas filled with meat and pastelitos, puffed pastry with sweet fillings as chocolate or fruits, are also local favorites.

“So much goes into authentic Dominican meals, from planning what will be served, to the importance of fresh ingredients,” said Magaly Toribio, Ministry of Tourism’s Vice Minister of International Promotion. “We proudly share our historic traditions and captivating culture with DR visitors, specifically through our mouthwatering produce, much of which is locally and organically grown.”

Image Source: Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism

One-time Haiti presidential candidate and Grammy award winner Wyclef Jean will headline the 31st Annual St. Maarten Heineken Regatta scheduled for March 3 – 6, 2011. The performer, who gained fame as part of the group The Fugees, will headline the closing celebration on Sunday, March 6, 2011, on Kim Sha Beach. Best of all, the performance is free.

Haitian-born Jean filed for candidacy in the 2010 Haiti presidential race but was ruled ineligible to run by the Electoral Commission. Devoted to his homeland, the performer continues to raise awareness and financial support for Haiti through his foundation, Yele Haiti.

“St. Maarten is honored to welcome an artist who is active in his local community and a positive spokesman for the region,” said said Regina LaBega, Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.

Wyclef Jean is headlining the regatta’s entertainment but each night, Bliss night club heats up as the official regatta after party location. During the event, rock out and groove to a variety of music including Soca, Calypso, Dancehall, Hip-hop, Rock and Jazz performed by local artists, regional bands and international stars. Visit the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta website for an up-to-date schedule and be sure to book your St. Maarten accommodations now.

Image Source: Ali Dan-Bouzoua

Sea turtles and vacationers always enjoy the fab beaches of Gran Caribe Real Cancun  and THE ROYAL in Cancun, Mexico, during the summer months and this year was no exception. In fact, both resorts reported record high occupancies meaning they are an affordable Mexico vacation option.

But, the big news is about some little guys. Dozens of sea turtles laid hundreds of eggs on these beaches in June. The Mexican Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources along with staff from both resorts moved all of the eggs to protected areas so visitors would not disrupt them during the 45-day incubation period. It wasn’t for naught. Earlier in August the baby sea turtles began hatching and guests of the resorts had an incredible experience: they along with staff helped guide more than 200 baby sea turtles into the Caribbean.

Resort staff has been specially trained on the safe handling of sea turtles and educated resort guests about their life cycle. Sea turtle nesting season is May through October and turtle hatching continues through the summer.

When vacationing in Cancun and if you have an interest in sea turtles and marine life should visit the eco-park called Xcaret, about 35 miles south. Xcaret means “small inlet” in Mayan. Here, visitors can see sea turtles in the aquarium and participate in various aquatic activities not necessarily involving turtles but other creatures. Depending on the time of year, travelers to Cancun can snorkel with sharks, explore reefs during a snuba adventure or explore the crystal waters of underground rivers. There’s also a boat tour, swim with the dolphins program, beach to enjoy and lots more to do out of the water.

Don’t you deserve a vacation in Cancun to experience this? We’re here to assist in finding the most affordable Cancun hotel rooms.

Photo Source: Real Resorts