Originally inhabited by Arawak speaking peoples, the country today is a mix of European and African influences.

Blessed with natural resources and picturesque beaches, little wonder it is a popular tourist spot. On arrival, I was taken in by the fierce tropical heat and the natural warmth of its people. We were shepherded around by our self-titled guide Black Mama.

San Domingo shows off its colonial past with decadent buildings and colorful streets. The influence of the Roman Catholic Church is all pervasive with ornate cathedrals and basilicas dot the landscape.

Baseball is the central sports passion, many provinces have stadia where fierce rivalries are played out. It is indeed, the dream of many to be the next Sammy Sosa. Many MLB teams scour the land looking for the next Phenom, for many it could be the golden ticket out of poverty. We visited a bustling local market replete with exotic foods, fish, fruit and vegetables.

After sampling sugar cane flavored liqueur it was time to visit a cigar factory. Dominican cigars match their Cuban rivals in quality. And they are reasonably priced for every budget.

When I travel I patronize local arts and crafts tradespeople. I like the give and take of bartering and the hunt for an authentic reminder of my island sojourn. I tend to avoid tees and hats made in China…

Economically and socially the country is not as affluent as its neighbors Curacao and Aruba. Despite lavish resorts and country clubs, it is hard to ignore the disparity between rich and poor. Indeed, the irony was not lost on me that I probably spent more in a day than most earn monthly. Our hearts were broken as we visited a local orphanage.

The Dominican Republic is a beautiful country steeped in a rich history and a unique culture. I look forward to returning one day in the hope of discovering new horizons.