Santo Domingo Zoo

[Michael Boone]

Greetings fellow DR1 Board Members:

I am flying into Santo Domingo on November 15, 2001, and staying at the El Candil in Boca Chica. I've been to Santo Domingo and Boca Chica before, so I am pretty familiar with some of the sites. Although this is mostly a Rest and Relaxation trip, I did want to do something "different". I love animals and heard about a zoo in the capital. Has anyone been to the zoo? Is it worthwhile to visit? Short of taking an expensive taxi from Boca Chica to whereever the zoo is, is there a cheaper yet still efficient way to get there?

Also wanted to pick up a detailed street map of Santo Domingo (not the tourist version) but must be in English. Anyone know where I can pick one up once I arrive in the country, or is it best to find one here in the States?

Would also like to know whether anyone encountered travel restrictions with bringing back to the states duty free liquor. With heightened security at national airports and many international airports on high alert for terrorists, I didn't know whether US customs viewed liquor bottles as a potential "weapon" and therefore subject to confiscation at the security checkpoint.

Thank you for responding!

Michael

 

[John]

Michael!

For once being able to give advise, I can not resist... I have been to the zoo and it was surprisingly good! (I guess I was a little prejudiced about "that kind of country", so I expected the worst. The zoo in Bangkok for example, is horrible!) There is good space for the animals and I saw plenty of staff taking care of them. There is a big walk-in aviary. However, there may not be that big diversity of animals.

Keep in mind that the zoo is big. Unless you wanna ride the "visitor train", bring good shoes and lots of water!!!

I went there the cheap way, in the hospitable hands of a friend!

As for a map of the city, BUY IT IN THE STATES!!! For some weird reason, it is difficult to find maps, guide books etc in english in DR. At least, that is my experience.

 

[Thomas robert]

I will suggest the Aquarium which is on the way from Boca Chica to SD as you near the city.It would be a nice day trip from Boca Chica. The zoo is on the north side of the city and hard to reach by public transport, if you are new to SD. It is not a "big deal".Tom

 

[AmyG]

Acuario the way to go

I agree. The Aquarium is extremely well run and the grounds, which are along the city's cliffline, are very nice for picnic lunching too.

It all depends on what your interests are. The Botanical garden is fantastic as well. Have fun!

 

[Keith R]

I would second that recommendation. The Aquarium is quite good and is indeed close to BC. Well worth a visit.
Regards,
Keith

 

[mike]

Jard?n Bot?nico....Best option

rated in the top ten in world.