When it’s time for shopping, the Dominican Republic is the right place to be. May it be jewelry, art or cigars, among the products of this island there is something right for every budget and preference.
Faceless dolls have become one of the most typical souvenirs of the Dominican Republic. They are made of clay and dressed in the traditional clothes. These wonderful dolls portrait the life of women in the country and can be found posing in a variety of activities, such as carrying a basket, grinding coffee or holding a bouquet of flowers.
Hand painted cups, vases and plates can also be purchased. They are also made of clay. A souvenir that has become quite popular of late is a music box in the shape of a typical Dominican house. These boxes feature classical music as well as merengue.
The Spanish, African and Haitian influences are clearly reflected in Dominican folk art. Among the artworks available for tourists are the colorful oil paintings. These are probably copies of the Haitian originals of which there are thousands of reproductions. Another manifestation of Dominican art can be found in its clay and wood sculptures. The richness of color and the realism found in these works, along with its low prices, make them a great buy to take home as a souvenir.
Another very important product of the country is rum. It can be acquired in any corner store or supermarket. The best ones are those produced by Brugal, Barcelo or Bermudez. Each of these brands offers at least five different types of rum that vary in price according to the age of the product.
Hand-made candles are a very popular gift or souvenir, for they are usually cheaper than in other places. They come scented with products of the region, such as coconut, cinnamon and vanilla. They can be found in almost all the stores in the tourist zones of the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic is the most important producer of cigars in the world. Most of them are grown in the valley of Cibao, near Santiago. Some experts believe that Dominican cigars are even better than Cubans. A great variety of types, brands and prices can be found in almost any supermarket and tourist shop. There are also specialized stores that feature pricier brands.
Dominican Republic’s coffee is remarkably good. The most popular brand is the best you can get, which means there is no need to spend more in superior brands to get a really good cup of coffee. There are also several brands of organic grown coffee, which cost a little more and they are all top quality. Its low price makes it a perfect gift to bring back home. Dominican coffee is grown in the Bani and Cibao Altura regions and it is known for its full body, low acidity and rich flavor.
Dominican jewelry is vast and varied. There are pieces of every price and inexpensive, casual pieces are very common. These can be found at the beach or in gift shops in hotels and resorts. The more expensive items are usually made of gold or silver and have inlaid amber or larimar stones.
The most tyipcal jewelry of the country is made with amber or larimar, both of which are mined in the country. Larimar is a stone found exclusively in the Dominican Republic and the mines are located in a volcanic range south of the country. Once it has been extracted, the stone is polished until it acquires its beautiful blue-green color.
Amber is a petrified resin, in which the country is very profuse. The most coveted pieces, and thus the most expensive ones, are those that contain an insect or part of a plant inside them. Prices of amber and larimar jewelry vary depending on the metal used as well as the size and quality of the stones and the intricacy of the design. Pieces sold at the beach tend to be of lower quality and often are only imitations. Specialty stores offer better quality products in gold and silver that feature real amber or larimar.
Mamajuana, a type of home-made liquor made of rum, honey and herbs, is reputed to be an elixir with digestive and healing properties, including an increase in sexual vitality. The authentic recipe is probably the best-kept secret in the Dominican Republic, and only a handful of families that have made it for generations hold it. Dominicans firmly believe in its healing properties and as such it is offered in many restaurants. It can also be purchased bottled in most of the gift shops. The packaged herbs and barks used for its preparation can also be obtained in the stores and these are easier to carry and ready to be mixed with the rest of the ingredients once in your country.
The Dominican Republic can be compared to a treasure chest made island. In it, something special for everyone can be found. When it comes to shopping, there is an ample variety of items and shops where to choose from. You can pick a perfect present for those who stayed at home or a typical souvenir that will draw a smile on your face as you remember a wonderful holiday.
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