SOSUA
Area: Dominican Republic
Country: Dominican Republic


Location:
On the Atlantic N coast, 15 miles E of Puerto Plata, 4 miles E of its international airport.

Telephone code from UK:
1 809

Website:
http://www.hispaniola.com/dr

Position:
Along the beach on fairly flat ground. The inland countryside is tropically verdant and hilly.

Description:
A popular, bustling seaside town with two distinct areas linked by a seafront promenade. El Batey, E of the principal beach, was developed as a tourist destination, although the area has somewhat degenerated into a shambling concentration of unsophisticated shopping streets, potholed roads, neglected buildings and patches of undeveloped land. Los Charamicos, with its narrow traffic-choked streets and cockfighting ring, is little more than the native quarter to service the growing tourist industry. Founded by German Jewish refugees after World War II, this area saw the establishment of several food-processing businesses, which can still be seen along with many of the original wooden houses. The ambience is relaxed and friendly, with much more of a Dominican feel than the sanitised purpose-built complexes that nestle behind security gates.

Suitability:
Most ages and middlemarket types who want a more authentic Dominican atmosphere leaning towards informality. Particularly popular with Canadians and Europeans.

Accommodation:
Broader range than many in the country; from small budget pensions to well-equipped complexes including a growing number of all-inclusive operations.

Shopping:
Unsophisticated and tourist-orientated. One of the best places for a wide choice of Haitian paintings, carved stone and handicrafts. Stalls line the ways to the beaches, and vendors peddle their wares without too much persistence.

Beach:
The long main beach, backed by a rough pedestrian promenade linking the two centres, has fine golden sand, plenty of shade and good views. La Boca, to the NW of Los Charamicos, is smaller, scruffier and none too clean. La Playita, separated from the main beach by a rocky headland, is short but deep, with soft sand and clear water but very little shade. A number of smaller stretches run E to Playa Chiquita. All manner of water sports.

Entertainments:
Daytime: relaxing on the beach; souvenir shopping; club hotel programmes. Nightlife: many small unsophisticated discos in El Batey. Casino a mile out of town at Playa Chiquita. Music bars abound.

Eating:
A great many restaurants, although few offering more than simple cuisine. Handful of local fast-food outlets. No shortage of bars and pleasant spots for a sundowner cocktail. Don't drink the tap water (brush your teeth with bottled water). It's advisable to avoid salads or cold meats that are displayed without the benefit of chilling devices.

Public-transport:
Motoconchos (back seat of a moped), taxis. Guaguas (public minibuses) on the main road.

Local-excursions:
See Puerto Plata.