Rediscovering Puerto Plata: A Second Visit to the Jewel of the Dominican North
Returning to Puerto Plata in 2024 was like meeting an old friend—familiar yet still full of surprises. Having traveled to different cities across the Dominican Republic, I had a broader perspective this time, allowing me to appreciate what sets Puerto Plata apart.
For this visit, I stayed at one of my timeshare exchange resorts—Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort. It was the perfect home base, offering a mix of comfort, luxury, and easy access to both relaxation and adventure. The resort’s amenities, beachside location, and lively atmosphere added a new level of enjoyment to my stay, making downtime between explorations just as memorable as the excursions themselves.
Beaches & Nature: A Caribbean Dream
Puerto Plata’s beaches never disappoint. Playa Dorada and Sosúa Beach, with their golden sands and clear waters, are as stunning as ever. But what stood out on this trip was venturing out to lesser-known beach spots. The tranquility of Playa Bergantín, away from the busier resorts, gave me a chance to truly unwind.
A highlight of my visit was revisiting the breathtaking Teleférico, the only cable car in the Caribbean. Seeing Mount Isabel de Torres from above never gets old, and this time, I took more time to appreciate the lush botanical gardens at the summit.
History & Culture: A Deeper Appreciation
While I had previously explored the city’s colonial past, my second visit allowed me to delve even deeper. I spent more time wandering through the historic center, admiring the Victorian-style architecture, and revisiting the Fortaleza San Felipe, a relic of the city’s past. The stories of pirates and Spanish conquests still echo through its stone walls.
One of my favorite moments was engaging more with the local art scene. Puerto Plata has a vibrant artistic community, and I found myself drawn to the colorful murals and street art scattered throughout the city.
Food: A Culinary Delight
Having already sampled Dominican cuisine before, I knew what to expect, but this trip still managed to surprise me. I indulged in more local seafood dishes—grilled dorado, fresh ceviche, and of course, the classic mangú con los tres golpes (mashed plantains with fried cheese, eggs, and salami). Visiting a few family-run restaurants instead of sticking to the more tourist-friendly spots made all the difference in flavor and authenticity.
Reflections on My Second Visit
This trip to Puerto Plata solidified my appreciation for the city. While my first visit was more about seeing the major attractions, my second time allowed me to slow down and experience the heart of the city. Whether it was through conversations with locals, exploring beyond the main beaches, or simply taking in the views from the cable car, I left with an even deeper connection to Puerto Plata.
Would I return for a third time? Absolutely. The Dominican Republic always has more to offer, and Puerto Plata continues to be a city worth revisiting.
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