Coming a long way from Spanish settlement in1504 Santiago is Dominican Republic's second largest city and an hour's drive from the many Puerto Plata resorts. With Columbus being a predominant part of area settlement Santiago's history is an interesting and lengthy one. Today the city is well known for its abundance of attractions, restaurants, Santiago resorts and lively nightlife. Downtown offers a bustling center to explore during the day. The Cathedral of Santiago, numerous museums and many historical monuments are some of the sights to see. Climb the stairs at the Monument to the Heroes of the Restoration and be rewarded with a phenomenal view of the city.

Santiago resorts and hotels can be found all over the city in different unique quarters. The Santiago Hotel Platino is a popular choice for those wishing to explore this city in more depth. Near lots of entertainment, cultural centers, historic locations and excellent shopping many prefer the city life and culture. Designed in a classic style this hotel in Santiago Dominican Republic boasts a contemporary feel highlighted by elegance and comfort. 92 pleasant rooms include air conditioning, plasma TV, high speed internet, safe deposit, kitchenette full bath. An exciting bar, comfortable lounge and excellent restaurant can all be found on site. Native cuisine and American continental are served up until midnight.

Hodelpa Gran Almirante is another of Santiago resorts that includes a casino on the premises. This elegantly decorated Santiago hotel has 156 guest suites decked out in fine wooden furnishings with an assortment of amenities including CD player, air conditioning, TV, mini bar, safe internet access and more. Close to the city center main attractions can easily be visited. An onsite car rental desk provides convenient transportation with maps for guests to get around easily. The sauna and pool offer a place to shed the hustle of city life after a long day of sightseeing. An enclosed rooftop lounge gives way to great scenery below. This Santiago hotel has rates beginning at $72.00 but make sure to double check prices before booking.

Santiago's beautiful architecture can be seen from almost every city street with colonial style buildings define by wrought iron and large, tiled porticos and picture windows. Elegant Victorian styles can be seen in the older homes in the city. A horse drawn carriage ride is a favorite when sightseeing with the Catedral de Santiago Apostol being an excellent starting point.

Another excellent choice for a hotel in Santiago Dominican Republic is Camp David Ranch Hotel Resort. Though it's called 'camp' this Santiago hotel is more of a luxurious hotel located

2000 feet up with fantastic views of the Cibao Valley. This family-owned resort offers 35 rooms all with air conditioner, cable TV, high speed internet and city or mountain views.

Dining is offered at El Generalisimo which serves delicious international fare. There is also a sauna and spa with massage services. An impressive array of delectable wine can be sampled at the Lobby Bar. For a different experience away from the city yet close enough to see all the sights this hotel in Santiago Dominican Republic is the way to go.

These are just a few of the resorts to choose from in Santiago. Santiago has a wealth of options when it comes to resorts and hotels. There are a number of different amenities available for resort guests and you'll want to be sure to choose one that suits you and your family best. A resort with many options for dining can be a good way to go if you're choosing an all-inclusive resort hotel. The variety in meals can be a very welcomed option! Plenty of activities for children often plays a key role in choosing a family holiday destination.

The history of the tobacco industry can be discovered with a trip to the Tobacco Museum highlighting periods from pre-Columbian times. Santigao's colorful collection of carnival masks can be seen at the Tomas Morel Museum of Folkloric Art. No matter what you choose to do in the city the sights and sounds impart the exciting feel of the city and give way to one of the most interesting yet often missed parts of the Dominican Republic.