The Travel Brats

Livin’ in La Perla del Caribe: Exploring the Dominican Republic with Cassidy & Zeek Marquez

Episode Summary

In this episode, Travel Brats bring Caribbean energy as they chat with Cassidy & Zeek Marquez —two adventurous missionaries who swapped the sandy shores of Florida for the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic. Cassidy and Zeek give the Travel Brats the inside scoop on life as missionaries with the Christian Missionary Alliance, their favorite spots, hidden gems, and tips for all our fellow travel lovers who might want to visit this stunning island! 🌴🇩🇴

Episode Notes

Meet Cassidy & Zeek!

Cassidy and Zeek started their journey together in Florida. Cassidy's originally from Maryland but moved to Fort Myers in 8th grade. Zeek is a Florida native, born and raised in the Bonita Springs area. Three years ago, these two lovebirds packed up and moved to the Dominican Republic (DR) with the Christian Missionary Alliance, where they've been sharing their faith, connecting with locals, and building up communities ever since.

Discovering the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic's history is rich and layered, beginning as the first European colony in the Americas. Santo Domingo, its capital, was founded in 1496 and is recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the New World. This city became a critical base for Spanish exploration, and remnants of its colonial past remain in the cobblestone streets and preserved buildings of its Zona Colonial. Over the centuries, the DR has seen periods of Spanish, French, and Haitian rule, each leaving a distinct mark on its culture. The nation gained its independence in 1844, and since then, its resilient spirit has shaped a unique identity celebrated in its music, art, and traditions. Today, the Dominican Republic thrives as a vibrant blend of European, African, and Taíno influences, with a deep sense of pride in its cultural heritage and historical significance in the Caribbean. And if you love music, this is the birthplace of merengue and bachata—two energetic styles that will get you dancing in no time.

What's the DR Really Like?

When we asked Cassidy and Zeek how they'd sum up the DR in just three words, they said it's friendly, hot, and adventurous! The island's unique mix of rich history, lively music, and breathtaking natural beauty makes it an unforgettable place to live and explore.

Best Time to Visit

While it's a paradise year-round, Cassidy and Zeek recommend avoiding the rainy season. For the ultimate tropical experience, head over between October and July. 

Holidays

Two major holidays in the DR are Mother's Day and Black Friday because the Dominicans love to shop. If you happen to visit on these days, get your shopping in! If you are a Carnival fan, it usually occurs between February and April. The DR's primary religion is Catholicism so there are also many holidays centered around it.

Must-Visit Cities

The DR's capital city, the largest city, Santo Domingo, is a must-visit! Known as the oldest city in the New World, it's filled with colonial architecture and historical sites, including the first cathedral in the Americas, Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor. Check out the old fort walls in the colonial zone. For a taste of Santo Domingo, try the chocolate-making tour, where you can explore the history of the Cacao bean and the different percentages of chocolates, and you get to make your own chocolate bar. For a scenic stroll, walk on the Malecon oceanside walkway, where you can see the ocean, shop from local vendors, and enjoy live music. 

The city of Santiago de los Caballeros is another gem with a thriving cultural scene. It is a smaller city with friendlier people, and similar to Santo Domingo, it has mountains, beaches, and good food. Santo Domingo and Santiago are a 4-hour drive from each other. 

La Romana is known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and the nearby Altos de Chavón, a recreated Mediterranean-style village.

Outdoor Exploring Like a Local

Beaches: Punta Cana is famous for its resorts and beaches, which make it a top tourist destination. However, there are many less crowded beaches, such as Las Terrenas, Cabarete, and Puerto Plata, on the northern coast, and Juan Dolio on the southern coast. Las Terrenas is on the northeastern coast, and it is Cassidy and Zeek's favorite with its crystal clear water and perfect palm trees. Cabarete is a vibrant boho surfer beach. Playa Rincon and Bahia de Las Aguilas offer some of the most pristine beaches. A low-key favorite beach spot in Santo Domingo for Cassidy and Zeek is Juan Dolio

Hiking & Waterfalls: If you're up for an adventure, try canyoning at El Tabernaculo. This is a must-hike, and you can slide down mini waterfalls. This hike is only about 2 hours long. Another incredible hike is Venti siete Saltos at the Damajagua Waterfalls. Here you can hike a trail up to the top of the mountain and you can float down a river, jumping off 27 rock sections into the next water pool. You can also choose whether you want to do a beginner, intermediate, or expert trek. Salto de Jimenoa. Pico Duarte is the highest peak in the Caribbean, standing at 10,164 feet (3,098 meters). You can sign up for a guided camping trip up the mountain, and the views and natural beauty is stunning. One of the most unique cave formations, Tres Ojos, lies on the outskirts of Santo Domingo Here you can swim and enjoy the natural beauty of the cave. Salto de Soccoa is another waterfall that lies about 1 hour outside of Santo Domingo.

What to Pack

Bring your camera! Essentials to Pack: Don't forget the sunscreen, bug spray, and a good pair of hiking shoes if you want to explore beyond the beach!

Where to Stay 

In Santo Domingo, The Embassy Suites is only $130 a night and is much more luxurious than embassy suites in the US. There are many unique historic hotels in the colonial zone. From here you can always have easy access to the happenings of the town such as shopping, events, music and food.

Savoring the Flavors

Cassidy and Zeek raved about the food, and we're here for it! Dominican cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African, and Taíno influences, with dishes like mangu (mashed plantains) and la bandera (a hearty plate of meat, rice, and beans). Some favorite Santo Domingo restaurants of Cassidy and Zeek include El Conuco, Osteria del Cappuccino, and La Tapa. Osteria del Cappuccino is an authentic Italian restaurant, and it is so tasty that it is endorsed by the Italian embassy! La Tapa has many options, great steaks, and excellent drinks. Keep in mind water is more expensive than liquor in the DR! El Conuco is a traditional Dominican restaurant located closer to the colonial district. El Conuco is a famous celebrity spot with the citations of Selena Gomez and Brad Pitt, and it hosts live merengue music in the evenings and weekends. For a romantic upscale splurge spot, dine at Meson de le Cava.

Don't even get us started on the coffee—locally grown and deliciously rich, it's a must-try for every coffee lover. Their favorite coffee shop is The Greenhouse. A popular drink in the DR is a mochaccino. Be careful when ordering a Machiatto because, unlike Starbucks, it is an extremely concentrated expresso drink.

Travel on Any Budget!

The DR has options for every budget. A week's trip could be affordable with plenty of local eats and budget, or if you're feeling bougie, there are tons of all-inclusive resorts and fine dining options, especially around Punta Cana and La Romana.

Memorable Moments and What's Next

Cassidy and Zeek have countless stories to share from their time in the DR, from helping communities to wild "off-the-beaten-path" treks. As they wrap up their time in the DR, they're looking forward to their next destination: Mexico! But if you want to connect with them before they go, follow @_CassidyMarquez on Instagram to chat more about their mission work with the Christian Missionary Alliance. To help Cassidy and Zeek on their next adventure to bring healing and the Gospel and aid to Mexico, click HERE.

So, Travel Brats, if the DR isn't already on your travel list, Cassidy and Zeek's stories might just convince you that they should be. Whether you're a beach bum, a history buff, or a foodie, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone!