What's there to do in Santiago? And what to bring?

Question

Anyone from there? I'm going in a month for a week, and I was wondering if there's any fun stuff there to do.

Also, is there anything special I should bring? I'll be staying with my boyfriend's family, and I want to bring them some presents from here, any ideas? He's got a big family, a bunch of babies.. I'm lost.

Answer 1

First of all Santiago is the LARGEST city in the Dominican Republic since they split Santo Domingo into two cities with two mayors and governments.

Santiago is good for one thing and that is shopping.  That is the only reason I go there.  They have a few Home Depot type stores there and a few malls.

Other than that there is nothing there for someone from another country.

Imported things are expensive here.  Anything you bring from the US cost 2x as much here.  I would love some California Wine if you would like to bring me a bottle:)

Answer 2

Hi Irina,

Welcome to the second largest city in the Dominican Republic. Like every city in the world, you will find many things to do and to discover. Leave this to your friend, he will know what to do and what to see. Now about your question what to bring (gifts) this is depending how much money you want to spend on it. But if there are a lots of kids, I would suggest to buy them all type of educative items they can use at school (pen, pencils,drawing/coloring books,dictionary Spanish/English, etc.,..) Some original t-shirts from your country, well you know it better than I am.

Happy to help you

Happy Feet

Answer 3

I had visited this city (2nd largest in the Dominican Republic) in several occasions, to be honest with you there are a few historical places like cathedral, churches, etc but don’t expect much. They have good clubs and cafes to hang around at during the night, but the major tourist area in the Dominican is about 1 hour and a half away (Puerto Plata) so you can always go there. Also there are many “Campos” or the country where you can always experience something different. As to what to bring; I would suggest casual clothes for a very warm climate (shorts, t-shirt, skirts, etc). Make sure you bring nice clothes since the people from that city are well known for trying to always look their best (talking about medium-high class). As for presents to bring over for your friends relatives, you can try buying some shirts (you never go wrong with this), sandals, perfumes or necklaces/earring sets for the females and for kids you can bring educational toys or clothes. Good luck and have a safe trip!