As the second-largest city in the Dominican Republic, Santiago de los Caballeros offers visitors an eclectic mix of history, culture and urban sprawl. Rum, cigars and sugarcane are the city’s major exports, which the locals wholeheartedly embrace.
Santiago is also a city of contrasts. Some locals live in makeshift corrugated iron homes, while others enjoy plush mansions in the wealthy Cerros de Gurabo neighbourhood. Though despite socioeconomic differences, the whole city is united with a common love for their legendary baseball team. Make a beeline for Monument when the sun goes down, as it is the city’s lively nightlife district.
Cibao International Airport is the gateway to Santiago de los Caballeros and is a 30-minute drive from the city centre. The city also serves as a jumping point to popular beach resorts like Puerto Plata. Local buses make the trip, with the journey taking around two hours. Within the city, shared taxis are the cheapest and easiest way to get around.
Founded in 1495, Santiago is one of the oldest settlements in Spain’s New World empire. It’s brimming with history, with a string of city museums celebrating its rich cultural narrative. Of course, baseball is also hugely popular in Santiago. As well as supporting their international players, locals cheer loud and proud for Aguilas Cibaeñas, Santiago’s official team.