This country is working hard to preserve its natural resources. The hotels and tour operators are at the forefront of the effort to protect and nurture the environment.

Pick your passion. The Dominican Republic has varied terrain and an array of micro-climates, thus offering something for everyone.

The highest point in the Caribbean—Pico Duarte, elevation 10,417 feet— is here. So is the lowest: Lago Enrriquillo which lies 144 feet below sea level. Both are surrounded by lush tropical forests dripping with wild orchids and bromeliads and alive with flocks of parrots and flamingos, dramatic dunes landscaped with cactus, thundering mountain waterfalls and quiet seaside lagoons — All framed by some of the world's most beautiful beaches.

Whether you're up for a stroll along a deserted beach, a hike to the Taíno caves in Parque del Este or an expedition into the heart of urban Santo Domingo—the oldest colonial city in America—there are plenty of places worth hiking to.

Off the east coast of the Dominican Republic the Mona Passage is one of the most prolific habitats for billfish. Comfortable Marinas and experienced captains will take you into the blue to experience the thrill of blue and white marlin. Be kind, release them afterwards. There are also many shallow estuaries and river mouths rife with tarpon and snook.

With three peaks over 10,000 feet, the Cordillera Central is often called the Dominican Alps. Repelling and rafting in the Río Yaque del Norte, a mild whitewater river, offers many thrills. A real challenging thrill is the climb to Pico Duarte. Guided tours that spend a night or two at shelters along the trail make the trip a little easier, yet, each year, less than 1,000 people make it all the way to the top.

Beach, beach, and more beach. The coastline is fringed with some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean. Hammocks, beach bars and miles of palm tree shaded beaches beckon.

The Bay at Samaná and the nearby Silver Banks offshore offer some of the most dependable and thrilling animal encounters in the region. An estimated 3,000 humpback whales linger here from January to March during their annual migration between the North Atlantic and the Caribbean.

The north coast of the island is host to surfers, windsurfers and kite boarders alike. Cavarete is one of the top destinations for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Portillo in the north coast of Samaná is also a favorite kiteboarding and windsurfing destination. Classes are available for those wishing to try.

And of course, GOLF, GOLF, GOLF. Casa de Campo offers some of the most challenging and beautiful golf courses in the Caribbean. Tee Of!