Puerto Plata is the largest coastal town on the north coast of The Dominican Republic and is instantly recognizable by the dramatic 2,600 ft high Peak of Mount Isabel de Torres which can be seen for miles around.  Puerto Plata was officially founded and named in 1496 by order of Christopher Columbus, and the name of the city literally translates to port of silver, aptly chosen for the silvery hues of its natural harbor.

The fortress of San Felipe still keeps a silent vigil today. Started in 1541, the fort was completed in 1577. An awesome structure, it was intended to defend Puerto Plata against intruders. Exploring the old fort recreates the spirit of Puerto Plata's colonial past, rich in pirate legends and the romance of conquest.

The town of Puerto Plata bustles with interesting shops, restaurants, bars, patio cafes, and the Amber Museum. Here, you'll find a wonderful display of amber in all its colors. This valuable stone, shaped from the fossilized resin of trees, tells a story millions of years old!

Today, Mt. Isabel de Torres still towers over the town. Reaching 2,565 feet above sea level, the mountain is crowned by the sculpted Christ figure, similar to that atop Rio de Janeiro.

A lovely botanical garden is a feast for the eyes as are the sweeping panoramic views of Puerto Plata and the northern coastline.

Three hours away is Santo Domingo, the first city of the New World and the nation's capital, offering important historical attractions and monuments.

Puerto Plata's turn-of-the-century charm is evident in its Victorian architecture. Many of its gracious gingerbread homes date back to the republican period, whereas the gazebo in Puerto Plata's central park square was recreated from original sketches.  Concerts in the park, young ladies in European lace enjoying seafront carriage rides, lazy sunsets that linger forever, a mountain that seems to kiss the sea... all these images of Puerto Plata's past at a time when it was known as "a town of 30 coaches", are easily recalled.