M. Timothy O’Keefe/Alamy
A square in Puerto Plata, a famous resort
Puerto Plata is a major city on the Atlantic coast of the Dominican Republic. In recent years, the city has expanded and become a popular tourist destination. Puerto Plata has quaint Spanish and Victorian architecture, such as the large Victorian gazebo (kiosko) in the central Parque Independencia.
Puerto Plata hosts several festivals. The Cultural Festival in June showcases traditional folk music, African dances, salsa, and merengue, as well as arts and crafts from local artists. The Merengue Festival in October takes place along the malecón, where a huge stage is set up for world-renowned merengue singers.
Explore More:
1. Research the history of Puerto Plata. How did it get its name?
2. Learn more about the festival that interests you most. What is merengue? To see and hear merengue in action, go on the Internet and watch a video. Describe what you see. What do you think of this music and dance style?