The Dominican Republic is noted for its superb golf courses, many of them designed by big names in the sport, and for its excellent baseball teams, which are well worth watching. Visitors can also visit coffee plantations and sample the local beans - or visit sugar plantations and sample the local rum.There are excellent museums and some good local art galleries in Santo Domingo, plus, of course, there are the stunning beaches that have made it so popular as a holiday destination. Wide expanses of sand are framed by gently swaying palms, and in certain places, the sea is perfect for windsurfing and kite boarding. Sailing is popular and the island hosts internationally acclaimed fishing competitions. In the evenings, you'll find plenty of great restaurants to try, but the seafood is usually the best, and afterwards, you can take your pick of international-style nightclubs or bars and dancehalls playing Latin music.