Dominican Republic Santo Domingo West Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Santo Domingo's culture is a vibrant blend of Dominican influences, historical significance, and modern innovation. The city's culinary scene is renowned for its Dominican cuisine, featuring dishes like La Bandera, Sancocho, and Mangú. Music and arts thrive in Santo Domingo, with venues like the National Theatre and the Museo de las Casas Reales hosting performances and exhibits. The city also embraces its rich history with institutions like the Alcázar de Colón and the Faro a Colón. Historically, Santo Domingo has grown from a colonial settlement into a vibrant modern city, retaining its unique charm and cultural richness.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of urban landscapes, coastal areas, and lush green spaces, with natural landmarks such as the Ozama River and the nearby Cordillera Central mountain range, offering a blend of natural beauty and metropolitan development.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with high humidity and significant rainfall throughout the year. Summer temperatures average around 88°F, while winter temperatures average around 75°F. The wettest months are typically May and October.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are Spanish and English.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, which is predominant, followed by smaller communities of Protestantism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: The region has a strong agricultural sector with major employers like La Vega excelling in coffee and cacao production.

Manufacturing: Companies like Zona Franca lead in textile and footwear manufacturing.

Tourism: The area supports a robust tourism industry with companies like Go Dominican Republic excelling in promoting travel and hospitality services.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Merengue Festival, celebrating with vibrant parades, music, and traditional dances; the Restoration Day, featuring historical commemorations; and the Carnival of Santo Domingo, showcasing local culture and festivities.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Alcázar de Colón, known for its historical significance; the National Pantheon, offering cultural and historical exhibits; and the Faro a Colón, featuring a lighthouse and museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, river rafting, and exploring nature, with major parks like the Los Haitises National Park and the National Park of the East being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

The first Dominican members were converted while living in the United States. They returned to the Dominican Republic in 1978, and missionaries arrived the same year. In one year, more than 350 converts joined the Church. In 1992, Dominican members received satellite transmissions of General Conference, a worldwide semiannual Church meeting broadcast from Salt Lake City.

Church members and missionaries donated many hours in the relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricane George, September 1998.

The first Church temple in the Caribbean was dedicated in Santo Domingo on 17 September 2000. About 180 Church meetinghouses used for Sunday worship dot the country.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Misioneros Regresados Santo Domingo Oeste Group

Santo Domingo West Reunion (Pres. Platt) Group

Santo Domingo West Alumni Group

Mision Santo Domingo Oeste RD Facebook Group

Misioneros de la Mision Santo Domingo Oeste Group

Santo Domingo West Mission Group