Gay Santo Domingo

The Dominican Republic is the most visited Caribbean destination, with millions of visitors each year staying in sprawling beachfront resorts, and disembarking from cruise ships. Beyond the crystal clear blue water and white sand beaches, however, the D.R. is a prosperous country, where daily life is governed by Catholic tradition but is also socially progressive in many ways. The local LGBTQ community does not receive much recognition from the government, but same-sex relationships were decriminalized way back in 1822 and the issue is regarded with a general indifference in the country. "Buggaron" culture is common: men who engage in relations with other men, but don't consider themselves gay if they take the "active" role, which can certainly be entertaining for gay tourists.

Queer life is mostly found in the capitol, Santo Domingo, although there is also a strong presence in the resort town of Punta Cana. But when the sun sets, cruising is a common sight along the beachfront promenades, as is the situation in many Latino cities where machismo is the norm. The Parque Duarte is especially popular to hang out, drink, and check out who else is hanging out.