Product Description

Currently one of the biggest tourist destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic has much more to offer than its idyllic beaches. "Dominican Republic in Focus" is a authoritative and up-to-date guide to this vibrant country. It explores the land, history and politics, economy, society and people, culture and includes tips on where to go and what to see. Photos and maps.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #639986 in Books
• Published on: 1999-02
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 94 pages

From Library Journal
Brazil, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Guatemala are the main focus of these new, brightly colored travel books. Moving away from the usual tourist spots, these books provide an in-depth look into the heart of the land and people of these Caribbean countries. Uniform in design, the books are divided into chapters describing the history, politics, culture, economy, and society of each country. Coverage of up-to-date topics such as healthcare, racial equality, peace processes, and environmental concerns in the Amazon rainforest is informative and well researched. Practical advice, further readings, and useful addresses along with nontourist travel information are listed at the end of each volume. Factual and easy to read, these slim travel books are a great resource for students and scholars of the Caribbean.AStephanie Papa, Baltimore Cty. Circuit Court Lib., Towson, MD
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Customer Reviews

Elementary school level
I ordered this book because I thought it would provide an introduction to the politics of the Dominican Republic. When I got it, it reminded me more of a mixture between a tacky guidebook and an elementary school social science book. It does present some insight into the historical, economical and political conditions of the country, some of them even differing from the mainstream image, but it is all very limited in scope and not very useful. If you want a guidebook, I'd suggest Lonely Planet a million times before this one. When it comes to a political review of the country, I have unfortunately had difficulties in finding one. But surfing the web for a couple of hours will certainly provide more useful information than a copy of this book.

Summary
This book has dealt well with subjects like the economy, politics, and local places to visit. Unfortunately, I found the information on the history and cultural identity of the Dominicans to be lacking information. For example, When Howard spoke too briefly of the Taino Indians or how the Dominicans have a need to be more "Indian". He was totally incorrect. The author does not hold a strong enough argument or facts to support this. He leaves the reader with much confusion about the Dominican identity.

Facinating
This book is a much needed new insight on Dominican Republic where I travelled a lot a few years ago. It is very interesting situation with haiti and the author adresses cultural issues sensitively but informatively. The book is very easily to read and has a good order.