Discovering Santo Domingo: A Local's Playground Los Mameyes City and Santo Domingo Este

Los Mameyes, a neighborhood in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, holds a rich and complex history shaped by Haitian immigrants and the era of Rafael Leónidas Trujillo Molina. In the 1940s, Haitian laborers arrived in the Dominican Republic to work the sugar cane fields, and from their efforts, Los Mameyes was born. During Trujillo's dictatorship, he ordered the construction of the neighborhood, where military men were given homes to occupy only while they served. After Trujillo's death, President Balaguer granted ownership of these houses to the soldiers and their families, creating a more permanent community. Today, Los Mameyes thrives as a residential neighborhood offering visitors a glimpse into local Dominican life. It’s conveniently located near the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic heart of Santo Domingo.

The Faro a Colón (Also known as the Columbus Lighthouse) is a monument and museum located in Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic. It is also walking distance from many homes in Los Mameyes, It was built to honor Christopher Columbus and serves as a cultural and historical landmark. As a child visiting the Faro a Colón was fascinating and and educational experience. Walking around the massive structure was my favorite. This location is great to explore with children.

Mirador del Este is a large park located in Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic. It serves as an important recreational and cultural area in the city, offering open spaces for leisure activities and housing significant landmarks like the Faro a Colón. As a child and now adult I explored the park often when cultural and community events occurred, like concerts and festivals.

Ciudad Colonial (Colonial City Also Zona Colonial) is the historic heart of Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the oldest permanent European settlement in the Americas, founded by Christopher Columbus’s brother, Bartholomew Columbus, in 1498. Today, this vibrant area is rich in history, culture, and architecture, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. Its also the home of many local restaurant and bars.

El Obelisco refers to two iconic monuments in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, located along the Malecón, the city's scenic waterfront boulevard. These monuments are known for their historical significance and cultural symbolism. Over the years, El Obelisco Macho has been adorned with murals and art reflecting Dominican culture, history, and social messages. My favorite is the artwork of Las Hermanas Mirabal.