The island nation of the Dominican Republic lies between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean and is an increasingly popular tropical paradise for travellers.

Claimed by Columbus on his first voyage in 1492 as the island of Hispaniola, the territory was used as a base for the Spanish conquest the Americas.

The west of the island was ceded to the French in 1697, later becoming Haiti. Under the control of Haiti, from 1821 to 1844, the territory, known as Santo Domingo, gained independence as the Dominican Republic in 1844.

The Central American nation witnessed more than a century of unstable rule, before Joaquin Balaguer became president in 1966 and restored peace. The economy of the republic has flourished over the past few years, as has its tourist industry.

The Dominican Republic occupies around two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola and has a population of around nine million. It is becoming a very popular destination for beach tourists, with its clear blue waters, lush palm trees and white sands, but the small country also offers a number of interesting historical and natural sights.

The Dominican capital Santo Domingo was Spain's first New World city in the late 1400s and the crowded, lively, colourful Caribbean city is still the heart of the island nation. The city's Zona Colonial is the old arrival point for the original settlers and conquistadors and the sundrenched streets are packed with bright shops, bars and restaurants. Some venues offer the chance to watch a traditional Merengue band, with Latin percussion blended with modern electric guitars and brass instruments.

The island is home to a wealth of animal and plant species in its tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps. The terrain ranges from dense forests, to sparse deserts, savannahs, mountain regions and beaches, and nature lovers and eco-tourists will find plenty to occupy them both inland and along the coastline.

A hike into the mountains of the republic offers the chance to explore vast lakes, exotic and colourful wildlife, cascading waterfalls and stunning views. Parque Nacional Del Este in the southeast of the island is home to more than 100 species of birds and many native indigenous species of mammal.

Other sights and places of interest on the small island include La Casa de Juan Ponce de Leon, a historic house and museum built by a Spanish conquistador near San Rafael del Yuma 500 years ago. The Dominican Republic is also home to some pre-historic cave sites, with preserved rock paintings.

The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish and, although English is spoken in most resorts and holiday complexes, it is worth taking at least a few phrases over. The island is predominantly Roman Catholic and the influence of religion is strong, particularly in more remote areas.

The Dominican Republic is a laid back Caribbean paradise for couples, with its friendly locals, quiet resorts and charming accommodation. Flights and holiday packages are increasingly available and affordable, with everything from adventure holidays to all-inclusive luxury breaks on offer. The resorts of Sosua and Cabarete are particularly beautiful, with dazzling beaches and delightful restaurants. Dominican food is Caribbean in flavour and the country produces some excellent rum.