The Pueblo essentially (village) consists of two main streets: the first one going down toward the sea and the second one, in parallel, coming back up. A few secondary streets cross and connect them. On the ocean side, the road follows the coast towards the East and to the West.
To the West, for about a mile there are restaurants, hotels, and private houses. It is similar to the East for a quarter mile but then the road departs from the obvious signs of civilization, skirts the mangroves, and continues on to Portillo, the Pueblo del Limon, and Santa Barbara de Samana. Along the way there are a few private homes and many small, secluded beaches.
Las Terrenas is a happy and playful town. In an extensive survey by the New Economic Foundation, the Dominican Republic ranked high among the countries with the highest rate of happiness. In general there was a correlation between national wealth and happiness but the DR was a notable exception.
It may not be a ”rich” nation but the people seem to take pleasure in their culture and quality of life. The people of Las Terranas are an obvious embodiment of the gross national happiness. The locals are friendly and hospitable.
Bars, clubs, restaurants and a variety of other entertainments appealing to nearly everyone are available and accessible
The best thing to do is to plan to stay in Las Tirrenas at least for ten days, without rush.
It is best to spend at least ten days in Las Terrenas. It takes time to relax and to completely enjoy the contagious atmosphere of tranquillity and happiness. Day after day you surrender and let go the manic rush and stress of hyper modern civilization.
Many of the hotels are actually residences, offering mini-apartments with a living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. They feature open areas where it’s most pleasant to have dinner at home while sitting on the patio or terrace.
A morning visit to the Boulangerie (a most delicious French bakery) is mandatory both for tourists and residents.
Located in the Plaza Taina, close to the sea, the baker is an elegant French lady who prepares daily a variety of croissants, baguettes, cakes and salads as good as any in St. Tropez.
Located next to the bakery is the Italian Market, offering a rich variety of first quality local and imported goods.
The best supermarket is the “Lindo”, offering a decent selection of wines and cheeses.
The most fashionable and most expensive boutiques are found in the Paseo’s Shopping Center, just across the street from the Boulangerie.
There are several places in Las Terrenas where you can buy fabulous fish (shellfish and lobsters are sold still alive) or to have it home delivered.
Everywhere you can buy jugos naturales (fresh fruit shakes,) and tropical fruit salads.
