If you are looking for a country where everything works like clockwork, now might be a good time to turn back. If you can relax and go with the flow, however, you will experience a land diverse in environment, a rich and dynamic culture, and a people whose friendliness is legendary. Flamboyant, resilient, generous, and headstrong, the Dominican psyche embodies the country' s turbulent historical inheritance and reflects the diversity of their ethnicity. Centuries of Spanish rule, African influence, and the indigenous Taino legacy combine to form a cultural tapestry that is entirely unique. This updated edition of Culture Smart! Dominican Republic looks at the beating heart of Dominican life. It explores the central role of family and social ties, and the significance of music, dance, and festivals. From the lively rhythms of merengue and bachata to the national love of baseball and the colorful cuisine, visitors will gain an insight into the passions, traditions, and values that define the Dominicans today.