The Dominican Republic continues to be an object of intrigue for international hedonists, who flock to this Caribbean paradise for colorful regional cuisine, languid, turquoise beaches, and a pulsating culture that, as a vibrant synthesis of European, African, and indigenous Tainos practices, literally defies borders. Itinerants travel in droves to experience the Dominicans expansive national parks and surreal beaches; coveted cigars and Bermudez rum; and intoxicating bachata and merengue sounds as they waft through the countrys intimate streets.

The month of February, however, presents this remarkable fusion in full swing: an entire month devoted to the celebration of all things Dominican. This month-long homage to Dominican culture, art, music, history, and cuisine culminates annually with the incendiary Carnaval de La Vega, when the Dominicans multifaceted roots and unbridled spirit emerge from the sleepy hollows of the serene La Vega Real valley.

Set in La Vega, 125 miles north of Santo Domingo, Carnaval de La Vega unites the effervescent country to commemorate and boisterously celebrate Domincans rich cultural tapestry and independence in 1844. For travelers, this is a prime time to travel throughout Dominican, as each and every region throughout the island participates in this colorful, country wide festival. Carnaval de La Vega, however, is perhaps the most ebullient, as it is considered the oldest and most spectacular festival among native Dominicans.

Colorful processions cleave through the streets every Saturday and Sunday during February in La Vega, where thousands of jubilant revelers gallivant around in ornate masks or grotesque devil costumes; paint their faces black to depict deep-seeded African lineage; prod unassuming tourists with inflated pig bladder vejigas; and rejoice in the resounding energy and vitality that accompanies such an enormous congregation. To witness Carnaval de La Vegas exuberant cultural display is to experience the Dominican Republic in its most animated and majestic state, to which many local Dominicans will most certainly attest.

What would a vacation be without souvenirs, those charming keepsakes that stir dormant memories of vacations long since passed? Like that Ireland shot glass so saliently perched on your mantle: how it reminds you, each time you pass by, of that Temple Bar foray with your coterie, when you began the jovial evening in Dublins most infamous bar and then awoke the following morning on a bus in Swords, dazed and wallet-less, clutching an iron-wrought shot glass? Or that intricately carved stein you purchased in Munchens famed Hofbrauhaus, when you drank and sang Oans, Zwoa, gsuffa! with a 92-year old beer hall veteran who had imbibed a lager and schnapps every day for the past 58 years? Besides these telling mementos (and a bevy of incriminating photos), how else would one relive such precious moments, especially as our minds begin to sink beneath the tonnage of old age?

Purchasing souvenirs for oneself (whether intentional or inadvertent) is one thing; purchasing items for someone else is another matter altogether. Its much harder to accommodate the discerning tastes of others, who may find that Ireland shot glass rather distasteful, or that Munchen beer stein inconducive to, say, their alcohol rehabilitation program. No matter how thoughtful the memento, no friend, significant other, or family member desires something ordinary or kitsch; and though your girlfriend may welcome that gyrating hula dancer or orange Jamaica T-shirt with a tepid smile, more likely than not shes astounded by your lack of taste and judgment, and would have preferred you return empty-handed.
Luckily for you, a trip to the Dominican Republic will generate no puzzled countenances or decorous gratitude, as the country brims with exquisite souvenirs, including high quality cigars and rum (perfect for more hedonistic friends). For the more subdued recipient, however, the Dominican offers up an abundance of unique gemstones, which have become increasingly popular souvenirs among jewelry lovers and aficionados. The most notable two are Larimar and Amber, two native stones that are beautiful and affordable, and make for indelible memories.
Larimar—Found only in the Dominican Republic, Larimar is mined in southern regions of the country, and is valued for its nuanced turquoise blue, white, and less common green hues. First discovered in the Caribbean in the 1970s, Larimar has become a staple of the Dominican Republic, and is often set in sterling silver and used for charming necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. Volcanic blue Larimar is by far the most highly regarded and expensive, as its striking deep blue color reflects the azure palette of the Caribbean sky and sea.
Amber—Another widely acclaimed stone in the Dominican Republic, Amber is a golden or honey-colored fossil resin sold throughout the country in specialty jewelry or gift shops. Inclusions are the most popular, as they boast vestiges of small plants or insects. Like Larimar, Amber is often set in sterling silver, and makes for stunning additions to any jewelry collection.

So next time you visit the Dominican Republic, and your darling coquettishly requests something special, think twice before investing in that tourist t-shirt or fluorescent pink beach sarong. Most likely your girlfriend isnt requesting a new wardrobe&msdash;especially one emblazoned with tacky tropical logos, slogans, and/or foreign country names. Instead, opt for a beautiful piece of Larimar or Amber jewelry, a souvenir that will award you warm embraces and kisses, rather than the cold-shoulder.