Las Terrenas facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Las Terrenas
La Terriene
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![]() Street views of Las Terrenas
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Country | ![]() |
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Province | Samaná | ||
Area | |||
• Total | 113.1 km2 (43.7 sq mi) | ||
Population
(2012)
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• Total | 22,664 | ||
• Density | 200.39/km2 (519.01/sq mi) | ||
Distance to – Santo Domingo |
225 km |
Las Terrenas is a beautiful town located on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. It's part of the Samaná area. This town is famous for its amazing views, soft white sand beaches, and crystal-clear ocean waters. More and more people are visiting Las Terrenas because new hotels, restaurants, and shops like "Puerto Plaza las Terrenas" are being built for tourists.
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French Influence in Las Terrenas
The French people living in Las Terrenas, sometimes called les terrestres, have played a big role in the town's development. They have been a strong community in the city since it was founded. Because of this, French is the second most spoken language in Las Terrenas. Many local Dominicans are even learning to speak French.
History of Las Terrenas
Las Terrenas was officially started in 1946. At that time, the country's president, Rafael Leonidas Trujillo, asked people from the countryside around Santo Domingo to move there. These new residents became farmers and fishermen. Back then, Las Terrenas was just a small fishing village, quite separate from the rest of the country.
Over time, the old fishing cabins in the village slowly changed into lively bars, restaurants, and shops. The area of Samaná was once a port where the British traded enslaved people in the early 17th century. Today, the people of Las Terrenas are a mix of different cultures, including Taino, Spanish, West Indian, and African backgrounds.
The name Las Terrenas actually comes from a French phrase, la terrienne, which means "the landlord."
Population and People
According to a count done in 2002, Las Terrenas had a total population of 13,869 people. Out of these, 6,985 were men and 6,884 were women.
Modern Infrastructure
Las Terrenas is a popular spot for both Dominicans from the capital city, Santo Domingo, and visitors from other countries. Getting to Las Terrenas became much easier in 2012 when a new highway was finished. This road connects Santo Domingo to Santa Bárbara de Samaná, making the drive only about two hours long.
Local Economy
The main ways people make a living in Las Terrenas are through tourism, trade, and fishing. Tourism is especially important because so many visitors come to enjoy the beaches and attractions.
Recent Developments
Las Terrenas has seen many improvements recently. In 2013, a new system for clean water, called an aqueduct, was built. In March 2012, the town also got a new fiber optic system for fast internet, TV, and phone services. The new Samaná El Catey International Airport is now open for flights, especially from Europe and Canada, making it easier for international tourists to arrive.
Gallery
See also
In Spanish: Las Terrenas para niños