January 2010 - The Dominican Republic Tourist Board will be undertaking �Merengue� and �Bachata� workshops at the Holiday World Show taking place in Dublin, Ireland on Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th January.

The �Merengue� is the national dance of the Dominican Republic and traditional merengue groups are comprised of a three-piece band including a melodeon (accordion-like instrument), a guira (a scraped percussion piece) and a tambora (double-headed drum). Its tempo is characterized by an aggressive beat, requiring its dancers to swing their hips in rapid, fluid motions making sure their feet follow suit. Although its true origins remain disputed, merengue combines a mixture of African and European elements.

Bachata originates from merengue and bolero in the Dominican Republic and is as popular as salsa and merengue in Latin American dancehalls. �Bachata� took shape over a period of about forty years in the bars and brothels of the Dominican Republic�s capital, Santo Domingo but only gained acceptance in its native land about ten years ago. The typical �Bachata� group consists of five instruments: Requinto (or lead guitar), rhythm guitar, electric bass guitar, bongos and g�ira, whilst the dance is a four-step beat.

To experience this unique taste of authentic Dominican Republic music and dance movements, you are invited to visit the Dominican Republic Stand at the Holiday and Travel Show

For further information on the destination please contact:

ESP: esp@esthersmith.biz or esp-bobby@hotmail.com Tel/fax: 01962 711239 � Mobile: 07768 901197 Website: www.godominicanrepublic.com

About Dominican Republic: Rich in history, the Dominican Republic�s first tourist was Christopher Columbus in 1492. Since then, it has developed into a diverse and luxurious destination offering both Dominican Republic and European flavours to more than 220,000 British visitors each year. A leader in eco-tourism, the Dominican Republic created the world�s first Whale Sanctuary and has established protection zones for more than 20 percent of its land and coastal areas. The country boasts some of the world�s best golf courses and beaches, the largest marinas in the Caribbean and is a chosen escape for celebrities, couples and families. Visit the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism�s official Web site at: www.godominicanrepublic.com or call +44 (0)20 7242 7778.