The Amber Gallery (Calle 12 de Julio and Jose del Carmen Ariza, tel. 809/586-6467, www.ambercollection.itgo.com [1], 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Sat., closed Sun., US$1), not to be eclipsed by its competitor, has an impressive collection of amber pieces but also adds a very important and educational exhibit of Dominican products.
After you’ve seen the amber, you’ll be led by a guide through rum, mamajuana, sugar, tobacco, coffee, and Taíno artifacts exhibits—an excellent way to learn about the history of these products and the way they have shaped Dominican culture through the ages. Guides speak English, French, German, and Spanish. Signage is in English and Spanish.
The Fine Gift Center [2] jewelry store is on the first floor and is a wonderful place to purchase keepsakes for your friends and relatives back home.
Links:
[1] http://www.ambercollection.itgo.com
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/dominican-republic/the-north-coast/puerto-plata-and-playa-dorada/shopping