Popular Destinations
Dominican Republic
GETTING THERE: The easiest ways to get to the Dominican Republic is by air or cruise ship port of call. You can fly to Punta Cana (PUJ), Santo Domingo (SDQ), Puerto Plata (POP) or Santiago de los Caballeros (STI). A cab or Uber will be the easiest and safest way to get around most of the major areas. Santo Domingo has a subway line with stops near popular attractions.
LANGUAGE: The official language is Spanish. There is also some English and French spoken.
CLIMATE: Cool tropical all year round, with average daytime temperatures between 77 and 95°F. High season is December to April when it is driest and coolest. It is rainy and warm in summer months. Be aware that, like other Caribbean destinations, the country can be affected by
hurricane season between June and November.
MONEY/CURRENCY (CREDIT CARDS, DEBIT CARDS, TIPPING, ATMS): The main currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP). The US Dollar is sometimes accepted in the more touristy areas but is not viewed as legal tender. It is best to exchange your money to DOP at the Central Bank or an official dealer like a resort. Tipping is acceptable and customary to leave 10% for service. Double check your bill when dining out as some restaurants automatically add the gratuity.
ELECTRICITY: The Dominican Republic uses type A and type B plugs operating on 110V supply voltage and 60Hz.
1. The Dominican Republic is the second largest island, but most visited Caribbean destination.
2. Santo Domingo is the capital city and the first place discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492 when he was searching for the new world.
3. In addition to its beautiful beaches and many golf courses, Dominican Republic is home to 29 national parks and home
to Pico Duarte which is the highest peak in the Caribbean.
4. Don’t be startled by the car horns. Dominicans use their car horns to regularly communicate with other drivers while on the roads.
5. Because of its near-perfect tropical climate the Dominican Republic can be described as “endless summer.”
1. Sunglasses, sunblock, and bug spray. Most resorts will have a small sundry shop on property but may charge much more than you like for these simple, must-have items.
2. Light and comfortable clothes. Dominicans are known to love fashion so feel free to wear your favorite colors. Don’t forget to check your resort’s dinner dress code too. Some may require long pants and closed toe shoes.
3. Reusable straw and insulated mug. This is something growing in popularity among frequent all-inclusive resort travelers. Resorts may have limited paper straws available. And the insulated mug will allow you to enjoy your frosty drinks longer as you lounge on the beach.
4. Extra medicine in your carry-on luggage. Due to ever-changing country entry and exit requirements, it is good to plan for extra days should an unplanned situation arise.
1. Golf
2. Whale watching
3. Scuba diving
4. Parasailing
5. Kitesurfing
6. Hike Damajagua Falls
7. Take a walking history tour of Santo Domingo
8. Go off roading
9. Charter a fishing excursion
