Dominican Republic

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM Dominican Republic?

The Dominican Republic, located on the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean, is known for its diverse offerings that combine natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Here’s what you can expect when visiting or learning about the Dominican Republic:

Beautiful Beaches :The Dominican Republic is renowned for its pristine beaches with soft white sand and turquoise waters. Punta Cana, Bavaro, and Puerto Plata are popular beach destinations.

Tropical Climate :The country has a tropical climate, ensuring warm temperatures throughout the year. It’s essential to pack accordingly for the weather.

Colonial History:The capital, Santo Domingo, boasts a well-preserved Colonial Zone with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The area is home to the first cathedral, castle, and monastery built in the Americas.

Merengue and Bachata Music:The Dominican Republic is known for its lively music, including genres like merengue and bachata. You’ll likely encounter vibrant music and dance performances.

All-Inclusive Resorts: Many tourists choose to stay in all-inclusive resorts, especially in popular areas like Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. These resorts offer a range of amenities and activities.

Water Activities: With its extensive coastline, the Dominican Republic is ideal for water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. The Samaná Peninsula is famous for whale watching during certain times of the year

Local Cuisine: Dominican cuisine features a mix of indigenous Taíno, African, and Spanish influences. Try dishes like mangu (mashed plantains), sancocho (stew), and mofongo (fried and mashed plantains).

Warm Hospitality: Dominicans are known for their hospitality and friendliness. You may find locals welcoming and willing to share their culture with visitors.

Language: Spanish is the official language, so having some basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.

Carnival Celebrations :The Dominican Republic celebrates carnival in a big way, with colorful parades, traditional costumes, and lively music and dance.

POINTS TO CONSIDER WHILE TRAVELLING

Duration: 3-4 days is recommended for a trip to Dominican Republic, we went in January to celebrate our anniversary and spent 3 days 4 nights in Punta Cana and took day trips for various activities.

Accommodation: – There are plenty of All inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, We stayed in Riu Bambu which was cheaper than all the others and it has great customer service.

Transportation/Tours: –There are many day tours available, I choose Expedia to book my tours since it is a trusted site and in case of cancellations getting refund is not cumbersome. We took the All-Inclusive Saona Island Tour and the Flintstones Buggy Adventure , you can look for other tours and choose accordingly . The Flintstones Buggy Adventure tour goes over a rugged terrain so if you have any lower back pain then just make sure to carry an Ice pack or Lumbar belt.

Airport Transfer: –We rented a car from the enterprise, but I would suggest not to rent it if you are planning to stay in the resort and have booked the day trips.

Currency : I converted my CAD to the DOP (Dominican Peso) on the airport to cater for the tips in the hotel and some purchasing, you can do the same, tips range from 10 to 20 peso hence depending upon the number days I would day 100 peso per day is good..

IMPORTANT TRAVEL TIPS

Essential things to carry: If you are travelling with kids then please carry sunscreen, essential medicine (Tylenol, stomach bug) bug spray, after sun gel and a good water bottle with filter, always drink the bottled water.

Souvenirs/Shopping Please carry some cash and try to buy from the vendors which roam on the beach, they carry things which are less costly from the shops, and they give good discounts. Only drawback is they only accept Dominican Peso. Ala-carte Restaurant’s: Every hotel has few ala-carte restaurant’s which are only open for dinner, make sure you check the process how to reserve those and make your reservations the day you arrive.

Donation/tips: Punta Cana has a modest tipping culture as well, we gave tip`s around 10% in the restaurants. It is your personal choice how you much you want to give as a tip.

Currency Exchange Make sure you do the currency Exchange either at the Punta Cana Airport or before, don’t do it in the hotel, they will charge you and will give very poor rate.

Airport: There are limited options to eat at the airport and one pizza slice cost you 5-8 USD so if you are with kids, please pack few sandwiches from the breakfast/lunch accordingly.