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About Dominican Republic
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THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
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The Dominican Republic is a colorful tapestry of Spanish, French, Haitian, and
African influences woven by a rich and storied history. Christopher Columbus
described this lush land as "a beautiful island paradise with high forested
mountains and large river valleys". This statement is still as true today as it
was in 1492. In addition to the comforts of sun, sea, and sand, the Dominican
Republic offers an exciting and unique cultural experience that will captivate
your senses.
This is a destination like no other - a sensual feast of dazzling landscapes,
exotic cuisine, and a remarkable variety of arts and entertainment options. The
pulse-pounding thrill of the merengue, intriguing relics from centuries past,
premium cigars, and even world-class baseball await you. The Dominican Republic
is a surprising place that will delight even the most experienced traveler.
The spirit and
charm of the Dominican Republic is captured in its music, food, and national
pastimes. Known for its professional winter baseball, handcrafted cigars, and
annual music festivals, the culture of the Dominican Republic is never stodgy,
or boring. It's always an artful and colorful expression of life.
Even the museums and archeological sites are vibrant, bringing the daring
history of the Dominican Republic alive with antique treasures, dazzling jewels,
and the cavernous time capsules left to us by a long lost culture. In the
Dominican Republic, culture really means adventure.
TRAVELERS INFORMATION
Airports
The Dominican Republic has a total of eight international airports
throughout the country. These include:
- Las Americas
International Airport (serves Santo Domingo)
- La Romana International
Airport
- Punta Cana
International Airport
- Arroyo Barril
International Airport (serves Samana)
- El Catey International
Airport (serves Samana)
- Gregorio Luperon
International Airport (serves Puerto Plata)
- Santiago International
Airport
- Maria Montez
International Airport (serves Baharona)
If you need visa
information click
HERE |
Climate
The Dominican Republic enjoys warm tropical weather year round. Depending on the
location, an average day may see full sun or a sun/cloud mix. The average
year-round temperatures are 78 to 88 F. The cooler season is November through
April while the temperature is at its warmest from May through October.
Currency
The Dominican peso is the official currency of the Dominican Republic.
However, the U.S. dollar is accepted at most tourist establishments and is often
preferred.Because the dollar is very strong in the country, American travelers
can expect to find a good exchange rate. Currency may be exchanged at Casas de
Cambio (general hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.), banks (general hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6
p.m.) Daily rates can be found at
http://www.xe.com/ucc.
Major credit cards and travelers cheques are also accepted at most major tourist
areas in the country. While ATMs are found in cities and at most resorts, they
aren't as readily available in the Dominican Republic as they are in the states.
To avoid carrying a large amount of cash (not recommended), travelers should
bring a mix of payment options.
Documentation
Currently, American residents need only provide a government-issued photo ID to
gain re-entry into the United States following a trip to the Dominican Republic
or any other Caribbean destination. For further information visit
http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html.
Drinking Age
The drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
Driving
Americans over age 25 can easily rent a car in the Dominican Republic as long as
they have a valid driver's license. In fact, most of the popular rental agencies
in the United States have offices in major cities in the Dominican Republic.
Electricity
Electricity in the Dominican Republic operates at 110 Volts/60 Hertz as it does
in the United States. Therefore, converters are not necessary. However, because
voltage irregularities are common in the country - sometimes providing less
voltage, sometimes surging - it is important that any appliances or computers
you intend to use have surge protection.
Immigration
Before entering the country at ports or airports, visitors are required to fill
out embarkation/disembarkation forms. These must be filled out before entering
the immigration line where a photo ID or passport must be presented.
Prior to immigration, a tourist card must also be purchased. (See "Tourist
Card.")
Language
Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. Despite this, most
employees in hotels and tourist destinations speak relatively good English. If
visitors intend to venture out beyond the tourist hubs it will be helpful to
learn a few basic Spanish phrases.
Medical Precautions
While the water is potable in many parts of the Dominican Republic,
travelers are still advised to drink bottled water as a precaution. Bottled
water is widely available throughout the country and because of the strength of
the Caribbean sun, it is recommended that vacationers drink at least 10 glasses
a day to avoid dehydration.
It is essential for travelers to the Dominican Republic to pack sun screen of
SPF 15 or higher, again, due to the strength of the Caribbean sun. In addition,
for those traveling to jungle locales, mosquito repellent is strongly
recommended.
Should a medical emergency occur during a stay most hotels and resorts have
onsite medical care. In addition, emergency rooms are found throughout the
country.
Taxis
Private taxis can be hired at all airports and through major hotels. Visitors
should always agree on a rate before getting into the taxi because not all
vehicles are metered.
Telephone
Most cellular phone companies offer service within the Dominican Republic.
Telephones are widely available at resorts throughout the Dominican Republic. To
call to the United States from the country, visitors need only dial an area code
and phone number as they would at home.
Time
The local time zone is Atlantic Time (GMT -0400). In the winter this is one hour
ahead of Eastern Time. The Dominican Republic does not observe daylight savings
time.
Tipping
Tipping is widely practiced throughout the country. While restaurants
automatically add a 10 percent tip to the bill it's customary to give a bit
extra - up to 10 percent additional. Tips are also given to taxi drivers, hotel
maids (even at all-inclusives) and porters.
Tourist Card
Prior to entering the immigration line visitors are required to purchase a
Tourist Card. It's essential that visitors have $10 US dollars for each member
of their party with which to pay this tax. No coins or other currency, including
Dominican pesos, can be used. In addition, ATMs are usually found only outside
the immigration area making it nearly impossible for visitors to get cash upon
arrival. Travelers cheques and credit cards are also not accepted.
Tourist Cards are available at booths near the immigration lines. While only one
half of the document will be taken upon entry into the country, the other half
will be taken upon departure. Therefore, it's imperative that visitors put this
second half in a safe place for the duration of their trip. The Tourist Card is
good for up to 15 days.
U.S. Embassy
The U.S. Embassy is located at the U.S. Consular Section at the corner of
Calle César Nicolás Pensón and Avenida Máximo Gómez. (Located across from the
National Theater.) Offices are open to the public on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but U.S. citizens must arrive prior to 7:30
a.m. for assistance. |
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