The Basics of Traveling to the Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has hot and tropical temperatures all year long. The coastal regions of the country are warmer than the central regions. There are two rainy seasons on the island as the first is from May to August and the second from November to December, which has lighter showers. The Dominican Republic is subject to hurricanes to make to check the forecast before traveling there.
The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican Republic Peso (DOP). Peso is not available outside the Dominican Republic. The currencies of Canada, France, Germany, Holland, Spain, Switzerland, UK and
America can be converted into local currency. On departure of the Dominican Republic up to 30% of the exchanged currency can be reconverted into US Dollars at any bank if original receipts are shown. All exchange must be done through official dealers such as banks and hotels that are approved by the Central Bank. Thee are some street vendors in the tourist areas around the island that accept US dollars as legal tender. American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are all accepted around the island. Some banks on the island accept traveler’s checks. To avoid additional exchange rate charges it is recommended of travelers to travelers to use checks in US Dollars.
There are three airports in the Dominican Republic:
1.Santo Domingo (SDQ) (Internacional de las Américas), 11 miles east of the city. Taxi services are available to Santo Domingo.
2. Puerto Plata International Airport (POP) (Internacional General Gregorio Luperón).
3.Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ)
There is a departure tax of US$20 for a stay of up to two weeks and US$25 for more than two weeks. Passengers in direct transit and children under two years of age do not have to pay this tax.
By the sea the cruise lines calling at the Dominican Republic include Holland America, Seabourn and Windjammer.
Just like in many countries in Europe, the traffic drives on the right. They have a decent network of roads. Not all roads in the Dominican Republic are all-weather and 4-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for wet and rainy weather. There are checkpoints near military installations but no serious difficulties have been reported. Driving at night is not recommended because poor lighting and lack of signs. Travelers are recommended to keep doors and windows locked at all times and, legally, seatbelts are required to be worn. There are cheap and efficient air-conditioned bus and coach services that run from the capital to other major towns in the Dominican Republic. Travelers are recommended to hire tourist taxis or radio taxis, which can be arranged in advance. Travelers should avoid unmarked taxis.
Malaria is present in Dominican Republic and even though you can get medicine there it is advised to bring it with you. Other items can be found at markets around the country as well as in the main city of Santo Domingo. Bottled water should also be used for drinking. Health insurance (to include emergency repatriation) is strongly recommended for anyone traveling to the Dominican Republic. Medical care is limited and suspect in quality. An emergency service is available in the main city of Santo Domingo.
During your stay in the Dominican Republic, you can stay at any of the hotels and resorts that line the beaches or you can opt for example for a more private vacation rental in Sosua. Dominican Republic Vacation rentals are the best way to experience island living, but to find one with everything you want, you will have to book them early.
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