Laguna Cristal, Dominican Republic
Laguna Cristal
Laguna Cristal is an impressive and quite amazing lagoon that is surrounded by centenary trees, and it is located in the northern part of the Monte Plata Province

Laguna Cristal

Laguna Cristal is an impressive and quite amazing lagoon that is surrounded by centenary trees, and it is...

Top 10 Places to Visit in Dominican Republic
Miches, Dominican Republic
Miches
Miches is a town located in El Seibo province in the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. The community sits between the northern slopes of the Cordillera Oriental and the southern shore of the Samaná Bay.

Miches

Miches is a town located in El Seibo province in the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. The community...

Zona Colonial, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Ciudad Colonial
Ciudad Colonial is the historic central neighborhood of the Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the Americas.

Ciudad Colonial

Ciudad Colonial is the historic central neighborhood of the Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo. It is...

Dominican Republic flag

Dominican Republic Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Santo Domingo

Location:

Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti

Currency:

Dominican pesos (DOP)

Area:

48,670 sq km

Population:

10,597,348 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

Spanish (official)

Religion:

Roman Catholic 44.3%, Evangelical 13%, Protestant 7.9%, Adventist 1.4%, other 1.8%, atheist 0.2%, none 29.4%, unspecified 2% (2018 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC-4

Tel Code:

+1

Things to Do

  • 1. Beach hopping

    Explore the beautiful beaches of the Dominican Republic, known for their crystal-clear waters and white sands.

  • 2. Visit Santo Domingo

    Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the capital city of the Dominican Republic.

  • 3. Hike to Pico Duarte

    Embark on a challenging but rewarding trek to the highest peak in the Caribbean, located in the Dominican Republic.

  • 4. Explore Los Haitises National Park

    Venture into the lush mangroves, caves, and islets of this protected area in the Dominican Republic.

  • 5. Go whale watching in Samana Bay

    Witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate to the warm waters of the Dominican Republic.

  • 6. Snorkel in the Caribbean Sea

    Discover the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs and tropical fish in the waters surrounding the Dominican Republic.

  • 7. Visit the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua

    Take a thrilling adventure through a series of stunning waterfalls in the Dominican Republic.

  • 8. Experience the Carnival in La Vega

    Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Carnival celebration in the city of La Vega, Dominican Republic.

  • 9. Go zip-lining in Jarabacoa

    Soar through the treetops of the Dominican Republic's mountainous region of Jarabacoa on an exhilarating zip-lining adventure.

  • 10. Relax in the hot springs of La Fortuna

    Unwind and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs of La Fortuna, nestled in the Dominican Republic's lush countryside.

Weather

Climate

The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The country experiences two seasons: the rainy season, from May to October, and the dry season, from November to April.

During the rainy season, the country receives the majority of its annual rainfall, and visitors can expect heavy downpours, especially in the afternoon. The dry season is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is generally sunny and dry, with less humidity and milder temperatures.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the dry season, from November to April. This is the peak tourist season, and visitors can expect great weather, with clear skies and warm temperatures. The beaches are also at their best during this time, as the sea is calm and the water is clear.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save money, the rainy season (May to October) is a good option, as the prices are lower and the beaches and tourist sites are less crowded. Although the weather is not as good as during the dry season, the rain is usually limited to short afternoon downpours and the Caribbean Sea is still warm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

Overall, the climate in the Dominican Republic is warm and pleasant year-round, and visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities and experiences, regardless of the time of year.

Food

Mangú

Mangú

Mangú is a traditional Dominican breakfast dish made from mashed green plantains, garlic, and oil. It is often served with fried cheese, eggs, and salami, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Sancocho

Sancocho

Sancocho is a hearty Dominican stew made with various meats such as chicken, beef, and pork, as well as a variety of root vegetables. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting and flavorful dish.

La Bandera

La Bandera

La Bandera, which translates to "The Flag," is a classic Dominican meal consisting of rice, beans, and meat (commonly chicken or beef). This dish is a staple of Dominican cuisine and is enjoyed throughout the country for its hearty and satisfying nature.

Pescado Frito

Pescado Frito

Pescado Frito, or fried fish, is a popular dish in the Dominican Republic, featuring seasoned and deep-fried fish served with a side of tostones (fried green plantains) or arroz blanco (white rice). It's a delicious and simple representation of coastal Dominican cuisine.

Empanadas

Empanadas

Empanadas are savory pastries filled with a variety of ingredients such as ground meat, cheese, and vegetables. They are commonly enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and are a beloved part of Dominican street food culture.

Accommodation

The Dominican Republic offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals.

Luxury Resorts

The Dominican Republic is home to many luxury resorts, offering high-end amenities and services such as spas, fine dining, and private beaches. These resorts are perfect for those looking for a relaxing and indulgent vacation. Some of the most popular luxury resorts in the Dominican Republic are located in Punta Cana, La Romana, and Cap Cana.

Hotels

There are many hotels in the Dominican Republic that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation for travelers. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly hotels, mid-range hotels, and 4- and 5-star hotels. Popular hotel destinations include Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and La Romana.

Apartments and Vacation Rentals

For those looking for a more independent and authentic experience, apartments and vacation rentals are a great option. Visitors can rent apartments, villas, and houses in popular destinations such as Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and La Romana. This type of accommodation allows visitors to experience local life and culture and have more flexibility with their travel plans.

Overall, the Dominican Republic offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and apartments, making it a great destination for travelers of all budgets and preferences.

Transportation

The Dominican Republic offers various transportation options to make getting around the country convenient and easy.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available throughout the Dominican Republic, and they offer an easy and convenient way to get around. Taxis are metered and the fare is based on the distance traveled. It's important to note that some taxi drivers may not use the meter, so it's important to negotiate the fare before the trip.

Buses

Buses are also a popular transportation option in the Dominican Republic. The country's bus system is extensive, and buses run frequently between major cities and towns. The buses are usually well-maintained, and the cost of a bus ride is relatively cheap.

Rental Cars

Renting a car is a great way to explore the Dominican Republic at your own pace. There are many car rental companies in the country, and visitors can rent cars at the airports or in major cities. It's important to note that driving in the Dominican Republic can be challenging, as the roads are often in poor condition and traffic can be heavy.

Air Travel

Traveling by air is the most convenient way to get around the country. The country has two major international airports: Punta Cana International Airport and Las Américas International Airport. Visitors can also fly to smaller regional airports such as La Romana International Airport and Santiago de los Caballeros.

Private Transfers

Another option is hiring a private transfer service, which can be arranged in advance, they will pick you up at the airport and take you to your final destination. This is a great option for those who prefer a more comfortable and stress-free trip.

Overall, the Dominican Republic offers a variety of transportation options, including taxis, buses, rental cars, and air travel, making it easy for visitors to explore the country.

Money

Currency

  • The currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP).

Cash And Cards

  • It is recommended to carry both cash and cards in the Dominican Republic.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors and local markets.

ATMs

  • ATMs are widely available throughout the Dominican Republic.
  • Be sure to check with your bank about any international fees or restrictions before using your card abroad.

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary in the Dominican Republic.
  • In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included, but it is still common to leave an additional tip of 5-10%.
  • Tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers based on the level of service provided.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in the Dominican Republic is relatively affordable.
  • Prices for food, transportation, and accommodations are generally lower than in many Western countries.

Scams

  • Be cautious of scams targeting tourists in the Dominican Republic.
  • Common scams include overcharging for goods and services, credit card fraud, and fake tour operators.
  • Always be vigilant and use reputable services.