Destination Facts
Animal Travellers
The entrance of animals into the Dominican Republic is controlled by the Animal Health Depratment. In order to bring dogs and cats into the country the following documents are required: A certification of vaccination against rabies and a health certificate obtained in the country of origin.
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.), and banks (general hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.) If you want to know the day's currency rate look for it in the newspapers or ask in the commercial banks, there they will give you reliable information.
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
US and Canadian citizens are required to have a valid passport or an original birth certificate, along with a valid photo-bearing ID (drivers license). As of Jan 1, 2006 all travelling to the US are required to have valid passports. Most travellers must purchase a $10.00 tourist card for a stay of up to 15 days. Fees will vary for longer durations. A departure tax of $20.00 (US) is also collected, although this may be included in the airline ticket. Citizens of other countries should contact their carrier or the closest Dominican consulate to reconfirm travel documentation.
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.")
Internet
The internet can be found in both dial up and ADSL versions. It is also possible to find a number of internet cafés in the cities and main tourist spots.
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.
Newspapers
Listin Diario, El Caribe, Hoy, Diario Libre, El Nuevo Diario
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. Another possibility is to call or request someone to call a taxi company and to ask the tariff by telephone before they send the taxi.
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 Eastern Caribbean 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.
Water
Tap water in the country is not fit for consumption, it can only be used for personal hygiene and cleaning. It is recommended to buy drinking water in the supermarkets, which sell it in large bottles and at a good price.