Travelling in Dominican Republic

Key info & facts

Capital: Santo Domingo

Official Language: Spanish

Population: Approximately 11 million (2023).

Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP, RD$).

Visa Requirements: Most tourists can enter visa-free or with a tourist card for 30 days

Main Religion: Predominantly Catholic

Time Zone: GMT-4 (Atlantic Standard Time).

Electric Plug Types: Types A and B (110V supply).

Driving: Drive on the right-hand side

Emergency Number: 911

Public Transport: Public buses (guaguas), shared taxis (carros públicos), and motorbike taxis (motoconchos)

Administrative Regions: 31 provinces and the National District, including Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.

Dialling Code: +1-809, +1-829, +1-849.

Water: Avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled or filtered water.

 

Ultimate Guide on Things to do & Places to Visit in Dominican Republic

  • Stunning beaches, merengue music, baseball, and historic colonial architecture.

  • In the Caribbean, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti.

  • Independence Day (27 February) and Carnival celebrations in February and March.

  • Breakfast: 7:00–9:00 AM; Lunch: 12:00–2:00 PM; Dinner: 6:00–9:00 PM.

  • A 10% service charge is often included; an extra 5-10% is appreciated for good service.

  • Use "Hola" or "Buenos días" politely.

  • Credit cards are accepted, but cash is essential, especially for smaller vendors, remote areas, tipping and some activities

    USD is widely used here

  • Light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, and comfortable sandals or water shoes.

  • Family-focused, with quieter cities and livelier beaches and parks.

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