In any bank or currency exchange. Tourism establishments such as hotels engage in higher exchange rates. You can exchange many currencies: U.S. and Canadian dollars, Euros, British Pounds, Swiss Franc, Swedish Krona ...
Between late 2003 and June 2004, the DR experienced an important financial and banking crisis, causing a large devaluation of the peso. Since then, the country has managed to stabilize its currency, apart from some minor fluctuations
Cash machines are very common in the country. Most accept international credit cards. In shops, expect to pay in cash because many don’t have card payment system.
The Western Union network is widespread in the country because of the Dominican diaspora working abroad. Sending money to family is one of the most important source of revenue with tourism. Simply present your passport to take delivery of your money.
Dollars and Euros are accepted for payments in few cases. It is however advisable to pay with the Dominican peso to pay the fair price. The only exception is the tourism tax that has to be paid in US$ at the airport. If you pay in pesos, the rates will be unfavorable ; in euros as well where the exchange rate applied is 1 US$ = € 1.
In banks and currency exchanges with your passport.
To open an bank account, a foreigner must submit a photocopy of his/her passport, a letter of reference from his/her bank in his/her country of origin (in Spanish) and be sponsored by a Dominican citizen. It is possible to open an account in pesos, dollars, and in a few banks in euros. You will receive a card with which you can make withdrawals. For more information on the banks: click here. administration topics
Opening hours are generally from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. On Saturday mornings banks are open from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, with exception of holidays.
Go to section Communication
Very easily since there are a lot of cybercafés around. Prices are generally fair, however higher in tourist spots.
Most of tourism establishments provide many TV channels via satellite or cable. At home, it is very easy to sign up for the installation of your choice.
Easily in big cities and tourism areas, with more difficulty on the countryside.
There is no mandatory vaccine in the DR. Some vaccines are however recommended to protect against diseases introduced by mosquitos, such as malaria, dengue and the Nile fever.
It is recommended to buy the products against mosquitoes in the DR, because they are generally more effective. You can bring sunscreen that suits your needs best. With regard to medicines, you can find them in one of the many pharmacies in the country.
It is not advisable to drink tap water, which it can be used for all other needs (toilet, dishes ...). It is customary to buy 20-liter water tanks or bottled water in shops
The country enjoys a relatively temperate climate all year round : it is a tropical climate tempered by trade winds. Two main seasons : the rainy season from May to November and a dry season from November to May. The temperature fluctuates around 30 degrees during the day and 20 degrees at night. The humidity is important for those who are not accustomed to. It is advisable to wear cotton clothing.
The Dominican Republic offers 5 international airports. It is thus rather easy to land not far from your final destination.
1. El Catey/Samaná
2. Puerto Plata
3. Santo Domingo
4. Santiago de los Caballeros
5. Punta Cana
Compared to other Latin countries, the Dominican Republic is relatively quiet. That said, it is a poor country where it is reasonable not to display outward signs of wealth. As everywhere, crime can occur. For any problem, you can call the Tourist Police, Politur at 1 200 3500 (toll free) or 809 686 8639 in Santo Domingo.
Everything. The country is not limited to its beautiful beaches and offers a large diversity of landscapes : lush vegetation in the north-east, desertic landscapes in the south east, and mountains and valleys in the center. Quite a journey ! Check out our section Region to learn more.
The national driving license is valid for three months, beyond you must carry an international or dominicain license. You will find all the international rental car companies lease vehicles, in addition to the local ones. Carefully review the proposed rental conditions.
Driving in the country is unique and not really facilitated by the roads that are just OK. At night, it's even more dangerous due to poor lighting in the streets as well as on vehicles.
There are a variety of restaurants in the country. The simplest and fastest is the pica pollo, which serves chicken, the most classic is the comedor where you eat la Bandera National (rice, red / black beans, meat and salad), and finally you will find different restaurants specializing in international cuisine.
For more information on food, go to section Food.
The Dominican Republic offers two stones that are found mounted in various forms (rings, necklaces…): amber (a fossilized tree resin) and larimar, an endemic turquoise stone.
The country has also become a global benchmark for cigars. There is also coffee, chocolate, rum, and local drinks, like the mamajuana, mixing plants and rum, which is supposed to restore vitality to men ...
Souvenirs are readily available in all tourism locations. For more, large cities offer a diverse choice, especially in the "malls" looking like their US big brothers. The essential can be found in small and medium-size cities.
Taxes are not always included in prices, it is better to ask first. It is customary to leave at least 10% of the total bill to the waiter.
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