Travel Guides: All Countries / Caribbean / Dominican Republic
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| | | | Don't ignore the culture
We stayed in Sosua, Dominican Republic in May/June. The weather was fantastic, the locals are so friendly they cannot do enough for you.
We went on an all-inclusive package. There were so many people on our holiday who had not even ventured out of the complex - but you should do. Their culture and way of life must be seen.
What's the point of visiting these beautiful countries and not seeing the real deal.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Beautiful beaches
I went to the Dominican Republic for a week and it was one of the best holidays I have ever had. The people are friendly and there's good food and drink.
A bottle of water was always given to you at the dinner table and constantly topped up. The weather was beautiful as well as the beaches.
The hotel was very nice and it was great for children as they as they had a children's club where my son spent most of his day and he enjoyed it thoroughly.
I felt very healthy by the time I returned back to Britain.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Very friendly
I have been to the Dominican Republic twice and I love the place.
The people are so friendly and the entertainment is really good.
The food is a bit dodgy - just be careful what you eat out there. The beaches are lovely too.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Sunny and lush
This friendly, sunny and lush island is simply the best.
The Iberostar in Puerto Plata is particularly the best accommodation on the island as I have stayed all over but this hotel has the highest level of sevice I have ever had the pleasure to receive.
The Dominican people are the happiest and friendliest people in the world and enjoy sharing their home with you. For adults and children alike the Dominican Republic is a must.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Great for relaxation
I visited the Dominican Republic for the first time two years ago. It was our first visit to the Carribean.
I have never had such a relaxing holiday. Totally relaxed. The people were very friendly, with a "don't worry, be happy" attitude.
We stayed in Playa Dorada at the Iberostar Playa Dorada.
We are planning to go back to the Dominican Republic again this year. This time, we are staying at the Iberostar Hacienda Dominicus in the resort of Bayahibe.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Great value for money
I have visited this country five times and my wife and I will not holiday anywhere else.
It is great value for money and the people are more than friendly.
The North around Playa Dorada and Sousa are much more developed than the south.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
Seek out the culture
I visited the Playa Dorada area, which is a purpose-built holiday complex offering several different holidays of various standards, restaurants, shops and a bank.
Most of the hotels on the complex are all-inclusive and a few have a casino and nightclub.
Although a lovely area with fantastic beaches, it doesn't give the true picture of the culture of the area. You do have to take trips out to see that.
The people are very friendly and most welcoming.
A thoroughly recommended holiday destination.
Travel Guide: Dominican Republic
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| | Destination Guide : Dominican Republic |
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| | | Tropical temptations |  | Why go on holiday to the Dominican Republic?
Mile after mile of palm-fringed sandy beaches, tropical weather, lush rainforest and an elegant colonial history charm visitors to the Dominican Republic.
The people are passionate about the sounds of merengue and use any excuse to turn an event into Carnival.
How much does it cost?
Package tourists tend to get the best deal in the Dominican Republic, with prices starting from around £300 for seven days at an all-inclusive resort, rising to around £900 for two weeks during peak season.
Flights also vary quite dramatically - from between £250 to £450 and upwards; expect to pay from £30 to £100 per night for a hotel room.
When should I go?
The Dominican Republic has tropical temperatures year round with an annual average of 24C (75C). Avoid the rainy season unless the only purpose of your trip is to check out the colonial architecture, since heavy downpours and hurricanes are the norm.
The climate in the Dominican Republic varies by location: the dry season for the north coast is between June and September; in the south, it runs from November to April.
The best times to visit are at the beginning and end of these periods, since then it is possible to avoid both hurricanes and the crowds of tourists who visit the Dominican Republic over Christmas and New Year.
*Feeling inspired? Book a break to the Caribbean here.
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| | | Chill out |  | What should I do when I get there?
Lazing on the beach and sipping fresh coconut milk is popular, but don't miss the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo. The old colonial district is one of the finest in the world, and the restored Alcazar de Colon is a good place to chill out.
But what about those beaches?
Windsurfers head for the world-famous bay at Cabarete. Even if renting a board seems too much like hard work, it's a good place to hang out with a cold one and take in the local scene, especially during the Encuentro Classic championships in February.
Deep-sea fishing is found at Cabeza de Toro, Boca de Yuma and Montecristi in the north-west.
And if I feel like a stroll?
As well as beaches, the Dominican Republic has rainforests, lowlands, deserts and coastal swamplands. It has five national parks, but you need permission to visit, obtainable in Santo Domingo.
Watch out for the varied birdlife, including hummingbirds and the zumbadorcito, one of the smallest birds in the world.
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| | | Time for fiesta | | Where's good for nightlife?
Merengue is the island's favourite beat and can be found from the beach to the bar and everywhere in between. Dominicans love to party, with merengue festivals held in Santo Domingo during July and Puerta Plata in October.
Santa Domingo hosts Carnival twice a year, once in late February and then again in mid-August. If you want more action, try the country's casinos or venture into one of the galleras (cockfight pits) found in every town.
What's the food like?
Traditional Dominican cuisine is a savoury blend of African and Spanish ingredients.
The most popular dishes are sancocho (pork roasted on a spit), a rice and bean combination called moro, cassava bread, longaniza (pork sausage), morcilla (blood sausage), goat stew and fish with coconut milk.
What should I buy?
Merengue fans will have no problem finding cassettes or CDs to take home; the nation's favorite artists include Juan Luis Guerra, Miriam Cruz and Los Hermanos Rosario.
Resist the temptation to buy articles made from endangered species such as sea turtles and crocodiles, choosing instead products that use Dominican amber or larimar, the blue stone unique to the region.
What is there for children to do?
Children are welcome all over the Dominican Republic, catered for at every gathering and fiesta.
All but the most nervous will enjoy a boat ride on Lago Enriquillo to see the crocodiles, followed by a visit to Isla Cabritos, home to some startlingly large iguanas.
Bahia de Samana on the north-east coast is recommended by the World Wildlife Fund as one of the best spots in the world to watch whales, while the tranquil zoo in Santo Domingo offers animal-spotting up close.
Tourist office
Dominican Republic Tourist Board, 18-21 Hand Court, London WC1V 6JF. Tel. 020 7242 7778.
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| | Fact File : Dominican Republic |
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| | | Dominican Republic | | Did you know?
The country's capital, Santo Domingo, was the first European city established in the New World.
Language
Spanish.
Visas
Not needed, though entry requirements may change.
Getting there
Most scheduled airlines fly into Las Americas International Airport outside Santo Domingo, with direct charter flights also landing at Puerto Plata and Punta Cana.
Flying time from London
Around nine hours.
Getting around
Metro Bus and Caribe Tours run buses between the major towns and are cheap, convenient, cool and comfortable. Gua-guas are mid-sized minibuses that cruise the highways and rarely charge more than £2 per trip; publicos, or share taxis, are the city centre equivalent — banged-up vans or pick-up trucks packed with passengers. Just hail them on the street.
Currency
Peso.
Costs
A moderate three-course meal will cost between £4 and £10, a bottle of wine between £4 and £6.50 and a beer between 55p and £1, depending on whether you buy it in a supermarket or a bar. A packet of cigarettes will set you back around 55p, a 24-exposure film is around £3.85. A short taxi ride is from £1.50 or if you want to drive yourself, a litre of petrol is around 82p a gallon.
Weather
Temperatures are warm year round with daily averages of 25C (77F), and most rain falling between May and September. The Dominican Republic is on serious hurricane watch during July, August and September.
Time difference
Four hours behind GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
001 809.
Voltage
115-125V, 60Hz AC, with two and three-pin, flat-pronged plugs. You'll need a transformer and plug adaptor to run European appliances.
Opening hours
Dominicans like a lunchtime siesta, so most businesses open from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and again 2:30-6:30pm. Sunday is truly a day of church and rest, with most shops closed and reduced bus services.
Health — before you go
Jabs are not required but it is wise to be up to date on tetanus and typhoid. If you're staying more than a couple of weeks and venturing away from major tourist areas, you may also want a havrix shot for hepatitis and chloroquine tablets for malaria; visit your GP about two months before leaving. Take out a comprehensive insurance and bring supplies of any medication with you.
Health — when you are there
Almost every town has a hospital or clinic, but the competence of the staff is not assured. If in doubt call the embassy and ask to be referred to a doctor. Tap water is likely to cause gastrointestinal problems at the very least, so drink bottled water and try to avoid salads and uncooked vegetables from cafes and stands. Though cases of malaria and dengue fever are rare in the popular spots, cover up in the early morning and evening to avoid mosquitoes and consider using a repellent.
Warnings
Female travellers should take extra care outside hotel complexes, especially at night, and should avoid taking taxis solo. Those who dress modestly will have an easier time with the locals, and be wary of flashing expensive items such as jewellery, watches and cameras.
Emergency
The emergency number is 911. British Embassy Edificio Corominas Pepin, Ave 27 de Febrero No 233, Santo Domingo. Tel 001 809 472 7111
Customs
The pace is slow; instead of getting frustrated about the lack of speedy and efficient service, follow the lead of the Dominicans, relax and enjoy it.
Pets
Animals returning to the UK from the Dominican Republic will be subject to quarantine.
Tipping
Not necessary in all-inclusive resorts. In restaurants a 10% service charge is added to the bill but does not go to your server; additional tips are optional but welcome.
Tourist office
Dominican Republic Tourist Board, 18-21 Hand Court, London WC1V 6JF. Tel 020 7242 7778.
Did you know?
The country's capital, Santo Domingo, was the first European city established in the New World.
Language
Spanish
Visas
Not needed, though entry requirements may change.
Getting there
Most scheduled airlines fly into Las Americas International Airport outside Santo Domingo, with direct charter flights also landing at Puerto Plata and Punta Cana.
Flying time from London
Around nine hours
Getting around
Metro Bus and Caribe Tours run buses between the major towns and are cheap, convenient, cool and comfortable. Gua-guas are mid-sized minibuses that cruise the highways and rarely charge more than £2 per trip; publicos, or share taxis, are the city centre equivalent - banged-up vans or pickup trucks packed with passengers. Just hail them on the street.
Currency
Peso
Costs
Average meal £4-£5, bottle of beer 70p, roll of camera film around £4, petrol £1 per gallon. Taxi fares are set at about £2 at time of writing, but all prices will fluctuate.
Weather
Varies more by location than season, despite the country's small size. The dry season for the north coast is between June and September; in the south, it runs from November to April. Temperatures are tropical year-round, with an average of 24C(75F). Expect it to be slightly warmer at sea level but cooler in the mountains, especially at night. However when it rains, it does more than pour - Hurricane Georges killed several thousand people in 1998.
Time difference
Four hours behind GMT.
International dialling code from the UK
001 809
Voltage
115-125V, 60Hz AC, with two and three-pin, flat-pronged plugs. You'll need a transformer and plug adaptor to run European appliances.
Opening hours
Dominicans like a lunchtime siesta, so most businesses open from 8:30am to 12:30pm, and again 2:30-6:30pm. Sunday is truly a day of church and rest, with most shops closed and reduced bus services.
Health - Before you go
Jabs are not required but it is wise to be up to date on tetanus and typhoid. If you're staying more than a couple of weeks and venturing away from major tourist areas, you may also want a havrix shot for hepatitis and chloroquine tablets for malaria; visit your GP about two months before leaving. Take out a comprehensive insurance and bring supplies of any medication with you.
Health - When you are there
Almost every town has a hospital or clinic, but the competence of the staff is not assured. If in doubt call the embassy and ask to be referred to a doctor. Tap water is likely to cause gastrointestinal problems at the very least, so drink bottled water and try to avoid salads and uncooked vegetables from cafes and stands. Though cases of malaria and dengue fever are rare in the popular spots, cover up in the early morning and evening to avoid mosquitoes and consider using a repellent.
Warnings
Female travellers should take extra care outside hotel complexes, especially at night, and should avoid taking taxis solo. Those who dress modestly will have an easier time with the locals, and be wary of flashing expensive items such as jewellery, watches and cameras.
Emergency
The emergency number is 911. British Embassy Edificio Corominas Pepin, Ave 27 de Febrero No 233, Santo Domingo. Tel: 001 809 472 7111
Customs
The pace is slow - instead of getting frustrated about the lack of speedy and efficient service, follow the lead of the Dominicans, relax and enjoy it.
Pets
Animals returning to the UK from the Dominican Republic will be subject to quarantine.
Tipping
Not necessary in all-inclusive resorts. In restaurants a 10% service charge is added to the bill but does not go to your server; additional tips are optional but welcome.
Tourist office
Dominican Republic Tourist Board, 18-21 Hand Court, London WC1V 6JF. Tel: 020 7242 7778.
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| | Available rental properties in Dominican Republic |
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Luxury 2 bed apts, 140sq meters, with private jacuzzi, communal pool and beautiful private beach
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Luxury apartments on White sands Golf and Beach Resort with private beach
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An exotic private beachfront villa with private beach but only 5 minutes away from the action packed town. Next to a 4 star hotel with rights to all t
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Bright 1-bed apartment in a complex with a large pool, surrounded by lush tropical scenery. Set in a peaceful location yet minutes from all the amenities of the town of Sosua.
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Apartment in course golf in bavaro - punta cana
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Holiday Rentals in Dominican Republic |
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