Dear Travel Friend,

My last trip to the DR was to Punta Cana. As far as the Caribbean goes, I am particularly excited to return to explore more. I was there primarily to produce a video series for "Breathless" - an all inclusive resort. The country is located on the Eastern side of island of Hispanola. On the Western side is Haiti. Tourist spots are safe and the weather is picturesque.   

​Erik

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - A LITTLE LIGHT READING

FAST FACTS
​Continent or Region: The Caribbean
Country: Dominican Republic 
Capital: Santo Domingo
Major Tourist Destinations: Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata
Primary Language: Spanish
Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time -4
Currency: Dominican Peso (US Dollar can be used)

​​Passport: Yes, Americans need a valid passport to enter the Dominican Republic
Visa: American citizens do not need a visa if traveling for vacation

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within my home country of the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be an excellent representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to visitors, remember that you are in a foreign country and understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.
  1. Before you depart from your home country, call The US Embassy (or your home country embassy) and tell them you are leaving your home country. That way they are aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
  2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those credit card companies before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
  3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
  4. Solve your mobile phone situation before you depart. Usually a phone call to your provider will get you started.
  5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
  6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
  7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
  8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
  9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
  10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
  11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
  12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
  13. Keep possessions close to your body.
  14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
  15. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry on road trips or excursions.

For US citizens, visit the US State Department's website (for American citizens) before you travel abroad. Here's a direct link to get started. 
TRANSPORTATION
Generally speaking, it is pretty easy to get to The DR by air from major hubs in the US, Mexico and Canada.  

Major Air Gateway(s): ​Punta Cana and Santo Domingo
​Cruise Port(s): Amber Cove
Driving: On the right
Car Rentals: You can rent a car or scooter in the Dominican Republic ​
THE WEATHER
​​With tropical temperatures year round, Dominican Republic is hot and humid. 

The Weather: Tropical
Peak Season(s): Summer
Value Season(s): Winter
Shoulder Season(s): April or October
WHERE TO STAY
Breathless
Casa De Campo
HELPFUL LINKS
The Dominican Republic has an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video. 

​Dominican Republic Official Tourism Site
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