IMPORTANT: There is a curfew on establishments that sell alcohol. Bars/clubs that sell alcohol must close at midnight or 1am during the week, and 3 - 4 am on Friday and Saturday. These regulations don't affect bars/clubs inside the all-inclusive resorts or casinos, which are open until the early morning.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
For citizens of the United States and Canada no visas are necessary. With a valid passport, you’re on your way. If you are traveling from a country other than the U.S. or Canada and want to see if you need a visa, click here.
IMMUNIZATIONS
No immunizations are required, but it is wise to update your tetanus booster. Click here for other suggestions on what you should do before traveling to the Dominican Republic.
EXIT REQUIREMENTS
All tourists must pay a departure tax at the airport. You may pay in either dollars or Dominican pesos. Also, check with your airline, most times it is included in the price of your ticket.
DOMINICAN CONSULATES
If you need any information you can contact a local Dominican Consulate. Here is a link to countries who have an embassy/consulate in the Dominican Republic.
AIRLINES
Here is a listing of airlines that fly to the Dominican Reupblic:
Air Canada
Air Caraibes
Air Century
Air Europa
Air France
Air Transat
American Airlines
Aserca Airlines
Avianca
British Airways
Condor
Continental Airlines
Copa Airlines
Cubana
Delta Airlines
Dutch Antilles Express
Iberia Airlines
JetBlue
KLM
Liat Airlines
Lufthansa
Martinair
Spirit Airlines
Taca
United Airlines
US Airways
Virgin Atlantic
WHAT TO BRING
It's the Caribbean, so the sun will be VERY HOT! Bring plenty of sunscreen. Below are some other suggestions:
Insect repellant
Personal toiletries
Anti-diarrhea medicine
Comfortable, casual clothes
Camera
Condoms and Lubricant
Pocket calculator (money exchange)
Pocket English/Spanish dictionary (IMPORTANT!)
Medications
Santo Domingo is a large city of almost 3 million people. Most items that are available in the States/Canada/Europe can be found here. So if you forget something (except medical prescriptions) you can pick it up when you arrive.
COMPUTERS/PHONES
Should you bring your laptop and smartphone with you to the Dominican Repulic? The Dominican Republic has an advanced communications network. Most hotels have an internet connection. You should inquire if this included in the room charge. You also want to confirm whether the hotel has a safe that can accommodate your electronics. Most hotel safes are on the small-side. Netbooks and IPads are great for travel. There are also many internet cafes that you can use for less than a dollar an hour.
There are several large phone companies (Orange, Viva, Claro) in the Dominican Republic. You can purchase a sim-card (about $10) or a cheap phone (about $20) and all your incoming calls are free. You can charge the phone with minutes as you wish. Just remember that Blackberry/IPhone and other high-end phones are always targeted by thieves.
If you have a roaming plan PLEASE make sure to check it before you arrive. Many horror stories arise from people who keep their phones turned on, but think because they don't answer or respond they are not being charged. WRONG. Be careful.
WHAT TO WEAR
The weather in the Dominican Republic is tropical. In the summer months it can be very hot and humid. During the winter months the weather is very beautiful, and sometimes at night it can get cool. Whatever you wear in your home country during warm weather will be acceptable here. If you are planning on going to some nice restaurants or clubs, then you want to bring something nice, otherwise khakis, linen, jeans, etc., will be fine. At the beach most Dominican men wear boxer swimming trunks, you will get disapproving stares for anything too skimpy, especially if families with children are present. If you are planning on going to exclusive bars/nightclubs with middle or upper-middle class Dominicans you should be aware that there is a certain uniform for men. Button-down collared shirt, along with jeans, loafers and slick back hair is the predominant uniform. Tattoos, long hair (especially dreads), loud jewelry, and any other high-fashion looks are generally frowned upon by this crowd. For most other bars/clubs what you wear at home is okay here.
THINGS TO DO
If you want to get information about things to do like visiting the acquarium, zoo, the latest shopping malls, or restaurants, just click on our google map.
HEALTH
The public healthcare system in the Dominican Republic is third-world, so you want to make sure any serious health issues are taken care of before you arrive. Most insurance from the States/Canada/Europe is not valid here, so you should check with your insurance company to see if you are covered for emergencies while in the D.R. There are private clinics where you will have access to a competent doctor, but it can be expensive. In the Dominican Republic you do not need a prescription in the pharmacy, unless it is a narcotic. If you have a medical emergency while in the country please understand that you will not be treated at a private facility unless they are sure that you are able to pay. Also, if you are admitted to any private hospital you will not be allowed to leave before the bill is settled.
Hospitals — There are several highly-competent medical facilities in Santo Domingo. If while on vacation you need medical attention then we highly-recommend Clinica Abreu. They have a great emergency room with English speaking doctors. This hospital is recommended by the American Embassy and is located in the Gazcue neighborhood of Santo Domingo.
Address: Calle Beller #42 corner of Avenida Independencia (809.688.4411)
Tap Water — Water from the tap is not safe for drinking. If you have a very sensitive system, you might want to even brush your teeth with bottled water. Drinking water and using ice in reputable restaurants is not a problem. Restaurants use bottled water for drinking and ice.
Dengue Fever — Mosquito-borne illnesses are common all over the tropics. There have also been some Malaria outbreaks recently in the eastern D.R. We are experiencing a Dengue Fever outbreak. Precautions against mosquitoes is advised.
Cholera — The Dominican Republic has been experiencing a cholera outbreak. Most travelers to the Dominican Republic are not at high risk of getting cholera. The Centers for Disease Control offers some tips on how to travel safely.
AIDS
The adult prevalence of HIV in the Dominican Republic is 1.1 percent, and UNAIDS estimates that 66,000 Dominicans are HIV-positive. Together with neighboring Haiti, it accounts for almost three-quarters of the Caribbean’s HIV cases. HIV was first reported in the Dominican Republic in 1983 and spread until the mid-1990s, when prevalence started to decrease. Heterosexual intercourse is reported to be the primary form of transmission of the disease, accounting for 81 percent of HIV infections in 15 to 44 year olds of both sexes. However, because of strong stigma against homosexuality, it is possible that the number of infections resulting from men having sex with men may be higher than listed. Currently, the epidemic appears to have stabilized.
MONEY
The currency of the Dominican Republic is the peso. The exchange rate is set by the Dominican Republic Central Bank. ATMs are available everywhere and credit cards are widely accepted. Try to use ATM machines in the local bank branches when they are open. If something happens (card is stuck, for instance) then you can go in and take care of it right then. If you bring dollars/euros they are easy to exchange at the many money exchange "cambios" in Santo Domingo (and elsewhere in the country). You can get a better rate at the exchange houses than with ATMs, which charge fees. Because of the economic conditions in the country, the exchange rate fluctuates rapidly. It is always sensible to know what the exchange rate is for that day. If you go to Oanda, they will let you printout a handy pocket "cheat sheet," so that you can know exactly how much money you are spending. In many establishments you can pay with dollars/euros, but it is not advisable. Stores, restaurants and the like ALWAYS give a lower exchange rate than banks and cambios. Also, it is easy to become confused. It is recommended that you always pay in Dominican pesos. PLEASE do not change money on the street and do not accept any money that has been defaced or is torn in any way.
Credit Cards — Keep a close eye on your credit card statements. All credit cards will be charged the equivalent in Dominican pesos, but what shows up on your statement will often times be higher. The reason for this discrepancy is that your banks' exchange rate may be different from what is being offered in the DR. Your bank also charges fees for converting dollars to pesos, along with other fees. Make sure to keep up-to-date with the daily exchange rate. Also, credit card fraud is very prevalent in the Dominican Republic. Try and keep your use of credit cards to a minimum and use cash when possible. It is also highly advisable to let your bank know that you will be using your credit and ATM cards in the Dominican Republic.
Taxes and Tipping — A 10 percent service charge is automatically added to restaurant bills, plus another 16 percent government tax (ITIBIS). The 10% service charge added to your bill is divided among all who work in the restaurant. If you find the service was very attentive and warrants an additional tip, you can add another 5 - 10%. You will find that tips are greatly appreciated and will get you speedier, more efficient service. Of course tipping above the automatic charge is at your discretion. For tipping maids $1 - $2 a day is okay. Of course you tip more when special service is given. If someone runs an errand or carries your bag RD$50 - $100 ($1.28 - $2.57) pesos is more than okay.
TRANSPORTATION
Getting around Santo Domingo like a local, using carros publicos (public cars) and guaguas (buses) is not for the faint of heart. If you do not speak Spanish, and don’t know your way around then you should use a private taxi. The Dominican Republic has a cheap and safe bus transportation system to get you between different parts of the country. Metro and Caribe Tours are safe, reliable and run on a hourly schedule to many parts of the country.
CAR RENTALS
Renting a car in the Dominican Republic is very easy. Though driving, especially in Santo Domingo, can be challenging. It is recommended that you use one of the reputable rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Thrifty, etc.) and make your reservations online to get the best deals. Before renting a car please check with your credit card company to see if you are covered in case of an accident. If not, you should get the insurance from the car rental company.
TAXI
Be leery of picking up taxis on the street. Many of them are rip-off artists, that hang around to take advantage of tourists. We have heard of many problems from people that take "tourist taxis." Most taxis that line up outside of hotels charge 50 - 100% more than they should. The best way to get a taxi is for you to have your hotel call a taxi for you, speak with the driver and confirm the price. If you speak Spanish we can recommend Apollo Taxi (809.686.1212). We have used them many times and have never had a problem.
LANGUAGE
The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish. In areas where tourists congregate there will be people around who speak English and possibly other languages, but don't always count on it. You can't assume that everyone speaks English (or whatever language you speak). They don't. You should make a concerted effort to pick up a few words in Spanish, or at the very least buy a small pocket Spanish travel dictionary. This will go a long way in ensuring that your holiday is a success. By the same token, understand that when you go to bars/clubs the music will always lean toward Merengue, Reggaeton, Salsa and Bachata. Many places play American music, but again, you will be vacationing in a Spanish-speaking country. Please remember that you are on vacation and go with the flow and you will have a great time. Promise!
IDENTIFICATION
Every time you leave your hotel room you should have some identification with you. Everyone in the country is required to carry valid identification. You should make a copy of your passport and leave the original in your safe. Along with other valuables you do not need to travel around with. Carry the copy with you at all times.
POLICE
The police in the Dominican Republic make a very low salary, and for that reason you may come across a few who are corrupt. You might be stopped (sometimes while driving) and asked for a ‘regalo,’ (gift) but you are not required to give anyone anything. As long as you have done nothing wrong you are okay. Do not be intimidated. BUT, make sure you are doing nothing illegal. Don't use drugs, and be very aware of the people around you. If you have any problems you can report it at the Tourist Police station on El Conde, corner of Jose Reyes. You can call them at 809.689.6464. You can also call the U.S. Embassy @ 809.221.2171 (If you’re American). Always carry a copy of your identification and make sure your driver's license is also valid. Again, don't dabble in anything illegal and you will be fine.
SAFETY
The Dominican Republic is a relatively safe place to visit. The Colonial Zone, which is where most of the gay activities are centered, is one of the safest areas in the DR. There is a Tourist Police force and because of all the tourists and historical sites, there are many national police and military patrolling the area. BUT, because it is an area where tourists gather it attracts and unsavory element as well. Everyone who speaks English (or any other language you know) is not necessarily your friend, or looking out for YOUR best interest. You should not look to stand out and call attention to yourself. Don’t wear jewelry, or flash a lot of money. Other areas of Santo Domingo and the Dominican Republic are safe for travel, but common sense is always prudent. You will find that practicing the same precautions you do in your country will work well here. Use common sense.
Update (1/23/12): As in many countries suffering through the global recession, crime has been on the increase. You are pretty safe if you are in tourist areas, but you should still be aware of your surroundings. You should also be cautious of people you meet online.
BEACHES
Santo Domingo is right on the Caribbean sea, but the closest beach is a half-hour away in Boca Chica. It is the most 'touristy' beach with many people waiting to help you to part with your money. It is the kind of place where you have to be on the lookout for people who want to take advantage of you. It is also the beach where most of the locals from Santo Dominigo go to relax. It is packed on the weekends and holidays. There are other beaches further down the coast, Playa Caribe, Guayacanes, Juan Dolio and more beaches to the east. These beaches are also more relaxed than Boca Chica. The clientele tends to be a little more middle-class. Those are the closest beaches to Santo Domingo, but there are many other beaches. To the best of my knowledge there are no gay beaches. You can reach the beaches by renting a car, taxi, or take a local bus. To find out more about the locations, click on this link to our map. This link will also show you where to get the bus to Boca Chica and other beaches along the southeast coast.
GAY/LESBIAN
The Dominican Republic is tolerant of Gay & Lesbian tourists. The one thing you need to keep in mind is that it is a conservative, Catholic society. That said, it is NOTHING like Jamaica, or other Caribbean islands. In the DR as long as you practice discretion and decorum you will not have any problems at all. Treat people with respect and you will be shown the same courtesy. Dominicans are a very proud people and have a great pride in their country and culture.
Dominicans are extremely class conscious, and gay Dominicans can be more classist than most. There is a tendency to assume that everyone that lives in the D.R. is poor. And of course that is not true. There are many gay Dominicans who don't socialize in gay venues and regard most gay visitors with suspiscion, assuming every tourist is a sex tourist.
PROSTITUTION
Prostitution is legal in the Dominican Republic. It is illegal however for a third party (pimp) to have any involvement (Source: DR1).
BUGGARONES
This term is used to describe men who have sex with other men for money. It is also a term that is used in the streets and It is NOT to be used in 'polite conversation.' Buggarones are found anywhere gay people congregate. Many buggarones work the colonial zone and 95% have drug/stealing problems, so you should be extremely careful. They will make an agreement with you and then want more money. Then they will cause a scene. Or will try to steal anything they can. This is why most nice hotels will not allow guests. And you would be extremely naive to think that the police will be very helpful. They won't. Many buggarones work hand-in-hand with the police to shakedown tourists. Be careful.
And if you are going to use the services of a buggaron, then you should follow some simple steps. Never bother with anyone who doesn't have identification (and make sure they are 18 years or older!). Identification is mandatory in this country and if they don't have one it is a problem. Make sure to agree on a price BEFORE you do anything. If you don't speak Spanish, then write down the amount agreed upon, and make sure it is done in the form of pesos (ex: RD$1,500 pesos), so there will be no mistake that you meant dollars/euros or any other currency. Again, be careful. (Pronounced boo*gah*rone)
DRUGS
You would be well-advised NOT (!!) to mess with any drugs in the Dominican Republic. Drugs are very prevalent and cheap. But the laws here are VERY strict and if you get caught with drugs of any type you will be in for a very unpleasant and expensive experience. There is nothing that your embassy will do but refer you to a lawyer. Once in the Dominican Republic you are subject to all the laws of the country. I can't stress this point enough.
Monaga Corp., S.A., does not promote sex tourism or venues that are strictly fronts for prostitution. We are dedicated to improving the image and quality of life of gays and lesbians in the Dominican Republic (and Latin America). We encourage adults to practice safe sex and to respect local laws and customs while on holiday.
Updated: April 3, 2012
mmunizations — No immunizations are required, but it is wise to update your tetanus booster.
