A typical first trip here runs about $600 to $825 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- La bandera dominicana, "the Dominican flag": rice, beans, and meat; the national dish
- Mangu, mashed plantains with pickled onions, salami, and eggs for breakfast
- Sancocho, seven-meat stew served on special occasions
- Tostones, twice-fried green plantain slices served with garlic dip
- Presidente beer and Brugal rum, the local beverages of choice
- Carnival (February), celebrated in every city; La Vega's is the most famous
- Merengue Festival (Santo Domingo, July–August), street dancing nationwide
- Independence Day (February 27), celebrating independence from Haiti
- Bachata and merengue music, Dominican contributions to world music
Spanish (Dominican variety is fast-paced and drops letters). English is spoken in resort areas.
Dominicans are warm, musical, and love to celebrate, their joie de vivre is infectious.
- Greet everyone with a handshake or kiss on the cheek
- Time is relaxed, don't expect strict punctuality
- Tipping 10% is standard in tourist restaurants
- Beyond all-inclusive resorts lies a vibrant culture, explore it
Latest for Dominican Republic
Updates for Dominican Republic will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.