Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Online room rates are usually cheapest. If you're vis-
iting during the high season, especially in tourist-
heavy areas, book early. For more information,
Click
»
Binoculars if you intend to do any
birdwatching
»
Hotels
From boutique European-owned places with style and intimacy, to business-
class behemoths in the capital.
»
B&Bs
Only a few rooms with owners often living on the premises; breakfast included.
»
All-Inclusive Resorts
What most people associate with the DR, quality ranges from
top-flight luxury to neglected properties with low standards.
»
Apart-hotels & Condos
For longer stays, especially in resort areas with expatriate
communities, fully furnished units can be your best bet.
Language
Some amount of English is widely spoken by Dominicans working in the tourism in-
dustry. Otherwise, especially in small towns and rural areas, there is little to none. Italian,
French and German might come in handy in expat hideaways. Keep in mind, Dominican
Spanish is spoken very fast with lots of slang and Dominicans tends to swallow the ends
of words, especially those ending in 's' -
tres
sounds like 'tre' and
buenos días
like
'bueno dia.'
Etiquette
Dominicans are generally very polite, but observe relatively few strict rules for dining and
etiquette. Generally, it's a laid-back, leisurely culture so be patient if things are moving
slower than you'd like.
»
Lively background music in restaurants is the norm so loud conversations aren't unusu-
al.
»
Rather than calling out, hissing is the preferred method for getting someone's attention.
Eating
Only the most exclusive restaurants require reservations, and those 'specialty' places in
all-inclusive resorts. See
Click here
for more information.
