Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
introduction in lieu of “May I help you?”, it could only mean one
thing: we were in the Dominican Republic.
Merengue
(pronounced mare-rhen-gay) is a force of nature on
this island nation, both a dance and a music enjoyed in carni-
vals, fiestas, dance halls, and anywhere there's a gathering.
The music for which the Dominican Republic is best known was
first performed by groups of three musicians. These trios, called
pri pris,
produced music with a small drum, an accordion and
a güiro (a gourd rhythmically scraped with a stick). Today's
merengue is played by all types of musicians and accompanied
by the national dance of the same name.
For visitors looking for nightlife, head to
Calle Duarte.
This
street is packed with restaurants, clubs, bars and music and is
blocked to cars in the evenings. Visitors tend to stay in this area
until around 11 pm, but after midnight the pace picks up as
many of the locals come in. The party is hopping by 3 am.
Just the Facts
Entry Requirements:
US, UK, and Canadian citizens should
bring proof of citizenship, either a passport or an official birth
certificate with photo ID. Upon departure, vacationers are re-
quired to pay a departure tax of US $10 per person.
Getting Around:
With 12,000 miles of roads, getting around
the Dominican Republic can be achieved many different ways.
You can rent a car from a major agency at the airports and in
the larger cities. You'll need your driver's license and a major
credit card. You'll also need good reflexes to deal with the fre-
quent displays of driving machismo you will encounter. One for-
tunate thing: driving is (more or less) on the right side. Taxis
are a safer bet, but are fairly expensive and are unmetered;
you'll need to negotiate a price before you embark. A variety of
buses are also available, from luxury lines to those with few
creature comforts. The most basic transportation in the DR are
the
guaguas,
unregulated taxi-buses which are usually
crowded with locals. If you speak Spanish, riding the guaguas
can be a good way to get the lowdown on what's happening.
Currency:
Dominican Republic peso (US $1 = RD $16.25).
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