Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip. The package says, All Inclusive. Lily Allen-Duenas is a renowned holistic healer, and what do holistic healers love more than quinoa smoothie bowls? Unfortunately, owners do not always tip their employees. When it comes to child safety, there wont be things like car seats for children. . Los Tres Ojos National Park, Santo Domingo. We had a mix of adventure ", Traveled to the Dominican Republic solo in March, 2021, Highlights of the Dominican Republic - 5 Days, Family Fun in the Dominican Republic - 5 Days, Explore the Northern Dominican Republic - 5 Days. I've been to the Dominican 5 times, soon to be 6 and I always tip. Go enjoy the beauty of it; just but be aware of abusive and unethical businesses. #1 inBest Cheap Destination Wedding Locations, #6 inBest Cheap Destination Wedding Locations. Expect everything from restaurant reservations to pre-booked taxis to operate with a delay 15 to 30 minutes late is hardly considered off schedule. How much to tip? - Punta Cana Forum - Tripadvisor As a backpacker traveling outside resorts, youll see some extremes, namely in terms ofpoverty. Known for being cheap, Germans also, maybe all Europeans in these AI. That said, Dominican wait staff always expect tips in restaurants even when a service charge is already included. Tipping your maid daily in the Dominican Republic is recommended to ensure that your tip gets to the person who actually cleaned your room. But its pretty damn special too. 11 things to know before travelling to the Dominican Republic It's normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in Dominican Republic - especially in touristy or business areas. There are 28 Interstate I-5 rest areas in . Due to the high poverty rates, prostitution has a visible presence throughout the D.R., particularly in Santo Domingo and Puerto Plata. This can be from 1 to 5 dollars. These beaches, which include Playa Morn, are wide, inviting, and free of mass tourism. Yes. Yes. On your penultimate day in the Dominican, embark on a unique aquatic activity: "Scuba Doo." Get a quote below or read our in-depth review! Everyone can dive right into the 45-foot (14-m) deep waters and enjoy a swim before heading back to Bayahibe. Busesin the bigger cities are pretty normal. Its main beach is wide and inviting, with golden sands perfect for whiling away the hours. As for drinks, be sure to try the strong local coffee and the Presidente beer. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the XV Beacon Hotel in Boston. Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Dominican Republic. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance. To avoid becoming a victim of chauvinism or worse, it definitely helps to know how to stay safe as a female traveler. If you plan on taking in the nightlife in the Dominican Republic, make sure to pack more than your standard beachwear. Consider the offseasonFrom May to June and September to October, room rates tend to be their cheapest and tourist volume is at its lowest. Beach Near La Romana in the Dominican Republic/Oyster. 14 years ago Save We usually leave our maid about 3.00-4.00 US per day on the bed (plus little things I have picked up from Canada), but because we are staying at the Bahia Ambar (2nd time), we always leave another 2.00 in the evening for our turn down service and during our stay tip our butler. C. del Telefrico, Puerto Plata 57000, Dominican Republic. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. In the U.S. tipping is customary and expected for everything from lackluster to outstanding service. If you want to increase your safety during your stay, refrain from leaving a resort. The sugary sand of a Punta Cana beach is so soft, so perfectly golden that you might think it was synthetic. Tipping in Punta Cana: Everything You Need to Know - iHeartDR Dominican Republic 10 Important Things to Know Before Visiting Punta Cana Megan Wood August 8, 2019 Majestic Colonial Punta Cana/Oyster Until the 1970s, Punta Borrachon (Drunkard's Point) was about a five-mile stretch of powder-white beaches with sparkling blue water, dense foliage with a few fishing villages, and no modern infrastructure. You shouldn't tip as a bribe but as pointed out at #3, it is definitely appreciated by all who work very hard in PC to make your holiday a good one. RafeFerrante I dont have a problem with tipping discreetly by leaving a few $ on the table for the waitstaff or on the bed for the room maid but I am uncomfortable handing staff money. Tipping butlers is normally allowed and expected. It is helpful to leave a short note with it to let them know that it is intended for them. Tip a waiter in the Dominican Republicas muchas you would at a restaurant back home. Although some people are ok with tipping regardless of the quality of service, others carefully consider their experience before deciding on the amount of tip. Do you tip in Dominican Republic all-inclusive? Discover the best places to visit & things to do in the Dominican Republic that are rightFOR YOU. Restaurants and Bars: When should I tip? Does Punta Cana Have Good Nightlife (Where to Go and What to Drink)? All this and more will be addressedso lets get into it. This is by far Dominican Republics safest mode of public transport. Its called conscience, its a morality switch. On the one hand, the 16% tax on the sells and, on the other hand, the 10% of the service; in the . The next day you can unwind and explore Cabarete at your own pace. #2. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Is Dominican Republic SAFE to Visit? Its also important to note that the Dominican Republic has strict laws regarding drugseverything including weed is illegal. Of course, we dont want to leave a bad impression on the staff who went out of their way to make our stay a better one, and even more so if we have been treated kindly. This region is prized for its white-sand beaches that are less crowded than at other resort areas in the Dominican. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. With that in mind, it pays to be prepared before you visit. Avoid these things in the Dominican Republic to stay safe: Dont walk by yourself at night time Dont even TRAVEL at night Avoid looking rich and flashy Dont withdraw money at night be careful around ATMs. (Feb 28, 2021), Which Airlines Are in Terminal A & B? Come with U.S. News on a tour of The Langham, Boston. Resorts are safe, but youll be, Meeting other backpackers is a good idea. (You may also see more speedos, thong bikinis and topless sunbathers than you're used to.). The top 8 places to visit in the Dominican Republic - Lonely Planet Here, we recommend that you indicate with a note that you leave a tip by adding this word in Spanish, so that the staff will not have problems when leaving the hotel or resort. All-in-all, the Dominican Republic isa pretty safe place to travel to. Guests can leave small items and usually $1 or $2 U.S. dollars each morning on the pillows for the maids and just add a little note to let them know that it is for them. But you still have no idea how much you should tip while you are in Punta Cana. 16 Best Things to Do in Punta Cana | U.S. News Travel Most of the resort's buffets and restaurant menus will feature some additional traditional dishes, such as fried plantains and fish in coconut sauce. Island time is alive and well in the Dominican Republic. Youll see poor living conditions, people openly carrying weapons, litter, and possible threats to your safety, not to mention sex workers. Tell someone at your guesthouse, or keep in touch with people at home, if youre going out to explore more remote places. How much do you tip in Dominican Republic? - 2023 Punta Cana Currency & Money Exchange - Insider Tips by Locals Dominican Sancocho: Everything you need to know + Recipe, Dominican restaurants with the best mang that you should know, Set Sail and Unwind With Punta Cana Yacht Rental An Ultimate Guide, A Guide To Enjoying Stress-Free Airport Transfers in Punta Cana 2023, Essential Guide: How to Get Cheap Flights to Dominican Republic, Ultimate Guide: Fun & Unique Things To Do in Dominican Republic. You can feast on lobster, enjoy beach activities, and search for starfish in shallow, crystalline waters that stretch for hundreds of meters offshore. Theres also a high rate of HIV and AIDS in comparison to other Central American and Caribbean countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. And take a pass on the ice cubes or frozen drinks. Billini Hotel, Historic Luxury. The winds here are strong enough that you can even hit the waves on a kitesurfing excursion. In the Dominican Republic, it is customary to leave a 10% if you enjoyed your services. The Dominican Republic's stapleis a dish of white rice, red beans, meat and fried plantains calledLa Bandera Dominicana(because the colors are reminiscent of the Dominican's red, white and blue flag). In regards to how much to tip, it will be at your discretion, but if it helps, in the Caribbean it is common to leave a 15% to 25% tip for exceptional service. She helped plan an unforgettable trip to the Dominican Republic in March/April 2021. And these places lie firmly in the category of avoid at all costs: Its important to know that Dominican Republic is pretty safe overall, but a bit of caution and research before you start your travels will go a long way. 3. The taxis are surprisingly safe in the Dominican Republic. On Day 3, you'll visit Hoyo Azul, an incredible limestone sinkhole with a blue lagoon. Other hotels do only allow you to tip specific staff members. Punta Cana is one of the safest vacation spots in the Caribbean, and tourists should feel comfortable traveling outside of the hotel zone. A private guide will lead you into the park, where you can hike through the rainforest and marvel at the limestone formations rising dramatically out of the water just offshore. That said, most prices in the Dominican Republic are in Dominican pesos. Travel 80 Dominican Republic Should I Tip in the Dominican Republic (The Complete Tipping Etiquette Guide)? Or browse the main town's shops and boutiques for Dominican art and souvenirs. Read more about. There are many landmarks here that exemplify Santo Domingo's rich history, like the Cathedral of Santa Mara la Menor and the Fortaleza Ozama. The stretch between East LA and the Orange County border is usually bad, but afterwards its clears out. On Day 5, transfer to the airport in Puerto Plata for your flight home. Therefore tipping someone could get them fired. 405S or I-5S (San Diego: moving, design) - City-Data.com Itinerary #1: Highlights of the Dominican Republic. This is when the weather is less rainy (compared to June through October) and thus less humid. Maps, travel tips and more. The general rule for travelers visiting the Dominican Republic is to always tip anyone who provides you with great service. Re: Best currency to have/tip in. Now many people support aid programs. Consider the package dealAll-inclusive resorts abound in Punta Cana, and most rates cover all meals and drinks (including alcohol) along with water sports activities. Just remember a few extra things to make sure your family holiday in the Dominican Republic is safe. Its a wild world out there. Catchinga game is a great way to soak up the culture and mix with local fans. The Dominican Republic 5-Day Tours & Itineraries, 5 Days in the Dominican Republic - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 1 Week in the Dominican Republic - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 10 Days in the Dominican Republic - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas, 2 Weeks in the Dominican Republic - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas. miles around Saman. 3, 5 & 7 Days In Punta Cana Itinerary (Best Things To Do!) Then I would feel comfortable thanking them and shaking their hand with cash folded up in mine but unfortunately not with Covid. English is widely spoken at the resorts, but if you choose to explore further afield, youll likely need to know a little Spanish to get by. Reissued with updates to health information. Showing any money, a wallet, wearing expensive jewelry, carrying designer bags, shouting around in English, looking lost; all of these are to be avoided. The 3 HIDTA in California act as supply hubs to the rest of the West Coast, and . The Dominican Republic in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More, The Dominican Republic in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More, The Dominican Republic from North to South - 14 Days. Only when gratuity has not been included (which it normally is). However, to make sure you stay safe and comfortable here, find lodging in secure gated residential complexes, such as Punta Cana Village or Los Corales, located in the neighboring Bavaro area. Another thing to keep in mind is that some all-inclusive resorts usually add a tip to the bill when you order room service. Head to the beach for an unforgettable time with your four-legged friend. Or you can choose to tip them at the beginning of your stay and at the end of your stay. Yes, a butler! NOPE! Punta Cana vs. Cancun or Jamaica (Which is Better)? InterContinental Real Santo Domingo. All rights reserved. Located on the northeast coast, this peninsula shelters a tranquil bay that was a popular hiding spot for pirates back in the 16th century. World Nomads mission is to support and encourage travellers to explore their boundaries. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. Do not drink tap water The local water filtration system is not like that of the U.S., so for your stomach's sake, it's best to drink only bottled water. KimKim always gets me in touch with the best travel specialists for unique, culturally-centere", Traveled to the Dominican Republic solo in March, 2023, "Marta was an absolute pleasure to work with. Learn more. Here are a few tips on how to travel as a female in the Dominican Republic: At the end of the day, backpacking as a solo female traveler ANYWHERE is risky. Being aware of your surroundings, making sure you dont wander alone at night, and generally being smart with how you travel is going to make your trip safer. Cab drivers They dont always get tips, but if they help you with your bags or are very friendly, you can tip them up to $5. This five-day vacation is perfect for families who want a quick getaway to a tropical paradise and enjoy postcard beaches while bonding over water sports and active adventures. 1. On this five-day north coast excursion, you'll discover a less well-known but no less beautiful side to the Dominican Republic, one abounding with crescent beaches, freshwater lagoons, and romantic waterfalls. At high end hotels, a tip of US $3-7 per person per day is normal. While the Dominican Republic has had its fair share of negative press, the country is generally safe, especially if visitors stick to tourist areas and follow the usual common sense when it comes to traveling. Some people decide to give a lower amount of tip when they get terrible service and it was the service providers fault. So you try to help others. (Feb 1, 2022). Walking around at night is not a good idea; Dressing appropriately for the situation is a good idea; wandering around town in a bikini top and shorts is not, so wed recommend against that. It is recommended that you bring with you about US $20 in small bills to spend on tips throughout the day. For a one-week stay at an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, a couple should expect to spend about US $150 in tips. Miscellaneous: Is there anyone I should tip that I would not normally. Five days in the Dominican Republic is just enough time to explore a couple of different regions of this tropical paradise. In the Dominican Republic, it is customary to leave a tip as well, if you enjoyed the service. Although local events and celebrations can be tempting to attend, your safety should be your priority. Dominican Republic Travel Tips: 16 Things to Know Before You Go It's a city with an abundance of rich colonial history and gorgeous beaches. The highest mountain in the Caribbean the landscape is beautiful! That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. #3. Day 2, you'll visit a network of limestone caves and lagoons right in the city limits before heading off on a scenic drive north to the coastal resort area of Cabarete. Looking for an unforgettable Punta Cana itinerary? This is the Spanish-colonial heart of the city and the site of the first settlement in the Americas. There is more happiness in giving than receiving. Of course, tipping is solely based on the diners discretion, so you shouldnt feel obliged. You dont want to end up in a sketchy area and ruin your trip. Buy water from stores, or invest in an epic filtered water bottle. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Used to drive to SD more often, and I always thought the 5 was a little faster/direct, despite the 405's designation as "the San Diego freeway". Address. Tipping at all inclusive resorts - Punta Cana Forum - Tripadvisor And though the official currency is the Dominican peso, many of the Punta Cana resorts accept United States dollars and major credit cards. is heavily dependent on where you go. Expect daily temperatures to get as high as 84F (29C) and lows around 71F (21C). However, there are many. Its clean, modern, comprehensive, and is expanding every year. Check out the Center for Disease Control'swebsitefor its recommendations and make an appointment for the proper prescriptions and vaccinations. The highest mountain in the Caribbean the landscape is beautiful!#yourdominicanguide, Theres nothing like La Zona Colonial, the historic center of the city of Santo Domingo.#yourdominicanguide, Nothing like a sunrise on the beach#yourdominicanguide, If you ever visit la La Romana, dont forget to visit Altos de Chavn its beautiful!#yourdominicanguide, Welcome to Dominican Republic: Where Heaven kisses the Earth.#yourdominicanguide, Los Tres Ojos National Park, Santo Domingo.#yourdominicanguide, Nothing like the beaches of Punta Cana.#yourdominicanguide. If you are in the Dominican Republic and dont know how much to tip at all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, spas, hairdressers, and more, keep reading, because in this post we have prepared everything you need to know about tipping in Dominican Republic. You have your amazing tropical vacation to the Dominican Republic booked. Ride to Cable Car in Puerto Plata. Make sure you know if it is included or not before you pay. Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Dominican Republic? Prices do not include insurance or delivery charges which are optional and customizable by the traveler. Plan to travel in a group if you leave your resort, and women should be aware that men in Punta Cana can be overly flirtatious. First off are thepublicos. Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Pesos? This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service. If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. The California Central Valley HIDTA. Discover the best places to visit & things to do in the Dominican Republic that are right FOR YOU. Dominican Republic: Tipping & Etiquette - Tripadvisor If caution is taken, both places can be very safe for travellers. more, Reply to: Tipping at all inclusive resorts. That being said, you might want to get a mobile hotspot device to stay connected, especially if you plan on traveling off the property. Now if you don't have any good will, be the cheapskate and never give anything. But, for at least one day, you should venture off the beaten past to get a sense of the Dominican Republic's history and culture, which is highlighted by tasty local coffee, strong rumand fragrant cigars. December 4, 2022 If you are in the Dominican Republic and don't know how much to tip at all-inclusive resorts, restaurants, spas, hairdressers, and more, keep reading, because in this post we have prepared everything you need to know about tipping in Dominican Republic. Unfortunately, this dynamic leads to increased levels of crime; sometimes its pickpocketing, sometimes its a mugging. From popular Bavaro Beach to Playa Rincon, which has a more undeveloped feel, there are plenty of options to choose from. It wont be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. What is VIP Service? It is nice to leave housekeeping a small gratuity, especially if you made a big mess or asked for extra towels. Dominican Republic Travel Cost - Budget Your Trip Then you're in the right place! As with many other tourist destinations, the Dominican Republic has its issues with scams and hustles. The people of the Dominican Republic are friendly and welcoming. One of the biggest dangers in the Dominican Republic isits roads. Tropical islands of paradise! Local womenstrugglein the Dominican Republic due to a hyper-masculine society. Regardless if youre wondering whether the Dominican Republic is safe for families, or if you want to know some tips for solo travel in the Dominican Republic, weve got you covered. It obviously bothered you, or the idea. Known as the "coconut coast," this is one of the most popular destinations in the country due to its 51 miles of white-sand, palm-fringed beaches. Re: How much to tip? Cristo Rey. They are hot and a hassle. You may leave a tip at the end of the meal by placing the money on your table, and using your cup/ glass to hold it down. So asking the question is Dominican Republic safe makes sense. Sex tourism has created this state of affairs, so dont contribute any further. Its important for first-time visitors to the Dominican Republic to know the countrys tipping culture and etiquette to avoid making an embarrassing mistake. The U.S. $10 fee has now been added onto the cost of flights, which means smoother arrivals. Then youll LOVE Pico Duarte! From fake beggars and police to unlicensed taxis, theres a wide variety of potential scams to avoid on the island. Our local travel specialists have been recommended by, "Our trip to the Dominican Republic was amazing thanks to Kimkim and our local travel specialist Marina. Still, those who venture out canfind affordable dining, especially at the area's many beachside bars and grills. The 658 suites are attractive, and some have ocean views. Out of 197 countries, Dominican Republic is ranked 80th in terms of criminality, meaning there are a lot more dangerous nations out there. I don't think that I would hand money to the omelet maker or the beach cleaner unless we had a slight conversation or saw each other several times. Solo travelers are always a little more vulnerable so its important to be careful when youre traveling around the Dominican Republic alone. The Dominican Republic in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More. If your service was exceptional, you can also give an additional tip straight to your waiter or waitress. Places to Avoid in Dominican Republic - Family Destinations Guide Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism. The question of Is Dominican Republic Safe? will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. Tips in the Dominican Republic Aggressive driving and a lack of road signs and traffic laws being enforced dont help matters. What should a traveler not do in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic? Also, tip at the bars once a day and for the restaurants make sure your waiter gets a tip because they in most cases really do try to please. Your plane will touch down in the capital of Santo Domingo, at which point you'll take a scenic three-hour ride in a private car to Saman. Article History (76) Comments (9) Tipping is very appreciated in the DR, as wages are very low. But the reality is that most tourists never see this side of the island from the safety of their resorts. For optimal weather, the best time of year to visit the Dominican Republic is between the months of November and April. My trip to Punta Cana was sponsored by BeachBound and also contains affiliate links to trusted partners. In a 2015 study, the International Justice Mission found that roughly a quarter of all sex workers wereunder 18. Here are the answers to these and other questions related to tipping in the Dominican Republic. Top 10 spring destinations Americans are visiting this year, Get answers to your questions about Punta Cana, Check-list - Canadian travel to the DR-PC - UPDATED, Resort (Brands) COVID Policies -Quarantine, Testing, Etc - As of March 1, 2022, How do I fill out the new DR E-Forms for Immigration and Customs? Public transport in the Dominican Republic is cheap, extensive, and highly varied. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Tourism may bring a lot of money to the country, but there are a lot of negative impacts as not every tourist is respectful of the locals. In fact, Cities arent very fun with children. Its remote locale means you'll need to hire transportation through your hotel or pay for one of the club's pricey packages. On-site amenities include eight restaurants, 11 bars, a 1,300-foot lazy river-style pool, and a pretty beach with free non-motorized water sports. Receive the latest deals for travel to Europe. Santo Domingo Resembling a cross between a Soviet-era apartment block and a Las Vegas-style ancient Mayan ruin, this massive monument is worth visiting for its Parque Central North Coast Notable for the 50m clock tower designed by French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. If youre a male traveling alone you may be approached by prostitutes. Away from the tourist areas, the crazy scenery opens itself up as a haven for backpackers looking for an adventure in the backyard of an otherwise well-trodden, cruise-ship-visited destination. It also does not include any entrance fees or visa fees that may be charged at international airports.
