The Dominican Republic welcomed over 11 million tourists in 2025 and keeps growing. But among all the resort packages and tour offers, there are practical details that make the difference between a smooth trip and one full of surprises. Here are the 10 that matter most.
1. The E-Ticket is mandatory — complete it before you fly
Since 2024, the Dominican Republic requires a digital E-Ticket to enter and exit the country. Apply at eticket.migracion.gob.do at least 72 hours before your flight — it costs USD $10. Without it, immigration will hold you up.
Important
Download the E-Ticket QR code to your phone and print a backup copy. Airport Wi-Fi is unreliable on arrival.
2. US dollars are accepted everywhere
The Dominican peso (DOP) is the official currency, but US dollars work without issue in tourist areas. Carry small bills (USD $1, $5, $10) for tips and small purchases. Avoid exchanging money at the airport — rates are worse than any bank or ATM in the hotel zone.
3. Airport transport has no fixed price — unless you book ahead
As you exit baggage claim, dozens of people will offer you rides. Prices are negotiable and quality varies widely. The safest and most cost-effective way to reach your resort is to book a private transfer before you travel — you pay directly to your driver on arrival, fixed price, no surprises.
4. The climate is tropical year-round — but there is a rainy season
Temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C (77–95°F) all year. The rainy season runs from May to November, with the most intense months being August through October. Even during the wet season, rain is usually brief and intense — it rarely cancels the afternoon sun.
- High season (dry): December – April
- Low season (rain): May – November
- Hurricane season: June – October (rarely impacts tourist areas directly)
- Sea temperature: 26–29°C (79–84°F) year-round
5. Tap water is not safe to drink
Throughout the Dominican Republic, tap water is not drinkable. Hotels and resorts provide bottled water — use it for brushing your teeth too if your stomach is sensitive. Royal Dominican Transfers includes bottled water on every ride.
6. Spanish is the official language, but English goes a long way
In resorts and tourist areas in Punta Cana, Bávaro, and Santo Domingo, English is widely spoken. Outside those areas, a few words of Spanish make a real difference. Dominicans speak fast and abbreviate — don't hesitate to ask them to repeat more slowly.
Useful phrases
"¿Cuánto cuesta?" (How much?) · "¿Dónde queda...?" (Where is...?) · "Una botella de agua, por favor." (A bottle of water, please.) · "Más despacio, por favor." (More slowly, please.)
7. Tipping is part of the local culture
In restaurants, service is already included on the bill (10–18%), but leaving an additional tip for the server is the norm. At all-inclusive resorts, USD $1–2 per drink or service is standard. Drivers also appreciate tips, though it is not required.
8. Tourist zones are safe — outside them, use caution
Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cap Cana, and Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone have good security for tourists. Outside these areas, follow the same precautions as in any city: don't show valuables, use taxis recommended by your hotel, avoid walking alone at night.
9. All-inclusive resorts are not your only option
The Dominican Republic offers far more than beachside resorts. The Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Samaná offers humpback whale watching from January to March, and Jarabacoa is the ideal mountain getaway to escape the heat. A private transfer connects you to all of these from any airport.
10. Book your transport before you arrive — not after
The most common mistake first-time visitors make: arriving without transport booked and ending up overpaying or getting into an unidentified vehicle. Booking ahead guarantees a fixed price, an identified driver, and real-time flight tracking.