The Dominican Republic is a lovely little country in the Caribbean region, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti. Most people have heard of the Dominican in relation to coffee, honeymoons and earthquakes; but what about those little things that make a nation unique? Aside from the underlying Spanish elements, the Caribbean themed food and the stereotypes we see in the media?
Going to the Dominican Republic for a vacation or honeymoon is a great choice, in terms of cost, ambiance, weather and culture. In preparation for the trip it is always a good idea to learn as much as possible about the people, the geography, the language and the customs. For example, do not under any circumstances drink the tap water. Even the locals boil their water before consuming it or using it on anything to be consumed. Narcotics are strictly forbidden in the Dominican. Even if travelers witness drug transactions or consumption, it would be incredibly risky to also engage in the activity.
When the plane lands, clap. This is a Dominican tradition. Perhaps it celebrates the miracle of flight, perhaps it is a thank you to the pilot and crew. No matter the reason, be sure to join in. There may be a lot of street dogs running around the cities and towns, leave them alone. In general they are unfriendly and dangerous, so err on the side of caution. Visitors to the Dominican Republic may also notice a lot of civilian and uniformed men carrying guns. Do not be alarmed, you have not entered a nation under military rule. Most of the time those men are security guards.
When in your home country, is it normal to walk the downtown streets at night with a full wallet and flashy electronics or jewelry? Do you randomly insult strangers and start arguments and altercations? Most people would respond with an incredulous 'no'. It would therefore be wise to follow those same guidelines in a foreign country, like the Dominican Republic. Stay on the resort at night, leave the jewelry at home and only carry enough cash for the period of time you plan to be out. Try some new foods! Don't ask what it is, just try it. After giving it a fair chance and finding the dish pleasing, ask what it is. Honestly this is the best method of eating in a new culture.
The next two tips are important and if fully understood could be responsible for the success of the trip: learn the language and learn to accept Dominican time. The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, so make a good effort to learn Spanish before leaving for your vacation. The people will be a lot more helpful and kind if you make efforts to speak their tongue. Dominicans, and most Caribbean peoples, function on a relaxed schedule. One hour could mean three hours. When setting appointments or bookings, clarify if the agreed time is in Dominican time or North American time. It will save a lot of frustration later on.
Going to the Dominican Republic for a vacation or honeymoon is a great choice, in terms of cost, ambiance, weather and culture. In preparation for the trip it is always a good idea to learn as much as possible about the people, the geography, the language and the customs. For example, do not under any circumstances drink the tap water. Even the locals boil their water before consuming it or using it on anything to be consumed. Narcotics are strictly forbidden in the Dominican. Even if travelers witness drug transactions or consumption, it would be incredibly risky to also engage in the activity.
When the plane lands, clap. This is a Dominican tradition. Perhaps it celebrates the miracle of flight, perhaps it is a thank you to the pilot and crew. No matter the reason, be sure to join in. There may be a lot of street dogs running around the cities and towns, leave them alone. In general they are unfriendly and dangerous, so err on the side of caution. Visitors to the Dominican Republic may also notice a lot of civilian and uniformed men carrying guns. Do not be alarmed, you have not entered a nation under military rule. Most of the time those men are security guards.
When in your home country, is it normal to walk the downtown streets at night with a full wallet and flashy electronics or jewelry? Do you randomly insult strangers and start arguments and altercations? Most people would respond with an incredulous 'no'. It would therefore be wise to follow those same guidelines in a foreign country, like the Dominican Republic. Stay on the resort at night, leave the jewelry at home and only carry enough cash for the period of time you plan to be out. Try some new foods! Don't ask what it is, just try it. After giving it a fair chance and finding the dish pleasing, ask what it is. Honestly this is the best method of eating in a new culture.
The next two tips are important and if fully understood could be responsible for the success of the trip: learn the language and learn to accept Dominican time. The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish, so make a good effort to learn Spanish before leaving for your vacation. The people will be a lot more helpful and kind if you make efforts to speak their tongue. Dominicans, and most Caribbean peoples, function on a relaxed schedule. One hour could mean three hours. When setting appointments or bookings, clarify if the agreed time is in Dominican time or North American time. It will save a lot of frustration later on.
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