Truly ‘Inexhaustible’
The Dominican Republic is a breathtaking island filled with fertile river valleys, forested mountains and soft, unspoiled beaches. Nature lovers and eco tourists are immersed in a dramatic landscape of 19 national parks, 15 natural reserves and 2 marine sanctuaries. This geography is harmonized with signature merengue sounds that somehow narrate the culture. The Dominican Republic’s way of life is a festive simile of smiling faces, remarkable food and fine cigars. As touted by the Ministry of Tourism, the Dominican Republic is a land that is truly ‘Inexhaustible.’
Rewarding Excursions
From lush rainforests to dry desserts, the possibilities for adventure in the Dominican Republic are without end. Wild jungle safaris, extreme white water rafting and scenic helicopter tours are just some of the many ways to explore the island. The Dominican Republic’s nine distinct ecological zones cater to a myriad of eco tours and promise the most rewarding excursions in the Caribbean.
Golfing and Scuba Diving
Wide rivers, striking mountains and coastal fairways have made the Dominican Republic a refuge for golfers of every aptitude. More than 20 courses, many bearing the handiwork of world famous designers, promise fabulous rounds of championship golf under the charms of the Dominican Republic. Just off shore lie the colorful reefs and intricate marine habitats that distinguish the Dominican Republic as a haven for scuba diving and snorkeling. The immensity of shipwrecks and sea creatures found along these shores have qualified the Dominican Republic as one of the top diving locations in the Caribbean.
Fun, Food and Nightlife
Colorful shops and bustling bazaars surround the resort areas and welcome travelers with the tones and tastes of the Dominican Republic. Sparkling amber jewelry, sweet domestic rum and perfectly aged cigars are just some of the specialties that are easily found and rarely ignored in the local market places. Fresh seafood, island fruits and locally grown vegetables are always on the culinary agenda and blend flavorfully into the day’s affairs. Beachfront dining is followed by the pulsating beats and contagious laughter that fill the night air. Crowded dance floors, friendly cantinas and marvelous shows finish every evening with the excitement in which it began.
Extreme caution is advised when making a decision to venture outside the resort for nightlife in any foreign destination.
Weddings and Romance
Palm-fringed shores and inspiring mountain ranges have made the Dominican Republic an oasis for wedding ceremonies and honeymoon escapes. Exchange vows on a pearl white beach or hide under the graceful flow of a cascading waterfall. There is no wait time in the Dominican Republic, and resort specialists can assist with every detail of your romantic itinerary.
The Caribbean at its Finest
The spirit of the Dominican Republic is a tapestry spun by majestic mountains, slowly descending beaches and a rich island culture. Blossoming jungle thickets and crystalline sands create a haven for explorers, while the rhythmic nightlife and local shops equally cater to relaxed vacationers. Savor fresh fruits, dance to island rhythms or simply stretch out on a long white beach. The Dominican Republic is an impressive display of the Caribbean at its finest.Destination information is subject to change without prior notice. Travelers are advised to use extreme caution and common sense when venturing out in any foreign destination. While luxury beach destinations can be quite alluring, remember to keep your guard up when approached by locals in any foreign area. We advise guests to attend the resort orientation upon arrival(if provided) and conduct plenty of research prior to arriving at your destination. The information provided on this site is not comprehensive and we advise travelers to utilize the official tourist board site for each resort area, the CDC, travel.state.gov and other official sources for up to date destination information.
What do these mean?
6 Palms: Exquisite location with the finest collection of services and amenities for the most discerning travelers.
5 Palms: Beautiful location with an impressive collection of luxurious services and amenities.
4 Palms: Beautiful location with deluxe amenities and services.
3 Palms: Well-furnished resort with comfortable amenities and services.
2 Palms: Standard resort amenities and services for budget-minded travelers.
1 Palm: Low quality resort and/or location. All Inclusive Outlet does not sell resorts with a 1 Palm rating.
La Romana is a fabulous retreat on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic. Breathtakingly blue waters and palm-fringed shores welcome your footsteps to a handful of surrounding beaches. Just off the coast is the secluded island of Catalina, where some of the Caribbean’s finest beaches a...
Beige sands and blue waters are the constant backdrop for the resorts of Puerto Plata. Every conceivable water sport can be found here, and chaise lounges are a welcomed sight to the languid beach lover. After sunbathing, take an afternoon to explore the oldest fort in the New World, San Felipe. Or ...
Punta Cana is a region of fine sands, fabulous resorts and famous golf courses on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic. Shimmering waters lap against brilliant white sands, luring travelers from guest rooms that lie just footsteps away. Relaxation is the activity of choice in Punta Cana, but ...Entry Requirements
All travelers between the U.S. and the Caribbean are required to carry passports beginning January 1, 2007 as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. We encourage you to begin the passport application process early to avoid unexpected delays. Travelers should allow a minimum of six weeks between their application submission and receipt of passport. Passports can be expedited for an additional fee. Visas are not required for US Citizens. Visitors are required to purchase a $10 (U.S.) Tourist Card for each member of their party before entering the immigration line. This card is payable in cash only, travelers checks and credit cards are not accepted.
Foreign residents of the United States and all other foreign visitors not holding a US Passport must contact the appropriate government authorities to determine the entry and visa requirements.
Vaccinations
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends Malaria vaccinations for those traveling to Punta Cana and intending on visiting the rural regions of the Dominican Republic. Health requirements and information are subject to change without prior notice and we advise travelers to visit www.cdc.gov for the most current health advisories.
Departure Tax
The departure tax is included in most airline tickets but we advise checking with an agent or your airline for more information. A $10 tourist card is required for entry.
What to Wear
Light shirts and shorts are best suited for the warm year-round weather. Some restaurants may require jackets for men and dresses for ladies.
Currency
The official currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican peso. Most tourist establishments accept and sometimes prefer the U.S. dollar because of its strong economic standing. Major credit cards and traveler’s checks are also accepted at most resort areas and ATMs can be found within the resort areas.
Driving
Dominican’s drive on the right side of the road and numerous rental agencies provide rental cars for drivers over the age of 25. Driving in the Dominican is best left to professional taxis or resort-provided transportation.
Communications
Communications in the Dominican Republic is up-to-date and features five morning newspapers, approximately one million telephone lines and high speed Internet access.
Electricity
The electricity in the Dominican Republic follows the U.S. standard of 110 Volts/60 Hertz. We recommend using surge protectors for computers and appliances due to occasional voltage irregularities throughout the country.
Water
Despite relatively clean drinking water in the Dominican Republic, it is still advised that visitors drink bottled water.
Airports
The Dominican Republic has a total of seven international airports:
- Punta Cana International Airport
- Las Americas International Airport (serves Santo Domingo)
- La Romana International Airport
- Santiago International Airport
- Arroyo Barril International Airport (serves Samana)
- Maria Montez International Airport (serves Baharona)
- Gregorio Luperon International Airport (serves Puerto Plata)
Geography
The Dominican Republic is an impressive blend of geographical wonders that span from crystalline beaches to towering mountain peaks. A series of tropical jungles and pine forests dress the countryside and are intermingled with expansive desert plains. Swaying palms serve as a border to the dramatic landscape and introduce the white, gray and gold sands that slowly descend into the Caribbean waters. Just under the waves is an equally impressive ecology of brilliant coral reefs and teeming marine habitats. Remnants of wrecked vessels can be found along these reefs and shed light on the many cultures that have sought the beauty of the Dominican Republic.
Climate
The Dominican Republic boasts an average temperature between 78 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunny days cooled by the gentle breeze of Caribbean trade winds are a constant year-round phenomenon.
Language
Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic.
Government
The government in the Dominican Republic is structured much like that in the U.S., with a democratic process of elections, three government branches and a presidential term of four years.
History
The enduring history of the Dominican Republic traces as far back as 8,000 years ago to the arrival of the Taino Indians. It wasn’t until Christopher Columbus’ famous voyage in 1492 that Europeans arrived on the island and enslaved the Taino Indians in order to harvest the gold discovered on the island. The centuries following European contact were marked by colonization and war. Today, relics from the ancient Taino civilization and structures from the colonial era stand as a monument to the rich history of the Dominican Republic.
Cultural Experience
Music, food and baseball best describe the cultural obsessions of the Dominican people. Merengue is the national dance of the Dominicans and its jubilant spirit can be seen in every cultural affair. Seasoning the music and accompanying the festivities is the savory taste of fresh seafood and ripe island fruits. Colorful cuisine is part of the Dominican way of life and is an important part of your stay. The bustling resort areas are surrounded by the many restaurants and marketplaces that fill the local streets. Handcrafted cigars, sweet rum and dazzling jewels make an excellent excuse for engaging the culture and bringing some of it home.
Time Zone
The time zone in the Dominican Republic is Eastern Caribbean Time (GMT- 4hrs.)Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.
Beaches
The Dominican Republic is framed by more than 1,000 miles of sugar-soft beaches that are crowned with coconut palms and refreshing trade winds. Sands of white, gray and gold are wonderfully contrasted by the lapping crests of clear Caribbean waters. Popular resort beaches and uninhabited shores make the Dominican Republic’s coastline perfect for every vacation agenda.
Dining
Robust flavors from Antillean and Creole recipes make up the native dishes of the Dominican Republic. Hearty rice, fresh fish and crisp vegetables are tastefully etched into the quaint cafes and elegant restaurants that sprinkle the coastline. Many resorts offer these traditional Dominican dishes as well as International fare and specialty cuisine.
Excursions
Mysterious jungles, towering mountains and winding rivers challenge explorers to the untamed landscape of the Dominican Republic. Descend from the headwaters of the Jimenoa River into expansive canyons, thick woodlands and finally to the cascades of Jimenoa Falls. Take a four-wheel safari through sugar plantations, uninhabited beaches and lively marketplaces. Or climb to the summit of the Caribbean’s highest mountain, Pico Duarte. Adventure ranging from low valleys to high peaks is what establishes the Dominican Republic as an explorer’s dream.
Sports and Recreations
Scuba divers and snorkelers are naturally drawn to the warm, clear waters of the Dominican Republic. Sunken ships, elaborate coral reefs and colorful marine life surround divers and consistently rank the country as one of the top scuba destinations in the Caribbean. Just on the surface is a world of winds and waves for water sports lovers to enjoy. The brisk trade winds offer excellent opportunities for windsurfing, sailing and every kind of nautical exploit. The premier land sport is found on rolling fairways, manicured greens and breathtaking seascapes. More than 20 courses wind masterfully through the Dominican terrain and boast the designs of golf legends such as Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus.
Nightlife
A myriad of resorts indulge visitors with nightly entertainment, in-house parties, bustling discos or more low key piano bars. No matter the nightly agenda, travelers can expect their evening affairs to be filled with the celebrant spirit of the Dominican Republic.Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.
Palm-fringed beaches, inspiring mountains and vibrant tropical flora have led to the increased popularity of destination weddings in the Dominican Republic. Natural romance seeps through hidden waterfalls and majestic vistas, promising an endless array of options for your Caribbean ceremony. Honeymooners will take solace in the quiet inns and extravagant resorts that line the countryside and sit on the shores. Many of these resorts offer comprehensive wedding packages and can assist with the finest details of your romantic vacation.
Necessary Documents:
- Passports
- Original birth certificates
- Single Status Affidavits translated by an official translator into Spanish at the Dominican Consulate where the document was issued.
- If divorced, the Divorce Certificate translated by an official translator into Spanish at the Dominican Consulate where the document was issued.
- It is recommended that paperwork be submitted at least six months before the wedding date. In order to speed up the process, photocopies of these documents can be sent to the Oficialia del Estado Civil. The originals will be verified upon arrival.
Restrictions:
- Resorts must be informed at least one month in advance, with a minimum of 15 days notice in order to reserve a judge.
- Contact the resort to reserve a judge.
- Two witnesses over the age of 18 must be present at the ceremony and present valid identification (passports for foreigners, identification cards for residents).
- A Marriage Certificate is usually ready one or two days after the ceremony and must be requested by the local Justice of the Peace.
Fees:
- A fee of approximately $125 is required for registration.
