
travel guy
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You didn't say where in the country you're heading for - however, in as much as fully 2/3 of the tourism is in Punta Cana, lets talk about that location.
As a first time traveler - to the D.R. you need to know several things:
1) Punta Cana is an international destination, meaning that it is a favorite with Europeans, especially since the Euro is so strong. Be prepared for some women who will be topless on the beach.
2) All passengers arriving in The Dominican Republic must purchase a $10.00 per person "Tourist Card" when passing through Immigration at the airport.
3) Punta Cana does not have many off-resort activities or places of interest - its kind of a laid-back, chill-out and enjoy your resort vacation. All hotels have tour desks for the 20 or so tours that are available.
Most of the tours happen in or on the water; the array of water sports options offered right on the beach is amazing: catamaran boat rides, double-decker party boats, restaurant dining at sunset on the sea, parasailing, glass bottom boats for marine life observation, sports fishing, diving, snorkeling, flying boats, speed boats. The boat taxis can take you from one hotel to another via the beach. There is also banana boating, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and beach volleyball.
But here are other activities to consider:
Safari-type excursions on four-wheel bikes, buggy rides, jeep safaris, monster trucks or helicopter rides for a privileged view. A dozen of companies offer these adventure tours that take the tourists to observe tropical wilderness, visit a countryside home where typical Dominican food lunch will be served, examine tropical crops, take a dip at a deserted beach or for a swim in a cool river.
Horseback riding is also popular in Punta Cana with the option of riding on deserted white-sand beaches, making for great photography.
Punta Cana has year round beach weather - with the high season from mid December to mid April. The rainy/hurricane season is mid August to mid October, so take that into account when planning your vacation.
4) Finally, take plenty of sunblock, some imodium (just in case), and leave most of your valuables at home. Oh yes. . . have a wonderful vacation!
I hope this information is helpful. |

trav'ler
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As someone has said, it may depend on where you are as to how far you can go.
Friends rented a car in Puerto Plata and drove around on their own.
Santiago is great, and day trips out of Santo Domingo area and Puerto Plata can cover a lot.
There's some pics and info about a day tour at http://www.snapshotjourneys.com/waterfalls.html
Have a great time! |

Dominicana's Angel
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OMG! there is so much i can tell you cause i am dominican! You should see the sights around Punta Cana, such as the hotel resorts or the beaches. Also, the capital city, Santo Domingo, is an amazing place to see at night, so if you want, buy food there or walk around. Also, in Santiago, there is a building called the Monumento. It lets you see a beautiful sight of the city, especially at night. |