Dominican Republic Travel Guide - Travel Tips

A smile goes a long way in the Dominican Republic. When you see a stranger, say “Hola” and watch them return the same with a happy smile.

We are glad you choose our villa and hope you enjoy your time spent here. There are many tours and adventures available throughout the North Coast, or we encourage you to just chill…. No problema!

We have a small library on the second floor so please enjoy our collection. We’ll gladly take your “already read” books and add them to our library.

Using Your Phone in the DR

You can use your cell phone in the DR, however it is best to check with your carrier for an international rate plan. We suggest that you download the free App called WhatsApp. It is commonly used in the DR. With WhatsApp you can make audio, video calls and unlimited texts for free. We provide WIFI so you can keep your phone on “airplane mode” and avoid roaming charges. We have cable TV with many stations to choose from.

Our Staff

Our staff wants to please you. Although they speak little English, they will be able to communicate with you. They are trained and perform to do their jobs well. The villa will be clean. The pool and grounds will be groomed. They are willing to stop what they are doing to assist you. Please report any problems with the villa to Cliff (849) 206-0876 and he will quickly find a fix or solution.

Using Your Bank Cards in the DR

Prior to departure, we advise you to call your bank and credit card providers. Let them know you will be using your ATM or credit cards in the DR.

Drinking Water in the DR

Do not drink the water coming from the faucets. We provide potable water both chilled and room temperature for drinking and food preparation. Safe ice cubes are available at most markets. In addition, there are ice cube trays in the freezer.

Sewage System in the DR

Do not flush anything other than what you have eaten! Playa Cofresi does not have a sewer system. Septic Systems are used for wastewater.

We have a cistern for tap water. Please use it sparingly. There should be enough water to take care of your daily needs, but should the unlikely case of the cistern running out of water occur, we will call for a water truck.

Electricity in the DR

Electricity is expensive and we encourage you not to leave on the A/C during the day. The housekeeper is instructed to turn off the A/C units and turn on ceiling fans. Please do not set the thermostat on the coldest setting, rather set it between 22 and 25 degrees. The room will cool at the same pace and we’ll save on expensive electricity.

We strive to have all the modern conveniences of “home” in our villa however, sometimes there are occasional issues like power outages. The power outages do not last very long and if necessary, we will activate our generator.

Dominican Customs

Sharing food with the housekeeper is a Dominican custom. When buying groceries please take this into consideration. After all our housekeeper has no time to go to lunch herself as she is working the entire day serving you. Sharing is a key part of Dominican culture.

The staff will work hard to provide their best service so please tip your housekeeper at the end of your stay. Tip $3 to $10 per day per person. If the houseman goes out of his way for you, such as running errands, a tip too would be much appreciated. Most Dominican people are shy, yet kind-hearted people.

Dominican Currency

The Dominican government has its own currency system. U.S. and Canadian dollars can easily be exchanged into Pesos at “Cambios”. ATM’s are common and the exchange is fair. The closest ATM within walking distance is at Oceanworld at the Terrace restaurant & store. There is a daily limit on what you can withdraw at an ATM. At “mercados” such as Jose Luis, La Serina, and Jumbo in Puerto Plata will accept credit cards without fees. In other places such as restaurants and shops, check first. Do not assume every business accepts credit cards so bring extra spending cash with you. In Playa Cofresi, “Mercado Juan” is a small market within walking distance from the villa and you can pay in U.S. dollars and get an exchange at a fair rate. And Juan has the best beer prices in Cofresi, “cerveza”!

There is a small safe available for you on the second floor of our villa.

Transport in the DR

Uber service is new on the North Coast. Sometimes the drivers are not familiar with the small streets in our neighborhood, so meeting them at a local landmark such as a restaurant down the hill might be easier. If you are making a “round trip” with the Uber driver, be sure the driver understands so they do not ask for cash for the return trip. Some drivers can be a bit sneaky!

If you are a timid driver we advise you not to rent a car. Taxis are available and a more expensive mode of transportation. Dominican taxis do not use [fare] meters, instead there are flat rates for each destination. Taxi signs are posted outside public areas such as airports and hotels. Be sure to carry small change with you when paying a fare. Taxi drivers when paid with larger bills (RD$500) and higher might claim they don’t have change to give back to you. Just saying….

“Motoconchos” are motorcycle taxis. This is an inexpensive way to get to your destination quickly. Also, a risky means of transportation as they do not provide helmets for passengers. You can easily flag down a motoconcho, as all the drivers wear a safety colored vest. Prices range from RD$20 per person for short rides and as much as RD$100-150 for longer rides.

The Metro and Caribe Tours provide bus service to and from the North Coast. Schedules can be found online.

The Dominican Republic is an independent country. They have their own government, language and traditions different than your homeland. You are their guest and your expectations may not be the same. If this is not your cup of tea may we suggest that you spend your well-earned vacation at Disney World.

We hope you enjoy the Dominican experience and come back again and again! Muchas Gracias Amigos!