First time in the Dominican Republic: a practical checklist
Roads, tolls, tap water, tipping, phones and the things nobody tells you before landing.
Updated: 2026-09-11
Short answer
Fill in the E-Ticket before you fly, bring a mix of US dollars and card, drink bottled water, expect 18% tax plus 10% service on restaurant bills, and pre-book your airport transfer rather than negotiating at the kerb. Highways are good and tolled; city driving and unlit rural roads at night are the reason most visitors skip the rental car.
Before you fly
E-Ticket QR code done online, passport valid for the stay, travel insurance, and your transfer booked with your flight number so the car tracks the flight.
Download WhatsApp — it is how the whole country communicates, including us, your hotel and your driver.
On the ground
Tap water is not for drinking; bottled water is cheap everywhere. Tip 10% beyond the service charge for good service, and small notes for porters and drivers.
Distances look short and take longer than the map says. SDQ to Zona Colonial $35 is 30–40 minutes; SDQ to Bávaro $240 is three hours with traffic, not two.
Getting around
In the city: Uber and licensed taxis by day. Between zones: a booked private car. Rental cars make sense only if you plan mountain trips and are comfortable with local driving. Guaguas are cheap and slow and not made for luggage.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa?
Most European, North and South American travellers do not for tourism; check your nationality's current rules before booking.
Is the tourist card still charged separately?
It is normally included in the air ticket now; the E-Ticket form is separate and free.
What plug and voltage?
110V, US-style flat pins. European devices need an adapter.
Is a SIM worth it?
Yes, or an eSIM before you land — you will want data for WhatsApp and maps from minute one.
When is the best time to visit?
December to April is drier and busier; June to November is hurricane season with lower prices.