Other Practical Information for the Dominican Republic

Luggage and Equipment to Bring

At any time of year, pack light clothing plus a sweater for evenings and air conditioning if staying on the coast, as well as warmer clothes if planning to visit the central mountain range. Some hotel complexes may also require slightly smarter attire on occasion. For visiting churches, monuments, and museums, note that "appropriate dress" may be required.

Don’t forget mosquito repellent, sun protection, and rain gear—especially in season—as well as proper walking shoes.

Communications

Phone

Area codes: +1 809, +1 829, +1 849, which are effectively regional telephone codes.

As usual, it’s best to avoid making calls—especially international ones—through hotels if you want to save money.

For mobile phones, they can be used in the country if they are GSM-compatible. However, as is often the case, you’ll need to buy a local SIM card to get a local number and avoid high call charges. You can purchase a SIM card upon presenting your passport from local providers (including Orange) for around $5 USD, plus additional credit for calls.

Internet

Internet and Wi-Fi have logically expanded in tourist areas and, of course, in hotel complexes. While some offer free service, others charge for internet access, which can quickly become expensive if you don’t opt for a package. Alternatively, you’ll find plenty of cybercafés throughout the country with much more affordable rates than large hotels.

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Time Difference

Local time: Heure : 2644.

Like the French West Indies, the Dominican Republic is on GMT-4. This means there are 5 hours less in winter and 6 hours less in summer compared to mainland France. There’s also a one-hour difference between Quebec (GMT-5) and the DR.

Note that the Dominican Republic and its neighbor Haiti do not share the same time. The latter is on GMT-5, meaning there’s a one-hour difference (e.g., 8:00 PM in the DR is 7:00 PM in Haiti).

Electricity

120 V (60 Hz) with "American" plugs (officially types A and B), which will require an adapter for French plugs.

Opening Hours

Most shops and services are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and until 1:00 PM on Saturdays. Shopping centers close later and are also open on Sundays, as are some businesses in tourist areas. Restaurants serve late, or very late, on weekends.

Note that during Holy Week (just before Easter), all activity and schedules are disrupted, with everything revolving around the festivities. Additionally, there’s a very high turnout, so it’s best to book everything in advance at this time.

Laundries

Local Tourist Offices

Weights and Measures

Oddly, the Dominican system is a mix of the American and "French metric" systems. Gasoline is sold by the gallon (3.78 L), while distances are measured in kilometers.

French Language Use

While Spanish is the country’s official language, the island’s tourist focus means many people in beach areas also speak one or more other languages. In short, you’ll often find French (many Haitians also live in the DR), English, German, or Italian speakers among hotel staff or tourism professionals. However, the further you venture from tourist spots, the more essential it becomes to know at least a little Spanish to get by.