Discover the heart of the Caribbean
Start with a tour of its tropical rainforests, mangroves and
flourishing valleys. Then soak up some rays on the
powdery, white sand beaches, often acclaimed as the
most beautiful in the Caribbean.
The Dominican offers a vast array of water and land sports,
and activities of all descriptions.
Dominican Republic destinations
La Romana Between Santo Domingo and Dominican Republic, this resort area with stunning, white sand beaches offers
every imaginable land and water sport. The snorkeling off the living reefs is not to be missed. Nor
are the wildlife preserves of Catalina and Saona or Altos de Chavon, the “artist’s village” showcasing
the local artists and artisans.
Puerto Plata The north or “Amber Coast” is on the Atlantic side and is ideal for energetic water sports. The Playa
Dorada region plays host to the majority of Puerto Plata’s resorts, as well as 3 casinos, an 18-hole
championship golf course and long beaches. The town of Sosua offers restaurants, cafes, shopping,
nightlife and 2 km of soft, golden sand beaches.
Punta Cana The DR’s finest beaches are found here. Bavaro Beach is the best known with 60 km of palm lined
white sand and a multitude of water sports and championship golf. Enjoy the many colorful flea
markets selling native arts and handcrafts. Visit Manatee Park (300,000 sq. meters!) and view an
awe-inspiring array of birds, fish and plant life; and definitely see the “Dancing Horses,” performed by
purebred Spanish stallions.
Santo Domingo The country’s capital is the oldest (1496) city in the New World. Declared a World Heritage Site
in 1990, it contains many museums and historic sites, such as the home of Christopher Columbus.
The resorts, with sparkling beaches along the southern coastline, offer a range of water and land
sports.
Dominican Republic travel tips
Language spoken in Dominican Republic
Spanish. English widely spoken in most areas. Currency and exchange used in Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic Peso is the local currency, although Canadian dollars are recommended. Most hotels have a money exchange office on site, although not all will exchange Canadian travel cheques. Visa and Mastercard cheques and credit cards are widely accepted. Regrettably, American Express cheques and credit cards are not commonly accepted. ATM's are not available in Dominican Republic. Voltage in Dominican Republic
110V Vacation packing checklist Click here for a vacation packing checklists
While on vacation in Dominican Republic
Sunwing suggests the recommendations below while traveling on vacation to Dominican Republic to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Resort Check-in Information
Please have your Sunwing hotel voucher ready for check-in at the hotel's reception. Based upon your arrival and check-in time, it is possible that your room may not be ready. Pack your bathing suit, shorts and sunscreen in your carry-on so that you can enjoy the facilities until your room is available.
Welcome Briefing
Our welcome briefing provides valuable information on Dominican Republic, your hotel services, money exchange, shopping, and excursions. We will also inform you about the departure procedure and answer any questions you may have. Make sure to attend yours.
Help in Destination
Your friendly Sunwing destination representative is available in Dominican Republic should you require assistance. Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel for a schedule of when your Sunwing destination representative is available.
Drinking Water
It is recommended that you drink bottled water while in Dominican Republic. Most hotels offer bottled water in your hotel room and can also be purchased in the hotel's shop and in grocery stores. The ice and drinking water served in the hotels are generally made from purified water.
Long Distance Calls
Long distance telephone charges in Dominican Republic can be quite expensive. It is recommended to make a collect call or use your calling card. Service charges may apply when calling from your hotel room.
Safety Deposit Boxes
Please use your safety deposit box for all your valuables, cash and travel documents. Some hotels in Dominican Republic provide safety deposit boxes free of charge while others may require a nominal fee. You will be required to pay a penalty fee if you lose the key.
Resort Safety
Traveling to foreign destinations can be very exhilarating. Tourists must be aware that potential problems and risks to your personal safety could exist anywhere. Please use the same personal safety precautions and common sense on your vacation that you would at home e.g. apply sunscreen frequently, do not swim alone and do not display cash. Avoid venturing out alone and beware of dark or isolated areas.
Taxes and Tipping
Generally, taxes are automatically added to purchases. The tipping percentage is similar to that at home. If you receive good service, please express your gratitude and offer a tip.
Your Flight Home
Please check the Sunwing Vacations information boards or binders located in your hotel to reconfirm your flight from Dominican Republic and its departure time. As a friendly reminder, make sure that you have packed your flight documents, medication, or any articles that you must have with you at all times in your carry-on luggage. Seat selection is on a first come, first serve basis at the airport, unless previously booked and paid for prior to your departure.
Documentation needed to visit Dominican Republic Canadian Citizens please click here Non-Canadian citizens please contact the Dominican Republic consulate or embassy for information.
Fun facts
Must-see three! The oldest cathedral, university & city
in the “New World” are all in Santo Domingo.
Merengue, the Dominican national music, is a serious
contender for the fastest music in the Caribbean.
National treasure…The awesome amber jewellery,
sold in many museums here, is actually millions of
years old. (Yes, millions!)
Almost all major league ball teams have a Dominican
player. Think stars like Tony Fernandez, Sammy Sosa,
Pedro Martinez & Manny Ramirez.
