Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic-travel-tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

General Tips

• Respect the local culture: The Dominican Republic is a predominantly Catholic country with a strong emphasis on family values.
• Learn some basic Spanish: While many Dominicans speak some English, learning basic Spanish phrases like “gracias” (thank you), “por favor” (please), and “lo siento” (excuse me) can go a long way in showing respect for the culture.

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly: When visiting churches or other places of worship, dress conservatively to show respect.
• Use formal titles: Address older individuals with formal titles like “señor” or “señora” until they invite you to use their first names.

Food and Drink Etiquette

• Try local cuisine: The Dominican Republic is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes dishes like sancocho (a hearty stew) and mangú (mashed green plantains with garlic and onions).
• Respect local drinking customs: In the Dominican Republic, it’s customary to drink rum or other spirits in social settings.

Transportation Etiquette

• Use reputable taxi services: When using taxis, make sure to use licensed services like Uber or yellow cab company.
• Be mindful of traffic rules: Traffic laws are strictly enforced in Santo Domingo, so be sure to follow the rules of the road.