Either learn the basics of Spanish or have a translator to help you. The best Translator out of the ones I've tried is Google Translate. Just readjust your settings to adhere to the Dominican dialect. Native Dominicans speak a totally different language than the other Spanish speaking countries. Drop the "S" in almost everything at the end and shorten longer words or phrases such as "Que eso?". Which is supposed to say "Que es eso?", Meaning "What is that?". Instead of saying the generic greeting of "Hola", say " Buena" or "Buenas."
Avoid raw vegetables at all costs. Since the water here is not safe for drinking neither is raw vegetables or fruits. If you want to eat them raw you must soak them in clean drinking water and GSO or Grape Seed Oil before consuming. The consequences may not be dire but they will lead to gestational problems i.e: Travelers' Diarrhea. The bacteria that can make you sick not only affects travelers but also locals. You must try all native dishes such as Sancocho, Mangu, Dominican Flag (chicken, red beans, avocado, and white rice). There are many other dishes that are delicious as well. Do not waste your money on food inside the bigger restaurants. Instead try what we would consider a Hole in the Wall place. It usually has genuine home cooked food ready and available.
Take your time to see the sites wherever you go in the country. My personal favorite is a statue I call the Yelling Man! His real name is Montesino. Do not rush yourself to do such as it would hinder your experience. Be brave! Take walks to different destinations. Do not worry too much, if it is daylight outside you are usually safe. Do not go out after dark by yourself! Some Dominicans can have a rugged or disheveled exterior but they are extremely nice. Especially if you look like a tourist. After being in the same hotel for the time we have been here the neighbors and the workers have become like family. Sometimes they will annoy you but mostly they are there to help.
When it comes to Hotels I am not able to say much on that subject as we stayed in the exact same hotel our entire stay. It is more like a hostel that ha individual rooms with attached bathrooms. If you are to stay in a hotel or you booked through AirBNB then talk to the owner directly to cut you a deal if you are staying for a prolonged period of time. As my loving partner has stated time and time again " Everything is negotiable here!". The hotel we stayed at was extremely charming with character and a hint of modernization. The name was Casa De Huespedes, it is located in Calle Espaillat, Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo. It comes highly recommended as does the neighborhood itself. Below is a picture of the Hotel itself. It is the White building in the middle.
Transportation can be tricky for a tourist. Especially if you do not speak the language. If you want fair price call the Taxi Service to have one sent out. They are cheaper than UBER! You can go almost anywhere in Santo Domingo for just DP$250. Just be sure to tell them where you want to go in Spanish! You may get lucky and get a driver who is from America or one the speaks English.
That is all for my tips at this moment in time! We still have a couple of days to enjoy the sun and blue skies before returning back to the States. Have fun and enjoy your travels! If you would like more tips and tricks, have suggestions, or want something a little more personal please just say so!
The pictures displayed above are not my own
