Be aware that many street vendors, stalls, and tiny shops in Puerto Plata and Sosúa sell cheap knock-offs of brand-name cigars, and cheap plastic amber and larimar replicas. You’re better off paying a few dollars more in hotels and “mall” shops.
Food & drink
Always drink bottled water and avoid salads; sidewalk food vendors are tempting but dicey until your GI tract has adjusted. Especially outside resort areas, ask if restaurants received an “H” certificate for hygienic food handling.
Habla español
Though most staff in major Amber Coast resorts habla inglés, English is limited elsewhere. Regardless, Dominicans genuinely appreciate efforts to speak even rudimentary Spanish; you’ll be rewarded with smiles and perhaps dinner/party invitations.
Money matters
The official currency is the peso (RD$); U.S. dollars are accepted at most establishments, though change will usually be in pesos. The exchange rate fluctuates between RD$30-35 per US$1.
Precautions
Mugging and pick-pocketing remain problems in the D.R. Carry cell phones and money in front pockets; never leave valuables in parked cars or on beaches; and only use taxis operated by resorts or services that arrange cabs in advance by phone.
