Peninsula De Samana, Dominican Republic
Claro and Altice are the main mobile providers. Purchase SIM cards at airports, official stores in Samana town, or authorized dealers. An unlocked GSM phone and passport are registration requirements. SIM cards cost around $5-$10 USD, with data plans from $10-$20 USD/month.
Local postal services are generally unreliable and slow for international mail. Courier services like DHL or FedEx are available in Santo Domingo for important documents or packages. Consider portable Wi-Fi options for constant connectivity.
A few Spanish phrases assist with daily interactions, especially outside tourist-focused businesses. Many locals in tourism speak basic English, French, and German.
Carrying a pocket Spanish phrasebook further assists with basic communication. Download the Spanish offline language pack for the Google Translate app.
Inform your bank about travel plans to avoid card freezes. Use ATMs in well-lit, secure locations.
Cultural niceties enrich your journey and foster positive interactions.
Formal greetings are appreciated. A handshake is common. Among close friends, a kiss on the cheek. Greet staff before requests.
Casual, lightweight clothing works for most settings. Modest attire suits churches or formal occasions. Dressing modestly can curb unwanted attention.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Be respectful in religious sites; photography is sometimes restricted.
Avoid discussing local politics unless well-informed and with trusted locals. Be sensitive to economic disparities; avoid ostentatious displays of wealth.
Traditional gender roles are prevalent. Women travelers generally face no issues beyond occasional catcalling. The Dominican Republic is largely conservative, but tourist areas like Las Galeras are more tolerant for LGBTQ+ travelers, though public affection might be less common.
Patience and politeness are highly valued in interactions. Avoid confrontational behavior.
Travelers with mobility challenges may find Las Galeras less developed for accessibility.
Infrastructure for mobility challenges is limited. Sidewalks are uneven or non-existent, roads are unpaved, and public transport is not accessible. Many smaller businesses lack ramps or accessible restrooms.
Some newer, larger hotels may feature accessible rooms and facilities; confirm directly with the property. Private taxis can be arranged, but vehicles might not be modified for wheelchairs. Beaches generally lack ramps, and soft sand creates mobility challenges.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Spanish serves as the main language, and sign language interpretation is not common in local settings.
No specific local organizations in Las Galeras focus on accessibility information. General international travel resources for disabled travelers might offer some guidance on the Dominican Republic, but detailed information for small towns like Las Galeras is rare.
Carry a mix of small bills for local purchases. ATMs are available, but not directly in Las Galeras. Samana Town has options.
