Las Terrenas Peninsula De Samana, Dominican Republic Travel Guide
Dominican Republic's main mobile providers are Claro and Altice. Both carry good coverage in Las Terrenas and surrounding areas. Purchase SIM cards ("chip" or "tarjeta SIM") at international airports or official stores. Your passport is needed for registration. Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked before travel. Prepaid schedules are common plus budget-friendly.
Spanish is the official language. Many in tourism speak English plus French. Outside these areas, Spanish communication is very useful. Locals appreciate efforts to speak their language.
Making an effort to speak Spanish aids your interactions.
Enhance your airport experience and address trip interruptions.
Rosetta Stone a language learning platform, can aid your Spanish communication. For on-the-spot translations on the go, download the offline Spanish language pack on Google Translate. This helps you communicate with no internet access.
Dominicans are warm and friendly. A simple "Hola" or "Hello" is standard. Handshakes are common. A single kiss on the right cheek is a common greeting among women, and between men and women who know each other.
Swimwear is fine on beaches and by pools. Casual wear is generally acceptable for most establishments. For religious sites, dress modestly: shoulders and knees should be covered.
A 10% service charge ("Ley") is often included in restaurant bills. If not, or for exceptional service, an additional 5-10% is customary. It is polite to say "Buen Provecho" (hope you enjoy your food) to others dining nearby.
Guidelines for respectful capture of images.
Topics to approach with caution or avoid.
Politeness and patience are prized. Dress appropriately, especially when visiting local communities or churches. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases is highly appreciated by locals and aids your daily interactions.
Travelers with mobility challenges may find infrastructure in The Vibrant town of las terrenas has limited accessibility.
Navigating the town may present difficulties.
Getting around and exploring may require planning.
Contact tour operators and accommodations directly to discuss specific accessibility needs before booking any activities or tours. Confirm details on ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms.
