Peninsula De Samana, Dominican Republic
Smart choices extend your travel budget in Las Terrenas.
Efficient planning maximizes your time enjoying Las Terrenas, rather than waiting.
Discover more about local life and customs.
Adapt your travel style to your companions.
Always carry small Dominican Peso bills. They are handy for motoconchos, street vendors, and small purchases, as many local vendors may not have change for larger denominations.
Digital tools, print materials, and important contacts empower your journey.
Convenient applications for navigation and communication.
Online portals for official information and local news.
Podcasts and social media for engagement.
Consider a VPN service like NordVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi networks.
General guidebooks focusing on the Dominican Republic deliver broader context about the country's history and culture.
A physical map of Las Terrenas or Samaná Peninsula possesses utility for navigation without relying on phone battery.
Local newspapers or free tourist magazines list events, restaurant specials, and services, offering practical information.
Before you travel, save phone numbers (hotel, embassy, emergency services) in your phone, and write them down on a small card stored separately from your phone. This presents a backup if your phone is lost or damaged.
Confirm your passport possesses at least six months validity beyond your intended return date. Renew if necessary.
Identify entry requirements for your nationality; most travelers use the E-ticket, often including the Tourist Card fee.
Secure international flights, especially during high season or holidays, for optimal prices and availability.
Begin browsing options for hotels, villas, and excursions like whale watching or Los Haitises National Park tours.
Schedule an appointment to discuss recommended vaccinations and preventive medications for the region.
Book your hotel, villa, or guesthouse.
Reserve popular tours like whale watching or Los Haitises, especially for specific dates.
Pre-book private transfers from the airport to Las Terrenas for a smooth arrival.
Purchase your chosen comprehensive travel insurance policy from providers like World Nomads.
Create digital and physical copies of passport, itinerary, bookings, and insurance policy.
International and domestic flights require booking. Accommodations, especially during peak season, need reservations. Popular tours like whale watching or Los Haitises also require advance booking.
Familiarize yourself with local customs and learn basic Spanish phrases. Check recent reviews for desired restaurants and activities. Monitor current weather forecasts for your travel dates.
Secure your home, stop mail/newspaper delivery, and pay bills. Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and avert damage from power surges. Notify bank/credit card companies of travel plans.
Present your passport and E-ticket QR code to officials.
Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim area.
Obtain local Dominican Pesos for initial expenses; ATMs are available at airports.
If you intend to use a local SIM, purchase one at the airport for ease.
Know the exact address and general location of your hotel or rental.
Take a short walk to locate the nearest pharmacy, supermarket, ATM, and local eateries.
Whether digital or physical, a map aids orientation.
Purchase bottled water immediately; tap water is not suitable for drinking.
Prepare for your departure from Las Terrenas to ensure a stress-free exit.
Create a shared Google Document with your travel itinerary, booking confirmations, and copies of documents. Share it with a trusted family member or friend back home.
