Santo Domingo Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

Google Maps:
Download offline maps for Santo Domingo for navigation without internet.
Uber / Didi:
Widely used ride-sharing apps for convenient and transparent taxi services.
Google Translate:
Download the offline Spanish language pack for quick translations.
WhatsApp:
Widely used for communication by locals and businesses for inquiries.
FlightAware/FlightStats:
Real-time flight tracking and updates for arrivals or departures.

Useful Websites

Official Tourism Site:
Go Dominican Republic (Godominicanrepublic.com) for general information.
ETicket Portal:
Official site (Eticket.migracion.gob.do) for mandatory digital entry and exit forms.
U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo:
For travel advisories and security alerts (Do.usembassy.gov/embassy/).
Social Media Accounts:
Follow @GoDomRep on Instagram/Facebook for current insights and updates.
Podcasts & Content:
Search for podcasts on Dominican history, culture, or music.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

General travel guidebooks for the Dominican Republic often include detailed sections on Santo Domingo.

Find a city map

Books on Destination

"The Dominican Republic: A National History" by Frank Moya Pons for historical background.

Local Publications

Look for local newspapers or free tourist magazines for current events and local attractions.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

General Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911 (nationwide).
Tourist Police (CESTUR): 809-222-2026 (main office).
Hospital General de la Plaza de la Salud (HGPS): A reputable private hospital.
Clínica Abreu: Another well-regarded private hospital.

Embassy & Lost Documents

U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo: Av. República de Colombia #57.
Canadian Embassy Santo Domingo: Av. Winston Churchill 1099, Torre Citi.
British Embassy Santo Domingo: Av. Winston Churchill 1099, Torre Silver Sun.
Lost Passport: Report to local police, then contact your embassy for replacement.

Important Travel Information

Contacts

Accommodation

Hotel Front Desk
Airbnb Host
Local Contact
Emergency Hotel Number

Tour Operators

Tour Guide Name
Company Phone
Emergency Hotline
Meeting Point Details

Personal Contacts

Family Member
Trusted Friend
Work Contact
Emergency Contact List

Health Reminders

Health & Wellness Tips

Stay hydrated, especially in the tropical climate.
Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect from strong sun.
Apply insect repellent, notably at dusk and dawn.

Medication & First Aid

Bring any necessary prescription medications with you.
Pack a basic first aid kit for minor ailments.
Keep your emergency contact information readily accessible.

Local Etiquette

General Courtesy

Always greet locals with "Hola" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches."
A "Gracias" (thank you) always leaves a good impression.
Practice patience; things sometimes run on a more relaxed schedule.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is customary in restaurants (10% service charge usually added, additional tip is optional).
Table manners are generally relaxed, but courtesy is valued.
When ordering, a simple "Por favor" (please) goes a long way.

Before You Go Checklist

Documents & Money

Passport validity check (6+ months).
Confirm visa or E-Ticket requirements.
Notify bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
Plan for local currency (Dominican Pesos, DOP).
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Health & Safety

Consult health clinic for recommended vaccinations.
Pack any necessary personal medications.
Save emergency numbers and embassy contacts.
Download safety apps for peace of mind.
Share your itinerary with a trusted person.

Getting Started

Arrival Procedures

Have your E-Ticket QR code (digital or printed) and passport ready for immigration.

Currency Exchange

Obtain local currency (DOP) at an ATM or authorized exchange counter at the airport.

Stay Connected

Purchase a local SIM card if needed to establish phone and data service upon arrival.

Safety Advisory

Always exercise caution, especially in unfamiliar areas or at night. Trust your instincts.

Advanced Planning & Support

Travel Insurance Details

Coverage Essentials

Medical Emergencies:
Health issues coverage while abroad.
Emergency Evacuation:
Transport for critical medical situations.
Trip Cancellation:
Protection for unforeseen trip disruptions.

Policy Specifics

Personal Belongings:
Coverage for lost or stolen luggage.
Rental Car Protection:
Optional coverage for rental vehicle damage.
Activity Coverage:
Check policy for specific adventure activities.

Digital Tools Extended

Cloud Storage

Upload copies of passport, tickets, and reservations for remote access.

VPN Access

For secure internet access on public Wi-Fi networks.

NordVPN

Offline Dictionaries

Download comprehensive Spanish dictionaries for complex translations.

Learning & Cultural Immersion

Language Apps

Babbel offers structured language courses for Spanish.
Duolingo provides a gamified approach to learning basic phrases.
Pimsleur focuses on audio-based conversational skills.
Learn common local expressions to connect with Dominicans.

Cultural Content

Listen to Merengue and Bachata to capture the Dominican spirit.
Explore local art forms, from painting to sculpture.
Read up on the historical context of Santo Domingo.
Familiarize yourself with Dominican culinary traditions.

Emergency Contacts Revisited

Local Emergency Services

Police: Dial 911 for immediate assistance.
Ambulance: Call 911 for medical emergencies.
Fire Department: Reach them via the 911 emergency line.
Tourist Police (CESTUR): Available at 809-222-2026.

Traveler Support

Airline: Keep your airline's local contact number handy.
Credit Card Fraud: Have your bank's international contact for card issues.
Insurance Provider: Carry your travel insurance policy details.
Emergency Family: Designate family members for emergency contact.

Stay Informed

Regularly check official government travel advisories for the latest security and health updates before and during your trip.

Santo Domingo Travel Resources