Dominican Republic
Claro, Altice, and Viva are the main mobile network operators. Affordable SIM cards for data and local calls. Purchase at official stores; passport needed.
Wi-Fi widely available in Sosua hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes. Quality and speed vary. A local SIM card with a data plan is a good backup for consistent internet.
Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas like El Batey. Venturing into local neighborhoods may present more of a language barrier.
Obtain a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi from Airalo or Solis Wi-Fi. Practice Spanish with Rosetta Stone for richer interactions.
Understand typical operating hours and airport services in Sosua.
Shops generally open 9-10 AM to 7-8 PM, some close for `siesta`. Banks: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM. Restaurants: Lunch ~12 PM, dinner ~10 PM. Nightlife after 9 PM. Supermarkets: 8 AM - 9-10 PM.
ATMs are widely available at banks, larger supermarkets, and tourist areas, operating 24/7. Use ATMs during daylight hours in well-lit, populated areas, preferably inside or directly outside a bank.
Public holidays impact business hours, with closures or reduced services for banks, government offices, and some businesses. Public transport may also run on a reduced schedule.
Check local calendars for specific events.
Services to enhance your travel experience.
Plan around major holidays to avoid service disruptions. For flight-related issues, Compensair assists with compensation. Gain airport lounge access with Priority Pass.
A simple "Hola" or "Buenos días/tardes/noches" greets people. Handshakes are common for formal introductions. Women often greet with a single kiss on the cheek; men shake hands.
Swimwear is for beaches/pools. Casual attire fine in town. Avoid shirtless or swimsuit-only away from beach. Dress modestly for churches/government buildings (shoulders, knees covered).
Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially children. Respect a refusal. Be discreet and respectful, avoid intrusive photography in residential areas.
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics or the historical relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. These are complex and can be highly contentious. Respect local religious beliefs and practices.
A polite approach makes a positive difference. Embrace the `tranquilo` (calm, peaceful) pace. Patience is a valued trait in local interactions.
Accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges or other special needs is generally limited in Sosua.
The town's infrastructure, including sidewalks, is often uneven, narrow, or non-existent in many areas.
Few attractions in Sosua are fully accessible. Sosua Beach itself involves navigating sand.
Limited specialized services are available for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.
For travelers with specific accessibility needs, contacting specialized travel agencies is advisable.
For specific accessibility needs, careful planning and direct communication with service providers are recommended to find suitable options.
