As you begin to prepare for your trip to the Dominican Republic we thought it could be helpful to provide you with a list of suggestions for what to pack, how to prepare before leaving the US, and the first steps to take upon your arrival to the Dominican Republic (DR):

MONEY CONVERSION
(US DOLLARS ARE GOOD IN THE DR) 

Almost everywhere in the DR accepts US dollars as payment, including tips and excursions. We just suggest bringing small bills ($1, $5, $10) because breaking larger bills ($20,$50) will likely be hard to do. If you prefer to transfer dollars into Dominican pesos we suggest to do so at the airport when you land. Just note there will be a conversion fee. The conversion rate hovers around $50 Dominican pesos per $1 US Dollar, so the math isn't too complicated.

PACKING LIST (ESSENTIALS) 

• Current passport 

• Mosquito repellent
• Sun block, sun hat, sunglasses, swim wear, sandals, sneakers 

BEFORE YOU LEAVE USA
(HELPFUL REMINDERS)

• Call your bank/credit card company and let them know that will be traveling to Dominican Republic and for how long, that way they don't block your cards
• Contact your cell phone provider and check on your international phone coverage package, so you don't run into unexpected fees

WHEN YOU LAND AT THE AIRPORT IN the DR
(BIENVENIDOS! WELCOME!)

• At the airport before passing through customs the airport security will guide you to purchase the required tourist card for US$10. This is standard, not a scam
• Stop at Duty Free and buy alcohol, great prices and no tax. You can carry with you to your hotel and have for the week 
• Use the bathroom, and buy bottled water and snacks if you're feeling a bit hungry. The car trip from the airport to Samana is about 3 hours

TRANSPORTATION FROM THE AIRPORT
TO YOUR HOTEL
(HERE WE GO!)

• As our gift to you, we have arranged complimentary transportation for you. Your driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate and will be holding a sign with your name, so be on the lookout for him
• Upon completion of your ride, please tip US$20 your driver (per group) for good service
• Your driver will speak a little English, so don't be afraid to ask for a bathroom break during the ride if needed
• The drive from Santo Domingo to Samana is beautiful! You will see the countryside as well as beachfront. Enjoy!

UPON ARRIVAL TO YOUR HOTEL
(YOU MADE IT!)

• Your hotel will have a welcome bag for you when you check in, enjoy the treats! 
• Your hotel can answer any questions you have, including wifi access, etc.

& FINALLY

If you haven't already, please RSVP now to the events you plan on attending at our Schedule of Events page. Deadline for all RSVPs is this Tuesday, May 29th