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Dominican Republic Travel

Updated: Jul 5, 2023






If you're looking for a tropical getaway that won't break the bank, look no further than the Dominican Republic. I recently took a short trip to this beautiful country during the holiday season of April 2019, and I was blown away by the stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and affordable prices.


My journey started in Puerto Plata, where I arrived by plane and stayed in the nearby town of Sosua for a couple of nights. I took a scenic road trip with a local friend from Sosua to the capital city of Santo Domingo, and it was a journey that I'll never forget. We passed through quaint towns, stopped for photo-ops at landmark locations, and enjoyed cheap snacks while listening to Spanish music on the road.











Once I reached Santo Domingo, I stayed in the colonial zone, where I could explore and walk around the area on my own. The zone is full of restaurants, shops, and bars, all set in an old European-established setting. I watched street performers and mingled with the crowds of visitors that day. Just outside the colonial zone, I took a day tour on a motorcycle, which took me to the "three-eyed national park," an underground lake in the heart of the city, the Columbus lighthouse, and Chinatown.


Despite its many tourist attractions, one of the best things about the Dominican Republic is how affordable it is. You can easily travel on a budget if you plan carefully and take advantage of the low prices. The local currency is the peso, and you'll find that prices for commodities are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries.














Overall, my trip to the Dominican Republic was an unforgettable adventure that was both affordable and filled with unforgettable experiences. From scenic road trips to historic landmarks, and from stunning beaches to vibrant local culture, the Dominican Republic has something for everyone. I can't wait to go back and explore more of this budget-friendly paradise






Some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to the Dominican Republic:

  1. Learn some Spanish phrases: While many people in tourist areas speak English, it's always helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals.

  2. Be cautious with street food: While Dominican street food can be delicious, it's important to be careful about what you eat to avoid getting sick. Stick to vendors with clean and busy stalls and avoid food that's been sitting out for too long.

  3. Take taxis with official markings: Make sure to take taxis with official markings to ensure your safety, and always negotiate the price before getting in.

  4. Dress appropriately for cultural sites: If you plan to visit cultural or religious sites, dress modestly out of respect for the culture.

  5. Stay hydrated: The Dominican Republic can get quite hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

  6. Bring cash: Many places in the Dominican Republic only accept cash, so make sure to bring enough with you for your entire trip.

  7. Take advantage of free activities: There are many free activities to enjoy in the Dominican Republic, such as visiting public beaches and exploring national parks.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be able to have a safe and enjoyable trip to the Dominican Republic while making the most of your time and budget.




As a Filipino passport holder, you will need to obtain a visa to enter the Dominican Republic for tourism or business purposes. You can apply for a visa at the Dominican Republic Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence.

Alternatively, you may be eligible for a visa exemption if you hold a valid visa or residence permit from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or a Schengen country, and your stay in the Dominican Republic is for tourism or business purposes for up to 30 days. You must also have a return or onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.

It's important to note that entry requirements may change, so it's best to check with the nearest Dominican Republic Embassy or Consulate for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.