The Honorary Consulate General of The Domanican Republic Copyrights

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - A place to invest, a place to visit…

he Dominican Republic is a country that stands out for the climate of political stability and social peace it enjoys, and for the warmth with which it opens its doors and heart to those who come to visit it.

Location:

he Dominican Republic is located in the Caribbean, between Cuba and Puerto Rico.

It shares with Haiti the island of Hispaniola, occupying its eastern two-thirds. It's over 18,700 square miles (48,442 Km2) in size. The capital, Santo Domingo, is 1:45 hours flight from Miami or 3:30 hours flight from New York.

Other important cities are Santiago, Puerto Plata, La Romana and San Pedro de Macoris.

It is bordered on the north by the Atlantic Ocean and on the south by the Caribbean Sea. This is a big island by Caribbean standards and care should be taken to arrive at one of the four international airports that may be closest to your final destination to avoid long car trips, sometimes of up to eight hours - for example if you land at Punta Cana International and are headed to Puerto Plata.

Climate:

	ub-tropical with an average year-round temperature of 26 C (78 F). The costal zone is blessed with a warm tropical climate, while temperatures
are cooler in the central region. The air humidity goes from 65% to 80%, and there are two main rainy seasons: from May to July, and from October to November.

The Dominican Republic has a great geographic diversity: extensive white-sanded beaches, fertile valleys with exuberant vegetation, desert zones with dune formations and mountain chains. A proof of this great diversity is the fact that it is in the Dominican Republic where both Pico Duarte, the highest peak in the Caribbean (3,175 meters above sea level), and Lake Enriquillo, the lowest point in the Caribbean (144 meters below sea level) may be found.

Language:

	panish is the official language of the country. English is widely spoken in the tourism and business sectors. To a lesser extent French, Italian and German languages are also spoken throughout the main tourist regions. Traffic signs
are in Spanish, although restaurant menus in tourist regions are usually available in several different languages.

Currency and Exchange:

he national currency is the "Peso". The Dominican peso (RD$) fluctuates with the U.S Dollar.

and pursuant to the resolutions of the Monetary Board, two exchange markets operate simultaneously in the country -a "private" market and an "official" market. The private exchange rate is approximately US$1.00=RD$33.60. (February 2007).

Most economic sectors are free to buy and sell foreign currency through the commercial banks and exchange agents.

Foreign currency can be converted to Dominican pesos at the BanReservas exchange booths found at airports, major hotels, commercial banks and authorized exchange houses. There are over 1,500 automatic teller machines (ATMs) located nationwide. Banking hours are 8:30 A.M. to 5 P.M., Monday through Friday. Some bank branches (primarily in shopping malls or supermarkets) remain open to receive incoming flights, up to 24 hours if necessary. Travelers checks (which will require presentation of a passport) and major credit cards are widely accepted. Cash advances are available at certain commercial banks. Exchange rates fluctuate daily and the US dollar is the most widely transacted currency, but Euros and Canadian dollars are accepted for exchange across the nation also.

Population:

9	million, approximately. Of these, one third live in the capital city and Province of Santo Domingo. Most of the Dominican population is the result of a cross breeding process between European and African races.

Literacy Rate:

83.3% (2005)

Culture & Politics:

ative Indian tribes of the Caribbean and South America were the first inhabitants of the island. Spanish settlers followed on the heels of Admiral

Christopher Columbus after his landing on 5 December 1492. The French rules the island for two brief periods, as did the Haitians. The European conquerors imported African slave laborers in large numbers, a fact that defines an important part of Dominican culture. Subsequently, the country has become home to migrants from countries around the world, attracted by the natural hospitality of those who have preceded them and creating forth a most rich cultural heritage. The nation celebrates its independence on 27 February. President Leonel Fernandez was elected in 2004 for a four-year term.

Time:

he Dominican Republic is on Atlantic Standard Time all year long. Clocks are one hour ahead of those on the US eastern seaboard in the fall-winter. The DR is four hours ahead of GMT time.

Business Hours:

Business hours: Government offices, as well as foreign consulates and embassies, open at 8am and close at 2pm Monday through Friday. Some
officers stay open for meetings by appointment until later in the afternoon. Business typically operates from 9am to 5pm, five days a week. Shops open on weekdays at 9am and usually stay open until 7pm on weeknights and until 2pm on Saturdays. Major stores remain open until 10pm and on Sundays will close at around 8pm.

GDP per Capita:

he Dominican Republic (DR) -with 9 million inhabitants-is a lower-middle income country with a GDP per capita of USD 2,538 (2001 estimate).

Economy:

he Dominican economy is a dual and very outward oriented economy. In the second half of the 1990's the DR has experienced an extended period of

economic growth (around 7 % per annum- the highest in Latin America), declining unemployment, modest inflation, reduction in government debt and a manageable external position.

Moving away from a legacy of isolation, political oppression, economic underdevelopment and social inequity, the Dominican Republic has become a progressive democracy experiencing robust economic growth, increased social equity and integration into international political and economic arena.

The dynamism of the economy relies essentially on few sectors -industrial free trade zones, tourism, construction and telecommunications-which operates in an open and competitive environment with close links to the world economy, though with limited connection with the local economy and low effect in generating shared growth. By contrast, traditional sectors like agriculture, industry, energy and financial services, provide for the majority of the employment but have been performing less well.

Entertainment:

he major tourist attractions are obviously the breathtakingly beautiful white sandy beaches with turquoise waters, surrounded by myriads of coconut trees

and singing birds. During the day enjoy your favorite sport or water sport (windsurfing, pedal boats, scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, water skiing, sailing, deep sea and fresh water fishing, golf, tennis, polo, horseback riding etc…).

The night comes alive at the country's many clubs, piano bars and discothèques with the "Merengue", the national music and dance, as well as the latest international hits. Live performances, theaters, casinos, etc.

Santo Domingo:

This enchanting metropolis combines modern sophistication, old-world charm and Latin flair. Santo Domingo (also known as the National District) has a population of one million, while another two million live in the environs of the province of Santo Domingo. With its vibrant nightlife, fashionable shopping districts and superb dining, the nation's capital city brims with people, culture and history. A trip to Santo Domingo should be included in every visit to the Dominican Republic.

The Colonial City:

As the first European city founded in the Western Hemisphere, much of Santo Domingo's colonial heritage is preserved here in a charming enclave that lies adjacent to the Ozama River.This cityscape of 16th century dwellings and imposing late medieval places and fortresses is set amid a refreshingly non-geometric street grid. There you can visit the Americas' first cathedral and stroll its first street, Las Damas street, named for the ladies of the court of the first viceroyalty, center of power and culture from where the Spanish planned the conquest of the Americas. The UNESCO declared the Colonial City a world heritage site in recognition of Santo Domingo as the cradle of European civilization in the New World. The old city can be easily toured on foot, with time for shopping in the adjacent Calle El Conde pedestrian shopping district. The well-lit cobblestone streets and centuries-old facades of the Colonial City house scores of picturesque cafes and bars, small hotels and well-established restaurants. In the expansive Plaza de España framed by the Columbus Alcazar, the Casas Reales Museum and the quaint 17th century sundial, you will find sidewalk cafes and area restaurants that while open for lunch come to life after dusk offering an intimate, yet informal rendezvous for locals and visitors alike.

Plaza de la Cultura:

A green oasis in the heart of the city, this plaza groups of the Modern Art Museum, the Museum of Dominican Man and the National Theater. Frequent national and international performances take place here amidst the galleries or on the plaza grounds, such as the National Book Fair that is held in April.

Columbus Lighthouse.:

On the eastern bank of the Ozama River, this vast mausoleum in the form of a cross houses the mortal remains of the Great Discoverer, as well as exhibits from Spain and almost every American country.

Political System:

thriving Democracy. Its political structure is based on three powers: Executive (exercised

by the President of the Republic), Legislative (vested in a bicameral Congress formed by the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies) and Judicial (composed by the Peace Courts, Courts of First Instance, Appeal Courts and the Supreme Court of Justice).

Infrastructure:

hrough the years the Dominican Republic has developed a large physical infrastructure,

highly developed and adapted to the requirements of a society focused towards production and the marketing of goods and services. Special mention should be made of transport and communication facilities both at a local and international level.

Roads:

he road network that links practically all of the country's destinations is one of the best of the region, while air and maritime services include the main lines worldwide.

Airports:

	he country has a modern, wide and efficient airport system that receives cargo and passengers traveling directly from North America,South America
highly developed and adapted to the requirements of a society focused towards production and the marketing of goods and services. Special mention should be made of transport and communication facilities both at a local and international level.

Ports:

	he country has also 11 important ports. The main are the Haina Port, Santo Domingo Port and Boca Chica Port, which is one of the most modern and
dynamic of the Caribbean. These seaports and airports, which handle both cargo and a growing number of travelers, are located within a short distance of industrial centers.

Telecommunications:

	he telecommunications system is one of the main competitive advantages that the Dominican Republic has to offer for its performance in any sector of
economic activity. These services are wholly provided by private suppliers, and ranks doubtless as one of the most advanced and efficient, not only in the Caribbean but also worldwide. The local telephone company, CODETEL, is a subsidiary of GTE Corporation.

Taxes and service charges:

On arrival, most visitors are required to purchase a tourist card for US$10 and pay a US$20 departure tax at the airport upon departure. The US$10 charge
permits a 15-day stay. For a stay of up to 90 days, an additional US$5 is assessed. Similar additional charges apply for longer stays. Hotels collect 26% of their published prices (16% sales tax +10% service charge). Restaurants also charge the 16% sales tax and a 10% service charge but it is nevertheless customary to tip an additional 10% for satisfactory service in restaurants.

Safety:

	he Dominican Republic has a low crime rate, but visitors are suggested to take the same precautions they would when traveling to any busy sector, that
is, use the safety boxes provided by the hotels, leave expensive jewelry at home and watch belongings while on the beach. A friendly but firm "no" will send most unwanted vendors away. Those taking to roads should avoid driving at night, primarily because of the lack of adequate signage.

Holidays:

While tourist area stores, banks and business will remain open, take note of the Dominican holiday schedule for 2007. 1 January, New Year's Day; 10
January, Epiphany Day; 21 January, Day of Our Lady of Altagracia; 24 January, Duarte Day; 27 February, Independence Day; 25 March, Good Friday; 2 May; Labor Day; 26 May, Corpus Christi Day; 15 August, Restoration Day; 24 September, Day of Our Lady of Mercedes; 25 December, Christmas Day. For more on holidays in the DR in 2005, see dr1.com/travel/prepare/holidays_2005.shtml

Weather:

	s with the rest of the Caribbean, the most common weather forecast is partly sunny with a chance of a brief shower lasting 10 minutes or less, most
likely in the late afternoon. The temperatures usually fluctuate from a high of 32°C (90°F) in August to a chilly 20°C (68°F) on winter mornings. Temperatures between summer and winter fluctuate less than ten degrees. For more on weather, see www.dr1.com/travel/expect/weather.shtml

What to pack:

If you are coming for a business meeting, note that the DR upholds many formal customs, with suits and ties being appropriate attire for men and suits

for women. In the cities, Dominicans will dress casually elegant in the evening. If you are coming for a leisurely vacation at a resort, shorts, slacks and short cotton dresses are suitable for women. Men should pack pants for visiting churches. At least one casually elegant outfit is recommended. Some hotels may not allow men wearing sandals and shorts to dinner.

Also pack a sweater and jacket for cooler temps and air-conditioned settings. Sun block is also a must for spending time outdoors.

Electricity:

ppliances run on 110 volts/60 cycles, just as in the United States

Medical facilities:

Doctors are usually on call at major hotels and are equipped with medicine for the most common ailments. Ambulances are available, as is air
ambulance evacuation. Emergency dental treatment can be provided if needed. Twenty-four hour pharmacies can be found in every major city. For travel health guidelines, see dr1.com/travel/prepare/health.shtml.

Pet regulations:

	he Department of Animal Health requires proof of a rabies vaccination for dogs indicating that the inoculation was given 30 days prior to the animal's
arrival in the country. For both dogs and cats, a Health Certificate issued not more than 15 days prior to the animal's arrival in the country is also required. If these requirements are not met, the animal will be quarantined upon arrival from 8 to 30 days, depending on its country of origin.

Religious services:

	hough the country is predominantly Roman Catholic, there are many active denominations of Christian faith, including Anglican, Baptist, Evangelical,
Seventh Day Adventist and Mormon. English services are held in some churches of the capital city. Santo Domingo's synagogue holds a weekly service Friday evenings at sundown.

Getting married:

	o marry in the DR, you will need a valid passport, original birth certificate, single status affidavit in Spanish, Divorce Act in Spanish. Legal transcripts of
the single status affidavit and divorce act can be prepared at the Dominican consulate nearest your residence. You will also need two witnesses. If these are foreigners, they will need passports. If they are Dominicans, then their cedulas (Dominican ID cards) will be sufficient. Several hotels offer wedding packages, many with photos taken by the sea, which include the ceremony paperwork.

| Tourism | Services |Contact Us |

Designed & Developed By Arshlink Technologies