| Note: All United States citizens are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States.
Size / Population: 100,000 people live in the 1,100 acre area of Punta Cana (PUJ) on the east coast of the Dominican Republic.
Political Status: The Dominican Republic is a democratic republic.
Language: Spanish. Some English is spoken in resorts, but it will be handy to learn some key Spanish phrases.
Currency: The Dominican Republic Peso. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and vendors may give you a better deal if you bargain with dollars. There are ATMs, and credit cards are accepted at many retail shops, although you’ll probably get a better deal with cash.
Electricity: 110 volts, same as U.S.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (one hour ahead of New York); Daylight Saving Time is not observed.
Communication: To dial Punta Cana from the U.S direct dial 1 + 809 + the 7-digit local number. When calling the U.S. you can make calls from your hotel; however, this is usually expensive. A more affordable route is using a local call center. Internet service is widely available at most resorts. Check with your cell phone provider for international coverage.
Drinking Water: Ask at the resort if the water is purified. Even then it's a good idea to stick to boiled water only (ok for tea and coffee) or bottled water. Definitely keep to bottled water outside the resorts.
Transportation: Taxis are readily available. Visitors can also rent cars or scooters. Drivers must be 21-25 years old (varies by rental company) and must be in possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license and major credit card and must purchase a $12 local license.
Local Customs: The legal drinking / gambling age is 18. Tipping: generally 15-20% in restaurants; bellmen: $1 per bag; housecleaning staff: $1-$2 per day.
Getting Married: U.S. citizens can legally get married in Punta Cana. Please contact a Vacation Express representative for details on resorts offering special wedding packages and to discuss your particular wedding requirements. Our experienced group department will be happy to assist with travel arrangements for all attendees.
Ten Spanish Phrases Everyone Should Know
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? How much is it? (As you're pointing at an item)
• ¡Qué hermosa eres! You are so beautiful! (To a girl ... For guys, substitute “hermosa” with “guapo,” which means “handsome”)
• ¿Donde estoy? Where am I?
• ¿Cómo se dice ... ? How do you say ... ? (Followed by the word you wish to learn)
• ¡Muchas gracias! Thank you!
• Con permiso. Excuse me. (As you are trying to get by someone)
• Por favor ... Please ...
• No hablo español. ¿Hablas inglés? I don't speak Spanish. Do you speak English?
• ¿Dónde está ... ? Where is ...
• No, gracias. No, thanks.
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