Ana Carvalheiro

Hello and welcome to the Dominican Republic!

I travelled to Punta Cana, located in the east coast region of the Dominican Republic to attend a wedding recently. This was actually not only a wedding I attended, but one that I also planned for the bride and groom-to-be!

Punta Cana is the most popular and fastest growing tourist area in the country due to the most picturesque beaches in the world with hundreds of coconut palms scattered along the miles of super fine white sand, where you can go for walks. Please do not go beyond the security guards who are there to make sure you have a fun and safe vacation.

The weather was always sunny and hot with temperature in mid 30’s Celsius during the day and rain 5 nights out of the 7 with a warm breeze. The resort had such great entertainment indoor that the rain didn’t bother us. If you like to explore or do other activities other than stay within the resort you can go fishing, snorkelling, diving, trip by catamaran or speed boat, visit the beautiful island of Saona, party boat (which I recommend), swim with the sharks, stingrays, horseback riding by the beach, ATV’s tour, visit the locals and see how they live by taking a bus tour, cigar factories, golf and so many other activities.

There are lots of small booths market where you can get souvenirs like jewellery, clothes, cigars (original or flavoured), pictures, clay statues, pure vanilla for baking, coffee, the best Dominican coffee is called “Santo Domingo”, Rum “Brugal”, “Mamajuana” is considered a miracle potion developed in the Dominican Republic which is a mix of various herbs, roots, leaves and bark add rum, gin, red wine, honey and lemon. Is used to promote overall good health, sexuality and vitality and tastes good. I am not a drinker and i tried it at one of the local markets first where i was told they make it better than the resorts and than i tried it at the resort, it was stronger and bitter but still good ?. I suggest you bargain for the things you want to purchase; they always set the prices way too high especially for jewellery and paintings.

- The official language is Spanish but most of the people can speak English.
- The currency is DR Pesos, US is widely accepted
- For calls to the US and Canada dial 1 + area code + local number
- Motorcycle taxis, called moto conchos, are not recommended as they are often involved in accidents. They have areas by the road where they stand and wait for the people. There are no taxi meters. Fixed rates are posted at hotels and the airport, however, you should still confirm the fare with the driver prior to departure.
- The people are very friendly and nice. The food is so tasteful and with such variety it is sure to meet everyone’s taste

There is no doubt why Punta Cana is such a popular destination - it truly offers something for everyone. It is the perfect setting for a picturesque wedding, a winter escape or a family holiday. I would be happy to help plan the perfect holiday to Punta Cana for you!