Dominican Republic
Dominican Republic
Hotels
All Dominican Republic HotelsDominican Republic Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Dominican RepublicBy Hotel Type
By Hotel Class
By Hotel Brand
Popular Amenities
Popular Dominican Republic Categories
Near Landmarks
Near Airports
Popular Hotel Categories
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental CarsMore

Plan Your Trip to Dominican Republic: Best of Dominican Republic Tourism

What is Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best?
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to those businesses that are the Best of the Best on Tripadvisor, those that earn excellent reviews from travelers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.
Learn more

Dominican Republic

The DR delights visitors with its mix of white-sand beaches and "gingerbread" Victorian architecture. Nine hundred miles of Caribbean coastline make the Hispaniola Island country a beach-lover’s paradise. Day-trip to Puerto Plata and ride the cable car up Mount Isabel de Torres, or groove to the steel drum beats of Cabarete nightlife. The breezy palms and sparkling waters of Punta Cana make it a true tropical paradise.

Traveler Guides

Dominican Republic Is Great For

Phenomenal beaches

Fresh seafood

Outstanding diving and snorkeling

Explore more from our sponsors

Dominican Republic travel advice

Powered by AI
These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Popular Destinations

According to forum posts, Punta Cana is frequently mentioned as a prime location for all-inclusive resorts. Travelers have called out specific areas such as Bavaro Beach for its swimmable beaches and picturesque scenery.

Resort Recommendations

Some travelers recommended specific resorts based on various needs. For family-friendly options, Royalton Splash, Hyatt Ziva, and Nickelodeon were mentioned. For adults seeking lively entertainment, Breathless in Uvero Alto was suggested. For those seeking luxury with comprehensive amenities, resorts like Hyatt at Cap Cana were noted, though they tend to be pricier.

Budget Considerations

Forum posts indicated that the Dominican Republic, particularly Punta Cana, offers some of the best value for money in the Caribbean. Budget-conscious travelers mentioned finding good deals during shoulder seasons, such as May or November, to avoid higher prices and crowds.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Recommended Transfer Services

According to forum posts, travelers have recommended several private transfer services from Punta Cana airport. Some travelers suggested using Michael Wagner, available at privatetransferspuntacana.com, for reliable and professional service. Dominican Plus and dominicanplus.com were also frequently recommended for their punctuality and professionalism.

Transport Options and Pricing

For those looking for cost-effective options, taxis and private transfers are readily available at Punta Cana airport. A taxi to certain local destinations like the Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana costs approximately $45 one way. Alternatively, a private return trip booked through a service like dominicanplus.com can cost about $65, providing a slightly cheaper round-trip option.

Public Transportation Advice

Travelers also discussed public transportation options. For instance, the Bavaro Express bus service, though not departing directly from the airport, offers connections from downtown areas to various destinations, including Punta Cana.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

General Feedback

According to forum posts, some travelers have had positive experiences with Sunscape resorts in the Dominican Republic. A user recommended the Sunscape Coco based on a YouTube video that provided a lot of useful information about the resort.

Activities and Amenities

For families, Sunscape resorts seem to be a favorable option. Travelers have expressed interest in resorts that offer good food, a nice beach, and additional features like a water park, which are typically available at Sunscape properties.

Recommendations and Considerations

Travelers considering Sunscape resorts are advised to research through various sources, including YouTube and travel forums, to gather diverse opinions and insights about the specific amenities and experiences offered at these resorts.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Requirement for E-ticket

According to forum posts, all travelers entering and exiting the Dominican Republic must complete an E-ticket form online. This form is essential for both entry and departure.

Online Completion

Travelers have mentioned that the E-ticket should be filled out online before traveling. The official website to complete this is https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/. It is recommended to have the E-ticket ready at the time of airline check-in, as airline representatives may ask to see it.

Details Required

The E-ticket requires details such as the traveler's name, passport number, flight details, and accommodation information in the Dominican Republic. Some travelers noted that the form is linked to their passport number, allowing the immigration system to access their details upon arrival.

Timing for Filling Out E-ticket

While it is possible to fill out the E-ticket well in advance, some users suggested completing it close to the travel date, ideally within 72 hours prior to arrival, to ensure all information is up-to-date, particularly in light of any COVID-19 related questions that may be part of the form.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Passport Validity

According to forum posts, for entry into the Dominican Republic, passports must remain valid during the stay and departure from the territory. This is an exceptional measure valid from June 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023, for nationals from countries including the EU, UK, Canada, USA, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, and Ecuador.

COVID-19 Measures

Travelers have mentioned that while no vaccination is required for entry, random breath tests are conducted on 3-15% of passengers or those showing symptoms. Passengers with a vaccination card or a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival are exempt from random testing.

Online Entry Form

Some users highlighted the need to fill out the Dominican eTicket, replacing paper forms. This form, which needs details such as resort and flight numbers, generates QR codes for both entry and departure and is linked to the travelers' passport.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Recommendations for Party-focused Travelers

Some travelers recommended the Chic or Breathless resorts for visitors looking to enjoy pool parties and a lively atmosphere. These options are suggested for younger crowds interested in socializing and entertainment.

Family and Tranquil Options

For families or those seeking a quieter stay, forum users have suggested Royalton Splash, Now Onyx, Hyatt Ziva, Hilton La Romana, and Sirenis Aquagames. These resorts cater to varying budgets and typically offer a balance of adult and family-oriented activities.

Adults-Only and Lively Atmosphere

RIU Republica was highlighted for adult visitors seeking a vibrant atmosphere with multiple pools and extensive dining options. However, it was noted that availability might be limited. Dreams Punta Cana Resort & Spa and Onyx, which provides access to the adults-only Breathless resort, were also mentioned as suitable alternatives.

Accommodation Features

Travelers have expressed preferences for resorts with modern amenities, good food, entertainment options, and beautiful beaches. Specific features like swim-up bars, casinos, and a mix of guest demographics are also important to many visitors.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Resort Offerings

According to forum posts, Riu hotels in the Dominican Republic offer a range of amenities tailored to different guest preferences. For instance, Riu Palace Bavaro is one of the 11 resorts recently reopened in the Caribbean, emphasizing its continued presence and popularity in the region. Riu Bambu in Punta Cana is noted for its vibrant party atmosphere, catering primarily to guests looking for lively entertainment.

Activities and Services

Some travelers mentioned that hotels like the Riu Palace Macao do not require reservations for their a la carte restaurants, which operate on a first-come-first-served basis, providing convenience for guests. The hotel also issues buzzers to guests to alert them when their table is ready, enhancing the dining experience.

Security Features

In response to safety concerns, it has been shared that Riu hotels, such as the Riu Bambu, have implemented security measures including surveillance cameras in corridors leading to rooms and in-room safes, as reported by a guest who had a recent stay.

Entertainment Options

For those interested in nightlife, Riu Republica is highlighted as a resort that caters to adults only, with a focus on providing high-quality entertainment and amenities.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Dress Code Generalities

According to forum posts, many resorts in Punta Cana have relaxed their dress codes in recent years, allowing for more casual attire like shorts and sandals in most restaurants. However, some upscale dining options may still require long pants and closed shoes.

Specific Resort Dress Codes

Travelers have called out specific resorts such as Excellence Resorts, which have updated their dress codes to allow shorts in most dining venues, except for a few that require more formal attire like long pants. Other resorts like Bahia Punta Cana and Riu Palace Macao also allow shorts but might require a collared shirt.

User Preferences and Experiences

Some travelers expressed disappointment with the relaxation of dress codes, feeling it impacts the overall ambiance of high-end resorts. Meanwhile, others appreciate the comfort and practicality of being able to wear more relaxed attire during their stay.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.