Questions

What should I do for money while in the DR?

The official monetary unit for The Dominican Republic is the peso (written RD$), which are made up of 100 centavos. These pesos are worth about 0.08($USD), and $42(RD) is the equivalent to $1(USD). Most places in the Republic accept the United States dollar.

There is a law, that is usually unenforced, that requires visitors to change at least $100(USD) into pesos. Though this law is mostly ignored, travelers should be prepared in case it is enforced without notice. It also good to have pesos, because some independent vendors may not accept U.S. dollars. As tourists, travelers should understand which currency is to be used during a transaction.


U.S. one dollar bills are used widely on the island, and extremely popular for tipping. There are exchange offices, or cambios, in the airports and most major shopping centers on the island. Sometimes they have better exchange rates than at the banks. Vacationers can keep up to date currency rates by checking posted rates day to day.

U.S. dollar travelers checks are easily exchanged at banks and cambios, but travelers checks from other countries mostly only exchanged in banks that host citizens of that particular country on a regular basis. When making a currency exchange, always get a receipt, this will be proof that you made the exchange legally in case the issue ever arises.

To get the best exchange rates, it is recommended that travelers use credit cards whenever possible. Major credit cards are a must for some places, like hotels and rental car agencies, and are generally accepted at most major businesses around the island. Carrying a credit card is also safer than having large amounts of cash on you persons.

ATM machines are located around The Dominican Republic. Banco Popular, ATH Dominica and Red Cash have many locations in the Republic. Travelers can receive cash advances through CrediProgreso in major cities and can be reach toll free by dialing 1-200-3233 on the island.

I got this information from: http://dominicanrepublic-guide.info/travel.basics/currency.and.credit.cards/

Are there any specific procedures for customs when entering into the Dominican Republic?

In addition to their passports, citizens of the United States, U.K., Australia, Canada, and Ireland must purchase a Tourist Card, which is $10(USD). These cards can be purchased at consulates worldwide, or at the airport upon arrival. Sometimes, travel agencies provide Tourist Cards' as a part of their vacation package price.

Yes, this is correct and is not a rouse. If memory serves me correctly the stand to purchase this tourist card is off to the right immediately before a cash exchange and shortly before entering customs. If you do not purchase this card (It almost looks like a subway ticket), they will not allow you entrance and you will have to go back and rewait in line.

As always, please let me know if you have any questions! 44 more days!