Summer Travel Guide to the Dominican Republic on a Budget

The Dominican Republic (DR) is a land of contrasts - the physical kind, like the highest peak and the lowest point in the Caribbean, and the more metaphorical kind, like that between the urban street life of Santo Domingo and the rural villages only a short drive away. Santo Domingo, or 'La Capital' as it's typically called, is to Dominicans what New York is to Americans, a collage of cultures; or what Havana is to Cubans, a vibrant beating heart that fuels the entire country. It's also a living museum, offering the sight of New World firsts scattered around the charming cobblestone streets of the Zona Colonial.¹

The DR is also famous for the large all-inclusive resorts that dominate much of the country's prime beachfront real estate. However, the result is less like the high-rise congestion of Cancun or Miami and more like low-slung retirement communities, albeit ones populated by families, couples and singles of all ages looking for a hassle-free holiday. Beyond the gated luxury enclaves, the roads lead inland past vast sugar plantations and through small villages. To get away from the get-away, travelers head to the Península de Samaná, where the European vibe is as strong as an espresso, and where escape is the operative word. Cabarete on the North Coast has winds which draw adrenaline junkies from around the world. And for the anti-Caribbean experience head to the popular mountain retreats of Jarabacoa and Constanza - places where bathing suits are out and sweaters are in.¹

Here are some tips you can use to save some money on your next trip.

What To See and Do:

- La Vega. If you want to party, this is the place you need to be. Don't forget to bring your dancing shoes! The best part - it's very inexpensive to enjoy La Vega to the fullest.

- Cabarete. Like an adventure? Well Cabarete is the place to be. You can windsurf and kite surf at this beautiful location. Oh, and the beaches are amazing, by the way. Also a very inexpensive activity.

- Playa Fronton. If you want to go snorkeling (an inexpensive activity), this is the place to be. You will encounter unmatched tropical reefs at this beautiful location.

What To Eat:

- If you want to eat the most authentic food, eat at the smaller joints! It will be cheaper and taste much better.

-Remember, just because it's more expensive, doesn't necessarily make it better tasting!

- I recommend trying all the authentic food, which will be a mix between traditional West Indies food and the newer influences.

Where To Stay:

- Remember, safety is first. Don't jeopardize savings for the safety of your family.

-The Dominican Republic is safe. But don't go too far off the beaten path. Stay at a hotel further from the city limits, and you will save more money. We stayed at a smaller hotel not too far from the city - and saved nearly half the money!

- Book a room for multiple nights and you will be able to negotiate for a lower rate!

Don't let the high initial price tag stop you from enjoying the Dominican Republic!

Source(s):
¹ "Dominican Republic Travel Information and Travel Guide - Lonely Planet." Lonely Planet Travel Guides and Travel Information. 11 Mar. 2009 .