Dominican Republic money exchange
 

We are going to Punta Cana in April - do we need to exchange US $ to their Peso? Can we use our money there?
Thanks.

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Just use my no foreign fee capitalone.com Venture Visa fordouble miles on everything. Big Bank ATMs if needed.
Works great for me.

HI-

We just got back from Punta Cana. American dollars are fine at the airport and to tip at the resort. We did not take any excursions off the resort so I cannot comment if American dollars are ok.

There is no reason to change any money if you are just visiting an all-inclusive resort. All the vendors will take dollars, and you'll pay for tours in dollars at the resort. You can also tip in dollars. If you are going off on your own (say to Higuey), you might change a little money at your resort, but if you're in a tour group there's no problem and no need.

You will need US$10 in cash to buy your tourist card on arrival.

Thanks for your info - that's very helpful. We are so excited to go - it's been on my wish list for several years now.
We are staying at an all inclusive resort - and might take one day trip out to see something. Any comments on that?
Nothing real adventurous.

Our travel agent did tell me about the $10 tourist fee.

It depends on your interests. There are some interesting boat trips to Isla Saona and Catalina Island offered at some AIs. I'm not very fond of the so-called "safaris" that just take you out in a safari bus into the not very pretty countryside. Remember that most excursions are a very long drive from anything, so you spend the better part of the day in a bus regardless of what you choose.

Where are you staying? I just got back from the Majestic Elegance and loved it. Would be happy to provide insight if you'd like it....I did not exchange any money....I brought dollar bills to tip bar tenders, room staff, bell caps, etc.

We are staying at Iberostar Dominicana - we like to be laid back and just relax at the pool/beach but I wouldn't mind a day out to see the area. Not to excited about an all day bus trip but would like to maybe see something outside the hotel area.
I have heard that they always take you to a local school and are looking for $$ for the kids. In fact a friend suggested that we take along some clothing/flipflops/school supplies for the kids. Any comments on that?

That would be a great gesture...I was going to take a day trip to Saona Island - looks fabulous - just didn't want to drive 90 minutes to the place where you catch the boat - but supposed to be awesome excursion...We talked to people to did zip lining..they were shown local area.....they viewed it as educational and enjoyed it..to give back to the community would be awesome.....