Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic allows nationals from eight countries to enter without a visa or a tourist entry tax (previously known as a tourist card, amounting to US$10). These eight countries are Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Israel, Japan, Peru, South Korea and Uruguay. Residents of the United Kingdom and those holding a valid visa to enter Canada, the United States or any European Union country do not require a tourist visa (tourist card) to enter the Dominican Republic. The tourist entry tax of US$10 should be included in the price of the flight ticket. Nationals who aren't in possession of a valid visa for Canada, the United States or any European Union country must obtain a tourist visa which must be done in person at the Dominican Consulate nearest to their place of residence. Nationals from 95 countries can enter the Dominican Republic by paying the tourism entry tax of US$10 which should be already included in the air fare. Alternatively, the tourist card can be obtained at the airport upon arrival at Punta Cana International Airport. Check out the list of the 95 countries. The tourist cards are valid for 30 days from the date of entry. You can apply for a tourist card at a consulate near you, online (www.dgii.gov.do/Paginas/inicio.aspx) or at the airport upon arrival.

There are two distinct tourist high seasons in the Dominican Republic: the summer months of July and August, mostly for northern-hemisphere travelers, and winter season between December and late February, when the Dominican climate is at its best. But since the weather is warm all year round, trips can be organized at any time of the year. During the summer, temperatures fluctuate from 25 °C to 28 °C and the weather is very hot and humid. The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is therefore during the dry season, from November to April, since the climate is drier but still warm. Regarding water temperature, it rarely falls below 27 °C. The Dominican Republic is also in the center of the Caribbean hurricane belt and can be hit by storms especially during the hurricane season in August and September. If you are planning a trip to the Dominican Republic during the high summer season, and especially if you're heading to Punta Cana, expect higher hotel and resort prices and crowded beaches. Whale-watching runs from around mid-January to mid-March.

Punta Cana is located in the Atlantic Standard time zone, and all times are reflected in Atlantic time.

The public bus system covers both Punta Cana and Bavaro and is low cost, but navigating it can get tricky. Bus stops are not clearly marked and you can hail a minibus (Guacas) anywhere, that's why it is recommended to tell the driver in advance where you want to get off. Tickets can be purchased on board.

Country codes: +1 809, +1 829, +1 849

120 volts, 60 Hz American style two-pin plugs