DOMINICAN
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Things to consider when traveling to the Dominican Republic.

Climate and best season

• January
• February
• March
• April
• May
• June
• July
• August
• September
• October
• November
• December

Average temperature and precipitation in the Dominican Republic (Santo Domingo)

Source: Japan Meteorological Agency website, 2017 data (http://www.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/cpd/monitor/)

Cash, cards and currency exchange

Exchanging Japanese yen to Dominican pesos has a very poor rate, so it is advisable to obtain dollars or euros in advance and then exchange them for Dominican pesos locally.
Credit cards can be used in most places such as restaurants, hotels, and shops in tourist areas. ATMs are also available, and you can withdraw cash using international cash cards or credit cards. However, since ATMs may sometimes be out of order, it is safer to use ATMs inside banks.

Tips

There is generally no tipping custom.
Hotel room maids and bellboys: Tipping is unnecessary as it is included in the accommodation fee.
Taxis: There is no need to tip unless you request something special.

Public Safety

The Dominican Republic is considered relatively safe among Latin American countries. However, crimes targeting tourists are still frequent, and overall security seems to have deteriorated in recent years.
The incidence of armed robbery and snatching is more than 30 times higher compared to Japan. These incidents occur both day and night, but extra caution is needed at night.
Due to its proximity to Colombia, the Dominican Republic seems to be a transit point for cocaine smuggling. Avoid actions that could make you a target for crime, such as following strangers or dressing conspicuously.

Clothing

Throughout the year, the daily temperature difference is significant, with daytime temperatures exceeding 30°C but dropping below 20°C at night on some days. Therefore, you can generally wear summer clothes, but it's reassuring to have a thick shirt or cardigan to layer.

Things you should bring with you

Stomach medicine, cold medicine, mobile battery, wet wipes, tissues, sun protection items, insect repellent, etc.

Visa availability and arrangements

Japanese nationals do not need to obtain a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes.
If you plan to stay for more than 90 days for work, study, residence, or assignment, you need to obtain an entry visa from the Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Japan before traveling.

Required vaccinations

There are no mandatory requirements for travel. However, the following vaccinations are recommended.

Adults: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Typhoid
Children: Routine vaccinations such as DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio), BCG, Measles, Rubella, Chickenpox, Hib, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, and optional Mumps vaccination