Santo Domingo City Guide

Food is diverse with strong local flavors like Sancocho and Mofongo. Good international options exist in upscale areas. Late-night street food and colmados are common. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing.

Nightlife is lively with merengue and bachata clubs, bars, and casinos, mainly in the Colonial Zone, Piantini, and Naco.

Coffee scene is developing with traditional and specialty shops. Coffee is strong and sweet by local custom.

Tipping is customary. Restaurants usually add 10%, and 5-10% extra is appreciated. Taxis may get rounded-up fares. Tips expected for guides and hotel staff.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and provider stores like Claro, Altice, and Viva. Passport needed for registration. Claro and Altice have the best coverage.

Cleanliness varies; upscale and tourist areas are cleaner than others. Recycling is limited.

Pharmacies and corner stores (colmados) often open 24/7. Some clinics and eateries offer late-night services.

Large supermarkets have international products. Local markets and corner stores offer fresh produce. Supermarkets open 8 AM to 9-10 PM weekdays, shorter Sunday hours.

Cards work in big supermarkets, hotels, and upscale restaurants. Cash is needed for small vendors, markets, and public transport.

ATMs from major banks like Banco Popular and Banreservas are common. Fees of $3-$5 USD apply, plus your bank's fees.

International schools like Carol Morgan, Ashton, and Saint George teach mainly in English. Local schools teach in Spanish. Admissions open in late fall or early winter.

A small but growing community with meetups primarily online or via coworking spaces. Co-living is limited.

Major parks like Parque Mirador Sur and Jardín Botánico offer green spaces and good walking areas.

Parque Mirador Sur and the Malecón promenade are popular routes. Generally safe during the day; traffic and air quality vary.

Several modern gyms available across the city.

Tennis courts are common in private clubs and some public parks. Padel is growing in popularity.

Padel courts are becoming more available in clubs with coaching options.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes. Some have English-speaking instructors.

Many martial arts gyms teach taekwondo, karate, judo, BJJ, and Muay Thai with local competitions.

No skiing due to tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing available at nearby beaches with equipment rentals.

Surf spots are a drive away, with Macao Beach about 2 hours from the city. Suitable for beginners and advanced surfers depending on location.

Diving sites along the south coast offer reefs, wrecks, and marine life. Suitable for all levels year-round.

Private hospitals like HGPS and Centro Médico UCE have English-speaking staff and better care. Public hospitals are basic and crowded. Pharmacies are common, some 24/7.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water instead.

Parks with playgrounds and family-friendly cafes are easy to find. Attractions include the National Aquarium, Zoologico Nacional, and Children's Museum.

Relatively tolerant compared to rural areas. Some safe spaces and annual pride events exist but legal protections are limited.

Pet-friendly hotels, cafes, and parks exist. Vet services and pet supplies are available. Import rules are strict.