Getting Around Santo Domingo: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Santo Domingo, particularly the Zona Colonial, is quite walkable. The Zona Colonial offers a compact layout with historical sites, restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions accessible on foot. However, outside this central area, walkability decreases significantly. Sidewalks can be uneven or missing, and crossing streets can be challenging due to traffic. For a digital nomad, basing themselves in the Zona Colonial or nearby areas like Gazcue would allow them to accomplish most daily errands and explore the city without a car. Also, there are many parks around the city suitable for walking.

Santo Domingo has a developing public transportation system. The Santo Domingo Metro consists of two lines which can be useful for getting around the city. Additionally, there are buses and 'carros públicos' (shared taxis) available, though these can be crowded and less predictable. Uber and Cabify also operate in Santo Domingo. The metro primarily serves locals commuting to work, but certain stops are convenient for accessing cultural sites. For a digital nomad, the public transit options are adequate for reaching key areas, but relying solely on them might require some patience and flexibility. The metro is the most reliable option.

Biking in Santo Domingo presents challenges. While there's a growing interest in cycling, dedicated bike lanes are limited, and traffic can be heavy and unsafe. The terrain is generally flat in the city center, but the lack of infrastructure makes biking a risky option for daily commuting or errands. Some initiatives are promoting cycling, such as bike parking areas, and there are cycling routes available. However, for a digital nomad, biking is more suitable for recreational purposes in specific areas like the Zona Colonial where it is safer or parks, rather than a practical means of transportation throughout the city.