Dominican Republic  FAQ

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Q-   How much does a taxi cost?

A-  Taxi prices vary widely and should be negotiated prior to use.  We can always arrange private taxi service for a flat charge or provide our guests with a private car & driver, depending upon budget and personal preference. The taxi union is very strong in the Dominican Republic.  The cost to hire a taxi\van is approximately $200 per day for unlimited local service in the zone.

Q-   Is it dangerous to go out at night in the city?

A-  Absolutely not, it is not dangerous, risky or otherwise chancy to venture out at night.  The standard quote in the Dominican Republic is that you can not do three things: (1) Drugs (2) Cut down a tree or (3) Molest the tourists.  The Dominican people are, for the most part, all friendly and are always willing to help whenever possible.  However, you are in a foreign country and should always use common sense at all times.  We have never had any complaints regarding problems experienced by guests while venturing outside the confines of the resort complex. 

Q-   What do I do if I don’t speak Spanish?

A-  Learn a few key phrases and don’t be afraid to communicate.  You will find that most people working in the tourist areas speak English to some degree and communication will be fun, friendly and interesting to say the least.  Don’t be afraid to attempt Spanish, you will be amazed how the locals will help you with your new language adventure.

Q-   How much should I tip?

A-  Tipping is a matter of personal preference.  In most restaurants there is a small service charge already added to the check along with the government tax.  However, an additional tip of 10% would be very appreciated by everyone providing service.  It is customary to tip the villa service staff, maid and service providers.  Remember, the currency exchange rate is approximately 35 to 1, so tipping the maid USD$5 per day would equal to RD$175 per day and considered very reasonable and acceptable.  We do not recommend any specific tipping level, but encourage our guest to tip generously if satisfied with the quality of service provided by our staff.  Our maids work very hard to keep your villa clean on a daily basis and they look forward to your generosity. 

Q-   What do I do when the electric goes off?

A-  Electricity usage is a common problem in the Caribbean and the Dominican Republic.  It is not uncommon to experience power outages.  Our rental properties are located in best areas of the North coast; all of our properties have some form of backup electricity.  If the power goes out, just wait, it will come back or the generator will come online.  Our rental properties do not experience the same problems associated with other properties in less desirable locations.  If the electricity goes out so does the supply of water, as most water is provided by electric pumps.  This is one of the key advantages our properties have over the lesser priced properties.  We have backup electricity to guarantee the most basic services are not interrupted.

Q-   What type of problems can I expect in a foreign country?

A-  In the Dominican Republic electricity can be a problem without backup generators.  Driving on crowded streets may present a problem to the less experienced driver.  Most resorts and superior rental communities have gated security 24hrs per day.  However, for the most part, there are no real security issues, just fun in the sun.  You will discover that the Dominican People are some of the friendliest in the world.  Spanish is the language of the Country, however, you will soon find out that it is fun to adventure out and learn as you go….

Q-   Who can I call if I need help with an emergency?

A-  You will be given the phone number of Sr. Juan Aluma our Director of Operations  in the Dominican Republic.  In the event of an emergency you can contact him on his personal cell phone.  In addition, in the Cabrera region, you may contact Richard “Junior” on his personal cell phone.  All telephone contact information will be provided upon your arrival and orientation to the villa.

Q-   What type of service can I expect while in residence?

A-  We strive to offer all of our guests’ superior service.  Our staff will do anything possible to make your vacation a success, after all, our goal is to have you return next year.

Q-   Who do I call if there is a maintenance problem in my villa?

A-  In the event of an unforeseen problem, the maid or any of the staff gardeners or pool boys is capable of reporting maintenance problems to management.  However, we will provide you with a list of important contacts.  You must remember that your rented villa is the private home to someone and maintained to a higher standard than most hotels or apartment rentals.   Our rental program has outside contracts with various companies to handle any maintenance issues.

Q-   Can I drink the water?

A-  No.  You should purchase bottled water for drinking.  You can use the water for brushing your teeth and other things, but we suggest you do not drink the water.

Q-  Can I pay cash at the resort bars & restaurants or should I purchase the resort all inclusive bracelets?

A-  You can pay cash at any of the resort restaurants.  Just advise your travel host that you would like to dine at the resort and would prefer to pay cash rather than take advantage of the all inclusive program.  Many of the restaurants accept cash along with the all inclusive program.

Q-   Can I use the resort facilities and swimming pool?

A-  Yes, as a villa guest you have full use of all resort facilities.

Q-   What do I do on check-out?

A-  Prior to check-out your villa will be inspected to establish the return of your security deposit.  You must confirm all airport transfers 24 hrs. prior to departure.  You should be at the airport at least 2 hrs. prior to your scheduled airline departure time.  We do offer an optional VIP Service that can reduce the waiting in airport lines.

Q-   What does the maid do during my week in residence?

A-  Basic villa rental includes weekly maid service.  The maid will report to your villa mid week to change out the linens and perform a complete cleaning of the villa.  If you elected daily maid service, each morning around 8 am the maid will report to your villa to make the beds, clean the bathrooms, and wash any dishes left in the sink.  She will also sweep and clean the floors as may be needed from time to time in addition to changing out the towels.  If required, the maid\housekeeper can also prepare an optional Dominican afternoon meal.

Q-   How does the Shop & Save Service work?

A-  Unlike the All Inclusive Bracelet that allows you entrance and unlimited use of the resort restaurants & bars, the Shop & Save Service allows you to get your groceries from the local supermarket at discounted prices.  This option is perfect for the family on a budget.  With the Shop & Save Grocery Service, you basically prepare a list of items you would like to stock the villa with and we make every effort to purchase the items on your behalf.  You pay a service fee of $125 along with the cost of the items on the list.

However, you can also accompany the host to the grocery store and select your own items with the help of our travel host.  The cost is $125 per trip.  This is an excellent alternative to the resort all inclusive.  You can purchase the exact food & beverage you prefer to enjoy during your week in residence.  We can even arrange for a private chef or for the housekeeper\cook to prepare the afternoon meal.  Remember, the main meal of the day in the Dominican Republic is midday.  Everyone takes a siesta (rest) from Noon until 2pm, just after their main meal.  Most eat a light snack in the evening.

Q-   What about tipping?  Who and how much should I tip?

A-  We do not include tips as part of your vacation package price.  We believe that tipping should be a matter of choice and based upon the level of service provided.  All of our employees try very hard to please our guests.  Our employees do expect to receive a tip for their services, Just how much depends upon YOU and how happy you are with the level of service provided.  The exchange rate is very favorable and makes tipping easy and painless. 

We suggest the basic tipping should be no less than the following:

Airport Transfers- driver            RD $160 per person, this represents about $3.50 US - per person

Daily maid\weekly rental          RD $2,200, this represents less than $50 US

Weekly maid\weekly rental      RD $550, the represents less than $13 US      

Other Service Employees:        RD $150 per service request, this represents less than $3.50 US