Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

With 32 km of beaches with white sands, a backdrop of swaying palm trees, and warm waters, Punta Cana has become one of the most popular destinations of the Caribbean. It is mostly frequented by Europeans who flock here to enjoy the wonderful climate since it rarely rains during the day. The ambience and standards are more European than American. A more formal dress code will be preferred for dinner, greater interest in soccer matches. Besides rest and relaxation, this destination calls out to honeymooners, families, active travelers, snorkel enthusiast and golfers. Also many ecotourism is gaining popularity with many national reserves and the coral reef. Gamblers will rejoice with the many casinos. As with travel to any third world country, travelers especially women need to be cautious even within the resorts. For full details about traveling abroad please visit www.travel.gc.ca.

Climate

Punta Cana has a warm semi-tropical climate but is tempered by eastern winds. It rarely rains during daylight hours.

Attractions

Located in San Rafael de Yuma, the Ponce de Leon House was where the famous explorer lived with his family when he was the eastern commander of the country back in 1505. Near the Ponce de Leon house is the fisherman’s town of Boca de Yuma, a great place to enjoy a meal of fresh fish or to dance a bachata and salsa. Ponce de Leon would set sail from Boca Chica, a picturesque town, with its tiny buildings. This town now has a prestigious sailing club that hosts many international fishing competitions. Sunbathe on fine white sands and swim in the transparent shallow waters. Hot-water pools are created by the great coral reef acting as a breakwater, thus given the bay the fame of being the biggest natural bath in the world. The near town of Higuey welcomes every year pilgrims who make their way in procession to the shrine of Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Altagracia, which is devoted to the island’s patron saint. The eccentric building has a bell tower that was replaced by a high concrete arch. Also to see is one of the countries most important churches: the ancient Santuario de la Virgen de la Altagracia, which dates back to the end of 1500. The Marinarium Park on the sea offers snorkelling with sharks and rays. Jeep safari excursions offer adventure tours where you can observe the tropical wilderness, the countryside with its crops and take a dip at a deserted beach. Dolphin Island is a short boat ride away to the artificial island where you can have a swim with trained dolphins.

Currency

The currency is the Dominican peso (DOP). U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but Canadian currency is not. Canadian currency and traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at most commercial banks and exchange booths or offices (casas de cambio) and in resort areas and major tourist hotels. Currency should be exchanged only at banks, official exchange booths, and casas de cambio. Canadian currency and traveller’s cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.