Santo Domingo Destination Guide

Old World Charm, New World Luxury - Santo Domingo, the oldest settlement in the Western Hemishpere, is rich in history but modern in conveniences. Bargain hunters won't want to miss the Caribbean's largest duty-free zone. If sun worshipping is for you, visit any of the white sand beaches along the Suncoast or take part in a wide variety of watersports.

The average temperature is 77°F, with August being the warmest month and January the coolest. Summer temperatures range from 89-95°F, winter from 75-90°F. The main rainy season is between June and October, when it is hottest.

Hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge plus an 8% sales tax to the bill. Hotels add an additional 5% for room tax.

A couple needs to inform the resort at least one month in advance, with a minimum of 15 days notice, in order to reserve the judge. The resort will inform guests of all the required documents they need to present in order to legally wed in the D.R.

Travel to and from Santo Domingo uses the Las Americas International Airport, 20 minutes east of Santo Domingo.

Car Rentals. Major car rental companies have airport and city locations including National, Avis, Budget, Hertz, McDeal, Honda, Nelly, Dollar, and Thrifty as well as over 10 local companies. A valid driver's license and major credit card are required to rent a car for up to 90 days. Driving is on the right hand side and the speed limit is 60 kph in the cities and 80 kph on the highways, unless otherwise indicated. Many companies require a minimum two-day rental for unlimited mileage, otherwise single day renters pay additional per distance traveled.