DR tips/tricks we learned from friends, the net and on the ground. We really had no difficulty, but was also didn't stray too far from the normal "tourist" path.

• Put your Health Insurance in place prior to leaving and carry proof because nothing would make you sicker than paying health bills in the DR.
• Bring American cash (not Canadian)... we took a hit on the dollar at the bank before leaving (1.13) but not as frustrating as converting money on the road.
• We took an iPod/iPad/iPhone/iPad mini (with adapters) which served us well as camera/communication/device. The voltage was 110 in the DR... no universal required.
• Take copies of passports / cards and hold in a different place than originals (leave a copy at home with contact as well).
• $10 US to get into the country, and just like PEI, you need to pay to get off the island... it's $20 US or you won't even get to security.
• We took lots of sunscreen (essential), lip balm (probably essential), immodium (precaution only), hand wipes (essential for excursions), sunglasses (essential), used our room safe, but left our Computer/BlackBerry at home.
• One is consistently in the position where tipping is an option. How this gets handled is, of course, a matter of choice. However, we liked to tip consistenly so we loaded with smaller denominations (US $1 bills) prior to departure. Served us the entire trip! Appreciated by the employees as well.
• We used "water shirts" when at the beach/pool... we are all of fair complexion (to say the least) and these are well worth it, as compared to being uncomfortably scorched!!!
• Tips for Excursions:
  • We sat at the front of the bus. Great view and you get to know the guides very well (although watching the drivers from the Dominican can be disconcerting).
  • Charge the camera, drag some water, and maybe even a shirt for the Air Conditioned bussing
  • The iGear is a welcome distraction when the road miles got a bit long.
  • This time we dragged down a large bag of school supplies and left this, while on an excursion, with a road side school. We hoped that it might have been helpful, and wasn't too disruptive to the teacher/class.
  • We used iMessage, e-mail, facebook to keep in touch with family and friends at home.