Form of Government
The Dominican Republic has a very similar form of government as the USA, composed of two big parties. Elections take place every four years (the former president Balguer, had been elected 7 times) The new president is Dr. Leonel Fernandez (PLD). He took over 16th of August 2004 for four years. Specially the middle class hopes for a positive development in the Dominican Republic under his government.
Website of Dominican Republic Government
The country is under protection of the USA, who in the course of Dominican history intervened twice.
Currency
Monetary unit is the Dominican Peso (100 cents). Import and export of pesos is not allowed. Foreign currencies can be imported without limit. And credit card used are VISA, Eurocard, Mastercard and American Express.
Current exchange rate from Central Bank: USD to DOP (Dominican Pesos).
Traffic and private transportation
The traffic is right hand. The traffic network connects the main cities, supplemented by air traffic. Taxis are called publicos and you share with other travelers. In the cities you have buses, mostly crowded. Taxis can be flagged everywhere, the average fare is min. 30 US$ per day. Insurance included mileage unlimited.
Fares
Public means of transport as the guagua (mini bus) and carrito ( the ones you share with other travelers) charge 30-50 pesos. Range between 30 to 50 km. Same price goes for motoconcho (motorbikes) used preferably for one to three km. (At night or Holiday the double price applies)
Tip! – Never ask for the fare, have the exact amount ready. If you look a tourist unaware of local prices you might be charged with several times the more.
Caribe Tours goes several times a day with luxury buses) TV, Toilet, Air condition, drinks served) to Santiago, Santo Domingo and other cities. The fare to Santo Domingo is 350 RD $.
Insurances
covering medicine doctors, medicines, hospital charges in the Dominican republic are to be policed in the country. The monthly charge for a family, 2 children – is about 3300 RD $ (66 USD).
Medical doctors dentists clinics
An outstanding amount of high qualified medical doctors available day and night. In Sosua you find several dentists, there is also a German and English speaking doctor. With three clinics, Sosua covers the requirements. For medical services you pay cash immediately.
Following prices are just for orientation, average prices of several leading supermarkets.
