There are several ways to pay while on vacation in the Dominican Republic. You can use the Dominican Peso or US Dollars. The exchange rate is generally the same as what you can get in a bank. If you’re not sure which currency to use, you can read up on the different types of currency.
Dominican Peso
The Dominican Peso is the currency of the Dominican Republic. There is a small exchange fee when changing currencies. The price is lower when exchanging larger amounts than smaller ones. The price of a litre of unleaded petrol costs 50 pesos.
Many small businesses will accept dollars as payment, but the exchange rate may not be as good as at the bank. Moreover, when making large purchases, it’s always better to bargain with the seller to get the best price. However, in supermarkets and shopping malls, prices are usually fixed. It is therefore a good idea to use your credit card and withdraw local currency at an ATM.
Credit cards
In Punta Cana, most places accept credit cards. This includes restaurants and bars, grocery stores, and some smaller convenience stores. However, there are a few exceptions. For example, many taxis and souvenir shops don’t accept credit cards. You should also be aware that the daily ATM withdrawal limit is 10,000 DOP, which is equivalent to about $180.
While most businesses in the Dominican Republic accept credit cards, many small businesses only accept cash. Although US dollars are widely accepted in the Dominican Republic, it’s always a good idea to bring smaller denominations of cash so you can make small purchases and tip accordingly. Using credit cards in Punta Cana can help you manage your spending, but remember that most credit cards charge high fees for international transactions. Depending on the bank, these fees could amount to 2% or more.
Coins
While the Dominican Peso is the official currency in the Dominican Republic, US dollars are the currency of choice among visitors. Regardless of the currency, it is still recommended to exchange your currency before leaving. Coins in Punta Cana include the 1, 2, 5, 10 and 25-peso denominations. These are useful for making small purchases.
Although US dollars are widely accepted throughout Punta Cana, Canadian and European coins are not. You should always make sure that you advise your bank before traveling to avoid unnecessary charges. Another way to keep track of your spending is to purchase a pre-paid travel card. These cards are simple to use and help you keep track of how much you spend.
