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Internship ++ Volunteer ++ Dominican Republic

Travel Planning to The Dominican Republic

Here are some helpful tips to prepare your internship or volunteer and stay abroad in the Dominican Republic!

The decision has been made, the ticket is booked and anticipation is rising! Are you ready for your adventure in the Dominican Republic? Sure there are still some issues that are racking your brain: Do I need vaccinations? Where can I get the visa? What must I bring? Here we give you a few tips for your trip to the Caribbean to help you relax and get you well prepared to start your internship.

The Visa

To travel to the Dominican Republic you do not need to apply for a special visa ahead of time. It is important that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry. If you stay longer than 30 days in the country, the tourist visa can be repeatedly extended at the Immigration Office for a fee.

You'll also need a tourist card. This is a special tax that you have to pay to enter the Dominican Republic as a foreigner. It is valid for 60 days and can also be extended if necessary. The tourist card costs $10 and can be easily purchased at the airport upon arrival to the country, or online before arrival, from the Embassy of the Dominican Republic. We do recommend to order them online before departure to save yourself the wait at the immigration counter at the airport.

For entry to the Dominican Republic it is mandatory that you acquire a private international health insurance. The Foreign Office specifically points out the need for such private travel insurance.

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What to Pack

You are about to fly to the Caribbean! The Dominican Republic has a lovely tropical climate. You will almost always have warm weather. You will mostly need light clothing and of course you cannot forget your bathing suit. If you are planning to make a trip to the mountains, we advise you to bring some warmer clothes, as it is definitely cooler and can be a bit crisp up there. Besides your flip flops, make sure you pack a pair of good shoes. You will need them for certain activities, especially if you like to get out in nature.

While at work it is important that you wear appropriate clothing. Do not show up to work in very short shorts or skirts, hot pants or midriff tops. Use common sense when packing for work. Bring a couple longer dresses and skirts that are cool and comfortable and you will get a lot of use out of them. You may also be asked to wear a particular uniform. This varies depending on the internship position.

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What Must Not be Forgotten

International Health Insurance


Passport


Flight Tickets


Swimming Suit


Sun Block, Sunglasses, Head Cover


Flash Light


Adaptor


Mosquito Net and Repellant


Proper Shoes


Specific Medications if Needed

What Must Not be Forgotten

International Health Insurance


Passport


Flight Tickets


Swimming Suit


Sun Block, Sunglasses, Head Cover


Flash Light


Adaptor


Mosquito Net and Repellant


Proper Shoes


Specific Medications if Needed

What Must Not be Forgotten

International Health Insurance


Passport


Flight Tickets


Swimming Suit


Sun Block, Sunglasses, Head Cover


Flash Light


Adaptor


Mosquito Net and Repellant


Proper Shoes


Specific Medications if Needed

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There are many things which are useful but not actually necessary to be put in your bag. But, we found the following recommendations from our internship coordinator in the Dominican Republic quite useful:

Washing Line


Books or Cards


Mirror


Sleeping Bag

Your Health

In terms of your health, you should be sure not to forget anything you know you will need and be aware of issues that may arise during your stay. It is definitely advisable that you get a health check with your doctor in good time before your departure. Bring your vaccination card to your doctor so you can discuss any required or recommended vaccinations. At your local pharmacy, they can advise you as to what cannot be missing from your travel first aid kit. Since the hygienic conditions abroad do not fully meet the same standards of your home country, it may take you some time to get accustomed to the local cooking and eating habits. Therefore, do not forget your Imodium or Tums! Of course, all trainees should not forget to have the necessary supply of any prescription drugs or other medications you know you need.

If you should come into a situation where you need medical help on-site, there are free health care clinics in the Dominican State hospitals, as well as in Haiti. There are also many private doctors and dentists on the island. A visit there costs about $15, depending on the examination. Remember that you need to show proof of travel insurance for entry. And of course, in emergencies, our local partner is always there to help.

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Your Safety

Your local coordinators are there to take care of you and will do anything to assure you feel safe. They are available around the clock, beginning from the moment you arrive! They will pick you up directly from the airport and take you to the bus. By bus, you will travel from the capital to your future place of residence by the sea. The small town is considered safe, peaceful and welcoming to foreigners.

Of course, upon arrival we will inform you in detail regarding all questions of safety, but here are a few tips in advance about the Dominican Republic to help avoid trouble and inconvenience:

There are strict penalties for dealing with drugs and narcotics of any kind, so it's a BIG no!


Many police security checkpoints can be found around the island, it's safer to always have your passport with you.


When planning trips, it is advisable to organize them a few days ahead of time, in order to avoid negative surprises.


Respect that the majority of the population is Catholic and they take religion very seriously; be aware of any offensive or anti-religious statement.


Avoid walking around big cities or woods alone, in the dark. Always let someone else know where you will be going.


Leave your valuables at home! Bring only what's necessary.

Everything will be fine as long as you are well-prepared and well-behaved. So, enjoy your next trip to the Dominican Republic!

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