Creighton University/ILAC Encuentro Dominicano Visitor’s Guide Visitor’s Guide

Last Updated: August 2015

PLEASE NOTE: This guidebook About the Guidebook is intended to be a general guide to prepare students and their visi- tors for their experience in the This guidebook brings sight into what you can ex- ber that information listed is , but does not relevant information about pect during your stay. The subject to change. You reflect Creighton University’s visiting the Dominican Re- hope is that it helps to relieve should always confirm your endorsement. public as either a family any stress that may come plans in advance. It is recom- member or friend of a student along with traveling to a dif- mended that you view other in the Encuentro Dominicano ferent country where Spanish travel books and websites that Staying at ILAC program. You are going to is the main language and also can further educate you be- have a different experience to facilitate an enjoyable ex- fore your arrival. A Lodging Request form must be electron- than the average tourist in a perience. It is important that you ically submitted to reserve space at ILAC. variety of ways: 1) You will This form can be found on the last page of Within this guidebook you communicate your ideas this guide. It should be emailed to the have your own “personal tour will find information on stay- about the type of trip that you ILAC office in Omaha at guide” (the student that you ing at the Institute for Latin would like to have with the [email protected]. Confirmation of will be visiting), but with this American Concern (ILAC) student. The Dominican Re- reservations are best done when students comes cautions that will be center, traveling within the public is a very diverse coun- are already in the D.R. and they can check explained in the section country, suggestions on how try. You will see that there is with Zunilda or Carolina in the ILAC “From the Eyes of the Stu- office in the D.R. a few weeks after the to maximize your time, and something for everyone! dent.” 2) You will see sites reservation has been submitted. The cost possible places of interest. includes three meals a day and payment not traditionally visited by There are also sections dedi- must be made in cash before checking out tourists. 3) You will become cated to health and safety, at the ILAC Center in Santiago. Please familiar with social justice cultural sensitivity, and un- contact the Student Life Director issues within the Dominican derstanding the student’s ([email protected]) for current rates. Republic context. perspective. See section “Hotels in Santiago,” for The purpose of this Visi- Many of the places of in- recommended lodging should there not be tor’s Guide is to serve as a space available. terest that are highlighted in point of reference for you as this guidebook were suggest- you plan your trip in order to ed by past Encuentro Domini- provide you with some in- cano students. Please remem- Featured sections: Ideal Visiting Times First Time in the D.R. 2-3

From the Eyes 3 Fall and Spring breaks their Spanish skills and in Travel Insurance of the Student seem like ideal visiting times, traveling around the country. For Family & Friends

but even better are Thanks- Visitors cannot come when giving and Easter breaks. It is recommended that travel- Santiago 4-5 students are on the campo ers have insurance that will The Fall and Spring breaks immersion. The immersion is Traveling the Country 6-7 come early in the semester cover them in case of any a time for the students to be medical emergency while in and usually students are still in solidarity with the Domini- The North Coast & Sama- 8-9 becoming familiar with the the DR. Check with your ná can community and dedicate insurance provider to see country and culture as well as time to the service project. learning the language at this what their policies are on Visiting Service Sites & 10 point. In the past, students Visitors are welcome at all international travel. If this is the Campo seem to feel more comforta- other times during the semes- not an option for you, check ble when visitors come later ter as it is important for stu- out www.mycisi.com for pro- Trip Itinerary Examples & 11-12 in the semester because they dents to be able to share such visionary travel insurance. Thank You Family have higher confidence in a powerful experience with & Friends! their loved ones. Page 2 Visitor’s Guide

$US* Dollars to Pesos *RD$ First Time in the D.R.

Dollars can be exchanged for pesos at the airport or at the ¡Bienvenidos a la Republica Dominicana! money exchange center near ILAC. Exchanging dollars in Before passing through vide the following contact either with ILAC (free if driv- a bank requires an original immigration to claim lug- information so that luggage ers are available) or with Taxi passport whereas money ex- gage, one must first pay a can be delivered to ILAC, Familiar, the recommended change centers do not. There tourist fee of $10 cash. If which is usually within a few taxi company. are ATM machines at the arriving in Santiago, the fee days. Most taxi drivers will ac- airport and all over Santiago. station is at the foot of the cept either dollars or pesos. Therefore, pesos can be taken escalator. There will be air- La Misión ILAC Rates with Taxi Familiar vary out with a Debit card, but port assistants guiding travel- depending on the time of day additional bank fees may ap- ers through immigration. It is Carretera Duarte Km 7.5 and if the taxi driver has to not uncommon for check-in ply. Avoid using ATM ma- Licey al Medio, Santiago wait for passengers. The av- chines that are not located luggage to not arrive with erage, one-way rate to the Phone: (809) 736-0774 within a bank as that can draw your flight. Therefore, it is airport from ILAC is 500 unwanted attention. Travelers advisable to pack significant pesos, which increases during checks are not recommended. personal items in carry-on Taxi drivers are available late-night or early-morning The current exchange rate is bags. Do not leave the airport outside the airport. However, trips. It is important to agree around $US 1 = 44 RD$. without reporting lost luggage they charge more than if on a rate with the taxi driver and keep baggage claim tick- beforehand. ets. If staying at ILAC, pro- transportation is arranged ILAC Accommodations

Once you arrive at ILAC, with jam, ham, cheese, scram- arts and crafts made by Do- you must pass by the front bled eggs, yogurt, cereal and minicans who live in the office to receive the key to coffee with milk. Lunch is countryside communities in your casita. Casitas are small usually Dominican style rice which ILAC works, and all houses with two to three beds and beans, chicken, beef or income from the products and a bathroom. All linens pork, and a salad. For dinner, goes back to those communi- are provided. one can expect more Ameri- ties. Purchases can be made can style meals ranging from with ILAC staff members ILAC’s Courtyard Three meals are included in the room fee, which can be fried chicken and French fries Lilian or Carolina. Cash only paid at the end of your stay in to pasta and potatoes. (dollars or pesos are accept- Forget something? the ILAC office (Please con- ILAC has a computer lab ed). tact the Student Life Director with Internet, running track, International calls can be There is no need to worry if [email protected] for basketball court, laundry made from one of our pro- you have forgotten or lost current rates). Breakfast is room, and chapel. A Spanish gram’s cell phones. Phone something replaceable. Stu- served at 8 a.m. Lunch is at Mass is said every Sunday at cards needed to make interna- dents have been able to buy 12:30 p.m. and dinner is at 6 11 a.m. by a local Jesuit, Fr. tional calls can be purchased things such as prescription p.m. The ILAC cook staff Manolo Maza who does at a store located near ILAC. contact lenses, laptop batteries appreciate if you let them speak English and is a great A 100 pesos calling card from and sinus infection antibiotics. know if you will not be eating friend of the Encuentro pro- the company, Claro, will give Many of one’s daily necessities a meal so that they can plan gram. you about 11 minutes if call- can be bought at the corner accordingly. Typical break- The gift shop consists of ing the U.S. Nearly the en- store, “el colmado” in Spanish, fasts may include fresh bread tire ILAC center is equipped or at La Sirena, Supermercado Nacional or Plaza Internacion- Transportation to Santiago

A van, known in Spanish comfortable using public that many end up missing as “guagua,” is the public transportation as it is how upon their return home. The form of transportation into they get to their service sites. average travel time from Santiago. These “guaguas” Students usually look forward ILAC to Santiago is about 20 are normally very crowded to sharing the public transpor- minutes. As a safety precau- and cost 25 pesos one-way. tation experience with their tion, a taxi from Taxi Familiar Students quickly become visitors and it is something should be used after 8 p.m. Visitor’s Guide Page 3 First Time in the D.R. From the Eyes of the Student

Students greatly appreciate and use the facilities at ILAC ing the student’s vacation, the opportunity to give their should the student need to be please consider that it should family and friends a glimpse in class or study. be a stress-free time of rest of what their semester long It is not unusual for stu- and relaxation. experience is like in the D.R. dents to feel stressed about In the past, many students Words and pictures can only having visitors because they have shown their visitors a capture so much when com- feel as if they have to show combination of what daily life municating with people back many things in little time. is like on the island and what home. Therefore, students try Many students have com- tourists experience. They to take advantage of their mented at the end of their have done this by taking their time with visitors by showing vacation that they are more visitors to their service sites them as much as possible. tired after their visitors have and the campos as well as to While trying to maximize left than before vacation start- the beach resorts. There is a time, visitors should also ed. Therefore, it is important dramatic difference between Typical respect that students have a to do as much as possible these activities and visitors rigorous academic schedule. while still allowing plenty of have left receiving an impact- Visitors are more than wel- time for rest. If visiting dur- ful, educational message. come to explore the gardens Sundays and Lunch Hour in the D.R.

Visitors should not plan Cultural Sensitivity Sundays as a day for shop- ping in the city as most stores do not open on this Learning about a different Students really enjoy shar- ommended way to approach day of the week or close by culture goes beyond food ing Dominican culture with stepping into a different cul- noon. It is not uncommon tasting and listening to the their visitors. Visitors may be ture. for stores or offices to close country’s popular musicians. shocked at first to see the In general, Dominicans are between noon and 2 p.m. Interpersonal communication, student greet someone with a warm and caring people who Dominicans take seriously restaurant mannerisms, riding kiss on the cheek or yell at the enjoy conversing with Ameri- the time to let their food public transportation, school bus driver to drop them off, cans. Dominicans are very settle and rest during the discipline, and every other both of which are part of Do- hospitable and want visitors hottest part of the day before aspect of daily life in the D.R. minican culture. Visitors are to have a good impression of beginning the afternoon. has its unique cultural norms. cautioned not to mistake the their homeland. They love to Understanding these norms is student following cultural tell stories and are patient a learning process for the norms for personality change. with non-Spanish speakers. students and a big part of It is easy to get frustrated by Remember that smiling can being successful at their ser- cultural differences, but hav- say more than words. vice sites and in the campos. ing an open mind is the rec-

Making Plans

The following sections are of any changes. Depending and friends during holy week, dedicated to ideas that can be on the season, reservations at which is known as “Semana used in planning out the trip. hotels or resorts usually do Santa.” Booking plane tickets and not need to be made more Most of the places and Cell Phones reserving space at ILAC than a few weeks in advance. activities that are highlighted If you plan on using your cell should be done as soon as The week before Easter is the in this guidebook are what possible. Even if plans may busiest time of year for hotels phone in the D.R., check with your past students have done with company to see if it will work include staying overnight near the ocean because it is a their visitors. It is important somewhere other than ILAC, popular vacation week for outside of the US. Most providers to take into account who is do have service in the D.R., but it is best to send in your reser- foreigners and it is a tradition visiting, how many people, vation and then later the stu- for Dominicans to spend time charge much more for data usage and for how long the trip is and incoming and outgoing calls. dent can let ILAC staff know at the beach with their family before deciding on plans. Page 4 Visitor’s Guide The City of Santiago Cultural Activities

Monumento a los Héroes de Parque Duarte la Restauración -Surrounded by significant historical buildings -Famous landmark in downtown Santiago that dating back to the late 1800s including: is dedicated to the heroes of the Wars of Inde- -Catedral de Santiago Apóstol, Catholic pendence cathedral with the tomb of , -230-foot staircase that one can climb and see country’s dictator in 1882-1899. over the city -Palacio Consistorial, former town hall from -Popular hang out place for Dominicans 1897. -Horse-drawn carriage rides around the city -Centro de Recreo, a private social club. with a price around 200 $RD Enter to see an antique shoe shinning chair that belonged to the country’s cruelest dicta- -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 $RD tor, Trujillo. El Monumento a los Héroes -Gobernación, the municipal town hall. de la Restauración Enter to see paintings by top artists. -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 RD$ Popular Dominican Souvenirs Centro Leon -Dominican art and anthropology museum -Larimar: Blue stone found only -Gift shop Calle del Sol in the southern part of the D.R. -Café with wireless internet -Santiago’s main commercial street Commonly bought as jewelry. -English speaking guides are available for an -Street vendors sell everything from flowers, to -Amber: The D.R.’s national extra cost. fruits and vegetables, to CDs and DVDs. gemstone. Also commonly -Open everyday, except Monday, from 10 a.m.- -Most stores are open everyday, except Sunday, bought as jewelry or in pieces 7 p.m. from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. that contain insects or plants. -100$RD per person, free on Tuesdays -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 RD$ -Mamajuana: Bottles of medici-

nal barks, leaves, and roots to be -Check website for more information on fea- filled with either rum and honey tured activities such as movies and live music Mercado Modelo or wine. It is drunk as a shot and www.centroleon.org.do -Located on Calle del Sol said to help clear cold symptoms. -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 250 RD$ -Souvenirs, jewelry and art are sold at this mar- A small amount of alcohol should ket. be put in the bottle before taking it home, or it will not pass El Gran Teatro del Cibao -Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. through customs. -Santiago’s main performing arts theater just -Bargain for best price -Muñecas sin rostro: These east of the Monumento a los Héroes de la Res- -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 RD$ dolls without a face represent the tauración

cultural mixing of the indigenous, -Shows include plays, comedians and operas Spanish and African peoples. Cigar Factory -Prices vary -Carnival masks: These masks, - English-Speaking tours available to see the -Call for more information: (809) 583-1150 replicas of the ones used during process in which cigars are hand-rolled at the the festivities that celebrate Do- -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 RD$ Aurora Cigar Factory minican independence, make - Call to arrange a tour 809-841-2983 great wall decorations. (Eugenio) Plaza de la Cultura - Tours are free, but purchase of cigars is ap- -Located on Calle del Sol preciated -Art exhibitions - Taxi one-way from ILAC: 450 RD$ -Open every day from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. -Call for more information on exhibits. -Telephone: 809-971-203/809-971-2025 Carnival -Parade down the street, Las Carreras Carnival Mask Visitor’s Guide Page 5

Santiago continued Hotels in Santiago

Restaurants Hotel Colonial -Located on 30 de Marzo Breakfast -Located near the Monument -Standard room: $15-22 per Many Dominicans buy their -Seafood is the specialty night for two people. Does not include breakfast. breakfast from street vendors La Campagna -11 a.m.-12 a.m. including items such as sala- - Call to make reservations. mi, spaghetti, plantains, eggs, -Located on La Carretera -300 RD$ per plate -Telephone: 809-247-3122 bread, coffee and hot choco- Duarte near Plaza Internac- -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ late. Buying street food is not ional recommended for sanitary Kukara Macara - Traditional Dominican and Aloha Sol reasons. Eating breakfast in American breakfast options, -Located near the Monument sit-down restaurants is not -Located on Calle del Sol - Sandwiches, salads and -Country western style very common as most people pasta for Lunch or Dinner themed. -Standard room: $73.50 per will eat out for lunch or din- night for two people. Includes -Dominican & American style ner. The following places are -200 RD$ & up per plate breakfast. food (Breakfast also served). a few recommended restau- -8a.m.-12a.m.(1 a.m. Fri-Sat.) rants that do serve Dominican - 9 a.m.-1 a.m. -Telephone: 809-581-9203 and American style breakfast. -Taxi from ILAC: 250 RD$ -Make reservations online at -250 RD$ & up per plate www.alohasol.com -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ El Encanto (2nd floor) Lunch & Dinner

-Located on Restauración Pez Dorado Hodelpa Centro Plaza La Brasa -Traditional breakfast items -Located on Calle del Sol -Located on Calle del Sol -Located near the Monument -9-11 a.m. -One of the oldest restaurants -Standard room: $100-120 per in Santiago -Dominican style food. Great night for two people. Includes -150 RD$ & up per plate place to order, “La Bandera,” -Seafood is the specialty breakfast. -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ white rice and beans with -11:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m. chicken or beef and plantains. -Telephone: 809-581-7000

-300 RD$ & up per plate -11 a.m.-1a.m. -Make reservations online at Hotel Aloha Sol http://www.hodelpa.com/es/hot -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ -200 RD$ & up per plate -Located on la Calle del Sol el_hcp.php -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ -Breakfast buffet La Parrillita -6:30-11 a.m. -Located on Duarte in front of Puerta del Sol Taxi Service in Santiago -263 RD$ Plaza Internacional -Located near the Monument -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ -Grilled items, Mofongo -Dominican & American style Within downtown Santiago, (mashed, fried, green plan- food the average price for a one-way tains with fried pieces of taxi ride is 120-150 RD$. It is Hotel Hodelpa Centro Plaza pork, a Dominican delicacy) -11 a.m.-1 a.m. not necessary to leave a tip. -Located on la Calle del Sol is one of the specialties. -250 RD$ & up per plate Always agree on a price before you get into the taxi by letting -Breakfast buffet -11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ the driver know where you are -6:30-10:30 a.m. -200 RD$ & up per plate going and asking how much it -435 RD$ -Taxi one-way from ILAC: Rinconcito will cost to get there. Try to -Taxi from ILAC: 300 RD$ 250 RD$ have exact change if possible. - Located in the neighborhood Most drivers will not allow

of Rincon Largo (behind more than 4 passengers or the Marisco Centro Careterra Duarte) price will go up. As a safety - Hamburgers, wraps and precaution, always sit in the sandwiches back, make sure the doors are Tipping in Restaurants locked and keep the windows - 200 RD$ & up per plate A 10% service charge is added at least half way rolled up if to the bill besides the govern- there is not an air conditioner. ment tax, but it is customary to leave an extra 10% in gratuity. Page 6 Visitor’s Guide

Caribe and Metro Tours Prices Traveling the Country From Santiago in $RD: Caribe Metro Caribe and Metro Tours Santo 280 320 The most comfortable, ule can be found at the fol- lowing website: Domingo safe and economical way of lowing website: www.metroservicesturisticos. Sosua 160 200 traveling the country is by www.caribetours.com.do com/rutas_horarios.html either of the two tour bus Puerto 120 160 companies, Caribe and Metro By clicking on the interactive The abbreviations used in this Plata Tours. Both bus stops in map (“mapa intractivo”) and schedule include: Santiago are located within entering in the departure city SDQ- walking distance from each in “salida” and the destina- Rent-a-Car From Airport STGO-Santiago other. Caribe Tours is located tion city in “destino,” the on 27 de Febrero and Metro departure times will appear. POP-Puerto Plata Nelly Tours is off of Duarte. If SOS-Sosua Economic car rental taking public transportation

$24 & up per day from Licey into Santiago to The departure stations are http://www.nellyrac.com/en/ one of the two bus stops, it is highlighted in red. Churchill is the bus station in Santo best to leave at least 40 Adventure minutes before the bus depar- Domingo. SUV rental ture time. In a taxi, 30 $53 & up per day minutes should be sufficient. The Metro Tours bus sched- http://www.adventurerentcar.com/ The Caribe Tours bus sched- ule can be found at the fol- Getting to Cabarete and Samaná

From Santiago, the Caribe Motorcycles or Metro Tours bus will not Motorcycles are a main take you all the way to Caba- To Samaná rete. Below describes how to form of transportation for arrive after the Caribe or Met- The Samaná bus station in many people in the D.R., espe- ro Tours bus takes you to the Santiago is on Pedro Francis- cially in countryside communi- last stop. Caribe and Metro co Bono Street. To get there ties. Public hospitals will con- Tours does not have a route to using public transportation, cur that the majority of patients Samaná, however, you can get off on San Luis and turn seen daily due to automobile still get their on public trans- on the first street to the right. accidents usually include mo- portation. The station will be on the left- torcycles. As a safety precau- hand side. Recommended tion, Encuentro Dominicano To Cabarete leaving time from ILAC is at students are prohibited from Once you arrive in Puerto least 45 minutes before the riding motorcycles and this Plata, stay on the Metro or scheduled departure time. If includes during vacation. The Students in fortress Caribe bus. It will continue taking a taxi, one can leave consequence for riding a mo- in Santo Domingo on to Sosua, the last stop on ILAC 35 minutes before and torcycle is removal from the the route to Cabarete. After it will cost 250 RD$. The program. arriving in Sosua, cross the cost from Santiago to Samaná Traveling plans including Traveling in Santo Domingo main street in front of the bus is 250 RD$. Buses leave in transportation should be care- stop to catch public transpor- the morning at 7:15, 8:15, After arriving at the bus fully thought out to avoid get- tation (a van or car) that will 9:30, and 10:30. They leave ting into situations where pub- station in Santo Domingo, it is go into Cabarete for 50 RD$ in the afternoon at 1:15, 2:30, recommended to take a taxi to lic transportation or a taxi is per person. Let the driver 3:45, and 4:45. You can only your next destination and when not readily available. Taxi know which hotel you will be purchase one-way tickets and traveling around the city as companies will have their cars staying at and he will drop you will pay when you are on most students are not familiar stationed at all bus stops. you off as close as possible. the bus, normally after having with the public transportation Therefore, it is recommended A second option is a taxi, stopped at a rest area about system in the capital city. De- to take a business card from which will cost approximate- half-way there. pending on how far you are one or two of the taxi drivers ly 500 RD$ and may be a traveling within the city limits, To get to Las Galeras, before leaving the bus stop, better option if traveling with an average one-way taxi ride is public transportation, either a even if you think that you will more than three people, a lot between 250-300 $RD. van or truck, will cost 80 RD$ not be needing it. Better to be of luggage or at night. from Samaná. Once getting safe than sorry! off the bus from Santiago, Visitor’s Guide Page 7 Traveling the Country continued Having a Safe Visit

The following guidelines -Do not have your passport. are important for having a When Using -- safe visit. They are not meant Public Transportation -Be aware of who is walking to cause fear or anxiety, but around you. Above is a “gua-gua,” one of the forms of only to help prevent potential- -Have money in hand to pay public transportation in the D.R. ly dangerous situations and for the ride. -Get in the nearest store or avoid having things get sto- taxi right away if you feel that Hospitals & Clinics -Do not keep wallets in back These hospitals are considered the top len. Overall, the Dominican you are being followed. pockets. hospitals in the country and have excel- Republic is generally a safe, -Put money in more than one lent doctors, many English-speaking. developing country, but the -Windows should be half-way pocket and never take with Although, medical insurance from out- desperate situations in which shut. side the country is usually not accepted you all of the money that you at the time of payment in the hospital, much of the population lives -Avoid opening bags or purs- brought to the D.R. many companies will reimburse the is a main reason why tourists, es. -If you have more than one patient with a receipt upon return to the who are viewed as being U.S. It is recommended to check with credit card, bring only one wealthy, need to be extra your insurance company about coverage with you and your ID. before leaving for your trip. careful. Walking Around the City -Have a small list of D.R. At ILAC -If you do not need a purse, Santiago contact numbers with you. Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago While ILAC has 24/7 se- do not bring it with you. (HOMS) curity, the center often hosts Autopista Duarte Km 2.8 -If you need your purse, put it 829-947-2222 various large groups and on the shoulder farthest away At Hotels and Resorts medical teams use the facili- from the street. -Be cautious with safes in Santo Domingo ties to provide rooms for pa- Clínica Abreu -Do not talk on cell phones on hotel rooms. Check online to tients. It is safe to leave pass- Calle Beller or near the street. see if previous visitors have 42 Esquina Independencia ports and extra currency in anything to say about the 809-688-4411 -Do not stop walking if some- rooms. However, it is im- safes in the hotel before mak- one pulls up next to you to Cabarete portant for visitors to lock ing reservations. their rooms and to not leave seemingly want to ask you a Consultorio Médico -Never leave your belongings Carretera Principal belongings outside. question. 809-571-0851

Servimed Consultorio Médico Carretera Cabarete 6 Proper Attire in the D.R. 809-571-0413

Puerto Plata Centro Médico Bournigal Dominicans take great shoes. Most tourist towns It is recommended that Calle Antera Mota pride in personal appearance. like Cabarete are heavily pop- females bring more pants with 809-586-2342 In the D.R., taking care of ulated with foreigners so them than shorts, skirts or personal hygiene and dressing dress is usually more relaxed. Capri pants in order to avoid Ambulance Service Movimed neatly is a way of showing Although it is not an out of getting mosquito-bitten. In Santo Domingo, call 809-532-0000 respect to those around you. the ordinary sight to see peo- Mosquitoes are attracted to From anywhere else in the country, call Acting on this cultural value ple walking in the streets in dark colored clothes. There- 809-200-0911 Air Ambulance will help you to fit in during their bathing suits or men fore, white and pastel-colored 809-567-1101 your stay and Dominicans without their shirts on in clothes are suggested and bug will appreciate the effort. beach towns, those that do are spray is a must. almost always foreigners and There are various places If visiting during Novem- that do not accept certain it is not well-accepted by ber-March, bringing a couple Medical Concerns local Dominicans. kinds of dress. For example, long-sleeved shirts and a light Visitors should speak with their doctor about in church, one should dress Even during the hottest jacket is not a bad idea. Light medical concerns and recommended vac- conservatively and not wear months of the year, July- -weight clothes are a good cinations when traveling to the D.R. Most doctors will be able to inform you about the tank tops, shorts, or flip flops. September, many people will choice at any time of the year. certain preventative measures you should Most bars in Santiago require wear pants when out in pub- As a safety precaution, take health wise as well as provide you with men to be wearing dress lic. Most professionals will any prescriptions for medicine you may need expensive looking jewelry on the trip. See the U.S. State Department shoes and collared shirts, not be seen in pants with a long- should not be worn outside of website to register your travel plans and for a t-shirts sandals or tennis sleeved shirt and jacket. list of recommended vaccinations. ILAC. http://travel.state.gov/ Page 8 Visitor’s Guide The North Coast Why the North Coast?

The North Coast is the day trip to the beach. If plan- Beware, the Dominican most common place for stu- ning to stay more than one Republic is well-known for dents and their families and day and are looking for an all- its sex-tourism. This is espe- friends to visit. It is within 2 inclusive resort, Puerto Plata cially visible in the North hours from Santiago, is easy is the place to go. Cabarete Coast. It is common to see to get there and it is a beauti- has various wonderful restau- old, foreign men with young, ful part of the country. The rants and bars all along the Dominican girls. This is a three most frequented cities beach. Therefore, the all- way of life and harsh reality are Puerto Plata, Sosua and inclusive resort option is not for many Dominicans and Cabarete, which are all close as popular in Cabarete in or- their families. Though not to in proximity making it easy to der to try out these restau- cause alarm, men should not Kiteboarding in Cabarete visit all three places in one rants. Of the three cities, Cab- go off alone to avoid being trip. arete has the most active night approached by women offer- Cabarete is the Caribbean According to what many life including restau-rants that ing their services. capital for windsurfing and stay open late and bars that kiteboarding. Every year in former Encuentro Students Below are some of the have done in the past, Sosua play as much American music resorts and hotels that previ- June, the Kiteboarding World as merengue and bachata. Cup is held in Cabarete. is the best place if planning a ous students have stayed at and recommend. Hotels & Resorts in Puerto Plata, Sosua & Cabarete

*All prices listed are per -Resort, all-inclusive option -Large studio with kitchen person, per night for a -Prices for a studio room are available for 3 people or standard room unless other- more. wise stated. Prices will vary from $45 & up per person per depending on the season. night, includes breakfast. For www.hotel-alegria.com

the all-inclusive option, add Tel: (809) 571-0455 Puerto Plata Village $20 per person per night.

-Located in Puerto Plata -ILAC discount: $60 per person per night, all-inclusive Hotel Kaoba -All-inclusive resort www.sosuabythesea.com -Located in Cabarete www.puertoplatavillage.com Tel: (809) 571-3222. -Hotel only Kiteboarding Tel: (809) 320-4012 www.kaoba.com

Casa Marina Tel: (809) 571-0300 Excursions on the North Coast Lifestyles Resorts -Located in Sosua Iguana Mama -Located in Puerto Plata -All-inclusive resort Villa Taina Cabarete -All-inclusive resort www.casamarinabeachhotel.c -Located in Cabarete Eco & Adventure Tours www.hacienda-resorts.com www.iguanamama.com om -Hotel, breakfast included Tel: (809) 586-1227 (809) 571-0908 Tel: (809) 571-3535. http://www.villataina.com/

Dominican Fisherman Tel: 809 571 0722 or Toll Barceló Cabarete Hotel Alegria free from USA: 1 877 584 -Located in Puerto Plata 5053 Fishing and boat tours -Located in Cabarete www.dominicanfisherman.com -All-inclusive resort (809) 571-0919 / 713-5064 -Hotel only http://www.barcelo.com/ Tropical Clubs-Casa Laguna 27 Charcos Tel: (809) 320-5084 -Located in Cabarete Imbert, on route to Puerto Plata -All-inclusive resort Waterfall hiking www.27charcos.com Sosua by the Sea www.tropicalclubs.com -Located in Sosua Tel: (809) 571-0725 Visitor’s Guide Page 9 The Samaná Peninsula Why Samaná?

The Samaná Peninsula is tranquil beach vacation. If Limón from the bus station in widely considered one of the you take a taxi to Playa Samaná. After arriving in El most naturally beautiful and Rincón, ask the driver to stop Limón, you will then get in a Playa Rincón unexploited parts of the coun- on the way at “El Iguanario,” truck that will take you into try. Tourism is in its infant a community-based, eco- . Samana Bus Schedule and Stop stages of development, but it tourism project managed by El Limón, an inland com- For bus schedule to Samana and is growing rapidly. The prin- the Ecological Society of Los munity on the route to Las Constanza call 829-582-4949 or cipal town of Samaná is Tocones. El Iguanario is a Terrenas, has a famous water- 829-582-2134. The location of the where all public transporta- conservation site for the Rhi- fall that visitors can tour on bus stop is on Calle Pedro Fran- tion is stationed, but most noceros Iguana, an endemic, horseback from 400 RD$ & cisco Bono No. 69 between Calle tourists are lured to the sur- endangered species. The site up. A typical, Dominican San Luis and Calle Mella. rounding coastal zones Las is cared for by many local lunch can be included at an Galeras and Las Terrenas. youth who sell their arts and extra price. From the bus Las Galeras, the furthest crafts and enjoy interacting station in Samaná, take a van Whale Watching in Samaná with visitors. point on the peninsula, is a to El Limón. Upon boarding The Samaná Bay is where the quiet fishing village with Las Terrenas, located to the van, tell the driver that Humpback whale mates and transportation available either the north, is a largely Europe- you want to go to “El Salto de gives birth every year from by taxi or boat to the tucked an populated town with many Limón.” Bring your bathing January 15-March 15. From away, pristine beaches called unique gift shops and deli- suit because you can bathe in Samaná, many tour operators Playa Rincón and la Playita. cious bakeries to enjoy. To the pool at the foot of the provide whale-watching. One This is the ideal place for arrive in Las Terrenas, get on waterfall. Walking tours are of the highest recommended those who want a calm and public transportation to El also available. tours is given by Canadian Marine Biologist, Kim Bed- Hotels in the Samaná Peninsula dall. There are two trips daily, 9:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and *All prices listed are per cost $60 per person. See the website for more information. room, per night for a stand- ard room unless otherwise www.whalesamana.com stated. Prices will vary de- Casa Marina pending on the season. -Located in Las Galeras Hotel Palococo Casa Lotus -All-inclusive -Located in Las Terrenas -Located in Las Galeras Tel: (809) 538-0020 - Includes breakfast -Kitchen included www.amhsamarina.com Tel: (809) 240-6151 Tel: (809) 538-0119 www.palococo.com www.samana.net/casalotus/ Hotel Docia -Located in Samaná Hotel La Tortuga Plaza Lusitania Tel: (809) 538-2041 -Located in Las Terrenas Humpback Whale -Located in Las Galeras www.samana.net/Samana_city/ -Includes breakfast hotel_docia-en.html Tel: (809) 538-0093 Tel: (809) 240-6566 Excursions in Samaná www.plazalusitania.com www.hotel-la-tortuga.com/ Check with your hotel for in- Gran Bahía Princípe Cayacoa Resort formation about tour operators Oasis Hotel that offer organized excur- Hotel Villa Serena -Located in Samaná -Located in Las Terrenas sions. Los Haitises, a national -Located in Las Galeras -All-inclusive park with Taino caves, and Tel: (809) 240-5420 -Includes breakfast Tel: (809) 538-3131 Cayo Levantado, a lovely is- land off the coast of Samaná Tel: (809) 538-0000 www.bahia-principe.com that is great for relaxing and www.villaserena.com swimming, make for two great, picturesque excursions.

Page 10 Visitor’s Guide Visiting the Campo

For many students, taking trying to immerse into the situ- hours from ILAC. Transporta- their families and friends to the ation, but does not mean that tion arrangements can be made Visiting Service Sites communities where they spent students consider them as re- through Kenny Taxi or public ten days working on a service placements for their real par- transportation can be used, if project and living with a Do- ents. possible. Students spend two morn- minican family is one of the Upon returning from the ten Most host families will pre- ings a week at their chosen most special parts of the trip. -day campo immersion, many pare food for visitors. Cooked service site. Many students Former students have ex- students spend much time ex- and peeled food is safe to eat. become very attached to the pressed both excitement and plaining to their family and Visitors may want to bring their people that they serve and anxiety about this visit for dif- friends back home about their own water bottle filled with wonderful bonds are made. ferent reasons. Students experience with their host fami- purified water from ILAC. Students will almost certainly are normally excited to go back ly. Likewise, one of the most Students should ask if any juice take family and friends to to the campo because they will common conversation topics offered is made with purified their service site as all sites be returning to a place where that students discuss with their water before drinking it. It is are located in or around San- they had an amazing experi- host families is the student’s okay to not eat something if tiago. ence and look forward to intro- family in the United States. you are not comfortable as ducing their family and friends Therefore, host families wel- students will have learned how Sites include a school in a to the community. Some stu- come the opportunity to meet to properly turn down food low-income, urban neighbor- dents are nervous about the the student’s family. without being offensive. How- hood, a feeding program for language and cultural barriers Students like to make the ever, you will be quite pleased disadvantaged children, a and mostly about how their campo visit with their family with the home-cooked, Domini- nursing home, an orphanage loved ones are going to respond and friends an educational ex- can meals that you do try. for handicapped children, a meeting their Dominican perience since the immersion is Some families may want to center for children working “family.” Students have said one of the most impactful give a gift of appreciation to and living on the streets, and that their family members have events of the semester. Family host families. Appropriate gift a tutoring center. made comments about feeling and friends that visit the campo ideas include candy, pictures, replaced by the student’s new, will have an easier time relating and other small American sou- Family and friends are Dominican host family. It is to and understanding the stu- venirs. Avoid giving money or welcome to engage them- important for family members dent’s new perspective on life. obvious expensive items as selves and interact at the ser- to realize that students address- Students will usually plan they will appreciate sentimental vice sites as the people at the ing their host parents as day trips to the campo as they gifts more than anything else. sites are used to having visi- “mamá” and “papá” is a way of are usually not further than 2-3 tors and love to receive atten- tion and affection.

Tips to Family and Friends Visting the Campo

1. Be open-minded. 2. Smile a lot. 3. Be willing to try new things. 4. Use facial and hand expressions. 5. Do not be afraid to use whatever little Spanish that you do know. 6. Be ready for lots of hugs and hand-shaking. 7. Be prepared to be of- fered a lot of food and coffee. 8. Allow yourself to be touched and affected by what you will see. 9. You may be offered gifts, accept them. 10. Be easy-going and let the day flow. Visitor’s Guide Page 11 Trip Itinerary Examples

3-Day Trip Example #1 5-Day Trip Example #1 Day 5: Arrive in Santiago– p.m. Arrive in Santiago-p.m. 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 9 a.m. Sosua beach Day 1: Day 1: 7 p.m. Dinner in Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 9 p.m. Visit the Monument 9 a.m. Explore ILAC 9 a.m. Explore ILAC Other Activities 10 a.m. Visit Service Site 10 a.m. Sosua beach 7-Day Trip Example 12:30 p.m. Lunch at ILAC 7 p.m. Dinner in Santiago Arrive in Santiago-p.m. Kaskada Park 2 p.m. Centro Leon -Waterpark 4 p.m. Calle del Sol Day 2: Day 1: -Santiago 7 p.m. Dinner in Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC -350 RD$ per person 9 a.m. Campo 9 a.m. Explore ILAC -10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 300 RD$ Day 2: 7 p.m. Dinner in Santiago 10 a.m. Visit Service Sites 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 9 p.m. Visit the Monument 12:30 p.m. Lunch in Santiago Estadio del Cibao 9 a.m. Campo 2 p.m. Centro Leon -Santiago 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC Day 3: 4 p.m. Calle de Sol -Dominican professional baseball 7 p.m. Baseball game 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago -Season is from October-December 9 a.m. Visit Service Site -100 RD$ & up per ticket Day 3: 12:30 p.m. Lunch at ILAC Day 2: -www.aguilas.com.do 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 1 p.m. Leave for Puerto Plata 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 250 RD$

9 a.m. Sosua beach 9 a.m. Campo #1 Arena del Cibao 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago Day 4: 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC -Santiago 7 p.m. Visit the Monument Puerto Plata 8 p.m. Basketball game -Dominican professional basketball -Season is from February to April 3-Day Trip Example #2 Day 5: Day 3: -70 RD$ & up per ticket Arrive in Santiago– p.m. 2 p.m. Leave for Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC -www.abasaca.com 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC 9 a.m. Campo #2 -Taxi one-way from ILAC: 250 RD$ Day 1: 8 p.m. Visit the Monument 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC Cabarete Coffee Company -Coffee and Chocolate Day Tours 9 a.m. Sit in Creighton Class 5-Day Trip Example #2 Day 4: -Departs from Cabarete at 9 p.m. 12:30 p.m. Lunch at ILAC Arrive in Santiago-p.m. 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC -$75 per person 2 p.m. Explore ILAC 9 p.m. Leave for Puerto Plata -Tel: (809) 571-0919 3 p.m. Centro Leon Day 1: -ww.cabaretecoffeecompany.com 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC Day 5: -Public Transportation 9 a.m. Sit in Creighton Class Puerto Plata Day 2: 12:30 p.m. Lunch at ILAC Rancho Baiguate 8 a.m. Breakfast in Santiago 2 p.m. Centro Leon Day 6: - -Rafting, horseback riding, hiking and 10 a.m. Leave for Cabarete 4 p.m. Calle del Sol Puerto Plata -waterfall tours 12:30 p.m. Arrive in Cabarete 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago -All-inclusive lodging Day 7: -www.ranchobaiguate.com Day 3: Day 2: 2 p.m. Leave for Santiago -Public Transportation from Santiago 3 p.m. Leave for Santiago 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago to La Vega (70 RD$ p/p) and La Vega 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC 9 a.m. Explore ILAC 8 p.m. Visit the Monument to Jarabacoa (90 RD$ p/p). Then take a 9 p.m. Visit the Monument 10 a.m. Visit Service Site taxi from Jarabacoa to Rancho 12 p.m. Lunch in Santiago Baiguate (200 RD$ per taxi). 2 p.m. Kaskada Park Colonial Zone 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC -Santo Domingo -Gift shops and cafés on the famous Day 3: pedestrian street called, El Conde, 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC walking historical tour around the city 9 a.m. Campo #1 by English speaking guides, the first 6 p.m. Dinner at ILAC Cathedral of the Americas, Plaza Espa- ña, historical museums and near China Day 4: town. -Taxi one-way from Caribe/Metro 8 a.m. Breakfast at ILAC Tours Station: 200 RD$ & up Dominicans performing traditional 9 a.m. Campo #2 Cacao Tree Spanish dances in Plaza España in 6 p.m. Dinner in Santiago Santo Domingo. The fruit is used to make chocolate. Kristina Roselle & mother in Jarabacoa at Salto de Baiguate. Thank you family and friends!

At one of the first reflec- and friends to visit the well as about them- tions the students have student during the pro- selves. After the pro- together, each student gram, and most stu- gram, many students dedicates the upcoming dents are very under- become very involved semester to someone standing if they do not on campus and in their who has made a positive end up having visitors. communities, especial- influence in their life. Students will never be ly in organizations and Many of the students alone during vacations activities that relate to choose someone from and many will tag social justice. While their family or a close along with others that some students become friend. A reason com- do have family or even more clear on monly stated for why friends in the country their path in life, some that family member or visiting. The program students change their friend was chosen is be- directors are grateful to visions. Parental sup- Kali McElroy & parents at ILAC. cause that certain person all family and friends port and guidance is was influential in the who are supportive of continually sought out student participating in the student following by Encuentro Domini- the program. Through- through with the pro- cano students before, out the semester, the val- gram as it is not for during and after the ue of family is brought everyone. The Encuen- program. Many thanks up time and time again. tro Dominicano pro- for having provided the Students truly appreciate gram draws a special student with a strong their families more upon type of student that is foundation and for your their return home and it responsible, mature, positive reinforcement. is a lesson that sticks open-minded, coura- It makes a great differ- Camille Claire & sister taking with them for the rest of geous, willing to serve ence. carriage ride at the Monument. their lives. It is not al- and has the desire to ways possible for family learn from others as LODGING REQUEST FORM — Guests of Encuentro Dominicano PLEASE RETURN TO: Institute for Latin American Concern (ILAC) Creighton University 2500 California Plaza Omaha, NE 68178 Omaha Office: Telephone 402/280-3179 // Fax: 402/280-1889 email: [email protected]

Person requesting this reservation:

Last Name Middle Name First Name

Organization (if applicable):______Group Sponsor: ______If a group, please attach a list of the participants, their age, and gender

Address: Number/Street City State Zip Code Country

Telephone Fax E-mail:

Emergency Contact Information:

Name:______Phone:______

Lodging Reservation Arrival Date and Time at the ILAC Center: ______Departure Date and Time from the ILAC Center: ______

Purpose of the visit: ______

Number of persons in the group: ______Number of males: ______Number of females: ______

Special housing arrangements (e.g., married; families; physical disability needs): ______

Airport Transportation Do you need ground transportation to and from the airport? Yes ______No ______If yes, indicate the date and time for arrival and departure, the airport, airline, and flight number. (There is a fee for this service.) ______

*Please contact the Encuentro Student Life Director ([email protected]) for current ILAC rates