I Regret Going To The Dominican Republic 🇩🇴 ... Without Knowing These 7 Things | Subtítulos Español

[@bronz9019]

Learn spanish is my best advice and dont act like a tourist and youll get dominican prices.. if you dont speak Spanish and look lost like a tourist youll get tourist prices

[@elcheckin]

Absolutely !!!

[@sergioaguero3774]

Im sorry but as a Dominican. They know you are foreigner. They will rob you

[@raquelrichardson6362]

I'm Dominican an honestly my ppl have to learn English not the other way arround . look at Thailand the all spaeck inglish

[@bronz9019]

@Raquel Richardson what?? Our country is a spanish speaking country... i get it in certain industries dominicans gotta know english hotel, tourism restaurants.. but if you in the cities and country sides of dr intermingling with the locals the tourist the visitors need to know spanish point blank period no if and buts

[@raquelrichardson6362]

@@bronz9019 I'm a Dominican myself Und i can tell you that that as a Dominican and from traveling that we have tu learn English and its shall be the second langue . it's cripple the land from evolving. if you go to India or Thailand or any country in the deep in Asia most spaeck English. WE IN THE American continent and Spanish is not a world language. neighter is Spanish our original language. so as a educated Dominican who have 3 proficinal and spaeck 4 language. lake of Spanish is not the reason ppl over her get scamt. It is a Arab middle East scame mentality true immigration who is the problem her base on skin color and foreign I'm try to scame you out your money not thinking on tomorrow. if more domin8can would spaeck English and not just the so call business Dominican , Dominican would be open more doors in personall and business relationship. you can study yourself any country who have English as a second language the ppl have a higher change on the workmarket.

[@asiatic_black]

Learning Spanish won't stop you from getting scammed. Once they hear your accent and even see the way you dress they already trying to charge you more.

[@Yamin-zo1bm]

Omg. I really want to visit this country but I am very afraid of coming back disappointed

[@asiatic_black]

@@Yamin-zo1bm You have anyone there? Let them do all the talking for you. Dominicans are straight money hungry scammers

[@deadcell1]

That's almost everywhere. I experience this in the Philippines and Colombia

[@BlackGemHipHop]

aye man just go visit, get out of your head@@Yamin-zo1bm

[@Sean-ib3dn]

Stay in the States! You can be cheap all you want! 😂

[@stevedmc82]

You don’t tip at Red Lobster? You lost all credibility when you said that.

[@24jcsor]

He's just a cheap dude!

[@_Mr.D]

Thank you!

[@oc5406]

Common American culture is NOT to tip??? Thats false. Even at Red Lobster people tip.

[@RightOnBrother92]

Canadians don’t tip bc they’re cheap af

[@JuviJohn-o2i]

Dude i'm a black American and I have a house , car, bank account and owned a bar with a chic. It sounds like you should stay in the United States and never travel outside the US. I'm happy here and I drive my car crazzzzzzy. The key is you have change from tourist mode to Resident mode and dont show up being a cheap American or stuck up American.

[@andrewmckenley5355]

I appreciate his info and explanation

[@romarioseaton168]

Idk why anyone would go to the DR and not book a luxury all inclusive…..and have anything organized prior…i could never. The DR is a nice place if u pay for the experience you prefer.

[@scottok2854]

You can afford traveling to the Caribbean, but not tip your Red Lobster Server? You want to call the police on someone in 3rd world country for charging you a little more? Good God man... I don't know if I feel pitty or disgust

[@mikelee9608]

True ,you got have the money

[@GoldenPalm24]

Im Dominican raised in USA (32 years in USA) I moved to DR on 2/2021 . I never experienced black outs or water outage. This happens if you live in ratchet places. One thing I HATE is the traffic!!! I used to go to the supermarket after 9pm so I could avoid the traffic. I love my country!

[@javionriley8739]

Rachet are low income places in USA, you are 3rd world 😂 rachet is an upgrade, y’all got slums

[@elcheckin]

Really what part ? I lived in villa mella and It happend to me often but Thats great!

[@jenniferlorence1950]

Golden G: You are LYING. I just spent 2 and half months in Santo Domingo, DR from March to May 2022, and there were Water Shortages EVERYDAY, and Power Outages but this time the Power was not as often in the 1980s when I lived there.

[@jenniferlorence1950]

@@elcheckin I was in Villa Mella too!! From March 2022 to May 2022. I did Not like at all, I left Villa Mella in 1987 when it was Nice and Civilized, but what I saw now; I didn't like it. Villa Mella was very different back in the 1980s.

[@Lele-lq3tx]

Never experienced blackout nor water outage. I’ve been leaving in DR since 2020 but last week I finally decided to go to boca Chica. The restaurant they scammed me lol

[@jungleharry]

I've travelled to a humble 38 countries in my life and noticed as a tourist; you'll pay double or triple for goods and services in tourist traps regardless of whether you are in a developed or developing country. When I lived in London, my friends from the States would come up and visit complaining about the Black Cab fares, food, attractions, etc.

[@lamarreerickson3502]

I have traveled to the Dominican Republic 3 times in less than 2 years. Santo Domingo is wild. I thought I was being scammed by some restaurants when I saw an 18% tax and an 10% tip. I seriously thought I was being taken advantage of until I pull out my phone and google Dominican sale tax. It’s all legit. Traffic is insane and if you’re not careful by, it feels like everyone trying to scam you but it’s the economy. You just have to negotiate the prices and agree on something up front !

[@elcheckin]

Yea it takes a while to get use to SD man you are not alone ! But I think it's still worth the trip it's a great city

[@mrgood1472]

EXACTLY ! you HAVE to agree to prices up front !

[@tavroaar8173]

Yeah south beach or Miami has a 20 percent gratitude tax as well. When I went to Miami I thought that was crazy and on top of that sales tax lol 😆

[@shelbylove1270]

@@tavroaar8173 lol so true!

[@shelbylove1270]

@@mrgood1472 best way to do it

[@diegocamacho2592]

As a Dominican living most of my life in the USA; you have some good points. Uber, I have not experienced that probably because I speak Spanish. However, you forgot to mention something important. Ubers are very, if not, extremely affordable by the Uber app. I always say that Ubers as company takes advantage of the drivers there. That’s why some or majority have to negotiate to make a decent living. I usually give good tips to these people. Yes, Dominicans are loud and fun… it’s just the culture hehe. If some tourist want to have a more relax trip they can go to a resort or tourist areas. When it comes to tips, it is already included 10% as you mentioned but in general, food is less expensive than other countries. I really have to say you visited places that not even Dominicans go visit as often anymore… Agua Splash, the Barrios (The Hoods)?!?! Boca Chica is not really for tourist. I have to say that even Dominicans that are middle-upper class don’t go to that beach. You should come again and do Santo Domingo upscale style. Huge different hehe. Good Video in overall

[@elcheckin]

Thank you for the info bro 👌🏽 appreciate you

[@elcheckin]

The more people we can get to share info here the better

[@Mk7Albert]

what would you recommend is the "upscale style?"

[@diegocamacho2592]

@@Mk7AlbertOn the video you can see the places he was visiting. There are better restaurant in Santo Domingo. Some example, Mitre, La Caccina, Mr. Grill, La Dolcerie, Laurel and I could go on and on. The Water Park, no many to almost none tourists go to that water park. Good areas to visit in Santo Domingo, Piantini, Bella Vista, Anacaona, La Esperilla and of course the Malls on these areas. Such as, Blue Mall, Bella Vista Center, Galería 360 and Agora Mall. Lastly… if you are going to places with low budget in mind, you’ll get low budget experiences. That goes from anywhere in the world you go.

[@nycsp]

@@diegocamacho2592 I wanna go to places that are more relaxed and but high quality service i really wanna visit DR I always go to Washington Heights to buy my bacalao e visit friends !!

[@hotelphotography]

I've been living in the DR for 43 years. Ever since Uber arrived here, not one driver has asked me for cash. Never. Uber drives have to follow the rules here just like anywhere. The restaurant receipt thing is general knowledge. Always cross out the spaces where there is for tipping and circle your total amount. Everything else you said is accurate. Just like anywhere, if you go to shady places looking for drugs, prostitution or whatever, it's on you. I work and travel all over the island, and it is very secure. I am only overcautious in places near the border, lots of military there, and check points.

[@enoshf5040]

I’ve had Uber drivers ask for cash in the US… more than once. I guess it’s just his experience. I would hope they follow the rules.

[@tabdussamad]

Unfortunately most Uber drivers take cash in Veron and Higuey

[@hotelphotography]

@@tabdussamad No one has ever asked me. I live here.

[@brentonburgess5787]

That’s because you live there. Different for others. They definitely ask for something other than what’s on the app.

[@MikoWorldwide]

@@hotelphotographyI live here and Uber drivers are very scammy. The want you to pay extra at night or going to and from boca chica. Now the scam is if you pay them in cash through the app, they will claim that you did not pay the full amount, and Uber will request that amount from you.

[@RicardoMartinez-oh9sq]

I lived and worked for less than a year in Santiago de los Caballeros. I was a school psychologist, and yet the salary was ridiculous. I had to ride overcrowded, old vans or motorcycle-taxis ("motoconchos") to work. Plus the particular variant of Caribbean mosquitos is awful, they are vicious and when they sting it hurts a lot. Yet the people are really nice in the island, very friendly and they do love their country.

[@TheRenaissanceAmazon]

I took Ubers in Santo Domingo and none of them asked me about paying in cash and/or paying additional money. If they ever did, I'd get out. Simple. But no one asked me that.

[@realbrotha3059]

I know some guys and girls for that matter that had way worse experiences in Boca Chica beach restaurants. Travel Tip: If the menu doesn’t have prices, find a place with menus that do. Some of those places will happily charge U $50 American for 10 wings, fries and 2 beers. And the prices can get FAR WORSE.

[@elcheckin]

Yea man if you don't have some good senses you can end up wayyyy out there

[@JB-bw8nj]

If I see a menu anywhere in the world without prices I know I’m at the wrong establishment… I didn’t even know there was such a thing until my first time going to New Orleans 😂🤣😂

[@craigkarimalbasri4317]

BTW.....Dominicans with any sense, do not go to Boca Chica and they don't go to Sosua. If they don't live in the barrios, guess what? they don't travel there either. Find a Dominican or watch a YT channel with Dominican person and they can let you know where it is a little safer to travel in Santo Domingo. Norberis kzbin.info/door/_Wza1nMX_8mt_9kBJ5-iZw has some good content. She is Dominican, and has videos that deal with subjects for tourism and expatriation to the DR.

[@benji4402]

I'm dominican and never planned to go back to that jungle, bro. I was gonna open a business there, and after finding out the government skims there, let me down to go somewhere else.

[@theholidaylab]

I enjoyed your video, but as someone that waited tables in the past I feel that I need to let you know that most “salaries” for servers, even at red lobster, is the legally approved min wage for service staff at a whopping $2.13 an hour… and you should also 100% tip your servers in America too 🙃

[@egypt1279]

Yes, I was coming to the comments to say that typically the custom is to always tip in the States because of this. The percentage to determine the tip is what most people use to indicate service.

[@mariaespiritu9512]

Well thank you for all this information. I’m a Dominican born in Santo Domingo. My mom is from Santo Domingo and my dad is from Boca Chica. In fact, my dad’s family has been in Boca Chica for so many generations there is street with my great grandfather’s last name in Boca Chica. All you said is true. I still have a lot of family that still lives there, but I came to the USA when I was 9 years old. I talk loud. I haven’t gotten rid of that habit. It just came from my fams. We definitely talk loud, for no reason whatsoever.

[@Aboriginal_American_Hebrew]

❤

[@ricoswaue812]

Choose an air bnb where everything is almost walking distance... And dont try to explore everything when you get there and you'll be fine…..

[@robluv4592]

That's boring

[@xcheerxfreakx]

I’ve been living in Higuey with my fiancé which is about 2 and a half hours away from Santo Domingo. You got charged sales tax because you were in a tourist area. If you are in areas with where the locals reside you wouldn’t run across these kind of issues. I always believed in tipping, so when we go to restaurants out here we tip at American standards of 20% because they make close to nothing. It’s important to learn to speak Spanish or be with someone that speaks Spanish. Cash is king here! Other than that everything is pretty accurate. The driving here gives me motion sickness and I’m from LA! With that being said, I look forward to my fiancé getting his visa so we can get back to my city. DR is such a beautiful country but not to live! The constant rolling black outs, the water outages and low pressure makes me miss America 😂 Dominicans are resilient!

[@elcheckin]

Yea I figured that out ! Sometimes I got charged it and sometimes not. It's a very good idea

[@jenniferlorence1950]

I've driven in L.A. too and the Dominican Republic's Driving is far WORSE. You are Right.

[@carolinavaldez2779]

I am Dominican as well but I have lived in the USA for the last 26 years but I travel every year to see my family and yes the sale tax is only when you are in a tourist area or you pay with your credit card or debit card so I only use cash when I go even on hotels

[@TruthInspector]

Thank you. This place sounds awful. Video pics confirmed. It won't be relaxing. Mad Max all the way

[@deniahimick3272]

It’s always smart to know the language of the foreign country you’re traveling to and not expect them to speak your language if you don’t know theirs!

[@elcheckin]

Absolutely !

[@raquelrichardson6362]

Dominican republic is a tourist country they have to learn English to better there tourist service

[@raymondcampusano2991]

@@raquelrichardson6362 In the capital people dont really live from tourism, we speak spanish and if we learn english is because we want to do it, you cant go to other country and expect them to speak on your language.

[@raquelrichardson6362]

@@raymondcampusano2991 first I'm Dominican and like I say I have 3 proficinal, and spaeck 4 langue . The DR is on the same AMERICAN SOIL ,BECAUSE MAYBE YOU DONT KNOW AMERICA IS A DOPPLE CONTINENT AND THE CARIBBEAN IS A PART OF IT. And as ppl who have over 2 million imigrant living in the US and benefit feeding there family every month because without that most of Dominican would not survive the month. So like I say it's only right that English shall be mandatory in school as a second language. Americans shall not be struggle on finding ppl that speaking English . And also our island is a development country meaning in order to keep that the population have to grow in educatio. but I know that the Lebanes TURKS Syrian immigrants who be running our country have a problem with the poor Dominican learning English and grow. BECAUSE as soon we learn english , more Black American coming to the island but they want only European and W tourism . I study economic development and tourim. And every doctor will telling you growing up bilingual helps to grow intelligent. study show that ppl who spaeck more then one langue have a higher chance to find better jobs also are more likely to study more.

[@raymondcampusano2991]

@@raquelrichardson6362 Well, with so many typos it doesnt seem you really know english. Also, english is already taught in our schools. Most students of good private schools know how to speak english, but it is not mandatory for US to speak ENGLISH in our own country. You can't go to another country and expect people to speak your language like people owe it to you. And based on your logic, because we are all part of America, they should also learn spanish, specially since they will be comIng to a spanish speaking country. For people like you is why the gringos are so entitled, it seems you don't value yourself and your culture. I speak english if I please, it is not an obligation.

[@blacksmithden]

I was last in the DR about 30 years ago. It sounds like a lot has changed in that time. It was one of the cheapest places Canadians could take a vacation at that time. They warned us at the resort not to stray too far. Dominicans don't have much money. Don't flash cash around. Yeah..that's just common sense where ever you go. They said to make sure we were back at the hotel by dark. I honestly didn't worry about that too much because everybody was so thin and moved so slow compared to here in Canada. I'm a fairly big guy and I was walking around all over the place and nobody bothered me. Drunk driving was everywhere. Puerto Plata just had it's second traffic light installed, and people drove like it wasn't even there. The intersection was chaos 100% of the time. Every car was a complete wreck. Battle scars all over them. Every bus had crash bars installed on the front AND back. If a car was coming, you got 2 little toots on the horn as a warning, and you'd better be out of the way or you're getting hit. The only thing they would stop for was a cop (dressed in military fatigues so easy to pick out) or an animal. If you walked on 2 legs, you'd better be out of the way before that car gets to you, or you're getting hit. It sounds like they learned how to exploit the tourists for money a lot more than they did when I was there. Glad I went when I did. I don't think I'll be going back.

[@FranciscoHernandez-vk2jk]

Good we don't need you don't Come back 😮😊😊😊

[@PAPITOFLOW6969]

30 years ago? that's a lifetime

[@mick-berry5331]

​@@PAPITOFLOW6969It is, I lived in Haiti 1980 to 1982. It was fun, safe and cheap back then. Lots of Canadians vacationing, esp. from Quebec. A lot of changes everywhere since then.😅 😅

[@LaNikiOfficial]

True DR is NO LONGER cheap. I've spent over 6 thousand dollars my last 4 trips from October 2022 until now July 2023

[@kingdombusiness8349]

iLove my people sooooo much! Yes! We laugh loud, we talk loud! 🇩🇴 ❤

[@KC-ed1dj]

As someone who is extremely familiar with DR, I am surprised that I see so many videos of Americans staying in what are basically the hoods of DR. Places the locals that know don't even go. Places where no one with something to lose would want to be. Be careful.

[@blackmax6882]

What’s your suggestions for somebody going solo

[@craigkarimalbasri4317]

Stay away from the west side of town. Los minas, villa mella....anything around Charles de Galle is a no go....Boca Chica, Sosua....only good for whores and drugs. Zona Colonial at night....you are just asking for trouble. Basically, unless you are with a local you better stick to the resorts or the North Coast (except Sosua). A lot of crime goes unreported there. All those nasty Dominicans who went to the states, picked up bad habits (became criminals) and then moved back to the DR....that is what you got there now. Too bad, because the real Dominican people are lovely.

[@jeexus4285]

@@blackmax6882bro just dont stay in the Barrio which is the hood, thats like me going to New Orleans and staying near the hood or Chicago etc, stay around the tourist areas its gonna cost but hey you’re on Vacation

[@The_Spiderrr]

You can avoid the whole uber thing as many hotels offer their own transportation and you can just tip the guy something fair afterwards

[@gnosticsabaton4975]

I've been to Dominican Republic many times and I have not experienced what you have. My wife and I live in a much smaller city and our neighborhood has our personal taxi cab driver who transports us wherever we want at a low cost. I have a personal taxi cab driver in Colombia as well through my best friend, who's dad is the cab driver who always picks me up at the airport in Cali and drives me around wherever I want at no charge.

[@RosiRuiz-c1f]

Wow, you are so right about everything, I'm from Dominican republic and I can't deal with all of that.

[@edsensation]

Dude is complaining about paying $4 usd in taxes. But then ya ok with Uber eats surcharges. Ya need to improve your math skills because that’s just sad. $4 in taxes dude? Life is that rough?

[@JNASTY567]

Look at them lol

[@Coffeetime1991]

I love UBER in the DR! They're always available, fast and super cheap. I stay in the City, and see friends and family often when I go, those trips are like $3-5 USD each. You will never get a ride this cheap in the USA. I also always just pay cash because it is easier for them and I tip, this gives me 5 stars and keeps them happy. Always be humble because one day they're going to complain and demand better prices, which means we are going to pay way more, tip them!

[@yairelina20l82]

Just to say something before u go to any country first know a little bit about the culture, custom, language, money and overall the people. You can’t go to any foreign country thinking you okay just because you’re a tourist. There’re pros and cons any where you go on vacation.

[@godsfavdaughter]

What you said about tipping is correct. A restaurant in Dubai tried it b/c I paid with my Amex. Amex fixed it for me after several investigations. He’s right, take a pic of your final receipt, don’t ever scan and pay and put zeros on the tip line. Oh, make sure that your 16 digit credit card number is not displayed on your receipt.

[@Lvrryjvmes]

When you go to the Dominican Republic, or any foreign country. You MUST arrange travel beforehand 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@JacobFields-l9i]

This guy said “it’s not like the u.s. where you don’t have to tip” and “you’re tip is to get a new job - tell me you’re black without telling me you’re black?! Lol😂😂😂😂😂

[@Harlowerayne]

Many black people are not good tippers, that's if they even tip at all!

[@tavroaar8173]

One thing I tell people is that the DR will take you out of your comfort zone. If your coming from the states don’t expect things to be like the states if not you should have stayed in the states. Also in the DR don’t let the little things get to you if not you will have a terrible time. The country is a beautiful disorganized mess a love and hate relationship . DR is a rugged and hustle yet amazing destination it’s what makes it unique. I have been going there for 30 years and I love it!!!

[@elcheckin]

I love it !

[@raquelrichardson6362]

that's absolutely true but if have to do with the Arabs lebanes north afticam who migrated to the DR and control everything most ppl who say they Dominican they are not all foreign immigrant . hotels are all own by European and middle East they make this scam roul

[@mrgood1472]

You are right ! Have to know the land!

[@jacquelinesantelises4407]

The Dominican Republic an under developed country, which and can be compared other under developed country never with the United States.

[@RicardoMartinez-oh9sq]

It is a total mess just like other Caribbean countries and Puerto Rico. Just that as a part of the United States Puerto Rico's traffic is far more orderly.

[@alfredoacostabeneficiaryak3239]

I've been going there since they opened up the country and the prices are slowly going up. It's all inflation just like any other country but the cost of being there is still cheaper than in the US for a comparable restaurant. Just keep that in mind...keep your calculator handy and google translate if you don't know the language but i suggest very strongly that you learn something. I am Dominican and my English is gringo and when they hear me they think I'm a gringo and attempt to get over until I bust them & tell them I know language because I don't look like a typical Dominican living in America...so if you show a weakness, it can be exploited...

[@elcheckin]

Absolutely! It all comes down to what you're going to accept and what type of sense you have. I just want pple to be prepared but I love DR

[@mrgood1472]

After covid they been trying to recover I think

[@goco4697]

The 28% is only for cards. Using cash will always give you the discount

[@elvisgarciadejesus]

Very good informative video. The DR reminds me a lot of New York City ( the good, the bad and the ugly ). As long as you dont mess with the wrong crowd, nothing is going to happen to you in the Dominican Republic.

[@elcheckin]

Yessir it's a big city on an island! I think people forget that but it has a lot to offer! You can find anything you want there. I'll be back asap !!

[@luly2323]

You are dead wrong, there is nothing in NY that is remotely similar to DR. The wrong crowd is everywhere in DR.

[@elvisgarciadejesus]

@@luly2323 lol, We are talking the upscale Santo Domingo, nice city with good view, good night life and a very modern train system better and cleaner than the one in New York believe it or not.

[@mrgood1472]

Luly is right it's nothing like my. 😂 it's more dirty

[@Jean-vp1yr]

@@mrgood1472 depends on what part of the city you at…..Downtown Santo Domingo (Distrito Nacional) is very nice and clean for the most part.

[@AlmightyWavyy]

Good looks Brodie! I’m planning a trip to the DR in May for the first time.

[@elcheckin]

Any time!

[@megmafia8879]

Same

[@Reddish080]

Was it good?

[@musicytotv]

I went there and stayed 3 weeks traveled the while country seen 46 cities ❤

[@fazbell]

No problems in the DR. A fun vacation with a crazy vibe. I tipped 15 percent and got treated like a King.

[@elcheckin]

Lovely place

[@fazbell]

If you can't have fun in the DR, you're probably dead. :)

[@deniahimick3272]

I agree with you. It's unrealistic and pretentious to expect Dominicans to speak all the languages of all their visitors. They get over 10 million tourists a year from all over the world and you can't expect them to learn all these languages to accommodate everyone. I have traveled a lot outside of the USA; when you go to France or other non-English speaking countries they expect you to speak French. If learning another language other than English is not in your plans then I suggest traveling to English-speaking islands like Jamaica, Bahamas St Croix, etc. This is one of the reasons why Americans when traveling abroad, are considered uncultured, pretentious, and ignorant by most foreigners!

[@MsYotuve]

I love Dominican Republic. I have visited twice. People are sweet and friendly. I stayed in the Barcelos Resorts in Punta Cana. Turists from the Old World and South America. Was an enjoyable break interacting with other nationalities.

[@user-ub8uc8gq7r]

Lol punta cana isn’t Dominican Republic. Only gringos go there. Come out to Santo Domingo for a real authentic experience of our culture 🇩🇴

[@thepassportlife]

​@@user-ub8uc8gq7rOk coming there soon.

[@Candles2023-lt9dx]

Um the US is tip expected same here as DR. You pay more for food here, but the server earn minimum wage + tip, so perfect for owner, sux for buyer, so no different in DR in terms of tipping (except you pay less overall for same quality meal)

[@Followmikey]

Great video! Uber you are spot on!! Economy is expensive now and the exchange rate in last year is much worse. I live both places and all my friends ask me also if it's cheap! It is not! Rent is the only thing that is cheap! Clothes in a mall forget about it! Supermarket has doubled in 2 years. My electric has more than tripled also! As far as the restaraunt tax I only see in tourist areas! Zona coloniel, boca chica for example. Most local restaraunts do not charge this tax. My wifes visa is approved and my 3 kids have visas. We own business there but in March we leaving DR now that it's so expensive it's not worth living there anymore! But happy your letting Americans know about some DR reality!!!

[@mrgood1472]

You made a good choice leaving that place

[@elcheckin]

Not cheap at alll ! Agreed wit this post 100%

[@terriarheghan3676]

Thank you . I’ll pass on visiting here!

[@Blablagerman]

I have been in the DR 3x since last year. Its really not cheap, and the ticket rates from Germany or Europe in general have also doubled almost from 600Euro/Dollar to 1000 or 1200 USD/EUR since this spring. Dont go if you dont have enough money

[@elcheckin]

It can be very expensive! More now then ever I guess we all are dealing with inflation

[@jenniferlorence1950]

Correct, DR is Not Cheap anymore, and is Not Clean, and is Not Safe, and the locals aren't the innocent, good-hearted, Service Oriented people that they Once were, I was born in Santo Domingo from a very large Dominican family and I tell You that in DR, you cannot even Trust your own Relatives and family members; it was an AWEFUL expenriece and if I didn't have the SAVIOR US DOLLARS when I went there to Visit my own Mother and Brother and Aunt; TRUST ME; I would've Starved and I would've probably have Slept on the Streets of Santo Domingo and probably even killed. DOMINICANS are NOT what they used to be; they are VICIOUS & ill-intentioned.

[@jenniferlorence1950]

I was born and raised in Santo Domingo DR, and my "mother" who didn't move a finger to help me with Anything!!! And brothers and Sisters, and my Aunt with my Cousin; they ALL made Sure that I had a terrible time when I was there. I had to Spend 5 times the Money that I had budgeted for the trip, because they didn't even bother taking me to the Stores for groceries and I had to continually Pay UBER and buy everything!!! After 35 Years of Not Seeing Me. YEAH, I don't recommend that place to ANYONE.

[@Blablagerman]

@@jenniferlorence1950 A very sad comment. Thank you anyways

[@marquesdunn4934]

I was on a cruise that stopped at DR in April. Went to a beach near Amber Cove and a dominican women was nice to me and my wife, we got some beach chairs that were free and bought some drinks. So when we were ready to leave my wife asked the dominican women who has been serving us can she paid here on the beach she said come to my shop hut. So my wife went in 1st then i came in shortly after to look at some souvenirs to buy. It was 2 shirts 1 or 2 dominican bracelets and a small bottle of mamajuna, so the dominican women picks up a calculator and shows us she wanted $250 US dollars for it. My wife was instantly upset cause she was so nice to us on the beach even gave my wife and kids free bracelets on their feets. She literally tried ripping us off BIG TIME instead of doing business right and we would have tipped her on top of that and probably came back to see her again if she wasn't begin so damn greedy so my wife paid for all the drinks on the beach that came to $50 then the dominican women cried and making us feel bad cause we just wanted to leave and not pay$250 for bad quality i mean the bracelet started falling apart as soon as i got back on the ship. We give her $100 for the souvenirs after her bringing down the price on the so called special deal that was BS and the stuff we got was worth $40 maybe $50 max. So FYI if you're a tourist and you go to these hut shops with no prices on the items they will try to scam you off top, set a price for them and it's on them if they will take it or not is my best advice.

[@marquesdunn4934]

@@PinkClorox No

[@craigkarimalbasri4317]

They learned that hustle mentality from all the New Yorkers (Dominican gangsters) that returned to their homeland to rip off tourists. It has gotten so bad, that I no longer go to the DR...too bad, it is a lovely place and most Dominicans are honest, hard-working, and generous people.

[@businesscenter9131]

This is an excellent overview of things to expect when visiting the DR. I just returned a few days ago, and you are absolutely right about Uber culture. Also good looking out on the credit card advice. Spend local currency (DOP) whenever you can. Good video. Keep the great content coming!

[@luly2323]

No one goes to Santo Domingo, people usually go to Punta Cana.

[@frankxd9232]

I’m dominican, and I don’t go to Santo Domingo.

[@Jean-vp1yr]

A lot of people do, specially Europeans, la zona colonial in Santo Domingo is usually full of tourists mainly from Italy, you hear a lot of italian being spoken around when you’re there.

[@RafaelBlancoRamos]

The next time you come to the Dominican Republic, you have to come with a more positive attitude, more relaxed, some things you say are correct, but others are not so true, you have to investigate how things work here, in the DR tourists are not being persecuted do not come with prejudices, predisposed, or make comparisons with developed countries, here the passenger car works very well, we have a good place and a lot of nonsense is talked about by its competitors in the region. You have to try to socialize with the right people and visit the right environments, VIP areas, we have and things happen like any other Latin American country. When you manage to connect with the right people, you will have a great time everywhere. You will always be welcome to DR

[@elcheckin]

It's true man

[@jesusdavis2941]

Are you all positive and relaxed in the middle of traffic? 🤨

[@RafaelBlancoRamos]

@@jesusdavis2941 always positive, good face in bad weather, I live a planned life, I don't go out during peak hours

[@jesusdavis2941]

@@RafaelBlancoRamos me neither but still some of that desperate vibe floats and honks around dude. Anyway

[@mrgood1472]

VIVA RD!

[@stevenlantigua9544]

🇩🇴🇩🇴 Love my country! One of the best in the rest in the world..If I may suggest if you ever go back..go and check out the other side. Santiago and puerto plata is where its at..and your not dealing with that clustered city feel like that.

[@elcheckin]

It's such a beautiful country I've been to Santiago ! I love it there so pretty

[@nickboork]

Yeah, right on! Lived in Santiago 2 years 89-90, got married to my Dominican wife, learned scuba diving in Sosua, love the people, food and amazing tropical climate. Plan to retire there in about 5 years and get out of this freezing weather in Michigan USA. So, don't worry be happy!

[@The_Spiderrr]

As a dominican from new york who also speaks spanish theyll try to scam me too , you just have to show them your just as steeet savvy as them and youll bump into someone who eill treat you fair

[@drhdrh7091]

That's why they are mostly sweet and kind outside! You know why? Because they don't want you to discover their malicious intent! Just keep your eyes open wider and always assume everyone is out there to get you. Things they do foreigners, they don't do it to locals. Means hustling to get money off of you. They smile alot, tender and nice. But be very careful with people like that. I believe the video this gentleman posted is very informative for anyone who is willing to open their eyes and actually listen. In DR, you never know who is legit, and who is not. You have to take your time and get to know anyone you interact with. Each country has its own good and bad..but the good people are everywhere in this world, just as bad people are. Just take your bring to know who you are dealing with, and avoid the flattery with people who seems6 to be nicer. Too good to be true!

[@MYVloliDiruJP]

I used Uber way too many times in Santo Domingo. 1 out of 50 times did they try that and I wrote back in English saying I don’t have cash and they were cool with it and took me to my spot. And they don’t know I speak Spanish until I speak to them in person. I also NEVER get an Uber leaving an airport. Only within Santo Domingo/cities. Leaving the airport, I ask friends or get a professional service. One thing people should know is that in Punta Cana, NEVER use Ubers. Prices are WAY more expensive than in the United States. Also Ibit is just the account term equivalent to eBit/ebitda.

[@elcheckin]

That's good bro! It def doesnt happen everytime

[@HectorSuarez-fs1mc]

6:48 Tipping in the US is part of the culture, a waitress chased me down and asked me to add the tip to the bill; When they didn't notice I left it in cash on the table; but I let him know that the tip was on the table. I used to drive yellow cab in New York in the 80's and tourist from East Europe usually don't tip (French, Italian, Spain, Greek) also black American people are not fan of tipping.

[@passportninja2994]

I was just in the DR Santo Domingo two weeks ago and I knew someone that's American that helped me get a ride to and from the airport and I also knew a lady that I gave her money so that she could handle all the fees so that I wouldn't get ripped off. I didn't pay over 5 dollars for any Uber ride

[@elcheckin]

My mannnn thats a smart move . Making friends with the people that live there is key

[@passportninja2994]

@@elcheckin if I go back tomorrow I have a trusting woman and a American guy that owns an Airbnb that I can rent for cheap and he'll translate for me at times. And security where I stayed showed love and I tipped them for helping me. So when I come back, I'll be good.

[@jaimenyu1128]

@@passportninja2994 is the airbnb still available? I am going in a month and i would like to check it out... I do speak spanish , but I still come off as an american..:)

[@thepassportlife]

​@@passportninja2994Hey bro. Where is the Airbnb,?

[@passportninja2994]

@@thepassportlife it's in Santo Domingo. I'll find his info and give it to you

[@guillermone1]

That looks like a very loud mall. Yes, the ghettos are most definitely very loud. Do you go to any upscale neighborhoods? Are they loud too? Yes the TIBIS are high but unlike the US it is the only taxes Dominicans pay. In NYC you pay commuter tax, state tax, city tax, federal tax, social security tax, disability tax, and other payroll withholding. Now you tell me comparatively, which one of the two pays more ?

[@CHARYGIRL771]

Never go alone have a Dominican person go with you

[@jacquelinem2873]

Safest bet is to stay in an all inclusive resort… if you want to visit other areas, don’t always expect to pay less for anything than the US. You are here to visit and enjoy the country, and the locals appreciate the extra money. Tips are not mandatory, but you will get grateful responses. Like the US don’t flash your Rolex in the hood at night. Otherwise you are perfectly safe here.

[@hippolyteconsulting9958]

I got to the DR every month i never had ANY issues with Uber it works fine and i never pay cash

[@elcheckin]

Do you go to Santo Domingo ? If so that's really dope !

[@mrgood1472]

its it or miss

[@Derick912]

You should go to Japan, Frances, Switzerland were you will get the best for your money and dont go to the DR easy.

[@michaelholder4454]

Lived in Dominican Republic for 3 years, and it’s a beautiful island. But !!!… living in D.R made me appreciate the good old USA , . Dominican Republic needs improvement for starters. infrastructure, better schools , and gas is sold in litters for example it cost me $25 bucks for a quarter tank of gas … and electricity is sold at a premium. 1 month cost me $430 , . And buying real estate is a major red flag … housing and rents don’t correlate. ROI is very low. Interest rates are ridiculous. Honestly it’s a nice place to visit but not live.. you’re better using a credit card than a debt card . When using your debt card you will be charged for all types a transactions fee’s , versus your credit card plus if anything happens you can have your credit card company dispute it.

[@elcheckin]

Yea man no place is perfect. i love DR and US . I can't believe how expensive it's getting there

[@elcheckin]

Wow that's crazy !!

[@elcheckin]

I lived there a few months I loved it it's a different lifestyle

[@_mattynavarro]

You cannot expect a country that is still developing to be similar to USA when it comes to finances. Debit cards will always get fees, read your disclosures.

[@bnicogee4976]

You know what the term "developing" means?

[@MaJeSTiCz0]

It's important to understand the language this way you can get around.

[@moisdawg]

I was in Santiago earlier this year, and the Ubers were pretty shocking to me. My fam's dominican and I was still surprised. Just sucks they're still such a cash-based society

[@elcheckin]

Yea it does suck! they'll try to get cash but I have some tricks up my sleeve I'll make a video soon !

[@raymondcampusano2991]

If you are from other country they take advantage of you. You can just pay with your card and only pay what the app charges, if they complain then they shouldnt be doing uber.

[@mrgood1472]

Santiago is much nicer

[@JumboShots]

I was brought to this video by another video reviewing yours. Uber in the Dominican Republic actually allows the option to pay in cash. And as someone who’s American, their prices are super cheap. So it does not go against Uber policy in the DR..

[@cynthiajames358]

This was very informative! Thanks so much. 👍🏾

[@elcheckin]

Thank you!

[@TaRonThomasTv]

I died when you talked about ITBIS. I clutched my pearls too seeing this price 🤣

[@ytbenavraham9553]

It's cheaper to fly to Europe than to DR. I was down there this year. Traffic is rough in Santo Domingo it's no different than any major city in the world.

[@elcheckin]

It truly is ! I just want people to know .

[@michaeljones3161]

I’ve worked cooking and serving food for 22 years now. You do not need to give any server 20% of your bill. Pay them what you want to. It’s not your job to pay a servers bills. If a restaurant can’t pay there employees then the owners should be serving the food. I don’t ever give more than %10 of my order. Especially if it’s less than $100. And especially if all they did was take my order and then later simply bring the plate of food to my table.

[@AllanCHAMBERS-nq5re]

U r so right, some nationality love to spend other people hard earned money, and think it's normal, instead of doing there jobs they are looking for scraps,,greed and selfish taking over.......expect, expect, expect, always looking for handout, and if they don't get it u just become there enemy.......

[@cvazlo]

in DR the official currency is the peso. 1 usd equal to 54DR pesos do not pay in USD 😁

[@James_Ford4815]

Been living in DR 7 years now , my one big advice is to wait before approaching a girl to get her number. Watch her for a good 5min from a distance to make sure she doesn't have a bf/brother/father with her (mother/sisters/girlfriends are fine). I leaned this from living in Colombia for 3 years before living in DR. Colombia is no joke , if you disrespect the wrong person by hitting on their girl you'll find yourself without a head. DR is not like that at worst you might get in a fight but still it's better to be cautious and just wait that 5min to make sure they're not walking around with a man.

[@nikki4911]

I almost got scammed two weeks ago with my card at resort. The front desk guy charged my double and acted like he didnt know. Thank goodness i caught it

[@elcheckin]

Yup it happens . You just have to keep your eyes very open always take photo of every receipt!

[@nikki4911]

@@elcheckin oh I did. that's how I caught it

[@JeffYoungSerendipity]

Are you kidding? In the USA it is not expected to tip? This is the same in US and DR. If you haven't been tipping in the US you are a selfish consumer

[@antoniothomas3862]

I've been living in the DR for 3 yrs now. To avoid those credit card scams. Keep cash on you and I let my wife take care of those issues.

[@elcheckin]

Thanks for the tips!

[@MRS.SammeK]

Every state in the USA does not give a living wage for waiting tables. That is messed up to eat out and not tip 15-20% depending on the service.

[@jnorth6022]

Hey, man! Thank you for your factual, thoughtful, though friendly and balanced tips and experiences. Seriously, what you've brought up is important to remember wherever you are, unless you are, like specifically right at home where you know everyone and they know you, they know you're a local to the bone. The Dominican people are mostly really reasonable and friendly, but one has to learn some basic local rules and laws. Your video is insanely helpful. I found it somewhat accidentally, but I know I've learned some, and I've confirmed some of my previous knowledge. Very useful! THANK YOU!

[@fixmypcnetfixmypcnet107]

I will love to hear from you guys, the results, after you apply for a visa to go to Russia or North Korea; to hear that if go there, they will arrest you (They don't do that in DR), to see the US government negotiating your return to USA, because they know that you don't qualify to visit those places. We the Dominican have dual citizenship, so we can travel almost everywhere without visa. That's is cool. On the other hand, did you guys every had the change to see the traffic between NY and NY via the Washington Bridge? What about the Verrazano? Have you being in a party and comeback at 2:am and it takes you 3 hours to find a parking place? We don't have those problems in DR. Talking about crime in DR? I think that before that you have to check the crime rate in NY state.

[@PurelyWalking]

Just to clear up the taxes thing: the 18% is applied to all goods and services, and the 10% is only applied only at restaurants as a tip for the waiter. (that 10% tip is applied by law, thats why its added automatically on the bill). Most people also tip in cash, additional to the 10%, but thats because either they TRULY enjoyed the service, OR because they are not sure if or when the restaurant will give the waiter the 10% they charged.

[@PurelyWalking]

Its also important to mention that some places already add the 18% to the price you see on the tag, so when you go to check out you know exactly what you have to pay beforehand (example: most supermarkets do this)

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

I spent almost a year in the rural areas of Dominican Republic. Way different experience than Santiago and Santo Domingo. Most people don't dare to do that though.

[@elcheckin]

What part bro ? DR is beautiful

[@jaimenyu1128]

please share,,, If you spent it there would be good for others to know I would be open to venturing out of Santo Domingo for a nicer experience.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

@@jaimenyu1128 Well check out Villa Bao,Hato del Yaque, Villa González, Esperanza, La Canela, Moca. I found these towns to be more pleasant and tranquil compared to Santiago and Santo Domingo. They're about 30 minutes to 1 hr drive from Santiago, so if your landing in Santiago International airport, they're easily accessible. You should check out the other towns too you never know what you'll find.

[@Seekingtruth-mx3ur]

@@elcheckin Sorry for the late reply. Check out my reply to Jaime.

[@jaimenyu1128]

Thatnks for the reply... Unfortunately the best price for flight for me was to Santo Domingo.. but I'll make sure to make my stay there very short and will look into getting elsewhere by the day after... Landing... I'm assuming to take Didi taxi or is there a local bus from city to city?? I'm not into resorts at all... I'm into Airbnb ,chill beach vibe but not filled with foreigners like punta cana...:)

[@winsomeg1124]

Glad I found this Video. I have no intention of going there, My daughter & friends planning to visit, None of em speak Spanish. Thanks for sharing.

[@HRHPDTV]

You lost me at NOT tipping. Tipping is just a fundamental fact of dining out, and saying thank you for services rendered. You need to check that brother... NO BUENO!

[@entpsshadow4455]

Lol I just did 4 months there and going back I'm not buying what you're selling

[@HRHPDTV]

@@entpsshadow4455 not tipping is a blatant lack of social graces. Especially in a developing country. Of course you're not buying... You don't even TIP! Dats beyond f*cked up!

[@elcheckin]

I think the tipping culture is changing. Growing up no one I knew tipped. I didn't eat out at all 😂 maybe 3 times in my childhood I went to "dine out" just wasn't something that happened so I was ignorant to tipping.

[@elcheckin]

😂🤣 love it there bro 😎

[@cjdebono8811]

Tipping is a choice due to the service you get. The restaurant should be paying their employees a good wage. It not on the customer. Would you tip at McDonald's? If the service is good I say tip but if it's subpar don't

[@ElvisRandomVideos]

Taxes are high because they don’t have income taxes. They also don’t tax the land, so a lot of what you are charged is to make up for that. It also makes sense because it’s a tourist island so a lot of the income comes from tourism.

[@anthonywilliams2847]

Bro, I just spent 1 month in Santo Domingo! The traffic is hectic but I had a great time! I would say that learning Spanish is a must, but it wasn’t extra loud.

[@elcheckin]

Bro i bet you miss it already ! What part were you in??

[@mrgood1472]

It's loud man

[@louinternational]

can someone tell me how much i should bring if i plan on staying 1 month with my dominicana friend not including airbnb im thinkin 2k usd is enough for a 30 day vacation. food, uber, drinks & maybe personal bottles not boughtin clubs

[@RicardoMartinez-oh9sq]

You did not experience the mosquitoes, did you?

[@McDidi58]

@@louinternational 30 days vacation with "only" 2K and two persons will be a very sober vacation.. the DR is very expensive if you really want to enjoy for 30 days you will have to double at least your budget ....

[@dnell6854]

I just met a Dominican woman in the US but she’s just visiting some family here,I need some Dominican women tips,please do a video,Thanks

[@traceymanzano4015]

I Always tip,was taught this from small!

[@evesdiy3405]

Would you say $6,000 is good to have to spend in the DR?

[@alfredmayes5005]

You went to Punta Cana, the foreign tourist trap because people are conditioned to use the travel apps to book their vacations. I did the same thing my first time visiting. But you learn and adapt. My plan was to go to Punta Cana but I didn’t think I would get bang for my buck plus I didn’t want to be around a bunch of gringos. So I kept researching and found Puerto Plata. An all-inclusive resort just outside the main city, in Costa Dorada. Beachfront resort. I met a beautiful Latina Chica who worked there. I loved it but again, I spent a lot of money of money for 6 days and was left wanting more. Went back two months later and stayed in an Airbnb in El Pueblito in Playa Dorada. A small beach community where the playa was a 3 minute walk away. And Still just outside the main part of the city. I was able to stay 12 days that time and could control what I ate and when. And where I wanted to go. I spent significantly less for 12 days than my 6 day trip. I got burned with gringo taxi prices at the beginning too. Moral of the story, be adventurous and get your mind from thinking to vacation only one way. The hotels are expensive and more controlling and restrictive. Oh yeah, that Chica that I mentioned I met at the hotel, we live together in a 2 bedroom apartment in Torre Alta, a beautiful community in the city. I work from home so I’m able to live out here 10-11 months out of the year. Safe travels everyone!

[@elcheckin]

This is GREAT INFO ive also noticed that If you stay clear of the tourist areas you end up saving so much. This is what happened to me in Mexico also. Thanks for sharing great info

[@mrgood1472]

I think he's in Santiago

[@colletteacciani290]

Please link the airbnb

[@ronniebryant7930]

​@@colletteacciani290 we Kan go together

[@mr.murray8742]

Them Airbnb m’s are the best way to go 😊

[@Angelde21]

Been staying in cabarate/puerto plata for two months. Very accurate review TY!

[@CBatista1234]

So, the message is don't go there. Why did you even bother about making a video complaining about a place you hate?

[@elcheckin]

I love DR ! Did you watch the whole vid ?

[@frankieroldan9944]

Bro, they have a special price for visitors. And don't drink mix drinks, if you're a drinker drink beer, bc. you can get sick, or die.

[@albergaharriott5257]

When I leave a tip or complete a restaurant bill I will always write the total on the top of the receipt . And this is anywhere

[@elcheckin]

Yes exactly . Greta point

[@elcheckin]

Great*

[@beatrenegades]

He ain't lying! Uber in DR is weird. They have their own rules. When they arrive, they'll want cash which is fine, but they'll keep the Uber meter on so you'll pay twice. It's happened every single time I've visited. I highly recommend developing a relationship with a driver and stick with him while you're there because the Uber hustle is serious in Santo Domingo.

[@joeherrera8826]

You also should mention the traffic cause its bad really bad the capital along if your driving you better be a really good driver because its the wild wild west and bring along your patience because when there is a traffic jam its everybody for themselves.

[@elcheckin]

Traffic in SD is crazyyyy

[@danponitlong]

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HONESTY OF DOMINICAN REPUBLIC.

[@ricolaw1033]

I never answer them when they ask where I’m going because I know they’re going to try to raise the price and I don’t pay them cash!! They tried it a few times though. I have a driver too but take Uber for short rides or if my driver is working

[@mrgood1472]

Bro this is a major key!!

[@tubo1639]

Thanks for this video. I have taken the Dominican republic off my list to visit. Too Many hidden tourist costs.

[@MrHeart1]

What kind of common american culture are you talking about? I always tip, particularly here in the U.S. No one is saying tip like you are a baller, but a couple of dollars should not hurt the pockets if you can afford to eat out.

[@snoopynow7523]

That’s what I said!!! Just because he DOESNT TIP don’t try to make it sound like we don’t tip at home. MOST people do! Just not him!!!

[@elcheckin]

Def a generalization 🤭

[@elcheckin]

It's true man good point

[@dinorex5345]

As some one who use to live in the Dominican republic and now lives in Florida i can say that what ever u do in the Dominican republic do not take out ur phone in the middle of the road if someone pulls it's better to just yk and not make the situation worst

[@dominican1005]

guess you are treated like a king in the 🇺🇸, get real,

[@elcheckin]

Scams are everywhere I think I mentioned that

[@johntziannis359]

They expect tips in the states as well. Especially hospitality, guides and taxis.

[@mick-berry5331]

I used to spend my vacations in the US. I don't go there anymore. You don't have to be scammed to get ripped off there anymore. The whole country turned into a rip-off. And regulations everywhere.. free county, my ass. DR did great, congratulations!

[@sikazwejerry4620]

Forgiveness is granted. Thanks

[@elcheckin]

🙏🏽

[@timothysanders1996]

DON'T TIP!!! The line on your bill/ check reading LEY is a 10% tip built in by law! It goes to all employees equally.