Money
The best way to manage spending money for food, drinks, gifts, excursions and activities in the Dominican Republic is to withdraw pesos (the local currency DOP) from the ATM machines that are everywhere. It's easy, you will receive the best exchange rate and you can withdraw around 300 USD per day, two times of 5,000 DOP each transaction.
When preparing to travel to the Dominican Republic for the first time in 2003 people advised to only bring US$ or traveller’s cheques. You may bring US$ but it's not necessary.
There are 5 banks into Cabarete, all with ATM machines, and some official currency exchange offices (Agente de Cambio).
Bank list ing :
- Banco Popular - Tel : 809-571-0903 (Cabarete entrance while coming from Sosua)
- Banco de Progresso - Tel : 809-571-0621
- BHD - Tel : 809-571-0662
- Scotiabank - Tel : 809-571-0292 (Cabarete output while coming from Sosua)
- BanReservas - Tel : 809-571-9505 (Cabarete output while coming from Sosua)
For official current exchange rates, look at Banco Central Internet site.
For real rates that you will get in Cabarete, have a look to CabareteGuide
BEWARE, all banks and machines give Pesos, if you want US you must purchase it at the going rate which is high, up to 42% some times so deal with the pesos or bring enough US money for the trip. You also may be SHOCKED, to find that each time that you go to the bank machine the fee is $5 for the withdrawal but it's not indicated on the receipt! Plan your money needs carefully!
