Punta Cana

Side trips are a great idea. Check out the north coast - plan 5 to 7 days to do that!

Thanks! Can you recommend a good place to stay for the 5 to 7 days? Should we rent a car, or use a private car to the area and then rent a car while there???

I can and will do that privately. Unless you speak Spanish and know where you are going i dont recommend renting and driving.

Adventurous take the excellent bus system. If not rent a car and driver - a taxi!!! I can actually send one to pick you up. But we do that closer to the time.

Thanks!

For a few years due to family illness we were traveling back and forth to Orlando from Puerto Plata airport on a regular basis with no problem.
You will find PC is basically a tourist destination and not much of the DR experience to be had there for Expats.

Bob K

I am sending you a private message...

Thanks - what airline do you fly most often when going to/from Orlando?

Do residents need a car in Punta Cana? Hope to make home in the beach area. Could we get by with taxis to get to grocery stores, shopping, etc? Have two cars in FL now, will probably sell the one and open to shipping the other if import tax not too oppressive. If too costly, can decent used cars be found at affordable prices in PC?

Thanks!!!

The short answer is yes, you will probably need or want a car.  Local bus service is available on most main streets and is the most economical way to get around.  Taxis can be expensive until you get to know a taxi driver or two.  Also, where you are taking the taxi to also plays in the price negotiation.  Grocery store is cheaper than going to the 5 star restaurant next to it!  Short rides in and around the local areas colmados etc., moto conchos are available.  In the end if you are here for any time then you will want to get a car.  Having said that, you will need a cedula to get a dominican driver's license.  I'm not saying that is necessary for you but may be a consideration.  Cars are expensive in DR but they also hold their prices much better.  I don't suggest buying too new as they may just become a magnet for every motorcycle\dominican driver to use for target practice.  Shipping and licensing can be cheap if you find yourself a car dealer in DR that's willing to help you out...

Bringing a car in is expensive - less so if you combine with your residencia application. Vehicle must be fully owned and less than 5 years old!

With residencia you are allowed one contai er which may include the vehicle.  It is still not cheap.

Be mindful of the type of vehicle as to repairs and parts availability!

All the info on the car issue  is correct.
As to flying to POP, we fly AA from Orlando to Miami then connect to POP.  Easy one day trip.  You can also fly from MIA to Santiago and then a $100 cab ride to the north coast.  Sometimes this is a much cheaper option.  In either case getting here from Orlando is not a big deal

Bob K

Thanks! Starting to get some of the basics down. All of the information provided on these forums is GREATLY APPRECIATED!

Bob which airline do you fly between Orlando from Puerto Plata ?

AA from Orlando to PP via Miami.  It is a pretty easy connection and we do it all the time.

Bob K

Getting closer to our trip. Anyone familiar with the "STANZA MARE” in Los Corales? This will be home for two months while we explore housing options. Nice area? Things to do close by?

Thanks!

Jgolak...Hi I don't live in PC yet, we sold our condo there and are looking for something else but we will buy in that same town Los Corales and.      El Cortecito area. It is very nice with a Expats living there and everything is within walking distance and 10 min to get to bigger stores or mall (can take bus or taxi). Beautiful beaches with crystal turquoise waters white sand! And a LOT of restaurants and bars to entertain yourselves!  Have fun!!

THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE REPLY!

We're excited about getting there!