Money in the Dominican Republic: pesos, cards and tipping

The currency is the Dominican peso. Dollars and euros are accepted in tourist areas but usually at a poor rate, so change some money or withdraw pesos from an ATM. Cards work in hotels, supermarkets and larger restaurants. Cash is essential for beach shacks, colmados, markets, guaguas and tips. Keep small notes, because change for a large bill is often a problem. Restaurants add ten percent service and eighteen percent tax to the bill by law. The service charge does not always reach the staff, so an extra five to ten percent in cash is normal for good service. For guides and drivers, a few hundred pesos per person for a half day tour is a fair tip. Hotel housekeeping appreciates a small daily amount left in the room. Finally, check whether your bank charges a foreign transaction fee, and always choose to be charged in pesos rather than your home currency when the ATM offers.