Moving to Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic
Last updated on Jul 02, 2023
Summary: Moving to Punta Cana, Dominican Rep? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to Punta Cana.
What do I need to know before moving to Punta Cana?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Punta Cana, they said:
"Before moving to Punta Cana, expats should know that Spanish is the official language, so learning some basic phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but imported goods can be expensive. The local currency is the Dominican Peso, but US dollars are widely accepted. Healthcare facilities in Punta Cana are of a good standard, but it's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance. The tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water is the norm. The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year, and a hurricane season from June to November. Punta Cana is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded during peak travel seasons. The local cuisine is a mix of Spanish, African, and Taino influences, with dishes featuring rice, beans, meat, and seafood. The city is generally safe, but like any place, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime. Public transportation is not very reliable, so many expats choose to rent or buy a car. The real estate market offers a variety of options, from luxury villas to more modest apartments. Finally, it's important to understand the local customs and traditions, as Dominicans are known for their friendly and hospitable nature," commented one expat who made the move to Punta Cana.
How do I find a place to live in Punta Cana?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Punta Cana?
- How do I find a place to live in Punta Cana?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Punta Cana?
- What is the average cost of housing in Punta Cana?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Punta Cana?
- What should I pack when moving to Punta Cana?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Punta Cana?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Punta Cana?
- What are healthcare services like in Punta Cana?
- Is the cost of living in Punta Cana high?
- Will I save money living in Punta Cana?
- Why do people move to Punta Cana?
- How are healthcare services in Punta Cana?
- What are medical services in Punta Cana like?