Dominican Republic Virtual Tour

Sample Itineraries

Dominican Republic FAQs

Is the Dominican Republic Safe?

• Yes, the country is very safe for tourists with petty theft being the biggest risk in larger cities.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

• Spanish is not required to join a trip. There will be an interpreter for the group at all times. However, we recommend you brush up on your vocabulary because you will be able to immerse yourself in the projects and communities more through Spanish.

What’s the weather like?

• The Dominican Republic is a great place to visit all year round. Generally, the DR is hot and sunny during the day and can be rainy year round, with the most rainfall in November and December. However, we encourage you to check the weather in anticipation for your trip.

Is it safe to drink the tap water at hotels?

• No, it is not safe to drink the tap water in the DR, as it is not purified. Always drink bottled water, available in abundance at your resort or in the neighborhood stores and supermarkets.

Will businesses accept American dollars?

• Businesses in tourist destinations, including restaurants, souvenir shops, and supermarkets tend to accept dollars, though you will receive a less favorable rate than at the banks. That said, most prices in the Dominican Republic are in Dominican pesos.

Do cell phones work in the Dominican Republic?

• You will need to utilize an international plan when visiting the Dominican Republic. A good alternative solution is to install Whatsapp to text and video chat for free whenever you are on WIFI. Whatsapp is incredibly fast and efficient. However, in case of emergencies, your guide or translator will always have access to cell service. 

What are some typical foods?

• Dominican food is very diverse. Some common examples include mangú (green plantains, boiled and mashed), fried salami, rice, red kidney beans, meat stews, tostones (mashed and double-fried green plantains), and lots of delicious seafood.

Are there vegan or vegetarian options available?

• Yes, we collect your dietary preferences before your trip and we will work with restaurants to prepare meals to your liking. 

Have a more specific question? Please reach out to your professor leading this trip

Nicaragua FAQs

Is Nicaragua Safe? 

• Nicaragua is considered to be the safest country in Latin America. Western Nicaragua, where our trips take place, is especially safe.

Do I need to speak Spanish? 

• Spanish is not required to join a trip. There will be an interpreter for the group at all times. However, we recommend you brush up on your vocabulary because you will be able to immerse yourself in the projects and communities more through Spanish.

Can I receive community service hours?

• Yes. We can certify any community service hours completed as part of your itinerary. You must provide us with the appropriate form to complete.

What’s the weather like? 

• Nicaragua has a tropical climate with both a rainy and dry season. During the dry season, there is virtually no rain. Expect rain once or twice a day during the rainy season. Temperatures range from the low-70s to the high-90s for most of the year, with colder evening temperatures in the north.

Do cell phones work in Nicaragua?

• You will need to utilize an international plan when visiting Nicaragua. A good alternative solution is to install Whatsapp to text and video chat for free whenever you are on WIFI. Whatsapp is incredibly fast and efficient. However, in case of emergencies, your guide or translator will always have access to cell service. 

Have a more specific question? Please reach out to your professor leading this trip

What would be my responsibilities as a professor/group leader?

• Comunidad Connect handles all in country logistics, vendor payments, reservations, transportation and lodging, project and activity prep and execution, community site visits, and tourism activities. Group leaders can focus on learning objectives, group dynamics, and enjoying time abroad with students and colleagues. Comunidad Connect staff is also available for pre and post trip meetings with the group, if desired.

Can I create my own itinerary?

• Yes, of course. We have a booklet of example itineraries to show trip structure. However, all education abroad journeys are customized to achieve learning objectives and unforgettable experiences for students and faculty

Where are education abroad trips offered?

• Currently Comunidad Connect travels to Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, yet we are always building relationships for future destinations.

Who will I work with to plan a trip?

• Directly with CEO, Jon Thompson and Marketing Manager, Adam Rosendale

Does Comunidad Connect have experience working with Universities and Education Abroad programs?

• Yes, we have -for 10 years with professors from various universities (see list below) to create memorable education abroad learning experiences 

How do I get started?

• Contact info@comunidadconnect.org to begin a conversation today

What in-country risk management & emergency protocols are currently set in place?

• We have created Health and Safety plans for both Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. 

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