How to Do Dominican Republic on a Budget

The Dominican Republic is a land of such beauty that everywhere you look is another opportunity to stare in wonder. It might be hard to believe a place this beautiful can be an affordable vacation destination, but you may be surprised at just how affordable a sightseeing vacation can be. After all, with so much natural sumptuousness available for free, you could arguably spend nary a cent over the cost of your meals and accommodations. However, as wondrous as the natural sights are, there may come a time when you wish to see a certain attraction or take part in an exciting sport and knowing how to do the Dominican Republic on a budget will come in handy.

Budget Accommodations in the Dominican Republic

The Barcelo Hotel in Punta Cana is a reasonably priced resort where you can enjoy beachfront accommodations starting at around $73 per night. The resort is currently making some renovations, such as the addition of a second pool and rebuilding its theater, however, it is still open for guests on a budget. Plenty of exciting amenities like rock climbing walls, scuba diving lessons and even a circus trapeze are available for your enjoyment. The resort also features some great on-site dining options like Tepanyaki and La Dolce Vita.

Also in the Punta Cana area is the Barcelo Bavaro Hotel. It features 600 rooms that start around $80 per night. For your benefit, the rates are all-inclusive and cover all of your meals, drinks and accommodations. Want to try one of the hotel's exciting water sports? Go ahead -- they're covered in the price too!

Budget Dining in the Dominican Republic

If you chose an all-inclusive vacation package, then your meals are already paid for. However, if you're not on an all-inclusive package, then finding an inexpensive restaurant will be easy. Thanks to the current exchange rate of 35 pesos to the dollar, you can sit back and enjoy a delicious taste of authentic Dominican Republic food for around $8…for two! Try the delicious lobster at Capitan Cook in Punta Cana or the famous steaks at El Toro in Sousa for a luxurious meal that just nibbles at your wallet. Ultimately, you can expect perfectly prepared dishes of varying international cuisines in most of the Dominican Republic's cities and villages.

Budget Attractions in the Dominican Republic

Most visitors to the island will have a hard time stealing away from the heavenly Dominican Republic beaches, but in the event that you do, the country is teeming with inexpensive attractions, both natural and man-made. For instance, the North Coast is home to some of the most gorgeous lagoons in the world. The Blue Lagoon and Dudu Lagoon of Cabrera, the Gri Gri Lagoon of Rio San Juan and many others offer shimmering highlights to any vacation. In Puerto Plata, a cable car ride to the top of Mount Isabela de Torres is an inexpensive and visual way to spend the day. Just be sure to bring your camera, as there will be plenty to remember from this magnificent site. Once you get to the top, the statue of Christ the Redeemer will welcome you with open arms.

The picturesque national parks found in the southern region of Barahona are another great way to have a wonderful experience while not breaking the bank. And be sure to visit the village of Altos de Chavón. Here, you can marvel at the many art galleries and museums that only cost a pittance to get in. With the money you save, purchase some works of art from the local artisans in town, they'll greatly appreciate it and you'll go home with a one-of-a-kind Dominican original.

How to Plan Your Budget-Conscious Vacation to the Dominican Republic

The best way plan a Dominican Republic vacation on a budget is to plan your trip thoroughly before you even make your reservations. Use the Internet to discover the out-of-the-way places where you can get a cheap but authentic meal or an affordable hotel room. Online, you can even find advice and tips from previous travelers, detailing everything from the best places to see or the worst places to eat. By researching and pre-planning your visit, you'll have no problem enjoying the best of the Dominican Republic even if you're keeping to a budget.