Advice On Car Hire In Dominican Republic

74jax

I used this website a few weeks ago to get a quote for car hire in Dominican Republic for 1 week starting 30th July. The best site was Travelsupermarket who gave me Budget at a price of 82.00, now I've gone to book it and the price is 119.00 a huge difference. Does anyone know a cheap way of getting car hire, i've had a quick look on this site but can't find anything. I was hoping to only spend around 85.00 on this.

turtle2k1

Have you ever drove in the Dominican Republic before? I'd think twice before hiring a car out there.

74jax

No, I've been before but never drove. Landing at Puerta Plata and staying in Caberete which I believe isn't too far away, but whenever I go anywhere I always drive about, last time I was in Dom Rep was in 2001 and we weren't allowed out of the hotel due to violence.... obviously it's ok now so thought this would be the best way to get about. I kite surf and so public transport isn't the best option with all my kit.

covlass

My husband would never drive in DR they donot follow rules like they do in the UK or the states. We stay in Sousa when we go to DR we always get the reception to book us a taxi and agree on a price for taking us and bringing us back and never pay until we are back home. We stayed near Puerta Plata once and was advised not to leave the complex, however it is quite safe to walk in sosua but would be with caution in the evening.

74jax

Thanks Covlass, you've obviously beena few times, if there lots to see? Is the marine park worth it? I know you get to swim with dolphins but is there a lot else to do? I also fancy the monster truck day too, although it's a long time to take out from the sea (learning to kitesurf!). The driving bit doesn't bother me at all, we've driven in far worse. Where we are staying is absolutely fine for going out and about - that was one of the first things I checked up on and checked loads of site, reviews and government sites too. Fingers crossed its windy ;-)

El_Rey

74Jax - Join the forum at https://www.debbiesdominicantravel.com they will be able to give you any further advice you need.

Covlass - Where did you stay when you were advised not to go out of the hotel? It has never happened to us before.

74jax

oooo many thanks, I'll go and check it out now.:beer:

pattycake

The general advice about car hire in the Dom Rep is - DON'T. Not only do the drivers ignore all rules of the road, if you should be unlucky enough to be involved in an accident, the police will side with the locals and you could well find yourself staying in free but very unpleasant accommodation.

I have been to the DR many times. We have used taxis and as long as you agree a price beforehand, we have not had any problems. Public transport can be a bit hit and miss too. A taxi is the best route. If you use debbie's site as recommended by ifcsja, you will no doubt get a link with a company which you can book before you leave the UK.

pinkcandyflossprincess

I wouldnt drive there as when i went last they had built a duel carriage way to peurto plata town however drivers were racing up and down on both sides.
i did live in santo domingo when i was seventeen and its even more mental there.
better to flag a publico... local mini bus.. and travel with locals for a few pence rather than pay the crazy taxi fares.
good luck if you do drive there though:eek:

covlass

Jax74
We have been 5 times now it is a great place to go for either rest or go & do lots of things. We have been to ocean world and yes there are lots of things to do. I would reccomend the dolphine swim rather than the interaction & yes it is well worth the money. We have aso been to discovery cove in florida & Ocean worls in DR was better. Moster truck is a great day out & it is a day but again well worth the trip.
Catamarans are good fun, Cayo parisio or Paradise Island are good for snorkelling. Sousua beach is good fun on a Sunday or bank holiday as lots of local go with their families & they know how to have a good time. Sousa also has the market and is great for snorkelling

The first time we went we stayed in Hotetur Dorado resort, Puerto Plata, we were advised not to the the gated community, to be honset never had the need to as its in quite a arge village style resort. We now go to Sosua every year and love it.