Wife and I are going to Puerto Plata first week of April ( VH Gran Ventana ).Any suggestions as to do's and don't's.Best place to exchange currency.popular tours or best value for money tours,thse types of things.Any help would be greatly appreciated.We have been to both Cuba and Mexico so we aren't totally in the dark.
We just booked today for the same resort for the first week in April. As far as money is concern, we always used US money which is widely accepted at most places. You can always exchange it at the airport, hotel or the local bank which I believe is a short walk into Town from the hotel. Last year we left the maid a tip every morning in US and they don't seem to mind. For cheap tours, I would suggest contacting the hotel front desk or walk into Town.
Have a safe trip and glad to see we wont be the only Canadians there.
Go to the little plaza right outside your resort and book your excursions with James - he's a great guy - no pressure and prices are great. He's on the first floor toward the right I believe. We gave US dollars for tipping and the shops will take US dollars as well.
Contributor 
18,149 posts
295 reviews Ok a couple of things
NEVER change your money at the airport or the hotel. They will rip you off on the exchange rate. There is a small shopping plaza (where James is and a good guy for excursions) where you will find places to change your money as well as ATM machines. Most folks only carry enough USD to pay for their tourist card ($10) and exit tax ($20) and then use the ATMs . Do note that the ATM will only give Dominican Pesos and not dollars. Also notify your home bank of your travel plans or they will put a hold on your ATM or credit card with the first use fearing fraud.
The town of Puerto Plata is NOT within walking distance and you will need a cab to get there.
Here is list of sites to look at for tour and excursion info:
Mels www.mel-tour.com
outback safari http://www.outbacksafari.com.do/
Ocean world www.oceanworldadventurepark.com
isairatours: http://www.isairatours.com
Monkey Jungle and zip line: http://www.monkeyjungledr.com (my favorite)
James in Playa Dorada: https:/…home-1
Bavaro runners www.bavarorunners.com/
Hope this helps and have a great time
BObK
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