Weather:
The Dominican Republic is a lush tropical destination. The rain that produces the lush vegetation is more frequent in the winter months. So expect it to be a little wetter and somewhat cooler in the winter. Generally it will be in the mid-80’s during the day and a bit cooler at night. The water temp is between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Language:
Most local people speak Spanish, although there is a small community of French-speaking Canadians. The hotels all have some staff that are fluent in English. The Vela Center staff speaks English, Spanish, German, Swiss, and French.

Currency/credit cards:
American currency (US$) is the easiest to convert into Dominican Pesos once you are here. The best place to convert your dollars is at the airport, the banks in Sosua or Cabarete. Exchanging is also available at local hotels, or specially designated money exchange booths. The Vela Cabarete Windsurf Center does take credit cards for any additional services or goods you may want to purchase on-site. Major credit cards are accepted only by some establishments in the tourist areas, including our hotels and condos, which will allow you to run a bar and meal tab.

Do not depend on your credit cards to get you through your vacation. We suggest you arrive with about $70 in small bills including two $10 bills per person to purchase your tourist cards upon arrival and pay airport departure tax when leaving the country. We also recommend you bring extra cash or traveler's checks of at least $40 per person per day of stay and a few personal checks (if you plan on purchasing any gear bring extra traveler's checks). You may go home with most of it, but if you want it, you’ll have it.

Electrical voltage:
110 volt, same outlets as North America