Las Terrenas

Language

In Las Terrenas the official spoken language is Spanish however, English is also widely spoken.

Currency

In Las Terrenas the official currency is the Dominican Republic Peso (DOP).

Best travel time

Las Terrenas has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C throughout the whole year. It is constantly sunny and warm with some wind at certain times in the year.

Visa requirements

Depending on which country you come from you might need a visa, however when coming from most European countries a visa is not required to enter Las Terrenas. One has to bring a valid passport and will need to obtain a Tourist Card upon arrival.

Vaccinations

Other than the standard vaccinations, when travelling to Las Terrenas there are no special vaccinations needed.

Traditions and Culture

Customs / Culture / Traditions Las Terrenas is a city in the province “Samaná”, this used to be a famous slave trade port during the 17th century. The city has become more multicultural due to immigration; therefore the inhabitants in Las Terrenas are a mix of Spanish, African and Taino descent. Despite the history there is not too much culture within Las Terrenas however a Tradition which is extremely important to the city and its locals is the “merengue dancing”.

Religion

Most inhabitants in Las Terrenas are Catholic.

By bus

When in Las Terrenas it is easiest to walk everywhere as everything is in walking distance. However some public transportation services are the “motoconchos” which are motorcycle taxis, these are cheap and fast and the “Guaguas” which are mini-van buses that simply pick you up on the road and drop you of on the road.

By plane

When travelling to Las Terrenas the closest airport of “Samana International Airport” which receives international and domestic flights flying in and out on a daily basis. The airport is about 45 minutes away from Las Terrenas city center. At the airport you can hire a car which should be ordered in advance.

By taxi

In Las Terrenas you can find taxis at the airport, or at taxi stands or simply order them at the hotel you are staying at. Montoconchos” are motorcycle taxis and “carros publicos / conchos” are shared taxis which are very local transportation services.

Experience and enjoy

Lifestyle / Sights Las Terrenas is a beach resort therefore the most important things to do and see are the beaches. There you can do many different water sports or simply relax on the beach. However some culture can be discovered in Las Terrenas which will also give you and insight of the lifestyle led in the city. This includes the “Mercado Modelo Market Hall”, paintings in galleries or in street stands, “Major Amber reserves” which are a very special contribution to the city and some other sights.

Events

Local events and festivals are held often in Las Terrenas, these will include local music, food and drinks where people dance and enjoy themselves. A known event though is Carnival which is held throughout February. This is probably the biggest event in Las Terrenas.

Food

In Las Terrenas the local food is always very fresh and consists mainly of rice, fresh seafood, meats and fresh vegetables. Some culinary specialties include “Sancocho prieto” which is a thick soup with meat, “arros con marisco” which is seafood mixed with local rice and “mangu” which are mashed plantains.