Tag: travel
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Common Dominican Spanish Greetings
Most people know that Dominicans have some of the funnest Spanish around. The slang, the expressions, the energy— it’s always a good time. Dominican Spanish has a way of making even the simplest greeting feel a little more lively. Here are some of the Dominican greetings and slang expressions I picked up while living in…
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How Much Do Peace Corps Volunteers Get Paid? My Budget in the Dominican Republic
Do Peace Corps volunteers get paid? There are many financial questions surrounding Peace Corps volunteers. And I understand the confusion. We are called volunteers, so you would think the position is unpaid. But nope—we still get a paycheck, or a stipend as they call it. As a returned Peace Corps volunteer who served in the Dominican…
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Is Peace Corps Worth It? What I Wish I Knew Before Serving in the Dominican Republic
After two years serving as a youth development volunteer in the Dominican Republic, I came home with a lot more than a stamp in my passport. I taught sexual health education to middle schoolers, learned to live without running water and consistent electricity, made friends who became family, and discovered — sometimes the hard way…
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10 things to do Exploring the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo
The Colonial Zone in Santo Domingo is considered the first city of the New World, founded in 1492 by Christopher Columbus. It features cobblestone streets, statues, cathedrals, and even a canon and wall for defense. While many parts of Santo Domingo (think Chinatown) can be busy and chaotic, the Zona Colonial is calm, fun, and…
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The Best and Worst About Living in the Dominican Republic
I moved to the Dominican Republic almost exactly two years ago — not to Santo Domingo, Santiago, or the beach towns, but to rural communities most foreigners never see. Two years in, I’ve loved things deeply and been driven crazy by others. Read on to discover both the best and worst parts of living in…
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Santo Domingo or Punta Cana? Which Dominican City Is Right for You
Santo Domingo and Punta Cana are the most visited and well-known destinations in the Dominican Republic, but they offer completely different experiences. While both attract millions of visitors each year, choosing between them depends on the kind of trip you want. I’ll take you through those differences, to help you decide which destination is right…
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10 Essential Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips (Safety, Transport, Carnival & More)
Rio de Janeiro is one of the most exciting cities in the world. Between the famous beaches, vibrant nightlife, incredible food, and the legendary Carnival celebrations, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone. However, it helps to know a few things before you go. Here are 10 important travel tips for visiting Rio de…
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How Much Does a Trip to Rio Cost? What I Spent During Carnival
Here’s the total breakdown of what I spent for a 9-day trip to Rio de Janeiro during Carnaval as a budget traveler. I went on this trip with my best friend, and since it was Carnival and a once in a lifetime trip, I definitely spent more than I normally would. That said, I still…
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Dominican Culture Shocks the U.S. Should Learn From
The Dominican Republic and the United States couldn’t be more different when it comes to culture. The DR is family-oriented, lively, and a little chaotic—yet somehow still relaxed and carefree. There are plenty of things here that make me want to bang my head against the wall, but there are also things in the DR…
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Discover Las Terrenas: A Hidden Gem in the DR
Planning a trip to Las Terrenas? This guide covers everything from stunning beaches and day trips to nightlife, shopping, and local tips—perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families looking to explore the best of this laid-back beach town.
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What to Pack for the Dominican Republic: Tips from an Expat
Packing for the Dominican Republic isn’t just about swimsuits and sunscreen. After living here for over a year, I’ve learned the must-have items that will keep you comfortable whether you’re lounging on a resort beach or exploring off-the-beaten-path villages. Avoid common packing mistakes with my insider tips and prepare for every side of the DR…
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I Started Traveling the World at 18 — Here’s How You Can Too
At 18, I packed my bags with almost no money and started traveling the world anyway. This post breaks down exactly how I made it work — from budgeting and side hustles to free stays and fearless decision-making. If you dream of traveling young, this is your sign to start.
