With gorgeous turquoise waters and white sand beaches, Punta Cana is one of the hottest travel destinations for people looking for a tropical paradise. While traveling to any foreign country always comes with a few adjustments, people from all over the world tend to find an instant sense of comfort in the Dominican Republic.
Today, Punta Cana gets over three million visitors each year, which means that the beaches, resorts, and hotels here are all staffed with people who speak a variety of languages to ensure that customer service is always a priority.
Since Spanish is the primary language in Punta Cana, many people worry about not being able to speak the language.
As you prepare for your trip, keep this key information in mind about how to enjoy a luxurious vacation in one of the most beautiful places in the world when you are not familiar with the Spanish language.
Feel Comfortable in an Inclusive Environment
The Dominican Republic educational system supports bilingual learning, and the students there are offered the opportunity to take English as a second language.
For this reason, you will find that the majority of the people that you come across have at least a rudimentary understanding of the key phrases that you use to shop, dine and enjoy the many entertainment options that exist on the island.
You’ll also find that many prominent tourist locations include the English language on their signs, which makes it easy to find your way around Punta Cana, even when it is your first time visiting the destination.
Be Patient When Traveling Off the Beaten Path
Naturally, you will come across a few people who only speak Spanish. However, the people of the Dominican Republic are some of the friendliest that you will ever encounter, and they will go out of their way to help you feel comfortable if you cannot speak their language.
While most of the locals in the hospitality industry know English quite well, you may encounter only Spanish speakers if you decide to take an excursion that allows you to mingle more with the locals.
Consider Learning a Few Key Phrases
Speaking Spanish isn’t required when you visit Punta Cana, but it always helps to learn a few key phrases that make it clear how much you love the Dominican culture. Often, just a simple gracias is all it takes to bring a big smile to the face of one of the many people who help you enjoy your vacation.
You’ll also find that these key phrases help you streamline the process of communicating with hotel staff and servers at your favorite restaurants.
• Please – por favor
• Thank you – gracias
• You’re welcome -de nada
• No, thank you – no, gracias
• I’m sorry – lo siento
• Do you speak English? – habla Inglés?
• I don’t understand – no entiendo
As you see, many of these phrases are some that you may already be familiar with, and you can also utilize technology to help in situations where you may need to communicate with someone who does not speak English.
Many travel guides and smartphone apps have English to Spanish translating options that help you communicate with everyone you meet.
Embrace the Dominican Culture
Letting go of any worries that you have about a language barrier allows you to dive into the Dominican culture and learn more about what makes this such a wonderful place to visit.
Sign up for beachside yoga or salsa dance lessons at your all-inclusive resort, or arrange to go on an exciting excursion that takes you deeper into the natural rainforests that exist throughout Punta Cana.
As you get to know the locals and explore the vast lands that make up the Dominican Republic, you may just find that you learn a few new Spanish phrases that get you excited about your next visit.
Whether you are a first-time international traveler or have a heavily stamped passport, your trip to Punta Cana gives you a new perspective on what it means to travel to another country.
In fact, most people discover that they instantly feel at home in a country that embraces the opportunity to show off their gorgeous beaches and opportunities for entertainment.
