have lived in SD for many,many years without car.I walk,and use publicos most of the time.If I do need a cab,I call Apolo or Aero...you can go to about any part of city for 200 pesos or less....mostly less.I live in Zona Colonial,but walk or publico to the Churchill area for shopping very often....usually walk there and take cab back with groceries,etc...Of course,there is about everythig I need close by my apt here in Zona Colonial...I also have a house in Samana,and take Guagua from SD to there for 350.pesos...drops me off in front of my house in El Limon.3 hours or less.
bob