R
Richard
Guest
Many would say that tackiness is in the eye of the beholder. True enough, but here are a few thoughts on the tacky tourist when you visit the DR. First of all, bikinis on men and women belong at the beach or pool, not in shops, restaurants or on the main street. There is nothing tackier than the sight of an obese middle-aged man, fat gut hanging over a Speedo, walking down the main street his arm wrapped around a teen-aged Dominican girl. Women should remember, topless bathing is frowned upon and offensive to most Dominicans. When using a motoconcho or regular taxi, no matter how many visits you have made in the past and you think you know the price should be, agree first, it?s tacky to end up arguing about the fare after you have used his services. Although it?s customary for a 10% service charge to be added to restaurant and bar bills, that 10% is divided up amongst the waiter, bartender, cooks and cleaning staff, so it is a nice gesture to leave an extra propina (tip) for the waiter when you leave. It is impolite and tacky to whistle, hiss whistle or snap your fingers for the waiter even if the service is a little slow. Ask permission before you take photos of any locals. If you take a commercial tour, your tour guide should have a tip also. When you holiday is over, even if you are staying at an inclusive resort, be sure to leave extra for the room maid, waiter and bartender. Be sure to hang onto the $10.00U.S. departure tax to pay at the airport. Even though you may be able to wriggle your way out of it with pesos, the country needs American dollars, why not co-operate and finish your visit as a good guest who has shown respect for your hosts. No doubt others have similar suggestions, those are but a few.