About Dominican Republic
Political system: Democratic Republic
Oficial language: Spanish
Population: Over 11 millions
Geographic location: The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Haiti, named by the first conquistadors of Hispaniola. It was from here that the European conquest of the American continent began. The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus on December 5, 1492.
Climate: humid tropical, land of eternal summer. Average temperatures from 25 to 35 celsius
Local time: Dominican Republic observes Atlantic Standard Time (AST) all year. There are no Daylight Saving Time clock changes.
Currency: The Dominican Peso (DOP) is the official currency in the Dominican Republic. The symbol for the Peso is RD$.
Economy: tourism, sugar production, gold and nickel mining, cement and tobacco
Agriculture: coffee, cocoa, sugarcane, fruit, cotton, rice
Cuisine: a combination of European, African and local recipes (extensive use of legumes, bananas and local root vegetables that taste like potatoes. More chicken and pork and beef than fish)
Alcoholic beverages: The national drink of the Dominican Republic is rum (spelled "ron"). The most popular varieties are Barcelo, Brugal, Oliver. Local brands of beer "Kiskeia", "Presidente" and "Bohemia" are also famous for good quality. Mamahuana rum tincture is considered a popular drink.
Water: It is highly recommended to use bottled water for drinking
Religion: Catholic (95%), some residents are adherents of local cults (voodoo). Freedom of religion is highly practiced and respected