The Dominican Republic announced its’ most recent Covid protocols for Canadians, including the fact that PCR tests are not required on arrival, saving hundreds of dollars for a typical family on vacation. As regular flights resume from major cities to the popular airport hubs of Punta Cana and Puerto Plata, visitors will have a random temperature check and breath tests administered at the airport upon landing. Prior to their incoming and outgoing flights, visitors will be required to complete a user-friendly arrival E-TICKET that includes a health declaration and immigration information. The protocols have been created to be the most straightforward and easy to understand in the entire Caribbean.

According to David Collado, Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, the system was created to simplify the arrival and departure process and ensure that Canadians know they are welcome back this winter. “Many islands have complex and confusing rules – it’s a barrier to travel. While major airlines are requiring PCR tests to board the plane, some destinations also require post-arrival PCR testing and quarantine. This is not only stressful; it can be expensive. With vaccine levels high in both the DR and Canada, we are confident in providing a safe and carefree vacation to our visitors without the need for post-arrival testing. Canadians are waiting to exhale – and there is no better place to plan a vacation in the sun this winter.”

Hotels are required to adhere to some of the strongest sanitation and safety rules in the region, with all hotel staff fully vaccinated and currently awaiting booster shots for maximum immunity. The DR also has a huge selection of excellent all-inclusive resorts in all price ranges to allow guests who want to be extra careful the chance to stay within resort walls and still enjoy access to a wide variety of activities and restaurants.

“Research is telling us that people are exhausted and they want to feel the sun on their faces in a safe environment they can enjoy at a reasonable price. For the past year, we have been working hard behind the scenes to enforce strong safety measures in all sectors – including tours, food and beverage, airports and hospitality – to be ready when travel resumes. We are proud to say we can now confidently welcome our Canadian friends and return visitors “home” to the Dominican Republic this fall and winter,” says Minister Collado.