TammyWright

welcome to the forum! dont give up on may yet...you may not get a saturday or sunday wedding, but i think mondays aren't bad... let us know how we can help!

Quote: Originally Posted by SASSYGIRL Thanks for looking out for me tammy! I trust these girls like I would my best girlfriends so I didn't even think about it....must be my blonde side coming out! its not the ladies ON the forum but the ones that are on as guests.

Melia Puerto Vallarta Meliá Puerto Vallarta is a paradise for families and couples, where there is something for everyone and where everything is included. A wide variety of snacks and meals, domestic and imported drinks and recreational activities for all ages, spectacular evening shows performed by professional dancers, with a different program every night, and the largest pool in Vallarta! The Flintstones have found the perfect place for their holidays: they are staying with your family in one of our first theme hotels: Yabba-Dabba-Doo bazaar, Roca Flash, RocAdventure, Baby Rock Club, Bamm Bamm Club and Cool Club. Let yourself be surprised!

Quote: Originally Posted by EDYTA hey ladies this might be a stupid question but hopefully one of u can answer it.... do u know of any laundry places near by dreams other than the in room ones? as terry and i will be there for 2 weeks we need to wash our clothes cause i can't take that many clothes to last 4 2 weeks...so if anyone can help that would be awesome i know they have laundry services available at the resort for a fee. you may want to ask yessica or mariana.

Hey Ladies, I know you trust each other BUT PM your addy to Genda. DO NOT post it on the forum (you nevber know!) ps. glenda that is so sweet of you to do this!

welcome tot he forum angela! there are a bunch of other riu and riu palace brides who i am sure can help you!

Quote: Originally Posted by AQHARIDER I never got anything from my secret Santa... I'm totally not writing this to complain or anything, and if you're still working on it, no prob. I was just thinking if you mailed it and it never got to me you might want to know... somebody did have a package returned to them. now that i know it was you, i will PM them with the addy

what about here, it is in mexico but a private island. http://bestdestinationwedding.com/forum/t777

steve would probably: NOT change: seeing me walk down the aisle all the events we had planned (welcome dinner etc.) having our meals with our guests (breakfast, lunch by the pool, dinner) CHANGE: he would probably skip out on deep sea fishing. a few friends were hung over and got seasick and it was alot of $$ and i think he would have preferred to surf. not taken the dancing class i made him do. the instructor was kooky and steve absolutely would not do the dance she horeographed for us (even though it was over the top)

Quote: Originally Posted by Julesr We have not decided yet. Costa Rica is our number 1 choice, but we want to make sure is affordale enough, we are aiming for beautiful but for under $1200 for our guests. There are places there that are that cheap, but we want to make sure they are really nice. Panama is very nice and very affordable, so it will be there for sure, if we can't find what we want in Costa Rica. the guanacaste area is really nice.

Quote: Originally Posted by Julesr Thanks for the advice. I wanted to do a donation as well, I might go that route, just easier. Also, I get the idea of what OOT is, but what does it stand for, its driving me nuts that I can't figure it out Out Of Town stuff for you guests to make their trip easier...mini advils, pepto, underwater disposable camera, etc...it is fun to do!

Quote: Originally Posted by pinaychic i'm all confuse. i'm new at site. i'm mainly interested in dreams cancun and moon palace hi there, there are quite a few dreams cancun and moon palace brides here...jilly, brendastar, onelove...what would you like to know?

hey ann, another bride on here (tara-blonde) had her wedding in cabo then legally got married in hawaii...she is in africa right now but she would have a bunch of info and how to deal with the legal stuff. but honestly, most likely the resort will be able to help you even if it is just the 2 of you. my gf got married in hawaii with just the 2 of them.. also, ask sherri. but since it is the US it should be very easy.

Quote: Hm, well, I guess we have to open up our options to other locations to better accomodate our situation (maybe we'll save Cabo for our honeymoon!!!). So in summary of our wedding needs: Budget - 20-25k (CDN) to stay in that budget with THAT many people you will probably need to go AI Quote: Guests - approximately 150 (needs to be affordable, easy to book for that many people) what about puerto vallarta? dreams PV is alot less expensive than Dreams Cabo. it is an AI and has a private beach Ceremony - would like traditional Catholic ceremony well this may pose some problems unless you do it in a church Quote: Reception - this is where we thought DW could save us some money, but we want it to be a private event (no wandering sunbathers or other toursists in t background) see above. dream puerto vallarta? I am open to looking at other locations in Mexico (maybe Dominican)? How did you gals plan your DW when it came to confirming numbers? Did you send out invites first to get confirmed number of guests? How do you do that without booking the location first? And how do you book unless you know how many guests are attending? I feel like it's a catch 22??

i ansered in red Quote: Originally Posted by salsa_bride Many of our guests are part of families of 4 or 5 (many will probably book together) with many children - so that should cut odwn on number of rooms needed. most resort will not allow that many people in a room unless they were newborns or something. you may have to do some finagling like "putting" a kid in another room or something At least in Cabo, we can arrange to at least TRY to have everyone in one place or be in the same vicinty... Are resorts in Cabo close to each other?there are alot of resorts close to each other...the 3 main sections of cabo are: San Jose Del Cabo, Los Cabos (Resort Corridor) or cabo san lucas. what about PB chain? They have sister resorts of different fees...they also have suites with kitchenettes for family and are really good price but not AI

selloffvacations does not do group rates if i remember correctly. i remember someone trying to get them to. also, 150 guests is ALOT (75 rooms), you will really need to get that room block in place pretty quickly ESPECIALLY if you plan it at dreams since they only have about 330 rooms total and book to capcity about 98% of the year... just saw you are not getting married until april 2008...i thought 2007 and alsmost had a heart attack. ps. it will be very difficult to get 1 week package under $1500 for an AI in cabo. even if you use sell off. they have a very limited amount of rooms at the sale price. but you can try. i did find group rates out of toronto for about $1700CAD including air, room, transfers and taxes.

we did not do favors but instead did OOT bags...we did not want to bring extra stuff and have our guests carry stuff back BUT if you must send it, do it DHL and see if the wedding coord. at the resort will hold it for you...or your WC

my girlfriend LOVES the shangri-la but it can get pricey...dinners etc. i do not know of any wedding there but i am sure we ca find some info for you!

Quote: Originally Posted by shanaynayf1 Anyone getting married at the Grand palladium, or have any info? I would like to know about the type of receptions they offer Havent heard back from the WC, waiting, waiting... hi shannon, i emailed the weding packages to you. she emailed them to me this morning.

welcome to the forum jamie. Playa del carmen is a great place to get married. where are you getting married?

welcome to the forum! we have a few other dreams cancun brides on here...jilly and brendastar! let us know how we can help!

Dominican Republic Americans planning travel to Dominican Republic should read New Requirements for Travelers and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement available on the Department of State web site at Welcome to Travel.State.Gov October 11, 2006 COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Dominican Republic covers the eastern two-thirds of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. The capital city is Santo Domingo, located on the south coast of the island. Tourist facilities vary according to price and location. Spanish is the official language. Though English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas, it is much less common outside these areas. Read the Department of State Background Notes on the Dominican Republic for additional information. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: The U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic strongly recommends that all U.S. citizens traveling to the Dominican Republic do so on a valid U.S. passport. Although Dominican law technically allows U.S. citizens to enter the country on other proof of U.S. citizenship (U.S. birth certificate, Naturalization Certificate, etc.) along with a photo ID, numerous U.S. travelers have been prohibited from departing the Dominican Republic on such documents. In these cases, Dominican Immigration has required the travelers to obtain a U.S. passport from the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo. Obtaining a U.S. passport may take up to 10 business days and requires documents that most tourists do not carry, thus potentially delaying the traveler's return to the United States. IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION: Effective January 23, 2007, all U.S. citizens traveling by air to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada are required to have a valid passport to enter or re-enter the United States. As early as January 1, 2008, U.S. citizens traveling between the United States and the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama, Mexico and Canada by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid U.S. passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. American citizens can visit travel.state.gov or call 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-277 for information on applying for a passport. Visas: Visitors who do not obtain a Dominican visa prior to entry must purchase a tourist card upon arrival to enter the country. Tourist cards cost ten U.S. dollars, which must be paid in U.S. currency. Tourist cards may be purchased at the Dominican Embassy in Washington or Dominican Consulates prior to arrival, as well as at Dominican airports at the time of entry. Tourist cards permit a legal stay of up to 60 days. Visitors who would like to extend their time in the Dominican Republic should visit the Migration Department in Santo Domingo and request an extension. Failure to request an extension will subject the visitor to a surcharge at the airport upon departure. Travel of children and EXIT requirements: In an effort to prevent international child abduction, the Dominican Republic requires that minors under 18 years of age traveling alone, or with anyone other than a parent, present written authorization from a parent or legal guardian. (Note: The age limit for this requirement was raised in July 2004 from 13 to 18.) This authorization must be in Spanish, and it must be notarized at a Dominican consulate in the United States or notarized and then certified at the Attorney General’s office if done in the Dominican Republic. Though not a requirement, the U.S. Embassy recommends that any minor traveling to the Dominican Republic without one or both parents should have a notarized document from the parent(s). In addition to clarifying the reason for travel, this will facilitate departure from the Dominican Republic. Dominican immigration authorities may restrict the ability of children to depart the country with only a birth certificate, especially when those children are American citizens of Dominican heritage. Due to this policy, the Embassy strongly urges that children who normally reside in the United States obtain a passport in the U.S. before traveling to the Dominican Republic. Likewise, U.S. citizen children normally resident in the Dominican Republic should obtain a passport from the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo before traveling to the United States. The specific guidelines on the Dominican regulations governing the travel of children in the Dominican Republic can be found (in Spanish) at DIRECCION GENERAL DE MIGRACION - [D. G. M.]. For further information concerning entry and exit requirements, travelers may contact: Embassy of the Dominican Republic 1715 22nd St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. (202) 332-6280. There are also Dominican consulates in Boston, Chicago (Northfield, IL), Mayaguez, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Juan. Visit the Embassy of the Dominican Republic web site at http://www.domrep.org for the most current visa information. See our Foreign Entry Requirements brochure for more information on the Dominican Republic and other countries. Visit the Embassy of the Dominican Republic web site at http://www.domrep.org for the most current visa information. See Entry and Exit Requirements for more information pertaining to dual nationality and the prevention of international child abduction. Please refer to our Customs Information to learn more about customs regulations. SAFETY AND SECURITY: American citizens should be aware that foreign tourists are often seen as targets, and should maintain a low profile to avoid becoming victims of violence or crime. In dealing with local police, U.S. citizens should be aware that the standard of professionalism might vary. Police attempts to solicit bribes have been reported, as have incidents of police using excessive force. Protests, demonstrations, and general strikes occur periodically. Previous political demonstrations have sometimes turned violent, with participants rioting and erecting roadblocks, and police sometimes using deadly force in response. Political demonstrations do not generally occur in areas frequented by tourists and are generally not targeted at foreigners. However, it is advisable to exercise caution when traveling throughout the country. Street crowds should be avoided. In urban areas, travel should be conducted on main routes whenever possible. Power outages occur frequently throughout the Dominican Republic, and travelers should remain alert during blackout periods, as crime rates often increase during these outages. U.S. citizens considering overland travel between the Dominican Republic and Haiti should first consult the Consular Information Sheet for Haiti as well as the Internet site of the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince for information about travel conditions in Haiti. Santo Domingo and the majority of tourist destinations within the Dominican Republic are located several hours from the Haitian border, and recent events in Haiti have generally not directly affected these areas. For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site where the current Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, including the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, can be found. Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll-line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). The Department of State urges American citizens to take responsibility for their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State’s pamphlet A Safe Trip Abroad. CRIME: Crime has continued to be a common problem throughout the Dominican Republic. Street crime and petty theft involving U.S. tourists does occur, and precautions should be taken to avoid becoming a target. While pick pocketing and mugging are the most common crimes against tourists, reports of violent crime against both foreigners and locals are growing. Criminals can be dangerous and visitors walking the streets should always be aware of their surroundings. Valuables left unattended in parked automobiles, on beaches and in other public places are vulnerable to theft, and reports of car theft have increased. Cellular telephones should be carried in a pocket rather than on a belt or in a purse. One common method of street robbery is for at least one person on a moped (often coasting with the engine turned off so as not to draw attention) to approach a pedestrian, grab his or her cell phone, purse or backpack, and then speed away. This type of robbery is particularly dangerous because the motorcyclist reaches the intended victim at 15–20 miles per hour and often knocks the victim to the ground. Many criminals have weapons and are likely to use them if they meet resistance. Be wary of strangers, especially those who seek you out at celebrations or nightspots. Traveling and moving about in a group is advisable. The dangers present in the Dominican Republic, even in resort areas, are similar to those of many major U.S. cities. Expensive jewelry attracts attention and could prompt a robbery attempt. Limiting the cash and credit cards carried on your person and storing valuables, wallet items, and passports in a safe place is recommended. Burglaries of private residences continue to be reported as well as crimes of violence. Criminals may also misrepresent themselves in an effort to gain access to your residence or hotel room. In one 2005 homicide, a U.S. citizen was murdered by two men who posed as repairmen to gain access to the apartment. In another, the Dominican police arrested the building’s actual maintenance man and an accomplice for the crime. The U.S. Embassy is also aware of three cases since June 2003 in which American citizens were kidnapped and held for ransom. Since early 2004, the U.S. Embassy has received a growing number of reports from Americans who have been stopped while driving and asked for “donations” by someone who may appear to be a police officer before they would be allowed to continue on their way. Usually, the person(s) stopping the American drivers had approached from behind on a motorcycle; several of these motorcyclists pulled up alongside the driver's window and indicated that they were carrying a firearm. In some cases, the perpetrators were dressed in the light green uniform of “AMET,” the Dominican traffic police; however, they often seemed too young to be police officers or wore ill-fitting uniforms that might have been stolen. In another incident, individuals dressed in military fatigues told the victim they were police and requested the victim to follow them to the police station prior to robbing him. Such incidents should be reported to the police and the Consular Section. If Dominican police stop an American driver for a traffic violation, the driver should request a traffic ticket rather than paying an on-the-spot fine. The driver also has the right to ask police for identification . While everyone driving in the Dominican Republic should abide by traffic laws and the instructions of legitimate authorities, Americans finding themselves in the aforementioned scenarios should exercise caution. In general, drivers should keep their doors locked and windows closed at all times and leave themselves an escape route when stopping in traffic in the event of an accident or other threat. In 2006, the U.S. Embassy has received reports of Americans and others who were victims of vehicular-armed robberies in the northern provinces of the Dominican Republic . At least three of the reports indicate the victims were intercepted during the morning hours, when there was little other traffic, while driving on rural highways connecting Santiago and Puerto Plata. Drivers should exercise extreme caution when driving at night and use major highways when possible. Many public transportation vehicles are unsafe, especially the route taxis or “carros publicos” in urban areas. These are privately owned vehicles that run along certain routes, can take up to six or more passengers, and are inexpensive. Passengers in “carros publicos” are frequently the victims of pick pocketing, and passengers have on occasion been robbed by “carro publico” drivers. Urban buses (“guaguas”) are only marginally better. The U.S. Embassy is also aware of at least one incident in which the driver of a “motoconcho” (motorcycle taxi) robbed an American passenger. The U.S. Embassy cautions its staff not to use these modes of transportation. As an alternative, some scheduled interurban bus services use modern buses and run on reliable timetables. These are generally the safest means of intercity travel. With respect to taxis, visitors to the Dominican Republic are strongly advised to take only hotel taxis or taxis operated by services whose cabs are arranged in advance by phone and can subsequently be identified and tracked. Credit card fraud is common and recent reports indicate that its incidence has increased significantly. The U.S. Embassy strongly advises Americans to restrict severely the use of credit/debit cards in the Dominican Republic. The increase in credit card fraud is particularly pronounced in the eastern resort areas of the Dominican Republic. According to reports, store workers, restaurant service staff and hotel employees may conceal devices that can instantly record the credit card information. Often, this device appears to be a normal card reader used by businesses. Credit or debit cards should be carefully protected and never allowed out of the owner’s sight. Stolen cards are often used to the maximum amount before the victims are able to contact the bank. Victims of credit card fraud should contact the bank that issued the credit card immediately. It is advisable to pay close attention to credit card bills following time spent in the Dominican Republic. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are present throughout Santo Domingo and other major cities. However, as with credit cards, the use of ATMs should be minimized as a means of avoiding theft or misuse. One local ATM fraud scheme involves sticking photographic film or pieces of paper in the card feeder of the ATM so that an inserted card becomes jammed. Once the card owner has concluded the card is irretrievable, the thieves extract both the jamming material and the card, which they then use. There are other ATM scams as well. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when using an ATM card. The overall level of crime tends to rise during the Christmas season, and visitors to the Dominican Republic should take extra precautions when visiting the country between November and January. Beaches: The Embassy occasionally receives reports of individuals who have become victims of crime, and particularly sexual assault, while at the beach. Vigilance is recommended. The numerous “all-inclusive” resorts serve abundant quantities of alcohol, a practice that encourages inattention and may be a factor in crime or sexual assault. Tourist Police: The Dominican Republic does have police that are specially trained to assist tourists who require assistance. This public institution is called Politur and represents a cooperative effort between the National Police, Secretary of the Armed Forces, and the Secretary of Tourism. Politur typically has personnel in tourist areas to provide first responder type assistance to tourists. If you are the victim of a crime, Politur can help you get to a police station so that you may file a police report and seek further assistance. For more information on Politur and contact information, use the following link: Dirección General de la Policia de Turismo. Politur is located at the corner of 30 de Marzo and Mexico, Bloque D, Governmental Building, Santo Domingo. The general phone number is 809-686-8639. INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for assistance. The Embassy/Consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice system and to find an attorney if needed. See our information on Victims of Crime. MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical care is limited, especially outside Santo Domingo, and the quality of care varies widely among facilities. There is an emergency 911 service within Santo Domingo, but its reliability is questionable. Outside the capital, emergency services range from extremely limited to nonexistent. Blood supplies at both public and private hospitals are often limited, and not all facilities have blood on hand even for emergencies. Many medical facilities throughout the country do not have staff members who speak or understand English. A private nationwide ambulance service, ProMed, operates in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata and La Romana; Telephone number is 809-548-7200. ProMed expects full payment at the time of transport. The U.S. Embassy maintains a non-comprehensive list of providers of medical care in the Dominican Republic, which can be found at the following link: Medical Assistance. Tap water is unsafe to drink and should be avoided. Bottled water and beverages are safe. Dengue: During the period from June 25, 2006 through July 29, 2006, the Dominican Minister of Health documented 1,800 cases of dengue in the Dominican Republic. To reduce the risk of contracting dengue, the CDC recommends wearing clothing that exposes as little skin as possible and applying a repellent containing the insecticide DEET (concentration 30 to 35 percent) or Picaridin (concentration 20 percent or greater for tropical travelers). Because of the increased risk of dengue fever and the ongoing risk of malaria in the Dominican Republic (see below), practicing preventative measures is recommended by the CDC. For further information on dengue fever, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website at Dengue Fever Fact Sheet - CDC Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases (DVBID). Malaria: Since October 2004, there have been several reported cases of malaria in areas frequented by U.S. and European tourists including La Altagracia Province, the easternmost province in which many beach resorts are located. Malaria risk is significantly higher for travelers who go on some of the excursions to the countryside offered by many resorts. Prior to coming to the Dominican Republic, travelers should consult the CDC web site at CDC - Malaria for more information and recommendations on malarial prophylaxis. The U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo and the CDC are aware of several cases in which U.S. citizens experienced serious complications or died following elective (cosmetic) surgery in the Dominican Republic. The CDC’s web site at Brief Report: Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections After Cosmetic Surgery --- Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, 2003--2004 contains a report on patients who suffered postoperative infections following cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic. Patients considering travel to the Dominican Republic for cosmetic surgery may also wish to contact the Dominican Society of Plastic Surgeons (tel. 809-688-8451) to verify the training, qualifications, and reputation of specific doctors. Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the CDC’s Internet site at Travelers' Health | CDC. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization’s (WHO) web site at WHO | World Health Organization. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith. MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. Americans traveling in the Dominican Republic should be aware that Dominican hospitals often require payment at the time of service and may take legal measures to prevent patients from departing the country prior to payment. Please see our information on medical insurance overseas. TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning the Dominican Republic is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance. Driving in the Dominican Republic is on the right side of the road. Speed limits vary from 25 mph in the city to 50 mph on rural roads, but they are generally not enforced. Drivers are required to carry liability insurance. If you do drive in the Dominican Republic, you should be aware that the utmost caution and defensive driving are necessary. Traffic laws are similar to those in the United States, but undisciplined driving is common, due to a lack of adequate traffic controls. Many drivers will not use turn indicators. Rather, it is common for a vehicle operator to stick his hand out the window to signal a turn. Drivers can also be aggressive and erratic, often failing to yield the right-of-way even when road signs or signals indicate that they should. Travel at night on intercity highways and in rural areas should be avoided, due to vehicles' being driven at excessive speeds, often with malfunctioning headlights or taillights. Blackouts also increase the danger of night travel. Turning right on red lights is permitted, but should be done with caution. Traffic accidents often result in serious injury or death. This is often the case when heavy vehicles, such as buses or trucks, are involved. Traditionally, vehicles involved in accidents in the Dominican Republic are not moved (even to clear traffic), until authorized by a police officer. Drivers who violate this norm may be held legally liable for the accident. Dominican law requires that a driver be taken into custody for driving under the influence or being involved in an accident that causes serious injury or death, even if the driver is insured and appears not to have been at fault. The minimum detention period is 48 hours; however, detentions frequently last until a judicial decision is reached (often weeks or months), or until a waiver is signed by the injured party (usually as the result of a cash settlement). Visitors to the Dominican Republic might want to consider hiring a professional driver during their stay in lieu of driving themselves. Licensed drivers who are familiar with local roads can be hired through local car rental agencies. In case of accidents, only the driver will be taken into custody. Pedestrians tend to step out into traffic without regard to corners, crosswalks, or traffic signals. Many pedestrians die every year crossing the street (including major, multi-lane highways) at seemingly random locations. Pedestrians do not have the right-of-way, and walking along or crossing busy streets – even at intersections with traffic lights or traffic police present – can be very dangerous. Seat belts are required by law, and those caught not wearing them will be fined. There are no child car seat laws. The law also requires that all cell phone use be done through a hands-free device while driving. Police do stop drivers using cell phones without the benefit of these devices. Penalties for those driving under the influence and those involved in accidents resulting in injury or death can be severe. Motorcycles and motor scooters are common in the Dominican Republic, and they are often driven erratically. Dominican law requires that motorcyclists wear helmets, but local authorities rarely enforce this law. As noted previously in this report, public transportation vehicles such as the route taxis (“carros publicos”) and urban buses (“guaguas”) are unsafe. Please see the Crime section of this information sheet for more information regarding crimes involving road safety. Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Authority as not being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for the oversight of the Dominican Republic’s air carrier operations. For more information, travelers may visit the FAA’s Internet website at Federal Aviation Administration - International Aviation Safety Assessments (IASA) Program. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Currency Regulations: It is legal to exchange currency at commercial banks, exchange booths in hotels and exchange houses. The exchange rate is set by the Central Bank, based on prevailing market conditions. The market determines the exchange rate. No more than USD $10,000 or its equivalent in another currency, including Dominican pesos, may be taken out of the Dominican Republic at the time of departure. Real Estate: Real estate investments require a high level of caution, as property rights are irregularly enforced. Investors often encounter problems in receiving clear title to land, and title insurance is not available. Real estate investments by U.S. citizens have been the subject of both legal and physical takeover attempts. Absentee landlords and absentee owners of undeveloped land are particularly vulnerable. Investors should seek solid property title and not just a “carta de constancia,” which is often confused by foreigners with a title. An official land registry measurement (also known as 'deslinde' or 'mensura catastral') is also desirable for the cautious overseas investor. Squatters, sometimes supported by governmental or non-governmental organizations, have invaded properties belonging to U.S. citizens, threatening violence and blocking the owners from entering their property. In at least one instance, the U.S. citizen landowner was physically assaulted. Several U.S. citizens with long-standing expropriation disputes with the Dominican Government have not received compensation. Gambling: Many Americans have reported losing large amounts of money at Dominican casinos by playing a game (or variations thereof) known as “Super Keno,” “Caribbean Keno,” “Progressive Keno,” or “Progressive Roulette.” Players have complained that the game’s rules are unclear and/or misleading. Any complaints arising from a casino should be directed to the Office of Casinos at the Secretary of Finance. To register a complaint with this office, call 809-687-5131, ext. 2120. Divorce: In recent years, there have been a number of businesses, primarily on the Internet, which advertise “Quickie Dominican Divorces.” The services of these businesses should be used with caution, as they may misrepresent the process of obtaining a divorce in the Dominican Republic. While it is relatively simple for foreigners to obtain a divorce in the Dominican Republic, such divorces are only valid if certain specific steps are taken. Those seeking information regarding divorce should first consult with an attorney in their home state. Additional information is available via the U.S. Embassy's flyer on Divorce in the Dominican Republic, posted on the Embassy's web site. Hurricanes: The Dominican Republic is a hurricane-prone country. In the event of a hurricane alert, a notice will be posted on the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo's web page at Embajada de los Estados Unidos en Santo Domingo, República Dominicana. Further information can be obtained by visiting the National Weather Service's web site at National Hurricane Center / Tropical Prediction Center. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency at FEMA | Federal Emergency Management Agency. Please see our information on Customs Information. CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Dominican laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in the Dominican Republic are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. For more information on the Dominican judicial system, procedures, and penalties, please visit the Consular Section’s web page at Embajada de los Estados Unidos en Santo Domingo, República Dominicana. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime, prosecutable in the United States. Please see our information on Criminal Penalties. CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, see the Office of Children’s Issues website. REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: Americans living or traveling in the Dominican Republic are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department’s travel registration web site, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within the Dominican Republic. Americans withoutInternet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency. The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located at the corner of Calle César Nicolás Penson and Avenida Máximo Gómez. The American Citizens Services (ACS) Unit can be reached by telephone at 809-731-4294, or via the Internet at Contact the ACS Unit. ACS Unit office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except on U.S. and Dominican holidays. The Chancery of the U.S. Embassy is located a half-mile away from the Consular Section, at the corner of Calle César Nicolás Penson and Calle Leopoldo Navarro. The telephone number is 809-221-2171. There is a Consular Agency in the north coast city of Puerto Plata at Calle Villanueva esq. Avenida John F. Kennedy, Edificio Abraxa Libraria, 2nd floor, telephone 809-586-4204, 809-586-8017, 809-586-8023; office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except holidays. The Consular Agency has a secondary office in Sosua, also on the north coast. That office may be reached at: “Sea Horse Ranch Project” Administrative Office, Carretera Sosua - Cabarete, Sosua, D.R., telephone 809-571-3880, fax 809-571-2374. * * * This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated March 31, 2006.

You are urged to contact the Dominican Republic Services regarding any clarification or additional questions you may have. Please also confirm with the hotel you have chosen for your wedding if they require your birth certificates to be legalized or only translated is enough, and that your wedding date and details are confirmed. YOUR WEDDING IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC You will need two witnesses holding valid passports who can be travelling with you or you can ask local hotel staff to witness your wedding. The following documents are required to get married in the Dominican Republic. Note that legal transcripts of birth certificates, single status affidavits and divorce certificates need to be prepared in the country where the documents were issued. Original birth certificates. Send two photocopies. Valid and signed passports. Send two photocopies of the main page. Notarized Statutory Declarations of Single Status done according to the sample. Bring or send one original and one photocopy. Please see attached sample of a Statutory Declaration of Single Status. Divorce certificate or death certificate (if applicable). Send original or notarized photocopy and two simple photocopies. In both cases, a minimum waiting period of ten months applies before a woman can remarry. The 3rd and 4th documents are translated and legalized by the Dominican Republic Consulate. The birth certificates have to be translated into Spanish as well. Please note that your first, middle and last name must be the SAME in your passport and statutory declaration. If name is different on your birth certificate, please indicate that in point 1 of your declaration. Fees: $100 US each legalization, $40 US each translation Note: Some hotels in the Dominican Republic may charge legal fees for the authentication of documents legalized by Dominican Consulates abroad by the Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs. Please note that some Canadian institutions require the Dominican Marriage Certificate to be translated and legalized by the Dominican Republic Consulate in Canada. Please contact Dominican Republic Services for further details. A sample copy of the Statutory Declaration of Single Status is below, as provided by the Dominican Republic Services in Toronto. STATUTORY DECLARATION OF SINGLE STATUS (Please do not just fill in but retype the whole document) CANADA ) IN THE MATTER OF: Province of __________ ) the marriage between ) [full name of both parties as in passport] ) I, [Full Name as in passport] of the City of __________, in the Province of ________ DO SOLEMNLY AND SINCERELY DECLARE THAT: 1. I am [full name as in passport], born as [name as it appears on Birth Certificate] on [date of birth] in [place of birth]. 2. I am a Canadian citizen with passport No. _______ who resides at [full address]. 3. I intend to marry [full name as in passport] in the [Hotel Name] in [City], Dominican Republic during the week of [week of marriage]. 4. I am single and have never been married before. [if divorced, please put: I am divorced as per divorce certificate No. ________ as of {date of divorce}. During my previous marriage I was known as [name as it appears on divorce certificate]]. To the best of my knowledge and belief there is no legal impediment or other lawful cause to prevent me from getting married. 5. I am currently employed as a [occupation]. 6. The names of my parents are _______________, Mother and ________________, Father. AND, I make this Solemn Declaration conscientiously believing it to be true and knowing that it is of the same force and effect as if made under oath and by virtue of the Canada Evidence Act. DECLARED before me at ) [City], Province of ________, ) _____________________ Canada, this __ of _______, 200_ ) [full name as in passport] _______________________ As a Notary Public Contact Information: Embassy of the Dominican Republic in the United States: 1715 22nd Street NW, Washington DC 20008 Phone: (202) 332-6280 web: http://www.domrep.org/ Dominican Republic Services - Toronto 2727 Steeles Ave. W., Ste. 301 Toronto, Ontario M3J 3G9 Phone: (416) 739-1237 Toll-Free: 1-866-535-7776 Fax: (416) 663-1973 E-mail: [email protected] Web: Index Dominican Republic General Consulate - Montreal 1470 Peel St. Suite 263 Montreal, P.Q. H3A 1T1 Phone: (514) 284 - 5455/6600 Fax: (514) 284 - 5511 Dominican Republic General Consulate - Toronto 347 Bay St. Suite 904 Toronto, Ontario M5H 2R7 Phone: (416) 369 - 0403/1602 Fax: (416) 369 - 1685 Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Canada 130 Albert Street, Suite 418 Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5G4 Phone: 613-569-9893 Fax:: 613-569-8673 E-mail: [email protected] Web: Embajada de La República Dominicana en Canadá | Embassy of the Dominican Republic in Canada | Ambassade de la République Dominicaine à Canada

Quote: Originally Posted by JPMO Ok ladies please hook a midwest girl up. I'd love to buy and offer to the ladies at a great deal like that. maybe glenda can get some and send it to you if you ask nicely. she's so sweet...

Hi Julie, welcome to the forum. i think a few of the brides have suggested some places in costa rica...give them a few days to respond to you.