Everything you need to know before your trip to the Dominican Republic from logistics and packing to safety, food, and completing your travel documents.
Where will my group travel?
Volunteers arrive to Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) the capital city of Santo Domingo. The following day, you will take private transportation to the San Juan province , about a 3.5 hours bus ride.
What is the minimum amount of volunteers to form a trip? Is there a maximum?
There is no minimum number of participants needed to form a volunteer group, but we encourage organizers to shoot for at least 6 volunteers. If the group is able to fundraise for the project cost, we can proceed with the trip booking and itinerary. We can accommodate groups of up to 50 participants.
What flight should I take?
Book your flight to Santo Domingo (airport code SDQ). It is best to arrive early afternoon or evening, and best to depart before 2pm the following weekend. Bridges to Community can accommodate other arrival times if the whole group is on the same flight.
When are the project and trip fee payments due?
All costs/fees associated with your trip, including the project cost and participant fees, must be paid in full 45 days before the start of the trip.
What is the community lodging like?
Our volunteers are housed in community centers, schools and churches in the communities we work in. Conditions are basic and consist of co-ed dorm space with bunk beds. Meals are cooked at a nearby site by local staff and provide a varied diet of typical Dominican cuisine.
What is the food like?
Meals are cooked at a nearby kitchen by local staff, and provide a varied diet of typical Dominican cuisine. Most meals are vegetarian, but there will be some animal protein options offered during the week and lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Most of our meals are gluten-free, and we can accommodate to most dietary restrictions when alerted ahead of time. Volunteers should feel free to bring their favorite snacks!
Will there be internet available on the trip?
There is wifi at the hotels at the beginning and end of the trip, but internet is more challenging during the week. Most US cell companies offer international plans if you require daily access. Please keep in mind that cellular service is spotty in the community, so you might not always be able to connect. We encourage volunteers to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the experience!
Do I need vaccines?
Volunteers are encouraged to refer to the CDC website and speak with their physician, and to be up to date with their tetanus shot. There are no outbreaks or cases of listed possible illnesses in the communities where Bridges to Community works. Wearing sunblock and staying hydrated is key to staying happy and healthy on our service trips.
How do we communicate with friends and family back home?
With wifi access at the beginning and end of the trip, most individuals check in with their family to say they arrived safely. If you would like BTC staff to reach out to someone upon your arrival, or send a message during the week in the community, we can arrange it. Some volunteers opt to add international data plans to their phones to be able to have direct communication as well.
Is there an opportunity to exchange American dollars to Dominican Pesos in the DR?
You can exchange money during the time in the capital Santo Domingo, Bridges staff will help you locate where this can be done. Almost everywhere accepts dollars and cards in touristic areas.
In the community, Dominican pesos are preferred but they might take small US bills- $1 and $5. In the community, there is not much opportunity to spend money, although there are local corner stores to buy soda, chips, etc.
Is there a laundry service in the community where we will be staying?
Yes, you can opt to have laundry done during the week by a community member. Please have pesos available for payment. Speak with your trip leaders and they will help organize the service.
r e q u i r e d
How to fill out your E-ticket.
The Dominican Republic requires all visitors to complete an electronic travel form (E-Ticket) before arrival. Follow the steps below carefully, a few fields have specific answers required for your Bridges trip.
Go to the Official Website
Make sure you are on the right page: eticket.migration.gob.do
Start a New Application
There is a language toggle in the top right corner of the form. Switch to your preferred language before filling anything out.
Click on “E-Ticket Application” or “New Request.”
When prompted for your travel direction, choose ARRIVAL. You will complete the departure (exit) section in a later step.
Fill in Personal Information
Complete with your personal information.
Enter Flight Information
When asked where you are staying, select HOTEL. From the dropdown list, choose GRAN HOTEL EUROPA. This is the hotel Bridges uses in Santo Domingo for your first and last night.
Disembarkation port: SDQ – Las Americas International Airport:
Select SDQ – Las Americas International Airport as your port of entry into the Dominican Republic.
Travel purpose: Leisure:
Under travel purpose, select LEISURE. Volunteer service travel falls under this category for Dominican Republic E-Ticket purposes.
Customs Section
Answer all questions honestly regarding items you are bringing.
Review Your Information
Double-check:
- Name
- Passport number
- Flight details
- Email address
Fill out the exit E-Ticket at the same time
When the form asks whether you would like to complete an exit E-Ticket, select YES. Enter the details for your return flight to the United States — date, destination, and flight information.
📱 Save your QR code before you travel. After submitting the form, you will receive a QR code. Screenshot it, download it, and/or email it to yourself. Make sure your screenshot clearly captures your full name, the date, and the complete QR code. Some airlines will ask you to upload it to their website ahead of check-in; others will request to see it when you arrive at the airport ticket counter.