Note, particularly, that the 'Horn' is used to signal:

(1) "Hi, I'm over here"

(2) "I'm coming through!"

(3) "Please get out of the way 'cos I've forgotten where the foot brake is"

(4) "Hello gorgeous"

(5) "Hi mate"

(6) "What's this thing in the middle of the steering wheel do?"

(7) "Was that me?...I'll try it again"

(8) "Hey yes! it was me!"

(9) "Once more for luck!!!"

In other words the horn is used liberally, frequently and with gay abandon…but rarely is it a sign of 'road rage'!! Just normal driving courtesy...given that the driver will be travelling, more than likely, faster than conditions dictate are reasonable sane.

BECAUSE...roads in the DR are of very variable quality! The sudden heavy (though usually short) downpours will 'gouge' pot-holes in second rate road surfaces like a knife through 'butter-in-a-warm-kitchen'. Plus many roads are not 'technically' tarmacadamed (or asphalted)...SO...this can tend to lead to one or two problems if you decide to hire a car for a bit of more adventurous 'touring'.

Many people might suggest that the 'best' option for hired transport is a 4WD...which is true, though they are more expensive to hire. You can get some cheaper deals on smaller motors (around $200/£100 for small economy model per week from some hirers) but you have been warned...conditions are not really great for less capable and resilient models!! All-in-all, treating yourself to a solid four-wheel-drive model is probably the best bet, and will make touring around safer and more assured throughout the DR.

And be advised...ALWAYS check the whole car thoroughly and check back before you drive off with the hirer about any damage, dints, scratches, bumps, underside dings, etc., etc., or it is VERY likely they will try and blame you for them when you take the car back.

To avoid technical, or other problems, it is naturally wise to book with a reliable company that offers well maintained, safe and solid vehicles. This can be a bit of a lottery if you wait until you arrive, and yet 'online' how can you tell the "wheat from the chaff"?

We have tried to identify a good local car rental company that will provide a reliable vehicle for your needs at a fair price. We don't claim that this is the cheapest auto rental company...but you get what you pay for, and it hardly makes sense to 'economize' where your safety is concerned.

So if the 'challenge' of the Dominican road system is for you, then PLEASE take a look at the car hire arrangements we have agreed with Francois Blanc, who runs a fleet of over 500 vehicles, and rest assured that the wide choice of quality motors he offers will serve you well on your visit to the DR.

Alternatively...if you are still considering your preferred mode of transport whilst on your vacation in the Dominican republic, then be sure to look at our 'coach tours and bus services' page. Or maybe investigate the cost of taking a 'taxi' . But if you decide to enjoy 'the ride of your life' and want to arrange reliable car hire in the Dominican Republic...then take a look at our Dominican Republic rent a car page, for a safe and straightforward deal.

Take care.

Ruth & Esther

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