Spanish Sin Pena

Cultural Immersion Trip to Dominican Republic

Spanish Immersion Travel in the Dominican Republic!

Join our Spanish Sin Pena team & students on a language immersion trip to

La República Dominicana Dates June 21st- June 28th 2025!

Can’t make it this Summer, Sign up for our Travel Waitlist to receive updates on upcoming trips!

Learn Spanish and practice in República Dominicana!

Join us in exploring Quisqueya la bella and immerse yourself in the history, culture, language, rhythms and cuisine of the DR. We will discover both the capital’s vibrant nightlife and the rural natural wonders of the country in search of beaches and waterfalls.

  • Spanish Sin Pena students and community members who want to  learn and practice Spanish by traveling and engaging in cultural experiences in the Dominican Republic.

    Spanish learners of all levels are welcome to join. You can share the experience with family member or friend while space is available.



Draft ITINERARY

Subject to change: The final itinerary may change due to weather conditions, guide availability, and group interest.

Day 1: Arrive to Santo Domingo!

Dates: Saturday June 21st

Upon arrival, you'll be picked up at the airport and taken to your accommodation. A welcome dinner is included, giving you time to settle in, exchange money, and pick up any essentials. Transportation and dinner included.

Day 2: Decolonial City Tour

Dates: Sunday June 22nd

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation before beginning the day with introductions, intention-setting, and time to connect with the group. We'll review the final itinerary and any updates before heading on a guided tour of Santo Domingo—going beyond the typical tourist spots to gain deeper insight into the city's people, culture, and social context with knowledgeable local guides. Lunch is provided. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own and explore the city at your own pace.

Day 3: Waterfalls and Natural Pools

Dates: Monday June 23rd

Start the day with an early breakfast before venturing beyond the city center to explore breathtaking natural waterfalls. Bring your bathing suit and water shoes for a refreshing experience in nature. Transportation is provided to visit some of the Dominican Republic’s stunning natural wonders. Enjoy a delicious countryside lunch before returning to rest and recharge. Dinner is included.

Day 4: Food Experience

Dates: Tuesday June 24th

Begin the day with a traditional Dominican breakfast at your accommodation before immersing yourself in a hands-on cooking experience. Discover the rich history of cacao, coffee, and traditional yuca dishes as you prepare and taste your own creations. After lunch, spend the afternoon connecting with nature in refreshing natural waters. You’ll also have free time to explore Santo Domingo, shop for local treasures, or unwind with a relaxing massage. Dinner will be on your own.

Day 5: Beach Day

Dates: Wednesday June 25th

Start the day with an early breakfast before heading to one of the most breathtaking clear-water beaches in the Dominican Republic. Enjoy a private eco-tour led by a local organization dedicated to preserving the natural ecosystem and wildlife habitat. Savor a delicious lunch on Saona Island before making the journey back to Santo Domingo. The evening is yours to rest and recharge after a full day in the sun. Dinner is included.

Day 6: Local Culture & Museums

Dates: Thursday June 26th

Start the day with a group breakfast before heading out to explore museums and art shops, where you’ll learn about the traditional crafts of the Dominican Republic. Enjoy a healthy lunch before gathering in the evening for a fun game night, where you can practice Spanish and share the new vocabulary you've picked up throughout the trip.

Day 7: Merengue and Bachata

Dates: Friday June 27th

Sleep in or take a leisurely morning walk along the Malecón, exploring local coffee shops and enjoying breakfast at your own pace. Spend your free time shopping for souvenirs or discovering any parts of the city you haven't yet explored. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner followed by dance classes where you'll learn traditional Dominican dances such as merengue, bachata, and a bit of dembow. End the night with social dancing and a celebration of our time together.

Day 8: Buen viaje! Check Out

Dates: Saturday June 28th

Enjoy a farewell breakfast before saying your goodbyes. Transportation to the airport will be arranged for you.


 

Accommodations for the Week:

 

Santo Domingo Accommodations

Dates: June 21st - 28th 2025

We will be staying at either a private house or a boutique hotel in the colonial center of Santo Domingo, depending on the final number of participants. You can reserve a single room for yourself or share a King or Queen bed with a partner or family member. Each room will include Wi-Fi and a private bathroom for you or you and your travel companion. Please note, we do not arrange room shares; if you're booking for yourself, you must be traveling with the person you will share the room with. We prioritize accommodations that are centrally located and feature amenities like a pool or jacuzzi for relaxation. Full details of the accommodations will be provided to you before the trip.

Payments

Dates: June 21st - 28th, 2025

Private Single Room: Private room and bathroom for ONE person. Room may have King and Queen beds

$2,725 for one person

Reserve for one person with 4 payments of $681.25

Double Room:  Two people share a room with a King or Queen bed and a private bathroom. Must book together.

$2,225 per person (Shared Bed) Must book together for a total $4,450

Reserve for two people with 4 payments of $1112.50


What’s NOT Included

  • Airfare, baggage fees, passport expenses, visa fees

  • Personal insurance, travel/ trip insurance (Recommended)

  • Personal spending money for gifts etc.

  • Alcoholic beverages and meals not listed in the itinerary.

  • Transportation or activities during free time

  • Additional tips for local tour guides. While SSP will cover tips, any extra gratuities are greatly appreciated and help support the local community.

What is Included:

  • Prior and Post Trip Classes with Ana Abreu (2 group classes)

  • Airport pick-up/dropoff in Santo Domingo SDQ

  • Welcome Gift Bag in Santo Domingo

  • Week Stay in Santo Domingo

  • Breakfast for the Week and Meals where listed

  • Guided Cultural Tours of historical sights and experiences supporting local communities

  • Food Experiences

  • Dance Classes

  • Entrance fees to museums

  • Transportation To and from the Cultural Activities as listed


  • 1. Agreement to Terms
    By making a payment for a Spanish Sin Pena Immersion Trip, you agree to the following cancellation and refund policies. Please read them carefully before making your payment.

    2. Non-Refundable Deposit

    • A deposit is required as part of your first payment:

      • $545 for one person

      • $890 for two people

    • All deposits are non-refundable.

    3. Cancellation & Refund Policy

    • Before April 1, 2025 – You may receive a refund of your payments minus the non-refundable deposit and processing fees.

    • 30 days or less before the trip – No refunds will be issued for any reason, including but not limited to:

      • Flight cancellations

      • Weather conditions

      • Injury, illness, or personal emergencies

      • Government travel warnings or advisories

      • Late arrivals or early departures

    4. Transferring Your Reservation

    • If you need to cancel 30 days or less before the trip, no refund or future credit will be available.

    • However, you may transfer your reservation to another person. It is your responsibility to find a replacement and provide us with their contact information as soon as possible.

    5. Trip Cancellations by Spanish Sin Pena

    • Spanish Sin Pena reserves the right to cancel any trip due to unforeseen events or material changes. While we will make every effort to maintain scheduled travel dates, if we must cancel:

      • You may transfer your full payment to a future trip or receive a full refund.

      • This refund constitutes a full settlement, and Spanish Sin Pena will not be responsible for any expenses incurred in preparation for the trip (e.g., airline tickets, work loss, or other costs).

    6. Travel Insurance Recommendation
    To protect your investment, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected situations that may prevent you from attending the trip.

    This version improves readability and clarity while keeping everything structured. Let me know if you’d like any changes!

    • Health & Special Requirements: If you have any mobility, health, or medical conditions that may affect your trip, or any special requirements, please inform us before booking. This allows us to determine if the trip is appropriate and whether accommodations can be made. Please note that many cities in Latin America lack the infrastructure to fully support special requirements.

    • Itinerary Changes: The schedule may change due to weather, guide availability, or group interests. Flexibility is essential.

    • Housing & Transportation: If you arrive before or stay after the listed dates, you will be responsible for your own accommodations and transportation.

    • Waiver & Media Release: Participation requires signing a liability waiver. A photo and video release is optional—if you prefer not to be photographed, we will respect that.

    • Dietary Needs: We will ask about food allergies or dietary restrictions and do our best to accommodate them.

    • Activity Participation: All activities are optional—only participate in what feels comfortable for you.

  • Do I Need a Passport?

    Yes! A valid passport is required to travel to the Dominican Republic. Please apply for or renew your passport as soon as possible to avoid any delays. Visit travel.state.gov for more information.

    Entry Requirements for U.S. Citizens

    • Passport Validity – Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Some airlines may require at least six months of validity.

    • Tourist Card – This is now included in most airfare and no longer needs to be purchased separately.

    • Proof of Departure – You may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel.

    • E-Ticket Entry & Exit Form – All travelers must complete this form online before arrival and departure.

    For longer stays, visa extensions, or special requirements, check with the Dominican Republic Embassy or Consulate before traveling.

    What to Bring on the Trip

    PASSPORT & COPIES

    Your passport is essential—without it, you won’t be able to travel.

    Before You Travel:

    Take a photo of the passport page with your photo and information and:

    • Email it to yourself

    • Save it as a photo on your phone

    Make a few color copies of your passport:

    • Bring one with you

    • Leave another with a trusted person

    Store important documents securely during your trip.

    By preparing in advance, you’ll have peace of mind while traveling!

  • Protect Your Trip

    While travel insurance is not required, we highly recommend purchasing a policy to protect yourself against unexpected events that may cause trip cancellation, interruption, or medical expenses during your trip.

    Why Get Travel Insurance?

    Unexpected situations can arise, and having travel insurance ensures you are covered in case of:
    Trip cancellation due to illness, injury, personal emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances.
    Medical expenses if you require care due to an accident or illness while traveling.
    Trip interruption for unexpected events that cut your trip short.

    Choosing the Right Insurance

    • Make sure your policy covers medical expenses and trip cancellations.

    • Carefully review what is and isn’t covered before purchasing.

    • It is your responsibility to choose an insurance plan that meets your needs.

    You can find reviews of the best travel insurance options [here] (Nerdwallet).

    Important Note

    Spanish Sin Pena is not responsible for any costs not covered by your travel insurance. Protect your investment and travel with peace of mind!

    Important Note

    Spanish Sin Pena is not responsible for any costs not covered by your travel insurance. Protect your investment and travel with peace of mind!


Other FAQ’S:

  • You just need a willingness to try and a desire to learn! You will get recommendations on how to prepare for the trip during the first group call.

  • Congratulations! You will receive an email confirming your reservation and outlining the next steps. If you do not receive and email you can contact us support@spanishsinpena.com

  • Traveling to the Dominican Republic in June means warm weather, humidity, and plenty of opportunities for exploration. Here’s a list of essential items to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

    Travel Documents & Money

    Passport & Copies – You must have a valid passport to enter the Dominican Republic. Make photocopies and take a photo of the information page. Save a copy on your phone and leave another with a trusted person.
    Debit/Credit Cards – Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues with transactions.
    Cash – Bring cash for souvenirs, shopping, food not included in the itinerary, and drinks. You can exchange money at the airport or withdraw from ATMs.

    Clothing & Footwear

    Comfortable Walking Shoes – Ideal for exploring, as some areas have uneven terrain.
    T-Shirts / Tank Tops – Lightweight and breathable for hot temperatures.
    Thin Long-Sleeved Shirt – Useful for sun protection or cooler evenings.

    Essentials & Accessories

    External Battery Pack – Keep your phone charged during excursions.
    Refillable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated by refilling from gallon-sized water sources.
    Quick-Dry Travel Towel – Useful for beach days, waterfalls, and unexpected rain.
    Hand Sanitizing Wipes – For cleanliness on the go.
    Day Bag – Bring a travel backpack, crossbody bag, or fanny pack to carry essentials securely while exploring.

    By packing smart, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy your trip while staying comfortable and prepared for all activities.



Check Out What Our Students Have to Say:


Past Trips: Volunteer Trip Puerto Rico 2022 and Cartagena 2023


Volunteering in Puerto Rico with Techos pa mi gente!

They’re an awesome group of folks who help rebuild communities! It was a pleasure to be able to help them out!

Learn more and donate/volunteer with them click here: https://www.tpmgcorp.org