Traveling to the Dominican Republic to participate as part of one of our crews is a powerful experience Creating a group based in an organization, among friends, or with family is a great way to experience a week of fellowship and service.
The mission fee for each crew member is nine-hundred-and-fifty dollars. One designated crew leader may receive reduced mission fees upon request. Airfare is an additional cost for all crew members. The mission fee includes meals, in-country transportation, construction materials, and entrance fees for recreational activities. Individuals often bring funds for personal shopping. Exchange to peso can be completed in a local Dominican Republic bank after arrival. Many groups organize fundraising events and/or seek sponsors to offset costs.
Flights are booked by each group leader. Flights must arrive at Santiago (STI) or Puerto Plata (POP). If separate flights are booked, the entire crew must before transportation to the mission property. . It is recommended to book flights well in advance. Check various airlines and airports for best times and prices. Two e-tickets are required for entrance to and from The Dominican Republic. It is recommended that these be obtained seventy-two hours before departure. The e-ticket to depart the country should also be obtained at that time. Visit the electronic ticket portal at https://eticket.migracion.gob.do/ for more details.
Most crews plan a seven-day trip to the mission. Crews reside on the mission’s property near the town of Imbert. It is a beautiful sixteen-acre property surrounded by picturesque landscape of a river, mountains, and pastures. There is a shelter which is open on three sides with a shower and nearby outhouse. It is suggested that each crew member bring a hammock with an attached mosquito net. Some crews bring cots. Autumn and spring crews should be aware that night temperatures drop so including bed sheets and blankets or light sleeping bag may be of benefit. It is suggested that summer crews bring a bed sheet.
Participants should wear clothing that is respectable and appropriate to the culture. Breathable material also is appropriate for the climate. On the construction site, boots are recommended; sturdy closed-toe shoes or sneakers are acceptable.
There are mosquitos. The use of bug spray and mosquito nets reduce their harm. At night, crews often see ants, cockroaches, and tarantulas. If crews bring snacks, Ziplock bags are suggested.
Crews prepare their breakfast. Crews take their lunch to the worksite. Lunch can consist of foods like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit, and juice. Crews can prepare dinner or use local restaurants for food purchase. Groups often bring snacks. Groups may also choose to bring electrolyte mixes such as Gatorade.
It is not recommended that personal items of value are brought to the mission. It is suggested that phones and other electronic devices, passports and wallets always remain in the possession of each crew member. The mission has been working in the Luperón area for many years. Villagers know the mission. They are very open and welcoming to all who are a part of the mission.Hospitals and private medical clinics are located in Puerto Plata and Santiago.
Limiting luggage to what can be carried onto the plane is suggested. The group may need to have some checked bags for supplies. See attached list for a variety of suggestions from past crew members.
