When you take the plunge and decide to plan your dream wedding in sunny Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, there are many things to consider. One of the biggest priorities with the couples I talk with is the comfort and safety of their guests. Many destination wedding guests are seasoned travelers, while others need to apply for a passport for the first time. Their needs vary since they are often elderly grandparents, young flower girls and everyone in between. One question I am often asked is, “What will their airport experience be like when they arrive in Punta Cana?” Read on to learn all you need to know about the Punta Cana International Airport PUJ (link: http://www.puntacanainternationalairport.com/index.php)
Upon arrival at the airport, you head down a flight of stairs off the plane to board an air conditioned bus. For passengers who need special assistance, they should work with the airline to make sure the airline knows they will need a wheelchair, a lift instead of stairs (departing from the opposite side of the plane). This process is relatively quick and painless.
The bus drops you off at the modern, clean and air conditioned Punta Cana International Airport PUJ. Passengers who have printed off their Tourist Card (link: http://www.dgii.gov.do/tarjetaTuristica/en/about/Paginas/default.aspx) should proceed through the line following the green signs. This tourist card is required for each passenger (even kids) and it is a big time savings to purchase ahead of time online using the link above. If you didn’t purchase this $10 per person card in the States and bring a printed copy with you, then follow the majority of people to a counter where you’ll need $10 USD cash to pay for a card for each person in your group on site.
You’ll then proceed through immigration services and this is a familiar process where you’re asked how long you’ll be staying, etc. Here, you’ll turn in the very detailed form you had to fill out on the plane. I always feel like I am doing something wrong when I stand there and they give me the “once over” look, but stand with confidence – you’re just going on vacation!
Once through immigration, just follow other passengers through the gift shop and pick up your bags at the carousel. Be prepared to show your baggage ticket you received from the airline when you checked in as sometimes airport attendants check them when you leave the carousel area. Politely refuse the porters there who try to help you with your bags. They want to help you secure your ground transportation (or purchase a timeshare) and you should already have this booked.
Walk with your bags through customs (international guests do not need to wait in the queue on the left). Continue, following the signs, to the counters where your ground transportation awaits. Mine on this most recent trip was with AmStar and I looked for their nametags and the sign with my name on it. From there they led us through the parking lot to our van and we were off to our resort – The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. Check out my review here!
I passionately love traveling and helping others plan the trips of their dreams. I’ve been all over the globe, from Ho Chi Minh city to El Alto Bolivia. I’ve seen a lot of airports and Punta Cana is one of the nicest, easiest to navigate and friendly. I’d love to hear your experience was in the airport. Email me at kate@destinationsbyamy.com.
About Kate Rickard:
Kate is a seasoned traveler and Travel Consultant with Destinations by Amy. She plans and books destination wedding groups, family trips, honeymoons and corporate travel all over the Caribbean, Mexico and Hawaii. Contact her today to plan the trip of your dreams! kate@destinationsbyamy.com 847/485-0018 x2