Learning Dominican Republic Spanish One Word at a Time Dictionary, Words and PhrasesNo matter whether traveling to the Dominican Republic as a tourist, a student, or with the intention of moving there as an expatriate, this guide will serve you well. You probably already know the Spanish spoken by Dominicanos is a distinct and unique idiom, rich with words, phrases, and slang they don’t teach in high school Spanish class. Intended for English speakers, this book shares common slang words and phrases that help communicate in everyday situations like ordering dinner in a restaurant, shopping at the mercado for fresh produce, flirting, getting street directions, or hiring a taxi.

That said, be advised this little book is neither a complete course in learning the Spanish Language, neither is it a textbook. Instead of a scholarly work, it is a basic introduction to Dominican Republic Spanish, a good beginners guide you can handily carry on your travels either in your back pocket or tucked away in a backpack. This guide contains a wealth of words and expressions that you can look up when you hear, or read them, in order to know what is going on around you. Even better, before you go, spend a night or two curled up with the book gaining familiarity with the wisdom it contains. That way, when you hear a vaguely familiar word on the street, you will know which page to consult to jog your memory.Even if you studied Spanish in high school, learning a few words of Dominican Republic specific slang pays big dividends by way of more enjoyable conversation. And even more importantly, will help you fit in a little better. Instead of being seen as some soul-less gringo tourist, the locals will hold you in higher esteem. As a result you may make new friends, and as a bonus, perhaps get a better price on hotel room or lower prices while shopping.

The Dominican Republic is gorgeous, from its tropical beaches and mountains to its teeming metropolis, Santo Domingo. The food is delightful. The people are friendly, relaxed and easy going. There’s lots to do, lots to enjoy: SCUBA, snorkeling on the reefs, zip-lining and relaxing on beautiful beaches. Before you go, consider taking the time to learn a few words and phrases so you can speak street Spanish like a local.

A Sampling of Dominican Republic FoodsAhuyama - A yam used in many soups for nutrition and color

Aji A generic pepper

Aji Verde - Green pepper

Albondigas - meatballs

Alcachofas - artichokes

Algarrobo - A very strange, fuzzy textured fruit. When opened it reeks, hence its nickname mierda en cajeta (shit in a little box) texture. Once you get past the foul odor, the fruit is sweet and delicious.

Arbejas - peas

Arenque - stewed herring

Arepa a spicy, baked pudding made from cornmeal and coconut

Arepitas de Maiz - fried corn meal cakes that resemble corn bread

Bacalaitos - codfish fritters

Bacalao - codfish

Barbacoa - barbecue

Batata Frita - sweet potato fritters

Batata - sweet potato

Batida - a drink blended with fruit, ice, sugar and either regular or Carnation milk