National traditions of Dominican Republic. Habits, mentality and the way of living

The official language of the Dominican Republic is Spanish. Most of the population are Catholics, the national constitution guarantees freedom of religion. The population itself is a mixture of descendants of African slaves, Spanish colonists, and the indigenous Taino people. Dominican culture is deeply patriarchal. Women are primarily treated as sexual objects. At home, full family service is expected even from working women. Recently, there has been an increasing number of career opportunities available for Dominican women. However, they still earn less money than men. For a decent Dominican woman, it is unacceptable to visit clubs and bars alone. Girls and women who want to have fun in a nightclub should necessarily go there with female friends or a mixed company. Although the law provides for equal rights for both sexes, machismo culture often leads to violation of women's rights.

Dominicans are very open in communication. It is perfectly normal to ask questions about a personal life and a family at the first meeting. When talking, residents of the Dominican Republic often stand at a distance of less than half a meter from their interlocutor. Any move back will be regarded as impoliteness and unwillingness to continue a conversation. People talking to each other often touch each other, regardless of gender. At the same time, direct eye contact should be maintained, demonstrating the interest in the conversation and the interlocutor. Dominicans like to joke and laugh, there are more optimists among them than pessimists. In general, Dominicans give the impression of happy, hospitable, friendly people who are always ready to help. Keep in mind that in the Dominican Republic it is normal to be one or even two hours late for an informal event and 15-20 minutes late for a business meeting. Invited guests usually bring chocolate as a symbolic gift.

In the Dominican Republic, your look is your face. Clothes and general appearance speak about a person's social status and wellness. Therefore, locals try to buy clothes from the highest-quality fabrics, respecting designer brands. Be sure to dress elegantly and beautifully, if you are invited to dinner. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

An important part of the Dominican life is music, and usually it's very loud. In recent years, because of American influence, reggaeton and hip-hop are very popular here. However, salsa, bachata, and merengue are still actual. Music sounds from every house, shop, bus, and just on the streets. In the evenings, people often go out into the streets to dance. The Dominican Republic is the birthplace of Merengue dance. This dance features fast music and drum rhythms. Dance movements have a hint of eroticism, while lyrics are quite ambiguous. It is widely believed that the cradle of Merengue is Dominican brothels. The most popular and favorite sport in the Dominican Republic is baseball. Tournaments are held here every year.

For Dominicans, the family is extremely important. Usually, locals live as big families. When children grow up and start earning themselves, they always share some money with their parents. It is common practice to work in North America, from where Dominicans send part of their wages home, to their families. Decisions regarding a family budget are typically made by the oldest man. Of particular interest is the Dominican wedding tradition, which lies in the following: the child passes a tray with coins to the priest who gives it to the groom, and that one - to the bride. This exchange symbolizes the couple's obligation to share material goods with each other. Mourning also has an interesting tradition. It lasts for nine days. The first three days are for tears and sorrow for the deceased, the next days - for silence and memories, and the last three days - for relief from grief when it is accepted and released.