Oddities In The Dominican Republic

In Canada, it is customary to celebrate national pride on July 1st each year and

present an attitude of fierce pride mixed with quiet humility for their nation. In the US, national pride is celebrated annually on July 4th with massive fanfare and intense self-esteem. One attitude may seem weird to the other, but they are both equally wonderful in their own ways. The point is, every culture has its own traditions and they will all seem 'weird' to someone with a different perspective. Some elements of Dominican culture appear odd to westerners, but they are all wonderful in their own 'rite'.

Haiti and the Dominican Republic are both countries which share the same island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean Sea. Therefore, both nations' cultures are subtly intertwined. For example, when you fly into Santo Domingo or Punta Cana, don't be surprised if everyone breaks out in joyous clapping when the plane lands. It is a decades old tradition closely linked to the superstitious beliefs of the Haitians. It is their way of thanking God for allowing the passengers' safe travel.

When Dominican children misbehave and it comes time for a lecture or discipline, parents always have the child kneel in front of them. The slightly odd part of this custom is even adult children are expected to kneel for their harangue. In that vein, Dominican females - particularly the elderly - can conjure up such a ferocious gaze, no one would dare cross her. Even the weakest, most sickly grandmother can strike fear into the heart of someone with just one look. Naturally, if deserved by the recipient, of course!

Take note: in the Dominican Republic, all carbonated beverages are referred to as cola, and all chewing gum is called Chicklets. Also, it is customary for Dominicans to dress in their "Sunday Best" to go to work each day. When Sunday comes around and everyone goes to their local church, Dominicans dress in clothing appropriate for a wedding. When a wedding occurs, guests don attire that would be expected at a Royal visit, such as if Queen Elisabeth herself was coming for tea. It is the Dominican way!

Many people in the Dominican Republic are Catholic, so if you see someone making the sign of the cross at a cemetery or church, it should come as no surprise - it is the Dominican way! Among the range of Dominican customs, there is one that is strange to fathom initially. Instead of pointing at things or people with their fingers, Dominicans point with their lips. The lips, not the nose or chin. Also, when Dominicans laugh heartily (which they do a lot), they always clap their hands. Spend a week or two among the lovely Dominican people, and you will find yourself doing the same thing!

by: Robert Nickel

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