Even within the most idyllic settings, workaholics and the compulsively curious sometimes get itchy for news and connectivity with the outside world. For techmeisters who want to maintain their e-routines while they're away from their home and office, here are some basics.

Cellphones

The Dominican Republic is home to a higher percentage, per capita, of cellphones than most other countries in Latin America, with over 7.8 million cellphones connected within a population of around 10 million. Most U.S-based cellphones (including those on plans sponsored by both AT&T and Verizon) will work seamlessly within the D.R., but it's best to check with your provider for questions about rates and roaming charges. If you don't presently own a compatible cellphone, www.travelcell.com will rent you one and ship it to you in advance of your departure for a rental fee of around $30 a week, and with incoming calls priced at $1.49 a minute, and with outgoing calls priced at between $1.79 and $1.99 a minute, depending on the destination. They'll usually require a deposit of $125, refundable when you return the phone.

Internet & E-Mail

Virtually every resort in the D.R. offers Wi-Fi hotspots either throughout their premises or in designated areas. It's always wise to bring a spare Ethernet cable in the event you find a hard-wire plug-in that will accept it. Our reviews of resorts and hotels mention Wi-Fi availability and fees where applicable. You may also find establishments promoting themselves as cybercafes, but they tend to be overcrowded and noisy, with lots of other devices competing for the sometimes limited bandwidth available within.

Telephones

Calling the D.R. -- You place calls to or from the Dominican Republic just as you would from any other area code in the U.S. or Canada, usually by dialing 1 and then the area code and then the seven-digit local number. The area code for the Dominican Republic is 809.

Calling the U.S. and Canada from inside the Dominican Republic:With the understanding that your hotel or guesthouse might require additional dialing rituals of its own, dial 011 (this is the international prefix to dial outside of the Dominican Republic). Then dial 1 (this is the international code used to dial the U.S. or Canada). Follow that by the area code and the local seven-digit phone number. To call other countries, dial 011, then the country code (U.K. 44, Ireland 353, Australia 61, New Zealand 64), then the city or area code, and then the local number. If in doubt, ask the hotel operator or call AT&T Direct, MCI, or Sprint. Note: Even though U.S.-based toll-free numbers are usually free when dialed direct, your local hotel might tack on additional service charges. If in doubt, ask your hotel operator.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.