The Dominican Republic is a country in the Caribbean, sharing borders by land or water with Puerto Rice and Haiti.
While neighbors like Jamaica and Turks and Caicos might get the lion’s share of advertising, the Dominican Republic receives the most annual visitors.
The nation’s population is 11 million people, and almost as many visited in 2023.
Most are drawn to the beaches of either the Atlantic Ocean or the Caribbean Sea.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the top tourist towns:
Punta Cana
Renowned for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Punta Cana is the country’s top tourist destination.
It offers a plethora of all-inclusive resorts, world-class golf courses, and activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, and catamaran cruises.
Santo Domingo
The capital city is rich in history, featuring the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, historic cathedrals, and vibrant plazas.
Santo Domingo also offers a bustling nightlife and a blend of modern and traditional Dominican culture.
Puerto Plata
Located on the northern coast, Puerto Plata is famous for its Victorian-style architecture, the cable car ride up Mount Isabel de Torres, and nearby attractions like the beaches of Sosúa and Cabarete, known for windsurfing and kiteboarding.
Samaná
This peninsula is a quieter escape, perfect for whale watching (January to March), exploring lush waterfalls like El Limón, and relaxing on pristine beaches such as Playa Rincón.
La Romana
A hub for luxury, La Romana is known for the upscale Casa de Campo resort and the picturesque Altos de Chavón, a replica of a 16th-century Mediterranean village overlooking the Chavón River.
Beyond its coastlines, the rural areas boast lush mountains, including Pico Duarte, the tallest peak in the Caribbean, and the otherworldly beauty of Los Haitises National Park.
The Dominican Republic’s history began with Christopher Columbus’s arrival in 1492 (before he founded the «New World»), establishing it as the site of the first permanent European settlement in the Americas.
Over the centuries, it experienced colonial rule by Spain, brief periods of French and Haitian control, and eventual independence in 1844, shaping its rich cultural heritage.
Today, it brings visitors as much a welcome retreat to the beach as a unique experience of cultures and customs.
However, we do need to address some safety concerns.
Advertencias y Peligros en Dominican Republic
RIESGO GENERAL: MEDIO
Based on the travel advisories from the U.S. State Department, the Dominican Republic wobbles between low and medium risk. Of the four levels of travel advisories, with one being the safest and four being the least secure, this country comes in at Level 2 with guidance to "Exercise Increased Caution." The risk is lower in the touristy areas. Keep reading to learn more.
RIESGO EN TAXIS Y TRANSPORTE: MEDIO
In the Dominican Republic, travelers have various transportation options. Car rentals are ideal for exploring regions such as Barahona and Samaná. Public transportation, including buses and guaguas (minivans), offers affordable travel between towns. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in many areas, and taxis are available in cities and tourist zones. For short distances, motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) are common. In Santo Domingo, the metro system provides an easy way to navigate the capital.
RIESGO DE CARTERISTAS: MEDIO
The risk here is at least medium, considering how crime is the main reason behind travel warnings from the U.S. and U.K., just to name a few countries. Use crossbody bags, fanny packs, or secured wallets tucked in jackets or front pants pockets. Don't leave items out of sight, even while dining. Carry only what you absolutely need, especially in busy, crowded areas.
RIESGO DE DESASTRES NATURALES: BAJO
Despite the great potential for beautiful beach days, when the weather goes haywire here, it can get really bad. The Dominican Republic faces annual natural disaster risks, including hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November), which bring heavy rains, flooding, and strong winds. Earthquakes are possible due to tectonic activity in the Caribbean. Landslides and flash floods often occur in mountainous or low-lying areas during severe weather events. Treat it as a medium risk and stay weather-aware.
RIESGO DE ASALTO: MEDIO
This is another medium risk, as robberies are one reason for the increased travel advisory. Officials strongly suggest that you don't fight back in any robbery attempt due to the callous and violent nature of criminals here. Don't wear valuables, and limit what technology you bring with you or show in public.
RIESGO DE TERRORISMO: BAJO
The general risk of terrorism is low, but that goes up closer to the Haitian border. We recommend you stay away from that region. However, terrorism can happen anywhere at any time, so being vigilant is always important.
RIESGO DE ESTAFA: MEDIO
To avoid scams, stick to reputable businesses, negotiate prices upfront, use official taxi services or rideshare apps, and be cautious when approached by overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or deals. If you've never visited this country before, consider it a medium risk and do your due diligence research before you go.
RIESGO PARA MUJERES VIAJERAS: MEDIO
Women should treat this as a medium risk, paying special attention to avoiding going out solo or visiting unknown areas, even with a group. Use official tours to stay in the safest places.
RIESGO DE BEBER AGUA DE GRIFO: BAJO
The tap water across the Dominican Republic can be plagued with problems. While tourist areas might have better water, there are still elements in the water that can make you sick, especially if you're from a place like the U.S. with strict standards. Use bottled water for all drinking water. Bringing water filtration tablets will help if you find yourself in a bind away from bottled water options.
Lugares más Seguros para Visitar en Dominican Republic
The official tourism website for the country is «Go Dominican Republic,» hosted by the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.
Look for the handle @godominicanrepublic on social media to find more information about upcoming events.
Punta Cana, with its pristine white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, is one of the most popular and safest spots.
Resorts here prioritize security, and the area is well-developed for tourism.
Be sure to put the Chocolate Museum on your list of places to visit.
Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, catamaran tours, or exploring Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, a tranquil reserve with freshwater lagoons.
Samaná is another excellent choice, offering natural beauty and a relaxed atmosphere.
The beaches, such as Playa Rincón and Playa Las Galeras, are peaceful and safe, and the region’s whale-watching tours during the winter months are a top attraction.
For those seeking a mix of urban excitement and coastal charm, Santo Domingo, the country’s capital, is a worthwhile stop.
The Colonial Zone (aka «The Zone») is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 11 blocks of historic landmarks, lively plazas, and well-lit streets.
Entering The Zone is free, but some museums or other attractions will charge admission.
The Museum of Dominican Man (Museo del Hombre Dominicano) explores the lives of the indigenous Taíno people through artifacts, ceremonial items, and detailed reconstructions.
It is the only museum that focuses on the island before Christopher Columbus arrived.
In the northern part of the country, Puerto Plata provides a combination of beautiful beaches like Playa Dorada and adventure opportunities such as cable car rides to Mount Isabel de Torres.
Visit the Amber Museum to learn about the history of mining in the Dominican Republic.
Housed in a stunning Victorian building, it features an extensive collection of amber pieces, some containing ancient inclusions like insects or plants. Amber jewelry is also sold locally at stores.
Head underground to Los Tres Ojos National Park or Los Haitises National Park, where lagoons lead to caves.
Check with tourism guides to find more caves, as there are many more beyond the national parks.
If you like the protection of visiting a national park, there are more than a dozen across the Dominican Republic, preserving about 25% of the country’s land.
Lugares a Evitar en Dominican Republic
While the Dominican Republic is largely safe for tourists, some areas require caution.
The border region with Haiti is less secure due to smuggling and occasional unrest, so it should be avoided unless traveling with a knowledgeable guide.
Most tourists won’t be drawn to this region, so don’t worry about accidentally stumbling too close to the border.
Rural areas can pose risks due to limited infrastructure and emergency services, as well as cultural or language barriers.
If you’re not comfortable visiting remote areas alone, consider getting a travel guide.
Urban areas outside established tourist zones, especially parts of Santo Domingo and Santiago, may have higher crime rates, particularly at night.
Beaches after dark are also not recommended due to safety concerns, such as theft.
Staying in well-populated, tourist-friendly zones is key to a safe visit.
Tips de Seguridad para Viajar a Dominican Republic
- POLITUR is the name of the «Tourist Police» department in the Dominican Republic. The phone number is 809-222-2026, and the department is on social media with the handle @politurd.
- The Dominican Republic’s eTicket is a mandatory digital form for travelers, combining immigration, customs, and health declarations. Visitors must complete it online before arrival and departure. It generates a QR code for scanning at the airport, simplifying the entry and exit process.
- The beaches on the Caribbean Sea side of the island are the safest, thanks to natural coral reefs that provide a barrier from large waves and strong currents. However, beaches facing the Atlantic may experience stronger tides, rougher surf, and higher risks from rip currents.
- Keep your mobile device tucked away when you don’t absolutely need to use it. That goes for using it in a car with the windows rolled down. These phones are a sign of wealth and can make you a target for thieves.
- While we talked about how rental cars are an option, you should research the traffic conditions in the country before you opt to rent one. Driving here can be white-knuckling and hazardous, especially if you aren’t used to driving defensively.
- I found some great Reddit forums where people talk about the cultural traditions and etiquette in the country. Review these before your trip. Everything from pointing to staring can be seen as a sign of disrespect.
- Prostitution is legal in the Dominican Republic, and the sex tourism trade can be overwhelming for those who aren’t used to it. Assume any massage parlor that is in a city and outside a major resort area is focused on sex workers. Single men should expect to be approached by working girls. You should simply offer a firm «NO» and keep walking. Do NOT stare.
- Hurricane season runs from June through November, and with the Dominican Republic in the hurricane belt, there’s always a good chance a storm will impact vacations during this time. Even an offshore storm can cause dangerous currents, rain, and high winds. A direct impact can leave you stranded without water, power, or food for days.
- Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic. While the tourist areas will have plenty of English-speaking workers, the chances of English being understood in rural areas are slim. Even if you know Spanish, study up on some of the accents and idioms used in the country.
- Check the dress codes of each city, as you might be caught off guard culturally. For example, it’s frowned upon to wear bathing suits when not on the beach or at a pool. In Santa Domingo, local culture calls for long pants and no shorts, no matter what the temperature is outside.
Entonces… ¿Qué tan Seguro es Realmente Dominican Republic?
As with most countries, there isn’t a blanket statement that covers the entire expanse.
Some areas are safer than others.
The tourist areas are safer in many ways, considering the importance of tourism for the economy, but they will also draw the risk of more petty crimes.
Drive-by theft and robberies are far too common.
However, we’ve discussed some of the ways to limit that risk.
Santo Domingo has one of the highest crime rates in the country, which shouldn’t deter you from visiting there.
Just be sure to use extra caution.
You also want to avoid putting yourself in a potentially dangerous situation, like walking on a dark beach at night or leaving a nightclub alone to walk home.
We want to punctuate the risks near the border with Haiti, where civil unrest or violent crime can happen.
Book your taxi or rideshares through verified services, and don’t let anyone approach you with a deal that seems too good to be true.
The Dominican Republic government says that less than 1% of the 10 million annual visitors were victims of crime and claims the warnings issued by the United States and the United Kingdom are bogus.
All that said, relentless focus on personal safety and common sense will go a long way.
Have the phone number and address of your local embassy and check in before you visit to see if there are new warnings or safety concerns.
¿Cómo se Compara Dominican Republic?
| País | Índice de Seguridad |
|---|---|
| Dominican Republic | 54 |
| Belize | 43 |
| Afganistán | 14 |
| Albania | 75 |
| Argelia | 44 |
| Angola | 48 |
| Argentina | 70 |
| Buenos Aires | 60 |
| Córdoba | 61 |
Información Útil
Visados
Visitors from many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and most of Europe, don’t need a visa to stay for under 30 days in the Dominican Republic. Extended stays require approval. Always check entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling. You will need the eTicket we talked about earlier to enter and exit the country. Don't forget your valid passport.
Moneda
The Dominican Republic uses the Dominican peso (DOP) as its official currency. While pesos are necessary for local transactions, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. ATMs are commonly used to exchange currency, but credit cards offer the best fraud protection. Bring the exact change with you for purchases, as vendors are unlikely to have the option to give a return change.
Clima
Temperatures largely stay the same in the tropical paradise throughout the year, anywhere from 77° - 86° F. Expect the mountains and inland areas to be a bit cooler, bordering on cold in the mornings and late evening. The rainy season is during hurricane season, with the height of activity between August and October. Conditions are drier and safer from December through April.
Aeropuertos
The Dominican Republic has several international airports, the busiest being Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ), catering to most tourists. Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) near Santo Domingo and Cibao International Airport (STI) in Santiago are other key hubs. Smaller airports, like in Puerto Plata (POP), support regional and international travel.
Seguro de Viaje
Travel insurance is not required to enter the Dominican Republic, but it is strongly recommended. It can cover unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or emergencies, which are especially useful during hurricane season. Also, consider adventure insurance if you plan to do more risky activities. Some resorts may include limited insurance, but comprehensive coverage provides added peace of mind.
Temperaturas medias en Dominican Republic
Temperaturas máximas y mínimas
| Temperatura / mes | enero | feb. | marzo | abr. | mayo | jun. | jul. | agosto | set. | oct. | nov. | dic. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Máx. °C | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 30 | 29 | 28 |
| Mín. °C | 22 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 |
| Máx. °F | 82 | 84 | 86 | 88 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 86 | 84 | 82 |
| Mín. °F | 72 | 73 | 73 | 75 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 77 | 75 | 73 | 72 | 70 |
Corrupt policing.
Tell us what to do when the police shake us down for money and threat to take us to jail if we don’t pay them?? That has happened to me and many people I know.
It’s true that the Police in DR is way underpaid.
For this cause they won’t miss an opportunity to get some extra cash, but only for minor violations, mainly traffic violations and that’s only if you tell them first to give you a break (which is not common in the USA) to avoid your US license from being confiscated as a guarantee that you will appear in court before leaving the DR.
However, the police do not force anyone to give them money; they may imply it by letting you know the inconveniences associated with breaking the law. The most obvious phrase they use is something like: «we haven had any breakfast today» or «can you cooperate with something ($$) for the sodas?» or any others along this line, but they don’t force anyone.
if you are wise you will give them five bucks ($5) or even ten. I have done it in order to continue my way. That’s it.
I wish I could do that for a traffic violation here in the USA. Oh, I can tell you that they are very friendly and respectful of tourists or foreigners on vacation.
Now, if you intent to give them a hard time, they’ll act as any police officer here in the USA to enforce the law.
Most of the time I’ve been there, I end up breaking the traffic law because people are very careless and don’t respect the traffic lights or patterns, they cut you off easily and sometimes you’re compelled to do that yourself; traffic is very bad, you have to forget that you are driving with civilized drivers next to you. Be careful while driving.
Dealing with police and traffic
Ok I lived there for 2 years, and I am a caucasian male. Police will pull you over for any reason, if you look like your from the states then you are a target. I never really saw them try and guilt a person into paying them off. The big scam they do is ask for your drivers license. I can not warn you hard enough, DO NOT EVER GIVE THEM YOUR ORIGINAL DRIVERS LICENSE, make copies and give them a copy. If you give them you real/original DL, they will extort you for a lot of money to get it back, same with passport your passport. If you are going to be there longer then a week, you should invest in a safety deposit box at the Banco de Reservas or if your hotel has a secure safe system then put it there. Passport theft is big business there. Another thing to remember, the longer you hold up the officer, the greater chance they will tell you to leave, there are always other tourists that they can shake down for some money. If you brave, you can wait for the traffic to open up in front of you (generally they will stop you when you are unable to leave the scene) and then just speed out of there. They do not radio to each other over traffic violations, mind you if the have a high powered motorcycle (when I was living there the officers you didn’t mess with were the Honda Nighthawk cops) it is best to just pay them off. If you try to run on them then they will get run you down and your bribe will be 10x what it could have been.
As for the driving, the laws are very much the same as the states. Very few people have auto insurance down there. So there are a couple things to be aware of: 1st- The unwritten law of the road is «I am bigger, I have the right of way». Accept this as a fact, if a vehicle is bigger than yours assume your are invisible to them. 2nd- DO NOT CHECK BLIND SPOTS! I know this is completely opposite of what we have learned here in the states, but remember the 1st rule takes precedence. Also, vehicle safety regs do not really exist. You must pay attention to what is in front and to the sides of you. Turn signals rarely work and stop lights on cars don’t work on anything older than a five years or older vehicle. Learn to use your mirrors, and learn to do quick checks of each mirror. Before you need to turn into another lane, be sure to check those mirrors at least a mile before needing to turn. Know what is are in those lanes long before you attempt to turn and again remember rule one.
Great advice
The most obvious phrase they use is something like: “we haven had any breakfast today” or “can you cooperate with something ($$) for the sodas?” or any others along this line, but they don’t force anyone.
Precisely my experience in a rural encounter. Thanks for posting it here. Actually a very friendly encounter. And you’re right — it’s a big chunk of what they have to live on. $5 or $10 goes a long way to help. It won’t kill you.
I did have a very bad experience in DR.. I 14 year old street kid tried to stab me because I refuse to give him money.
It was like 5 PM in the middle of one of the busiest streets in Santo Domingo. People also overprice everything at restaurants and at the beach. They think that tourists are stupid!
I rented an Airbnb condo in front of Parque mirador (their central park) and a few blocks from Venezuela and other Embassies, Yet, one night in that building, a Guy that lives there killed with gunshot a Mugger who enter into the facility that night.
The food is very good and the people are friendly, but I won’t come back. The Government in that country is the first narco cartel…
I feel sorry for Dominicans. They do have an amazingly beautiful country!~ But they have awful law enforcement and government.
Its Great and Really Dangerous
I go there every three month for a week. True, the police will hold you up. So give them $10. Its true the are two prices for anything – the Dominican price and the tourist price – so get the price straight in advance.
Follow these rules religiously:1. Never get drunk in public. You’re finished if you do. 2. Don’t go on any beach at night – you could get hurt. 3. Don’t leave a public areas to go some place not public with any stranger – no matter what you are promised.
Enjoy sitting under a palm tree at the beach sipping a drink. Enjoy warm breezy weather every day. Swim in the forested waterfalls. Ride horses thru the trees. Feed potatoes to the wild iguanas.
Lay in the sun at your hotel pool. Have a great meal at a reasonable price (not on the beach).
Enjoy the friendly vibes of the general population. Walk down El Conde mall in Santo Domingo.
Hasta la vista
DR is as safe as you make it .
This is very good advice. I go stay 6 months every year to punta Cana ,I stay in an apartment. In the 10 or so years I’ve been doing this (I’m a single white female) I’ve had no problems as I follow these same guideline he’s written about .If you do travel around by car. Have extra police money separate from your hidden other money. That way they don’t take every cent you have because they will.
Hello Annette
I want to travel to Dominican for 2 months. January and Febuary 2021. Love Punta Cana. What are price of apartments to rent.
Can you advice.
Thank you kindly
Rosemin
Was driving from Playa Macao to Miche. Half way there two officers, one with radar and the other signaling to move to left side of the road.
Noticed the officer with radar would lower it when old vehicles would show up.
Was told I went over 70 km/ hr speed limit.
I could pay 1000 peso and be on my way or have car impounded.
I asked for a receipt for the fine.
Was told to leave.
Don’t t really know if it was due to my insisted for a receipt or that a higher official pulled in front of us.
Question- we’re going to punta Cana next May- you mentioned not to get drunk in public, does this include the resort we’re staying at? Our resort is gated, do you think that will help make us safer? I’m starting to rethink this and maybe book our honeymoon somewhere else…
Response
What resort are you staying at? I’m reading the reviews and we’re going in October…. I’m highly rethinking it also.
Go at least once. Never return.
Went down there last year. The locals are friendly. Don’t get too drunk unless you can handle yourself. Keep your wits about you and you’ll be fine. Foxxy in Santo Domingo is a right laugh.
Ultimately for Santo Domingo at least, its a city of sin. Keep that in mind and you should be fine.
Watch out
Don’t go you will return with a head
I am going to the Dominican for over 20 years and never had any problems of course in puerto Plata, I feel safe in dominican I also have lots of Dominican police friends, there’s no place on the planet is safe so why all you idiots out there are taking shit about Dominican, why not talk about the USA where crime is happening every second, I am tired of hearing you people talk negative things about beautiful Dominican.
Amen and I live in the US
Hello can you honestly say its safe were booked in fully inclusive for 2 weeks I’m scared now reading all these reviews
Safer than NYC
I agree with you 100%. I go to Santo Domingo DR every 3-4 months and I haven’t heard one gun shot. On the other hand, I hear gunshots at least once a month in Harlem NY where I have my business.
I tell you what it is, go to London, New York, Paris, and any other so called civilised country and wollop the crime is everywhere, what i am seeing and hearing about DR is mild compared to these big white cities, if a black persons country has a few crimes it seems everyone becomes petrified. LOL. go to the bronx NY in fact any major city in USA, Gipton UK, Halton Moor UK (POLICE DONT GO THERE AT NIGHT ON THERE OWN). London, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Leicester, Birmingham, or any major city in Europe or uK, OR even towns: The Grove in Halifax had a documentary on how rough and poor this area was, so they went out and rioted (This is a white area with not a massive influx of foreigners so 99% mainly British. Throw a stone and thats were the crime was yesterday or 2 seconds a go in most areas of the UK. and these people have issues with DOM REP: PLEASE… ITS ON MY LIST TO IMMIGRATE again from the UK, I TELL YOU I WOULD SOONER LIVE in DR, JA, BB, PR, THAN THESE OTHER PLACES MENTIONED. I Lived in Mississauga Canada, just got up for a glass of water middle of night early morning and heard what was a gun shot, yeah and the Caribbean has problems but these places are safe give me a break, THE Caribbean, IS A tropical paradise, THERES CRIME EVERYWHERE IN EVERY COUNTRY, ITS JUST THAT WHEN IT HAPPENS IN A COUNTRY OF BROWN PEOPLE THERES AN ISSUE, IF IT HAPPENS ONCE ITS RIFE. Amir Khan in London Professional boxer x world champ robbed at gun point. Met police being stripped to the core with corruption, sexual assaults, Career rapists in the met, murderers and this is just the police, Enough said. AND STILL MOST OF THE CARIBBEAN IS UNSAFE. MY MY MY…….
coming back
I like to go
I like to go with my family there, is something I need to do for all of us to be safer
I will not go
It’s very unsafe and unsecure
Some people are stupid because in America there are many dangerous cities, even you are not safe when you take a train. Because they can rape or attack you, all countries have the same problems, some more than others, but not all say about the DR. we must take the same precaution in any country in the world. My experience there have been the best.
I have been living in Puerto Plata 4 1/2 years and never felt unsafe. More likely to get shot/robbed/killed in the US and I am a US citizen
Use common sense. If your inner voice tells you your in danger then you probably are. The people are mostly nice. The majority of them want no harm to come to you. If you happen to come across the few that do just give them what they ask for, and they will be on their way most likely. Don’t and you could very well be on yours, up to that bungalow in the sky that is. I’m in Santo Domingo mostly when I go, and each time have the time of my life. COVID really sucks because before it came to me my trips there was always very much looked forward to. NOTHING like it. Now it’s still great just not as much fun. I’d recommend anyone to go. It’s just like any American city……. DON’T BE A DUMBASS! Money goes a long way, but you can be taken advantage of for it, as anywhere. Make some friends just be careful.
Not like USA!!!
For you bleeding heart liberals that claim the DR is the same as the US you are sticking your ignorant heads in the sand and are clearly denying reality. The crime rate in DR is much higher than in the US. Police corruption and a weak police force/system leaves travelers at risk and less protected. Now there are certainly ghettos in the US that I would not set foot in but (ie Baltimore) those are few considering the overall size of the country. Crime is also on the rise from BLM.
With that said, however, you can still enjoy a visit/vacation in DR. I have a couple of times, but realize your risk is increased once there. To minimize the risk follow recommended precautions – stay with others, avoid being out at night etc. We go to dive and stay at the resort. So don’t completely avoid DR but don’t think you are safe when traveling there either. We all manage risk in our lives and sometimes an increase in risk is worth it.
My guy nobody here has said they’re liberal or conservative, it’s exactly this kind of behavior from both sides that’s destroying the country. Like just say your piece and go back to watching Fox News without bringing politics into every single aspect of your life.
A beautiful country
There are plenty of very beautiful spots to visit in this area like the 3 Eyes National Park, Saona Island which I loved, Bavaro beach or Altos de Chavon. The people are generally friendly but yes, there’s a bit of a problem with Police which you sometimes have to pay off to get rid of problems. It’s not too bad and hasn’t ruined my experience.
I’ve been going there since 1986,my wife is from there.It’s turned into a bad place,the unemployment for young men has turned a lot of them into petty thugs,they rob Dominicans not just tourists.The average Dominican doesn’t venture far from home at night.Haitians have had an impact also on excessive panhandling and crime.Too bad Ramfis Trujillo couldn’t run for President to fix things.
We went to Puerto Plata and Punta Cana and we never had any issues! I never put anything in the safe and nothing missing!!!! We are going this weekend for 4 weeks to Puerto Plata! Don’t be afraid, completely safe to go there!
Dangerous even if you are careful
We have been in DR for exactly 4 days and were already mugged at knife point… at lunch time in the middle of the tourist area of Santo Domingo. My husband and I have travelled the whole world and both worked in law enforcement in the past, so we are not careless or stupid.
Ghastly place.
Ghastly place. Full of crime and pickpockets. It’s Haiti with a better reputation