Dominican Republic

Dominican Republichttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republicDominican Republichttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/safety-tips-for-the-dominican-republicFind out how to keep yourself safe and which places to avoid in the Dominican Republic with these tips from our local insider, Gisselle Frias.2020-07-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/safety-tips-for-the-dominican-republichttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The Dominican Republic, or The DR for short, is popular for its crystal-clear blue water, and powdery white beaches.</p> <p>I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic and, after a few years traveling solo around the world, I came home inspired to explore lesser-known places on my home island.</p> <p>With more than six million visitors each year, The Dominican Republic ranks top five overall for tourism in the Americas.</p> <p>This is one of the friendliest countries in the world, and exploring this <a href="/explore/guides/caribbean-nomads-guide" title="Explore the Caribbean with World Nomads">Caribbean island</a> with common-sense safety precautions in mind should be more than enough to keep you safe.</p> <p>Here are my top six travel safety tips when it comes to exploring the Dominican Republic safely.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#travel"> How safe is the Dominican Republic for travelers? </a></li> <li><a href="#women"> Safety for solo women travelers </a></li> <li><a href="#avoid"> Places to avoid in the Dominican Republic </a></li> <li><a href="#go"> The best places to go in the Dominican Republic </a></li> <li><a href="#drugs"> Drug laws </a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtqi"> Safe for LGTBQ+ travelers </a></li> <li><a href="#transport"> Transport crime </a></li> <li><a href="#money"> Credit card fraud and other money scams </a></li> <li><a href="#podcast"> Listen to The World Nomads Podcast: The Caribbean </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="travel">1. Is it safe to travel to the Dominican Republic?</h2> <p>In 2019, the country was under media scrutiny over the suspicious deaths of 11 tourists. News articles claimed the deaths were due to tainted/spiked alcohol, but following investigations by the FBI, the deaths were deemed to have been by natural causes. But the damage was already done; there were news headlines warning people not to visit the Dominican Republic, causing a high number of hotel booking cancellations during the summer.</p> <p>The government reacted to the media attention by setting up the <span><a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/2019/09/04/dominican-republic-creates-tourism-security-committee/" title="Special Security Committee">Special Security Committee</a></span> dedicated to ensuring the safety of visitors. Under new guidelines, hotels are now inspected four times a year, including detailed food and beverage control.</p> <p>Each hotel guest room must now have an emergency information card with emergency numbers, such as:</p> <ul> <li>911 (for police, fire or ambulance)</li> <li>112, which directs to 911 on mobile phones</li> <li>809-200-3500 Tourism Police (CESTUR)</li> </ul> <p>Here are a few other tips to stay safe in the Dominican Republic based on my own and other locals’ experiences:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/safety-tips-for-the-dominican-republic" title="How to get around the Dominican Republic safely">Avoid unlicensed taxis</a>. Instead, use a licensed taxi that has a sign on its roof with the name of the taxi company.</li> <li>Do not ride a motorbike without a helmet.</li> <li>Do not wear flashy jewelry while walking on the streets. It can attract attention to thieves who are usually on motorbikes.</li> <li>Do not use your phone on the street. If you need to make a call or check a map, enter a café or restaurant before taking your phone out</li> <li>Never leave any valuable belongings in plain sight. Lock your suitcases when you leave your hostel or hotel.</li> <li>Avoid giving money to street kids – it encourages begging.</li> <li>This Caribbean island has had cases of dengue fever, zika and chikungunya virus, especially in the rain/hurricane season (May, September, October and November). Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers and sleep under a mosquito net.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/dominicanrepublic/bahia-de-las-aguilas-beach-dominican-republic-gisselle-frias.jpg" alt="Clear water seen from a thatched-roof balcony" /> <figcaption>Bahia de las Aguilas Beach, Dominican Republic. Photo credit: Gisselle Frias</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="women">2. Is it safe for women to travel alone in the Dominican Republic?</h2> <p>Overall it is safe for women to travel solo in the Dominican Republic, but like anywhere in the world, common sense and sensible judgment should always be on your agenda.</p> <p>Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or back streets alone late at night. In the resort town of Punta Cana, sexual assaults are common at night.</p> <p>Sexual harassment towards travelers is not common, although you might receive unwanted attention from Dominican men who might whistle or shout “hey mami” or “oye gringa”. This is not meant to cause harm, so just ignore them and keep walking.</p> <p>At public beaches, you will see many <em>sankis</em> – young men trying to seduce travelers with the intention of extorting money or starting relationships in the hope that travelers will invite them to join them in their home country. If approached, say no.</p> <p>Whether at a resort or strolling the streets, you‘ll only make yourself more of a target for theft by donning flashy clothing and showing off valuables such as jewelry or cameras on the island.</p> <p>A traveler to Santo Domingo reported that the area of Independencia and el Malecon west of Parque Independencia in the city center is dodgy. The area around the casinos is also more likely to include <a href="/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/sex-in-the-dominican-republic">hustlers and prostitution</a>, which puts tourists at risk for pickpocketing or robbery.</p> <p>Like in some European countries, more and more thieves are striking while cruising by with the engine off on a moped, often snatching a purse and possibly knocking over the victim. Tourists also increasingly report theft from cars.</p> <h2 id="avoid">3. Areas to avoid in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>The Dominican Republic has a high crime rate, but crime is most common in communities and areas travelers rarely visit.</p> <p>Some high-crime areas in the capital city of Santo Domingo include Arroyo Hondo, Naco, Gazcue, Cristo Rey and Villa Agricola. Violent crimes such as theft, muggings and even murder have occurred. If confronted, always hand over your belongings. </p> <p>Here are a few tips to keep yourself safe in urban areas of the Dominican Republic:</p> <ul> <li>Avoid walking by yourself late at night on the streets. Always walk in groups of at least two.</li> <li>Avoid visiting La Duarte, a street in Santo Domingo. It is chaotic and crowded, making the chance of getting mugged higher here than elsewhere.</li> <li>Do not leave your valuables or bags unattended at the beach. Always have someone watching them or have them close to you.</li> <li>Never leave your drink unattended at a bar. If you do, ask for a new one.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/dominicanrepublic/sunset-in-dominican-republic-gisselle-frias.jpg" alt="A colorful sunset in the Dominican Republic" /> <figcaption>Watching the sunset in the Dominican Republic. Photo credit: Gisselle Frias</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="go">4. Safe places to visit in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>These are some of my favorite (and some of the safest) places to visit in the Dominican Republic. </p> <h3>For adventure</h3> <ul> <li>The Damayagua Cascades, where there are 27 waterfalls</li> <li>Kitesurfing in Terrenas, Samaná</li> <li>Humpback whale watching during whale watching season, from January to February at Samaná Bay</li> <li>Windsurfing in Cabarete, Puerto Plata</li> <li>Canoeing through the caves of Los Haitises National Park</li> <li><a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safe-scuba-diving" target="_blank" title="Scuba diving safety tips">Diving the Hoyo Azul cenote in Cap Cana</a>.</li> </ul> <h3>Safe beaches to explore </h3> <ul> <li>Bahia de las Aguilas, part of Jaragua National Park</li> <li>Playa Las Ballenas in Terrenas, Samaná</li> <li>Playa Rincon in Samaná</li> <li>Cayo Levantado, on a small island in the middle of Samaná Bay</li> <li>Playa Blanca in Punta Cana</li> <li>Playa Esmeralda, located in Miches</li> <li>Saona Island.</li> </ul> <h3>Cultural experiences</h3> <ul> <li>Visit the Colonial City of Santo Domingo – which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site</li> <li>Faro Colon in Santo Domingo</li> <li>Fortress San Felipe and the Cable Car in Puerto Plata</li> <li>Taino Caves in Sabana de la Mar</li> <li>Altos de Chavón in La Romana.</li> </ul> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/dominicanrepublic/salt-mine-salinas-peravia-dominican-republic-gisselle-frias.jpg" alt="Laying down between a pale pink and darker pink salt mine" /> <figcaption>The pink slat at Salinas Peravia, Dominican Republic. Photo credit: Gisselle Frias</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="drugs">5. Drugs in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>The Dominican Republican is very strict on drug offenses, and penalties can range from large fines to long jail sentences. It doesn‘t matter how much or what you‘re packing -- the authorities impose severe penalties regardless. Prisons are tough and poorly-maintained. The country is either getting stricter or those carrying drugs are getting more careless, as the rate of arrests of foreign travelers for drug offenses has risen dramatically.</p> <p>Officials from the Dominican Drug Enforcement Agency often have their sniffer dogs at the airport to catch foreigners carrying drugs right as they step off the plane. Smugglers target luggage tags, removing them to place them on their own bags, which contain drugs.</p> <p>Even if you‘re clean as a whistle, some shady strangers may try to plant drugs on you. In what‘s called the “dishonest cop scam,” a chipper local will come up and shake your hand, then place a bag of cocaine or other illicit drug in your palm. A police officer then steps in and “arrests” you, but says you can get off by paying a fine.</p> <p>Even if you don‘t participate in it, drug activity is something you might see being conducted by dealers or gang members. Gangs do exist in the D.R., most notably in the Capotillo, Guaricano and La Cienega areas of Santo Domingo. Members can sometimes be seen hanging out at the mall in that city.</p> <p>Any violence they commit will usually involve rival members, but occasionally, their initiation process includes harming a random stranger. Gangs, and other local residents, may carry weapons, and sometimes they are visible. There are drug cartels in the Dominican Republic, but they are mostly a stopping off point for getting drugs to Europe or the States.</p> <h2 id="lgbtqi">6. Is the Dominican Republic safe for LGTBQ+ travelers?</h2> <p>Around 95% of Dominicans are Christian and it is a conservative country when it comes to sexual orientation. Even though the topic of the <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-tips-for-lgbtq-couples-traveling-together">LGBTQ+ community</a> is a sensitive one, everybody is welcome here. LGBTQ+ travelers may face discrimination or hear derogatory comments but are unlikely to encounter violence. Public displays of affection should be limited.</p> <h2 id="transport">7. Transport crime</h2> <p>There's been an increase of armed robbery of tourists leaving the Las Americas international airport. Criminals impersonating police force taxis or private vehicles to stop and rob travelers at gunpoint. The situation is particularly bad at night and you should try to arrange to arrive in the Dominican Republic in daylight hours.</p> <p>Always <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">keep a close eye on your baggage</a> and avoid displaying valuables like cameras and laptops which can entice potential thieves for a quick snatch and grab.</p> <p>It's also common for thieves on motorcycles to swoop in at a red light and reach into vehicles to lift whatever they can. Either suffer through the stifling heat with the windows rolled up, or put a stronghold on your purse or bag.</p> <p>Also, avoid unmarked taxis, as the drivers may try to scam riders.</p> <h2 id="money">8. Credit card fraud and other money scams</h2> <p>Other types of theft include credit card and ATM fraud. In fact, the U.S. Department of State goes so far as to warn travelers against using credit cards at all; some have reported fraudulent charges appearing on their statements months after their trip. Always keep your card in sight when using it.</p> <p>Avoid using ATMs at night and only use ATMs inside banks and shopping malls. The same applies to exchanging money, Exchange at your hotel or at a reputable money changer in a shopping mall or bank.</p> <p>Another danger is “Progressive Keno,” in which players can lose large amounts of money quickly.</p> <p>The latter is a big con, so move onto another game if frequenting the casinos.</p> <p>Some tourists say the rules are confusing, which leads to some of the money-wasting. Other names this game goes by include “Super Keno,” “Caribbean Keno” or “Progressive Roulette.” A traveler to Provincia de Puerto also reported that bars outside the resort areas will run up your tab past what it should be or overcharge for drinks.</p> <p>There are also beggars in the street, including children. A Santo Domingo resident advised tourists against giving money to anyone, even if they truly look needy or appear to be crippled, as locals simply ignore their pleas.</p> <p><em>Additional reporting by Phil Sylvester.</em></p>Gisselle Frias 0 Gisselle Frias Saona Beach, Dominican Republic

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/dominican-republic-travel-alerts-must-read-nowWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Dominican Republic? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2021-04-15T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/dominican-republic-travel-alerts-must-read-nowhttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Previous travel alerts for the Dominican Republic</h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Hurricane Irma - September 6, 2017</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Hurricane Irma - 6 September 2017</h2> <p>Now classified as a Category 5, Hurricane Irma made landfall Wednesday morning in the Eastern Caribbean. The storm is now heading towards Puerto Rico and threatening St. Kitts and Nevis, the Virgin Islands, Hispaniola, and Cuba. Keep an eye on local media for the latest updates.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Travel-Safety/hurricane_irma_sep_6.JPG" /> <figcaption>Areas likely to be affected by hurricane-force winds from Irma. Image credit : NOAA</figcaption></figure> <p>Travel warnings have been issued for Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, Montserrat, St. Kitts, and Nevis, Saba, St. Eustatius, and Sint Maarten, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Vieques, and Culebra, Dominican Republic from Cabo Engano to the northern border with Haiti, Guadeloupe, Southeastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands.</p> <p>The United States has declared states of emergency in Florida, South Carolina, and Puerto Rico.</p> <p>Along with extremely strong winds, Hurricane Irma is likely to create a storm surge of 11 feet or more, and large, breaking waves. Heavy rains could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides.</p> <p>Be aware that now this is a named hurricane and emergencies have been declared in several places it may not be possible to purchase travel insurance to cover this event. To discuss your coverage please contact us <a href="https://helpdesk.worldnomads.com/">at World Nomads</a>. </p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">How to Survive a Hurricane</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>How to Survive a Hurricane</h2> <p>The absolutely best way to survive a hurricane is to avoid one. Get away from it, but if you make the decision to leave make that decision early. Do not leave it until the last minute because you may find yourself caught without proper shelter.</p> <p>If you decide to stay and "ride it out" it is advisable to get to an authorized shelter. The locations of these will be broadcast, or locals will know where they are. If there is no shelter, prepare to "shelter in place" in an internal room without windows.</p> <p><strong>Once a "storm watch" has been issued, make sure you are prepared in the event that the watch becomes a "warning."</strong></p> <ul> <li>Fill the gas tank of your car.</li> <li>Check batteries in flashlights and radios.</li> <li>Have extra batteries on hand.</li> <li>Secure all doors and windows.</li> <li>Close shutters or board up the windows.</li> <li>Have extra supplies on hand such as non-perishable food, clean drinking water, a half-gallon of water per person/per day (enough for a couple of days), and prescription drugs.</li> </ul> <p><strong>During the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Never go out during the storm. The winds can send flying debris into you causing injury and even death.</li> <li>Stay away from windows and doors.</li> <li>Keep on the alert for additional storm warnings. Hurricanes are known to spawn tornadoes so be prepared to take cover if one should strike.</li> <li>While the storm is in progress avoid using electrical appliances.</li> <li>Stay off the telephone.</li> <li>All pets should be secure in carriers. The storm will be a frightening experience for them as well, and they could injure themselves or you if they panic.</li> <li>Do not light candles or lanterns; they could get blown over causing a fire.</li> <li>The eye of the storm passing over could make you think the storm is over when the worst is still yet to come. Only use this calm in an extreme emergency to make critical repairs.</li> <li>Only after an official "all clear" has been issued is it safe to come out.</li> </ul> <p><strong>After the storm</strong></p> <ul> <li>Beware of downed power lines and gas leaks.</li> <li>Stay away from heavily damaged areas.</li> <li>Listen to your radio for instructions.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/Stanley Chen Xi 1 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/dominican-republic-health-hygieneDisease and natural disasters can be an issue in the Dominican Republic. Find out how to avoid getting sick and stay safe in the Dominican Republic with these tips.2019-10-08T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/dominican-republic-health-hygienehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Being located near the Tropic of Cancer, the weather in the Dominican Republic is tropical and warm all year around, with a dry winter and a five month wet season. Some folk call it the "endless summer".</p> <p>But it is this tropical climate which allows for mosquito borne and other infectious diseases to flourish which can really put a dampener on your travels.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#vaccinations">What vaccinations should I get for the Dominican Republic?</a></li> <li><a href="#contaminated-food-and-water">Contaminated food and water</a></li> <li><a href="#mosquito-and-animal-borne-diseases">Mosquito and animal borne diseases</a></li> <li><a href="#person-to-person-transmitted-diseases">Person to person transmitted diseases</a></li> <li><a href="#natural-hazards-and-disasters">Natural hazards and disasters</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vaccinations">What vaccinations should I get for the Dominican Republic?</h2> <p>Several serious illnesses abound in the Dominican Republic. Cholera, transmitted via contaminated food and water, outbreaks frequently in the country. In 2016, 15 people died and 679 cases were confirmed. Symptoms include dehydration, vomiting and <span>diarrho</span><span>ea,</span> which left untreated can be fatal. Sometimes those infected exhibit no or mild symptoms.</p> <p>There is an oral vaccine available for Cholera, but while most travelers are low risk with contracting the disease, it's still a good idea to practice good hygiene and food safety. </p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/travelers-diarrhoea-health-tips">Traveler's diarrhoea</a> is also common, caused by viral or bacterial infections via contaminated water and food. Get a good dose of it and it can really put a dent in your holiday plans. <span>Diarrhoea can result in ranging degrees of dehydration, fatigue, abdominal pain, cramps and nausea. Severe cases can see you spending time in hospital receiving IV hydration and medications.</span></p> <p><span>Other diseases like Hepatitus A and Typhoid can also be found in the Dominican Republic. A vaccination is available for Hepatitis A.</span></p> <h2 id="contaminted-food-and-water">Contaminated wood and water in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>Given the country's tropical climate, staying hydrated is important. It is advised not to drink the local water despite the improvements made with water supplies and sanitation. Make sure you wash fruit and vegetables thoroughly and brush your teeth using <a href="/travel-safety/bottled-vs-filtered-water">treated or bottled water</a>. When grabbing a meal, make sure it's more on the well done side to kill off any bacterial nasties and choose places which are busy.</p> <p>And it goes without saying: Wash your hands! Always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer, handy if hand washing facilities aren't available.</p> <p>Seafood poisoning can also occur. Naturally occuring toxins such as ciguatera and scombroid are found in shellfish and tropical species of fish.  If you suspect you have food poisoning, seek medical treatment immediately. If left untreated, ciguatera poisoning can result in disability and potentially death.</p> <h2 id="mosquito-and-animal-borne-diseases">Mosquito and animal borne diseases</h2> <p>Malaria lurks and is most prevalent near the Haitian border. Only occasional outbreaks have occurred.</p> <p>The large and varied insect population in the Dominican Republic can carry diseases like <a href="/travel-safety/risks-symptoms-and-prevention-of-dengue-fever">Dengue fever</a>, a mosquito-borne infection that produces fevers, body aches all over and rash.</p> <p>Other mosquito borne disease present in the Dominican Republic include Chikungunya, West Nile Virus and Zika Virus, which is widespread. These diseases are easily spread especially during the hotter months of the year (May to November).</p> <p><a href="/travel-safety/mosquitoes-and-bite-prevention">Prevention</a> is better than spending time laid up, feeling like death warmed up. Wear long, light clothing and apply a DEET based repellent. At night, sleep under a mosquito net. Limit the use of perfumes and lotions.</p> <p><span>More than 550 cases of rabies in animals have also been reported since 2009. This may be due in part to the population of wild dogs on the island, which, fortunately, mostly avoid humans. If you plan to be heading out of the town areas to hit up some adventure activities, it may be worth having the vaccine before you travel.</span></p> <p>There are also lice, gnats and sand flies transporting diseases like leishmaniasis, also called “flesh-eating disease.“ Typhus, filariasis and oropouche virus are other fun ailments you can get if you come in contact with a bug. Never forget your insect repellant wherever you go.</p> <p>Other creepy crawlies on the island include tarantulas, which can appear in woodsy areas. Sea urchins can also crop up on the beach and prove painful to step on.  </p> <h2 id="person-to-person-transmitted-diseases">Person to person transmitted diseases</h2> <p>The country has one of the higher global rates of HIV and AIDS infections with 1 in 50 adults affected, which is about three times more than the United States.</p> <p>If you need medical treatment, make sure the facility and equipment is sanitized. Hospital and medical clinic standards in the more touristy locations tend to be good however they will ask for cash payments regardless of whether you have travel insurance or not.</p> <p>Hepatitis B is also transmitted via blood and other body fluids. Always use safe sex practices. Those at risk of exposure to Hepatitis B should consider getting vaccinated.</p> <p>Tuberculosis is present in the Domincan Republic however the risk to travelers is low.</p> <h2 id="natural-hazards-and-disasters">Natural hazards and disasters</h2> <p>The Dominican Republic is prone to hurricanes and earthquakes. The hurricane season usually runs from June to November. Flash floods and landslides are aftereffects of such a disaster.</p> <p>In 2017, Hurricanes Irma and Maria passed by the country. Thankfully there was minimal damage done, with most tourist areas remaining unscathed.</p> <p>The wet season can also cause to flash flooding. The Dominican Republic's wet season varies depending on location, on the north coast it runs from November to January and for the rest of the country it's May to November.</p> <p>Power outages occur frequently throughout the Dominican Republic, sometimes as a result of severe weather. Looting and petty crime can increase during these periods.</p> <p>The water can also be dangerous to swim in, with tourists reporting strong currents and large waves. Anything involving rafting, swimming near waterfalls or cliff diving after a heavy rain is very hazardous. An American couple, protected by helmets and life jackets, died at Charcos/Damajagua waterfalls in 2009 during flooding that occurred after heavy rains.</p> <p></p> <p></p>Getty Images/Yisel Gonzalez / EyeEm 11147729000 Getty Images Fruit for sale in Santa Bárbara De Samaná, Dominican Republic

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/sex-in-the-dominican-republicHere's how to avoid being hassled on your trip to the Dominican Republic, and what you need to know about the local community.2019-01-04T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/sex-in-the-dominican-republichttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Don't let sex tourism put you off experiencing the beautiful coast and mountainous landscapes of the Dominican Republic. The country is <a href="/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/safety-tips-for-the-dominican-republic">generally safe</a>, with friendly, laid-back locals.</p> <p>Here's how to avoid being harassed while traveling around this Caribbean nation.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#poverty-and-prostitution">Poverty and prostitution</a></li> <li><a href="#human">Human trafficking</a></li> <li><a href="#child">Child sex tourism</a></li> <li><a href="#tender-traps">Tender traps</a></li> <li><a href="#hassling">Avoid being hassled</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="poverty-and-prostitution">Poverty and prostitution</h2> <p>The Dominican Republic ranks fourth in the world of countries exporting large numbers of sex workers. </p> <p>Travelers will see legal brothels, "massage parlors", and sex workers in many of the downtown areas, such as the Puerto Plata province and Santo Domingo.</p> <p>The country has a high incidence of poverty, with a third of the population living below the breadline, forcing many women (and men) turn to sex work according to The World Bank. Unemployment, abuse, drugs, gang violence and lack of education opportunities also contribute to poverty. The age of consent for any sexual activities in the Dominican Republic is 18.</p> <p>If you're traveling to the country around the Christmas holidays, you'll probably see an increase in the number of girls working. Male prostitutes are also common and contribute to the country's high rate of HIV and AIDS infection, with around 68,000 locals living with the disease in 2016.</p> <p>The south coast's Boca Chica and the north coast's Sosua are the two big areas for prostitution. These locations look like your average tourist locales during the day, but at night, prostitutes are easy to find, with many sex workers mixing in bars and clubs, targeting relatively well-off travelers.</p> <h2 id="human">Human trafficking</h2> <p>Human trafficking is a major contribution to sex tourism in the Dominican Republic as the country is considered by the United Nations and many human rights organisations as a destination and transit point. <br /><br />Despite human trafficking being made illegal in 2003, women from neighboring Caribbean and Latin American nations such as Haiti and Venezuela are bought to the Dominican Republic and can end up trafficked even if they originally chose to willingly go to the country. <br /><br />Local women can also become trafficked, often sent to Western Europe e.g Spain and Switzerland, Argentina, Costa Rica, Panama and North America. Once trafficked, women can end up in forced labor against their will including sexual enslavement.</p> <h2 id="child">Child sex tourism</h2> <p>There is an increase in the numbers of underage locals entering prostitution, due to poverty and/or escaping abusive home situations. Human rights organization International Justice Mission reported in 2015 that one in four sex workers in the Dominican Republic was underage.</p> <p>Disturbingly, many foreign nationals who seek out this nefarious trade go unpunished as prostitution laws are rarely enforced. Despite many hotels signing a code of conduct to prevent the exploitation of minors in their properties, and actively advertising that it's illegal to bring minors to their property, the crime often occurs at private accommodations such as apartments and cabanas. With very little government regulation beyond commercial hotels, the exploitation of minors continues.</p> <p>Having sex with a minor can be punished with up to 30 years in jail plus penalties in the visitor's home country.</p> <h2 id="tender-traps">Tender traps</h2> <p>Men can go to strip clubs and pay an 'exit fee' to the establishment to take a prostitute to their accommodation. But watch out, it's not uncommon for girls to rob their clients. Others may pickpocket men on the street.</p> <p>Beware of sex workers who try to start up long-distance relationships with tourists after they return home, in the hope of continuing an income stream.</p> <h2 id="hassling">Avoid being hassled</h2> <p>If you're a man out without a woman, you'll get harassed by prostitutes in certain parts of town.</p> <p>If you're a woman, be prepared to see hustlers haggling and prostitutes persuading.</p> <p>While some travelers do go to the Dominican Republic to pay for sex, many prostitutes and hustlers figure any tourist can be easily convinced to do the same. Travelers who aren't interested in sex workers have reported being harassed (sometimes physically) constantly at night by hustlers and prostitutes. If you approached by a prostitute, saying "No" firmly and walking away should suffice.</p> <p>Women travelers, particularly those traveling alone, should expect Dominican men to be aggressive in their pick-up approach. This type of behaviour occurs particularly in local bars and nightclubs outside the resort areas.</p> <p>It's recommended that you act confidently and firmly rebuff the attention. Dressing conservatively may also help.</p>iStock/Instants 0535194217 iStock

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/roads-transportation-in-dominica-what-you-must-knowOur travel safety expert, Gisselle, shares her tips on public transport, driving and taxis to help you get around the Dominican Republic safely.2019-11-08T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/roads-transportation-in-dominica-what-you-must-knowhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Growing up in the <a href="/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/sex-in-the-dominican-republic" target="_blank" title="How to Avoid Sex Tourism in the Dominican Republic">Dominican Republic</a> (DR), I loved going on road trips to see beautiful landscapes and explore beyond the tourist hotspots – which is how I learned the DR offers so much more than magnificent beaches.</p> <p>For an island that is less than 20,000 mi² (50,000km²), getting around the Dominican Republic is not as easy as you might think.</p> <p>Here’s what you need to know to get around the <a href="/travel-safety/caribbean/dominican-republic/going-to-dominica-tips-to-avoid-becoming-a-victim-of-theft" target="_blank" title="Crime in the Dominican Republic">Dominican Republic safely</a>.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#driving"> Is it safe to drive in the Dominican Republic? </a></li> <li><a href="#road-rules"> Road rules in the Dominican Republic </a></li> <li><a href="#transport"> Local transport safety in the Dominican Republic </a></li> <li><a href="#cars"> Car rental in the Dominican Republic </a></li> <li><a href="#boats"> Boats and water travel </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="driving">Is it safe to drive in the Dominican Republic?</h2> <p>The Dominican Republic has some of the best highways in the Caribbean, which are paved, well maintained, and all have tolls.</p> <p>Unfortunately, it also has one of the highest rates of road accidents in the world. The road fatality index is <span><a href="https://www.cepal.org/sites/default/files/project/files/cepal_rspr_dr.pdf" target="_blank" title="Cepal">21% higher than anywhere else in Latin America and the Caribbean</a></span>. The highest percentage of fatalities involves motorcycles.</p> <p>This doesn’t mean you can’t drive here, you should just be prepared and aware of the dangers on local roads.</p> <p>Here are my tips for staying safe on the roads:</p> <ul> <li>If you are riding a scooter or motorbike, always wear a helmet</li> <li>Avoid driving at night on the highway due to livestock on the roads and low visibility</li> <li>Do not use your phone while driving</li> <li>Do not drink and drive</li> <li>Obey the traffic light signals– even though many Dominicans don’t</li> <li>Look both ways before you drive through an intersection if you have the green light, just in case a local is not obeying the signals</li> <li>Do not exceed the speed limit. On highways the limit is75mi/h (120km/h), main roads are50mi/h (80km/h), and in smaller towns and villages 24mi/h (40km/h)</li> <li>Watch out for pedestrians, who often run across roads unexpectedly</li> <li>Wear your seatbelt at all times</li> <li>Dominicans drive on the right side of the road</li> <li>Taking a right turn on a red light is permitted. Always do so with caution.</li> </ul> <h2 id="road-rules">Road rules in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>There are five new highways connecting all major cities in the country, however, you will often be sharing these with fast and reckless bus and truck drivers.</p> <p>Driving around the capital city of Santo Domingo is a challenge, for locals as well as for visitors. Traffic congestion in the capital is an issue, and people drive more aggressively than elsewhere in the country.</p> <p>When driving on roads outside the city, you might encounter police and military at roadblocks. This is normal, and they will check to see if you are carrying weapons – which is common among locals, who must show all up to date documents with permission for the weapon. Travelers must show a driver’s license and up to date vehicle documents. Never pay bribes – you must show the papers required.</p> <h3>Emergency numbers</h3> <ul> <li>911 police, fire, ambulance</li> <li>829-688-1000 (Roadside Assistance called MOPC)</li> </ul> <h2 id="transport">Local transport safety in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>Public transport is improving. As well as the Santo Domingo metro, there are <em>carros publicos</em> (public cars), buses, <em>motoconchos</em> (taxi motorbikes) and taxis available throughout the country.</p> <h3>Santo Domingo Metro</h3> <p>This subway operates on two lines and is most commonly used by commuters. A subway card costs US $0.40 (RD $20) for one trip, US $0.75 (RD $40) for a roundtrip and US $1.50 (RD $80) for a day pass.</p> <p>The subway operates daily from 6am until 10pm.</p> <h3>Carros publicos</h3> <p>These are small public cars used as public transport that carry up to seven people and can get pretty cramped. The best way to recognize these cars are by the sign on the roof which shows their route.</p> <ul> <li>Always check the driver is going where you’re going before getting inside</li> <li>The best way to hail one is by sticking your hand out to wave the driver down and they will drop you wherever you request to get out.</li> </ul> <p>Public cars cost between US $0.50–$1 (RD $25–$50). </p> <h3>Coach and bus services</h3> <p>There are three main private coach companies for long-distance travel, which are all reliable, affordable and well equipped.</p> <ul> <li><span><a href="http://www.expresobavaro.com/" target="_blank" title="Bavaro Expreso">Bavaro Expreso</a></span> operates daily and connects travelers from Santo Domingo and Bavaro</li> <li><span><a href="https://www.caribetours.com.do/" target="_blank" title="Caribe Tours">Caribe Tours</a></span> offers transport routes from Santo Domingo, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Sosua, Barahona, Cabrera, Jaraboca, La Vega, Montecristi, Samana and Haiti</li> <li><span><a href="https://www.metroserviciosturisticos.com/" target="_blank" title="Metro Tours">Metro Tours</a></span> departs from Santo Domingo to La Romana, Santiago, Puerto Plata, Sosua and Port-au-Prince, Haiti.</li> </ul> <p>Prices range from US $3.70–$9.50 (RD $200–$500) one-way.</p> <h3>Public buses (<em>guaguas</em>)</h3> <p>Public buses, known locally as <em>guaguas,</em> are like <em>carros publicos</em> but cheaper – they have set routes, but are always overcrowded, so you must pay attention to your belongings to avoid being pickpocketed.</p> <p>Although they follow specific routes, they stop whenever the driver spots a possible passenger, honking the horn all the way.</p> <p>These usually cost about US $0.50(RD $25).</p> <h3>Low-cost buses</h3> <p>Low-cost buses (known locally as low-cost <em>guaguas) </em>are generally cheaper than coaches and take passengers from the city to towns further away beyond the set routes offered by public buses and cars.</p> <p>If you are in a hurry, make sure to hop on one with a sign that reads ‘<em>Expreso’</em>, otherwise the driver will stop to pick up other passengers along the way.</p> <h3>Motoconchos (taxi motorbikes)</h3> <p>Taxi motorbike drivers are often reckless, and the majority do not wear helmets. If you are traveling on one and they drive too fast, you can tell them to slow down by waving with your hand up and down or by saying “<em>mas despacio, por favor</em>” (slower please).</p> <h3>Taxis</h3> <p>Taxis in the Dominican Republic are unmetered. Fares are fixed, and they vary depending on the distance.</p> <p>Here are a few other tips to stay safe when taking taxis:</p> <ul> <li>Avoid taking unlicensed taxis –they don’t have a taxi company sign on the roof</li> <li>When you call a taxi company to make a booking, ask for the color of the car and its license plate details. Share this information with a family member, friend or staff at your hostel</li> <li>Always check the fare when booking, before agreeing to a ride.</li> </ul> <p>UBER and Cabify are two ride-sharing options. They are safe to use just like elsewhere around the world.</p> <h2 id="cars">Car rental in the Dominican Republic</h2> <p>Major car rental companies are located at the airport and in city malls.</p> <p>Renting a car is a great option to explore the island with freedom. Prices vary depending on the company, so shop around. You must be 25 years or older to rent a car in the Dominican Republic.</p> <p>The following documents are essential for driving in the Dominican Republic:</p> <ul> <li>ID or passport</li> <li>Driver license (with at least six months’ validity)</li> <li>Up-to-date vehicle papers</li> <li>Valid car insurance.</li> </ul> <h2 id="boats">Boats and water travel</h2> <p>Boats in the Dominican Republic are generally safe to use and well maintained.</p> <p>Here are a few tips to staying safe on board a boat trip in the Dominican Republic:</p> <ul> <li>Make sure the tour operator has a license from the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR). Check their website or read online reviews</li> <li>Always ask how many people will be traveling on the boat and if there are enough life vests on board for everyone.</li> <li>Do not drink too much alcohol when you are on board a boat. Tourists tend to get a bit carried away with drinking while on the sea. This can leave you dehydrated and hungover, and vulnerable in an emergency. </li> </ul> <p>When booking boat day trips or tours in the Dominican Republic, make sure to also book through licensed providers. There are many dodgy tour operators that will approach you on the street or beach selling a trip, but who operate without insurance and do not adhere to safe practices. Although you may save a few dollars, the risk is not worth it. </p> <p>Research online or ask staff from your hostel or accommodation for any recommendations on licensed tour operators.</p>Gisselle Frias 0 Gisselle Frias