Article Highlights

 

  • Dominican Republic culture is a vibrant mix of African, European, and Taino influences, celebrated through food, music, and dance.
  • Remote gems like Bahía de las Águilas offer tranquility, while bustling cities like Santo Domingo provide historical charm.
  • The Dominican Republic is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from the U.S. and Canada.
  • Spanish is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Emergency medical care is reliable in urban areas, but travelers should carry insurance for added security.

 

The Dominican Republic, located on the eastern side of the island of Hispaniola, offers a mix of breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming locals. This Caribbean gem has long been a favorite among tourists from the United States and Canada for its rich history, flavorful cuisine, and stunning landscapes. However, before booking your trip, it’s essential to understand key aspects like safety, language barriers, etiquette, and available facilities to ensure a smooth experience.

Is the Dominican Republic Safe?

One of the travelers’ most common questions is: “Is the Dominican Republic safe?”

The Dominican Republic is a safe destination for tourists, particularly in popular areas like Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Puerto Plata. Tourism is a cornerstone of the country’s economy, and the government prioritizes visitor safety.

That said, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to the Dominican Republic to exercise increased caution due to crime.

 

“Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, is a concern throughout the Dominican Republic. The development of a professional tourist police corps, the establishment of a 911 system in many parts of the country, and the concentration of resources in resort areas mean that these tend to be better policed than in urban areas like Santo Domingo. The wide availability of weapons, the use and trade of illicit drugs, and a weak criminal justice system contribute to the high level of criminality on the broader scale.”

 

Travelers should stick to well-traveled areas, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious in less-developed regions. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded places or public transport hubs. The presence of tourist police (“Politur”) in major destinations provides an additional layer of security.

While the Dominican Republic shares a border with Haiti, the socio-political challenges in Haiti rarely impact tourism on the Dominican side. However, travelers are advised to avoid border regions unless part of a guided tour or official program.

 

Are Tourists Welcome?

The Dominican Republic welcomes tourists from the United States and Canada, who comprise a significant portion of the country’s annual visitors. Tourism infrastructure is well-developed, and many hotels, resorts, and tour operators are geared toward accommodating North American travelers.

Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic, but many Dominicans in the tourism sector speak English. French is less widespread but understood in some establishments catering to Canadian visitors. It’s helpful to learn a few Spanish phrases for smoother communication.

 

Cultural Differences Tourists Should Know

Dominican Republic culture is a vibrant mix of African, European, and Taino influences. Music, dance, and family gatherings are central to life in the country. Tourists should embrace the warm hospitality of locals, but it’s important to be mindful of cultural nuances:

 

  • Greetings: A handshake, kiss on the cheek, or both are typical ways to greet someone. Use formal titles – Señor or Señora – when addressing locals.
  • Dress Modestly: While beachwear is acceptable at resorts and coastal areas, dress more conservatively in cities or rural regions to show respect.
  • Tipping: Tipping is customary. A 10% tip is usually included in restaurant bills, but leaving an additional 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated.

 

Etiquette Behaviors Tourists Should Know

 

  • Politeness Matters: Dominicans value courteous behavior. A friendly “Buenos días” (Good morning) or “Gracias” (Thank you) goes a long way.
  • Time Is Flexible: Expect a relaxed approach to punctuality. Things might run on flexible schedules.
  • Respect Personal Space: While Dominicans are warm and social, always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially children.

 

Laws Tourists Should Know

Some laws and regulations in the Dominican Republic may surprise tourists:

  • Strict Drug Policies: Possession of even small amounts of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties.
  • Driving Laws: Road conditions and driving behaviors can be chaotic. Use reputable transport services.
  • No Camouflage: Wearing camouflage clothing is prohibited and reserved for military personnel.

 

Communication: Cell Coverage or Satellite Phones?

The Dominican Republic has widespread cell coverage in urban and tourist areas. Most major U.S. and Canadian carriers offer affordable international roaming plans for the country. Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels, resorts, and cafes. Satellite phones are generally only necessary if traveling to remote areas with limited connectivity.

 

Dominican Republic Cuisine

Food is an integral part of the Dominican Republic culture. Local cuisine blends Spanish, Taino, and African influences:

  • Mangú: Mashed plantains served with eggs, salami, and fried cheese for breakfast.
  • La Bandera Dominicana: A traditional lunch of rice, beans, meat (usually chicken or beef), and salad.
  • Sancocho: A hearty stew made with meat and root vegetables, often enjoyed during celebrations.
  • Dulce de Leche: A sweet caramel-like dessert.
  • Drinks: Don’t miss Presidente beer or Mamajuana, a rum-based drink infused with herbs.

 

Things To Do in the Dominican Republic

 

  • Relax on Beaches: Punta Cana and Bavaro Beach are famous for their pristine sands and turquoise waters.
  • Explore Santo Domingo: Visit the Zona Colonial, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring historic architecture and cobblestone streets.
  • Whale Watching: Head to Samana Bay between January and March to see humpback whales.
  • Hike Pico Duarte: Climb the Caribbean’s tallest peak for breathtaking views. At 10,174 feet/3,101 meters, you will not need Global Rescue’s High-Altitude Evacuation Package.
  • Cultural Festivals: Attend Carnaval in February or the Merengue Festival in July.

 

Places To Visit

Travelers looking for popular venues typically visit:

  • Punta Cana: Renowned for all-inclusive resorts.
  • Santo Domingo: The historic and cultural heart of the country.
  • Puerto Plata: A coastal city with beaches and the iconic Mount Isabel de Torres

 

For travelers seeking less crowded destinations, consider:

  • Bahía de las Águilas: A secluded beach in Jaragua National Park.
  • Los Haitises National Park: Explore mangroves, caves, and unique wildlife by boat.
  • Constanza and Jarabacoa: Mountain towns offering cool climates and adventure activities.

Emergency Medical Facilities and First Responders

Medical care in urban centers like Santo Domingo and Santiago is generally good, with private hospitals offering quality care. However, medical facilities may be limited in rural areas. Tourists are advised to have travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation.

First responders may not operate with the same efficiency as in North America, so having a contingency plan, such as access to private medical services, is essential. Bringing basic medications and knowing the location of the nearest healthcare facility can provide added security.

 

The Global Rescue Connection

While a popular tourist destination, the Dominican Republic presents some notable safety and healthcare challenges. There is petty crime in tourist hotspots and substandard emergency medical facilities in rural areas. Travelers are encouraged to have traditional travel insurance and a Global Rescue membership for emergency medical evacuation services.

A Global Rescue membership evacuates members from the point of illness or injury to the nearest appropriate hospital, clinic or medical provider.  Perhaps the hospital in the Dominican Republic doesn’t provide the care you need. A Global Rescue travel protection membership can transport members to a vetted medical center or their home hospital of choice. “The closest medical facility isn’t always the right one. Global Rescue gets you to the most appropriate hospital for your illness or injury,” said Dan Stretch, operations manager at Global Rescue.

Sometimes, you have a question about a symptom. Available 24/7/365, a travel protection membership team can direct you to the best local medical resources worldwide so you are not left guessing about how to best address your health concerns. “Our team of medical professionals includes paramedics, nurses and doctors. We handle calls for cuts and stomach upsets to more severe illnesses and injuries, like chest pains and serious trauma,” said Michael Lovely, operations supervisor at Global Rescue.