Safe/Unsafe

Your question is too broad.  Explain your intentions, where you plan on going, what is your intended method of transportation, for what purpose and how long are you planning to stay.

Otherwise, the answer is, everywhere you go is safe and everywhere you go is unsafe. 

Cheers.

Tourists should stick to tourist areas and use tourist agency excursions in the first instance.

Those wishing to come and reside here as residents should also start by visiting as tourists in tourist areas where their needs are catered and policed and build their knowledge of the country step by step before choosing their place to live.

Those that arrive for work purposes or through a partner will build their knowledge from their work associates or partner.

The indepedent explorer will research his/her travels more thoroughly through publications and have a travel plan.

If you are an expat with poor knowledge of Spanish you will stand out like a sore thumb anywhere including in resort areas to those who will see you are an soft target. There are large social divides in most developing countries including DR and there are many on the lower tiers of society who will look to exploit a soft target. As such you could be a risk to yourself anywhere if you behave imprudently.

Lennoxnev,
That's a good answer, but I would add that most people you will encounter in the countryside, or outside of big metro areas, are friendly and kind, and they will work with whatever limited Spanish you have (or french, depending on where you are), to communicate with you. Don't be afraid to talk to people. Don't bring valuables, dress out of place, or act special. If you are respectful and a polite visitor, people will share the beauty if the DR with you.

I agree that both the original post is way too broad and that you got a really good answer.

So tell us more please. Get specific about what you are asking us and we can respond appropriately.

For example I was told do not fly into santo domingo airport at a late hour because you could get mugged leaving the airport in a taxi.

If I am in Punta Cana area, are Veron and Bavaro safe all hours?

I read about Sosua - same thing.

DRvisitor, same answer as before.  Tell us what is is you have in mind.  You want us to share our life experiences with you, you have to share something with us.

I live in the Punta Cana, Veron, Bavaro area.  The answer to your question is the same as I would answer anywhere in the world.  No, it's not safe at all hours and frankly I do not know of a place in the world that is...

Realy Tourists should stay in Tourist Areas and use Tourist Companies to get it better?
I would suggest not stay in Tourist areas but make sure you can handle the Situation or look for a Person who can . i did travel around the World and became to know many countries because I did NOT stay in Tourist areas . Or do you mean if you have been at the Northcoast at a resort or Punta cana , Bavaro or las Terrenas you will see the Country know the Country enjoy what this beautiful Country has to offer ? Surely not .
Stay away from Tourist Areas if you want more than only be a Sheep staying with a large flock of sheep in an enclosure .
If you want enjoy this Country try to read before arrive if not speaking Spanish you will be a bit limited but also this is manageable. Search before you go on a Trip for Things you like and write down the Names and the city and position and if the Place has a name the Name , rent a car with GPS and go where you thin you would like it . Find empty Beaches find small bars and take a Translator device with it will help .
As person come to live here ask yourself if you want to live surrounded by Expats  or do you want to live in a nice Area find your Way into the Dominican society . It is always better to do this than stay outside and never become a part of the Society. Dominicans are friendly people known for their way enjoy Life and their hospitality . Yes they have some habits not such comfortable for them who do not understand their lifestyle but it will come with the Time . But stay away from this Expat Ghettos!      Learn Spanish to be a real part of it and in my Opinion the best Way learn to talk Dominican is learn it on the Street . I had a lot of Fun with it only you can not be shy  for this.                                                           Always remember ; You are a Guest in this Country !  And i ask you to try to talk Spanish and you will see many Dominicans  smile only because of the fact that you try to communicate in their language .     If you want to live like in the US or Canada or Europe this is not the Country for YOU!
If you want to become a part of the Dominican society you will find many hands welcome you.                  Bad people exist everywhere , all around the Globe!
I have a long time in this Country , above 20 years  and i have not found a Place even similar to this , if you do not disturb anybody and do not disrespect anybody you can live your life and nobody ask you how you do it . I have not seen that in many countries .
Be open mind ! And remember you are the Guest !

Actually, went to Kats Corner in Bavaro for breakfast one morning based on good reviews. I wouldn't go back because of the vibe from people in the place etc.

I grew up in the states and you knew of bad areas to stay away even during the day.

That is true everywhere and it changes over time.  So specific to these areas I can't help you. 

My advice is to ask those around you.  And listen to your own gut feelings.   

I will say that any area can become unsafe under specific circumstances.  Right now during the holidays no street is safe in terms of accidents and drinking and driving.

I regularly fly into las Américas at 2:30 am and walk out across the dark lot to pick up a rental, then drive to las Terrena. I cant tell you that a cab is unsafe. I can tell you that Santo Domingo can be a dangerous place. Anywhere in the world where there is a high concentration of wealth and poverty, and few  police with adequate support, in the same place is likely to cause that.

"That is true everywhere and it changes over time."

This was what I was getting at as most of you live in various areas full time would have a better understanding what areas are improving or not.

Only those living in those specific areas, correct

I believe, as a general statement, things are improving from a safety perspective in many areas of the island and also the Punta Cana Bavaro area.  I work with many tourists and to blatantly and irresponsibly say to someone that you don't know, that a place is safe is just as criminal as it can be.  I have seen very naive people walk into a dangerous situation in this country simply because of their lack of street smarts and lack of awareness.  I am living in The PC area as a white gringo, I have no safety issues or concerns anywhere that I go.  In many cases that works for me, not against me.  I have made many Dominican friends.  That doesn't apply to other people.  My experiences are as unique as the next person.  What I will say is to always err on the side of caution.  Nothing here is as it seems, trust no one, believe no one, expect nothing, it is and always will be the wild wild west.  Laws are convoluted and corrupt and mostly not enforced, contracts have little meaning and peoples words seldom have the value of a peso.  Anyone that disputes that is living in a dream and has not lived in the real DR....

again, only my humble opinion.

Solid advice Mike. How long have you lived in that area for?

I hear it is night and day from twenty years ago with roads, infrastructure, etc

Freedmeister wrote:

Lennoxnev,
That's a good answer, but I would add that most people you will encounter in the countryside, or outside of big metro areas, are friendly and kind, and they will work with whatever limited Spanish you have (or french, depending on where you are), to communicate with you. Don't be afraid to talk to people. Don't bring valuables, dress out of place, or act special. If you are respectful and a polite visitor, people will share the beauty if the DR with you.

My point being is that you have to start somewhere and begin to understand the country. Even if you are a seasoned traveller you will be reading up on your Lonely Planet etc. to plan your journeys in this country. For the uninitiated, the best advice and that applies anywhere in the world and probably more so here, is to start by vacationing here and the easiest way will of course be by booking a package vacation. Learn about the country step by step.

My initiation into Dominican life was different as will be the case with other fellow expats who find a Dominican partner. I started my adventure here with my then girlfriend living in a very simple small village in the campo north of Villa Altagracia and it certainly was not a place to be wandering around as a foreigner speaking limited Spanish without family friend. Based upon that experience and my travels and life in other parts of the country I would categorically say that there are big differences in attitudes towards foreigners in various places and even in the campo.

I have stated before on this forum that the people of Samana peninsula, where you reside, are some of the friendliest I have encountered during my travels in DR. I have met such similar warm people in places like Monte Plata, in the South West and in Azua province too. But my experience is also that in places like the North Coast there is an underlying wariness/coldness/aloofness by many Dominicans to foreigners and I certainly feel that acutely too in the capital.

I read you later post and how you hire a vehicle and drive to Las Terrenas in the early hours. I used to drive between the capital and LT regularly when I was working there with SD office and I would never travel much after dark on those roads nor advise others to do so. You will recall that about six years ago motorists and even taxis were being held up and robbed at night in the Monte Plata and Arenoso turn areas. That road is too damn quiet at night even for someone well versed in driving the route.

Back to the first post. Statistics actually show that there has been a steady reduction in homicides over the past several years which is very positive. But I don't think this paints a full picture. I think there is community wide sense in many areas and certainly in the capital, of greater insecurity most especially at night and some barrios have become no go areas after dark because of drugs becoming more common everywhere from poor to rich city barrios, regional towns and even villages and in tourist area nightlife.

DRVisitor,

I have lived here for about 5 1/2 years...seems like 20!  I have been frequenting this area for more than 23 years and remember well when the road from Hiquey to the PC airport was sparse with buildings and now there are buildings everywhere and construction everywhere.  It is not the place from 20 years past.  Even we have several major Grocery stores now with the latest Nacional being built across from the Blue Mall with all the goodies an expat could expect in a grocery store.  Now we have National, Ole, Jumbo, Polo and Iberia in the area.  We have several hardware stores (ferreteria's) and many building supply stores etc.  There are only a few occasions that I cannot find what I need and our prices in some cases are in line with Santo Domingo, La Romana, Higuey...even we have some good car dealers here now.  The area is expanding quickly and things are changing every day.  Property values are increasing...

Freedmeister wrote:

I regularly fly into las Américas at 2:30 am and walk out across the dark lot to pick up a rental, then drive to las Terrena. I cant tell you that a cab is unsafe. I can tell you that Santo Domingo can be a dangerous place. Anywhere in the world where there is a high concentration of wealth and poverty, and few  police with adequate support, in the same place is likely to cause that.

Haha...you must be on the same jetBlue flight as me.  I find it easier to get a rented car than to deal with all the taxis due to my lack of Spanish.  There is always someone at the rental counter who speaks English and is able to help.

I GOT ASSAULTED BY A LOCAL IN PUNTA CANA. HE TOOK EVERYTHING FROM ME AND THERE IS NOTHING YOU CAN DO TO RECUP WHAT YOU LOST. POLICE COULD CARE LESS. PEOPLE DON'T GIVE A DAM. I WOULD ADVISE YOU TO STAY AWAY FROM THE DR ENTIRELY, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE WHITE BECAUSE THEY ASSUME YOU ARE RICH AND THAT MAKES YOU A TARGET.

THE WORST ARE THE ONES ON MOTORCYCLES. THEY HIT AND RUN AND YOU CANNOT CATCH THEM.

JULIA

They are so poor that they don't even light up the streets at night, result, tourists get assaulted all the time. As far as the roads are concerned and pedestrian space, there are in pretty bad shape. When it rains, you can have water up to your knees at least. Power goes off all the time. Streets are very dirty as they throw everything on the ground and with the heat, it stinks....

There is absolutely no security as soon as you step out of your resort so you are on your own. If you have a gun, I recommend taking it with you to defend yourself. 1 out 2 Dominicans has a gun or a weapon of some kind. Just be careful.

Well that's the way it was 2 years ago.

Julia

Punta Cana, as there are many crimes reported and unreported daily !

It goes with the territory, many tourists, many thieves. Makes sense. I wish I knew before going there.

Well, I learned my lesson the hard way. Never again will I return there.

Julia

Julia,  I am sad to hear about your experiences but unfortunately or fortunately, everyone's experiences are different.  Your description of the area you were in tells me that you ventured to an area that tourists should not go to alone.  I have lived here for 7 years and have gone to some of the "darkest" parts of the island (every country has them) and I have not encountered the experiences that you have.   Sometimes, without any fault of their own, people call the attention and call the problem, not always but sometimes.  Since you will never return to the DR, I am saying this for those that will; always be aware of your surroundings and do not travel alone to areas you are not familiar with unless of course you are able to easily defend yourself.  Also, don't overdress, try to be flashy etc. in a poor area.  That doesn't wash with anyone.  I personally get around a lot as I am a resident and have the need to find stuff (maintenance mainly) and I can't say there are any particular areas that I am afraid to go to alone...except maybe hooker corner...lol  Of course I am talking mainly about the Punta Cana\Bavaro area but I have spent time in Higuey and San Pedro and feel the same.  Santo Domingo on the other hand...a whole different country...IMO

I hope you find safe travels and happiness even if its not here in the DR.

Did you get in contact with the tourist police? They usually move mountains to assist because trust me the last thing the government wants is negative publicity. Plus they are always there if you need assistance. Most of the time the local police also go above and beyond for you but I'm assuming that's different in each area. But yes the tourist police was created for situations such as yours.

You were lucky then.
One day a local told me 'oh I hear tourists saying this is really paradise, it's not dangerous', until something happens to them and they got robbed or something else.
It could even be after several years...
I was not flashy or anything and just outside the beach in 'El Cortecito' that I call the 'ghetto'. Oh my God, just thinking about it, I get the goose bumps, with all the locals running after me so I buy something from their store or I book a tour. I was never left alone, never.

The only thing worthwile was maybe going to the catamaran cruise in Saona Island in the south of the island because the water was really turquoise but beside that, well, not much.

Julia

This poster is digging up every thread to post the same messages over and over. Clearly this country is not for her. We got your message.  Good luck to you

Poltur is the Tourist police that was created under the mandate of the government. They are friendly and very courteous. But did you try your local police cuz 99% of the time they're working every shift to make you feel safe. About five six years ago there was a big push on reform and now most local municipalities have outstanding police forces

Well, this is something that should be published, and repeated, not kept quiet!

I am sorry Julia that it happened to you. This nearly happened to me, also in Bavaro, around 3pm one afternoon.  I walked from the beach near Whala Bavaro, for 10 minutes to my condo rental.  I had a beach bag that said "I love Punta Cana" on it, otherwise, I was just in shorts, a top and flip flops.  I was walking fast, with purpose because I needed to go through a run down area.  At the end of that street,  you have million dollar condos (well, expensive ones).  Two woman in a brand new red motorcycle followed me after I went onto the side street.  Clearly they were not that poor, if they had a brand new motorcycle.

One woman was dropped off behind me and the other sped up passed me, turned around and started to drive towards me.  I saw what was happening.  Lucky, I was only 1/2 block from the mercado on the next street so I ran there and that is what saved me.  I learned my lesson. Take the car and park closer to the beach or just dont go at all. 

I was spared.  Julia was not.  Sorry Julia.   But staying home  or not coming back again, just gives the thieves more power.  This can happen anywhere, in any country.

Yeah I remember my first year here was like 1997 and security guard at the hotel I was staying at gave me the Dominican Republic 101 course in about an hour he told me everything to watch out for. And then coming back every year I learn a little each year. Most important thing is use common sense. That and if you're going out to dinner or out for the evening only take what you're willing to lose. When it comes to the local police I seen dramatic increase in professionalism lately and they are actually trying to better the area for everyone. Plus when they created the tourist police branch that helped out tremendously in major tours and expat areas I think because you finally had a police force that was willing to help you out in any way they could. Back in the early 2000s it was completely and different place. But the only thing I see now is yes covid didn't make a lot of people change the way of crime but when it comes to police I would disagree with her. I think they're doing an amazing job now , they do their job to just do protect tourist and citizens equally. They're trying to make their community safe now.. but I guess everyone has a different experience. Common sense is the biggest thing. And like you I've been to some dark parts of this island just by venturing around and yeah I'll miss sometimes I didn't feel safe but nothing ever transpired. Maybe it's because I'm a male or maybe it was that I was in those areas during the daylight learning them. Always good during daylight to venture and check areas out so that you know what's safe and what's not safe. That way when it's dark out and you're out you know what ways to go and what ways to avoid at all costs

It is published every single day if you're US citizen the embassy post about the high crime rate. It's one of those things the first day you're here you really going to investigate the area talk to the people at your hotel and just get the feel of the area. If you're living here long term yes definitely treat everyone with respect and they'll warn you about certain things. But you got to remember this island was hit pretty hard by covid and a lot of people are barely surviving so yes it might have made the crime rate go through the roof but the law enforcement is still doing everything they can here and even the national Police are more and more in areas that you used to never see him in to combat this. Just use common sense put your safety above All Else. Give them whatever they want and never carry anything that you're not willing to walk away from. That and an amazing security system in your house that is very back up for at least 48 hours with a Clara hotspot that battery will last almost 4 days for just security purposes. I have an auto dialed into 911 here and also every entrance and exit and window of your house should have an alarm on it. Bars on the outside is always good too. Basically what you would do in any area in any other country that has been hit hard by covid and people are turning to doing whatever they can to survive. I'm not justifying it in any way or accepting that in any way I'm just telling you silly that's how it's been for the last 2 years here. Hopefully more people will venture here now that all the restrictions are lifted and people that have been laid off from a resort or a resort adjacent businesses will return to work and they won't need to or have to. The country and the people are truly the most beautiful and caring . Don't let the last 2 years put a permanent thought in your mind. Just like all the real estate prices are at an all-time low like 2008 prices now and some people are trying to say it's because of crime. No it's because they learn during  covid they weren't allowed to get to their property so they're selling. Plus they never stopped building here during covid they kept building so there's such a surplus of properties now. But yes when people are buying stuff they always stop and look at the crime stats and stuff for the area and that's what's going to truly hurt the country in a long time.

Alcohol, drugs, big differences in wealth and now covid19 (with the hardshpis it brings to certain sectors) are ingredients for mainly petty crime.

The tourist zones have all of these factors thrown in, so it comes as no surprise that if you present yourself as a potential target and alone, you need to be on high alert of all those around you.

This applies to most tourist destinations around the world.

I don't consider DR to be any different to other destinations when it comes to petty crime in tourist zones as the below statements on Portugal and DR confirms:

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Lisbon as being a MEDIUM-threat location and Ponta Delgada as being a LOW-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. Portugal has a relatively low crime rate, but non-violent street crime is common. Petty thefts and other crimes of opportunity (e.g. vehicle break-ins, pickpocketing, surreptitious bag snatching) occur frequently, particularly in the major cities. Thieves often loiter in tourist locations, near beaches, and at transportation hubs (e.g. metro, bus, train stations) to take advantage of disoriented/distracted travelers. Pickpockets take advantage of crowds getting on/off all forms of public transportation, using the jostling of the crowd as a distraction. Wallets and cellphones are particularly vulnerable. Crime reporting typically increases during the summer, primarily due to the increase in tourism. Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind.

The Dominican Republic is friendly and welcoming and the vast majority of visits to the country are trouble-free. However, there is a high crime rate, ranging from opportunistic crime like bag snatching and pickpocketing to violent crime.

Petty crime, including pickpocketing and robbery takes place across the country. Don’t wear expensive jewellery or carry large amounts of cash or valuable items like smart phones or cameras on the street. Keep electronic devices out of sight and use a hotel safe whenever possible. Don’t leave your bags or other possessions on chairs or tables in restaurants or bars.

Drive-by robberies can occur, where thieves on motorcycles snatch bags and valuables from pedestrians and sometimes reach through the windows of cars at red lights to steal belongings. Victims are sometimes hurt in the process. Keep valuables out of sight, and if you have a bag with you, carry it on the side away from the street. If travelling in a car, drive with doors locked and windows closed.

Being a foreigner and the target of violent crime in DR is rare but can occur if you take part in illegal activities like drug use in tourist zones or partake with adult entertainment or if you walk alone especially at night in some barrios.

DR also has a problem with (male) violence against women and a single foreign woman can prove a bigger target alone.

Thank you for your support. I am usually blamed by some people saying 'it was my fault' !

They steal so much that they have plenty of cash and electronic. They probably sold my gold chain by now ; (here again, people again say that I shouldn't have a gold chain) but I have had it forever and never anything happened to me, certainly not a guy assaulting me a few meters from the resort . I didn't think about taking everything off before taking a small walk and 'the safety box' is not even that safe any more since that's where they usually go in the first place. They see when you go out and they make arrangement with their employees to check the safe first. I usually don't go to poor countries and not planning on returning either. Some things are just part of you like a wedding ring and you don't take it off every time you go out. I don't want to have a security guard every time I go out either.

Unfortunately, I was leaving the next day and had no time to report it and I am sure the police wouldn't have done anything. They all look the same on their motorcycles...But the consulates warn their citizens that the DR is a high crime area. Unfortunately also, I read that after the fact. I wish I were warned before but hey 'live and learn', move on and don't make the same mistake. Things could have been worse, I guess.

Julia

Yes you are right. Consulates warn their citizens about the DR being a high crime country, unfortunately, I found out after I returned. I should have checked before.

I think Mexico is safer. I have never had any problem every time I went. In fact, I found friendly people in Mexico and always had fun and hate well.

Julia

In fact, by behaving like they do, they basically shoot themselves in the foot because the more and more people get assaulted,, the less likely they will be to spend any money on that island. Many changed their mind after reading the warnings by their respective consulates. But as they say, 'it can't happen to me ; that always happens to someone else...'. Just like Covid19 and many millions of people died from it.
Sad to have bars on the windows and feel like you are in jail while the criminals are out running free...
And I am sure, there is never any punishment for the locals, right ? They are probably well connected with the police and share their 'prizes'.
Your vacations can easily turn into a nightmare.

Julia

If you venture from the norms and outside resorts in places like Mexico, DR, Colombia, Thailand, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Tunisia, Kenya, Jamaica, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico etc. you become a target once you are seen as a tourist/visitor out of your safe zone.

People who have made DR their home have adapted and understand the risks.

I also don't approve of how various posts have presented an unbalanced view of this country, which for me has been without incident in over 16 years having a presence here. I have learnt where to go and where not to go and when.

Sad to have all the electronic security devices on your home, panic alarms, security cameras everywhere, neighbourhood watches, private security companies, no go cities and have to drive by car everywhere! And only feel safe with a gun or guns in your house.

People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones!

This is tiring reading your incessant unbalanced gripes.

Oh Julia,
I am so sorry for what happened to you. It’s a traumatic experience, and serves as a warning to others. I don’t think Mexico is any safer with all of the cartels. I hope that you will confront your fears and give the Dominican Republic another chance, being wiser from what you experienced.
It really is a beautiful country with good people. Unfortunately you encountered some bad ones. Be well, and recognize that you are a survivor and not a victim.
Best regards

Diplomatically said.

Julia, being French (as your profile) why don't you share your experiences on the expat.com French forum? I think you have shared plenty here in several threads in relation to your opinion of DR.

I think your fellow French nationals should be told too.

https://www.expat.com/forum/viewforum.php?id=4097

No one has said crime doesn't exist here.

anyone who says anywhere is absolutely safe is being ridiculous.

We have threads talking about how to  stay safe.

We are in a pandemic when more and more people are struggling.  Not excusing any illegal activity, understanding the need for additional care IS the point.

I find it interesting the US needs to say anything about crime here!

As suggested let's not feed this.

As usual  Planner your censure reigns.

All I had to read was the "gold chain". Not saying it is right but if you flash the chances of robbery will go up greatly in many areas that you go to any where.