TRAVEL ADVISORY - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

SAFETY AND SECURITY

GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES
The security situation is stable, but demonstrations and protests occasionally occur. These are not targeted at foreigners and do not happen near resorts. Canadians should exercise caution, monitor local news reports, and avoid large crowds and demonstrations.

Aquatic equipment offered at the beach may not meet Canadian safety standards. Check that your travel insurance covers recreational activities. Swimmers should remain in well-marked and supervised areas and be aware of water conditions including the possibility of strong undertows. Avoid swimming at or walking on deserted and unpatrolled beaches after dark.

Avoid excursions that are not recommended by tour operators. In general, travellers should ensure tour operators have taken proper safety measures, including the use of safety equipment such as helmets and life jackets, before undertaking extreme or eco-tourism types of activities, especially for excursions to the 27 Charcos/Damajagua waterfalls near Puerto Plata.

A number of cases have been reported of Canadians losing large sums of money while playing Progressive Keno, Super Keno and other Keno or Progressive Roulette games at Casinos. These games operate on a progressive wagering basis, and large amounts of money can be lost rapidly. Canadians should exercise caution in hotel casinos where these games are offered, especially when requested to provide credit card information.

CRIME
The crime rate has increased. While violent crime, including assault, has affected a few foreigners, petty crime, including pick pocketing, is common in urban areas. Thefts have also been reported in resorts. Canadians should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially after dark. Avoid showing signs of affluence and ensure passports and other travel documents are secured at all times. Do not leave personal belongings unattended on the beach.

Theft of items from checked baggage at airports, particularly in Puerto Plata, has recently increased. Thefts are reported most frequently upon departure. Money and personal items are sometimes stolen from carry-on luggage while travellers are going through security checks. Do not pack valuables in your checked luggage. Items most likely to disappear include electronics (especially digital cameras), jewellery and perfume. All bags are routinely x-rayed on arrival and departure, as part of normal local procedure.

In the event that documents are lost or stolen, travellers should obtain a police report in order to receive a passport or an appropriate travel document from the Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo or the Consulate of Canada in Puerto Plata.

Unaccompanied female travellers should exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, especially regarding the acceptance of rides or other invitations. Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have been reported, including at beach resorts. In some cases, hotel employees have been implicated. Anyone who is a victim of sexual assault or other crimes should report the crime immediately. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to the Dominican authorities.

The Tourist Police (POLITUR) can provide assistance to tourists. They can be reached at 809-686-8639, or toll-free at: 1-200-3500.

Canadians planning to visit any area near the Dominican/Haitian border should be aware that Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is advising Canadians to avoid all travel to Haiti.