The U.S. government recently updated its travel advisory for the Dominican Republic. While the Caribbean island’s advisory level remains at Level 2 (exercise increased caution), travelers should be aware of newly updated safety details.
A popular vacation getaway has an updated travel advisory by the U.S. government.
The United States Department of State recently updated its advisory for travel to the Dominican Republic, which is currently at a Level 2, or “exercise increased caution.”
“Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists,” the United States Department of State travel advisory says. “Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals online in secluded locations.”
The advisory was updated on June 12, and was last modified nearly a year ago on June 18, 2024. The agency encourages travelers to consider that robbery, homicide, and other crimes are a concern throughout the country.
For safety tips, the agency recommends maintaining close awareness of surroundings, and not resist a robbery. “Be vigilant about where your phone is and avoid using it openly on the street,” the advisory recommends.
The Level 2 advisory is a mid-level advisory, but below the Level 3 of “reconsider travel” and Level 4 “do not travel.”
The U.S. travel advisory tiers, issued by the Department of State, has four levels:
Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions)
Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution)
Level 3 (Reconsider Travel)
Level 4 (Do Not Travel)
International travelers can enroll for free in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, also known as STEP. The program helps register a United States citizen’s international travel, and can provide timely and important information about the destination throughout the trip. Best of all, the program is free and can help increase safety when traveling.
The agency frequently updates its advisories based on current affairs, and this includes increasing and decreasing levels. Most recently, it updated its advisory for Jamaica, which was reduced from a Level 3 to a Level 2.
“Use your best judgement to avoid unsafe situations,” the U.S. State Department advises travelers. “Think ahead and come up with a safety plan to deal with unsafe situations, in the event you end up in one.”
Other helpful tips include carrying a safety whistle, monitoring their beverages, and avoiding meeting strangers.
