The Dominican Republic welcomes millions of travelers every year, drawn by its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. A record-setting 7.2 million international visitors came in the first seven months of 2025, proving the destination’s enduring appeal. Yet paradise comes with precautions, and knowing what not to do can be the difference between unforgettable memories and avoidable mishaps.
Let’s be real, this isn’t a destination where you can just wing it without some street smarts. Whether you’re planning a resort getaway or venturing beyond the all-inclusive gates, these essential tips will help you navigate the island safely.
Don’t Drink The Tap Water
According to the Centers for Disease Control, you should not drink the tap water in the Dominican Republic as your body is not accustomed to the microbes in the Dominican Republic’s water. Here’s the thing – even if locals seem fine drinking it, travelers risk serious stomach troubles. Drinking from the tap only increases your chances of contracting an upset tummy or traveler’s diarrhea.
This rule extends beyond just drinking. Request “no ice” in drinks because it may be made from tap water, especially at smaller restaurants and bars outside resort areas. Stick to sealed bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and even washing fruit. Trust me, nothing ruins a vacation faster than spending days in a hotel bathroom instead of on the beach.
Never Display Valuables Or Flash Wealth
Do not display wealth, do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention, and be vigilant about where your phone is and avoid using it openly on the street, according to the U.S. State Department’s latest advisory. This is crucial advice that many tourists overlook when caught up in vacation mode.
The most common type of crime are drive-by robberies that are normally performed by one or two assailants on a motorcycle, scooter, or even a bicycle, with the assailant driving up to grab anything that is in arm’s reach: purses, cellular phones, necklaces. These thieves are opportunistic and quick. Wearing expensive jewelry or pulling out the latest iPhone model makes you an easy target. Keep valuables locked in your hotel safe, not dangling around your neck.
Avoid Unofficial Taxis And Public Transportation
Avoid using open-door microbuses, known as “gua-guas” or “carros publicos” as these services are often unregulated and poorly maintained. Transportation safety represents one of the biggest risks visitors face in the Dominican Republic. Use a ride share service, pre-booked taxi or those provided by hotels, and don’t use unofficial taxis or ‘carros publicos’ as travelers have been robbed and assaulted in unofficial taxis.
Airport taxi scams remain particularly common. In the Dominican Republic, many drivers rarely turn on the meter, and at the end of the trip, even if you have traveled a short distance, the driver may end up charging you between $35 and $60, which is an outrageous price. Book transportation through your resort or use reputable ride-sharing apps where available. The few extra dollars are absolutely worth the peace of mind and safety.
Don’t Ignore Road Safety Warnings
The country’s road crash-related mortality rate is 65.2 deaths per 100,000 people, which is the highest in the world. Let that sink in for a moment – the highest in the world. Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws, they often speed and can be aggressive and reckless, and drinking and driving is common.
If you’re considering renting a car, think twice about your driving experience. Consider hiring a professional driver who is familiar with local roads. Pedestrians should also exercise extreme caution, as pedestrians don’t have the right of way, even at traffic lights. The chaotic traffic patterns, poor road maintenance in rural areas, and aggressive driving culture create hazards even experienced international drivers struggle to navigate.
Never Leave Drinks Or Food Unattended
Do not leave food or drinks unattended, warns the State Department advisory – and this applies to everyone, not just women traveling alone. Incidents of assault, rape and sexual aggression against foreigners have occurred, including at beach resorts, and in some cases, hotel employees or fellow guests have been implicated.
The most common strategy of the perpetrators is spiking the food or drinks of victims with drugs, which may be inside alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, chewing gum, or even cigarettes. Watch your beverages from the moment they’re poured until you finish them. If you need to step away, order a new one when you return. No drink is worth the risk of being incapacitated in an unfamiliar country.
Avoid Overstaying Your Visa
Failure to request an extension will result in a fine upon departure starting after 30 days, with the fine payable at the airport upon departure via credit card, or via local bank transfer or cash payment to the Migration Department’s bank account at a Banco Reservas branch, and fines for overstays range from approximately $56 for 1 month to more than $1,660. What starts as a simple oversight can snowball into a significant financial penalty.
Most visitors receive automatic 30-day tourist cards upon arrival. If you’re planning to stay longer, handle the paperwork early – don’t wait until you’re at the airport about to leave. The bureaucratic hassle and unexpected costs can put a sour ending on what was otherwise a great trip.
Don’t Ignore Drug Laws
Drug-related offenses, including those involving marijuana, carry severe penalties, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and big fines. This isn’t a country where you want to test the legal system. A person detained or arrested by the authorities may be held without charges for up to 48 hours before the case is presented to a judge, judicial processes may last several years during which accused individuals are normally detained, and it could lead to very long prison sentences in difficult conditions.
What might be legal or decriminalized in your home country could land you in a Dominican prison for years. The judicial system moves slowly, and being a foreigner doesn’t grant you special privileges. Simply put, don’t touch drugs during your visit – the consequences are devastating.
Avoid Wandering Outside Resort Areas Alone At Night
Use Uber rather than hailing a random taxi on the street, and avoid walking along quiet or unlit streets by yourself, given there is a risk of getting mugged. Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists. While resort areas benefit from dedicated security and tourist police forces, venturing beyond those boundaries requires additional caution.
Travel with a partner or group if possible, especially after dark. Tourist areas like Punta Cana and popular beach zones are generally safer, with less than 1% of tourists experiencing any safety issues. Still, situational awareness remains your best protection. If something feels off, trust your instincts and return to your accommodation.
<p>The post Dominican Republic – What Visitors Should Avoid Doing While In The Dominican Republic first appeared on Travelbinger.</p>