Buzz About the Dominican Republic Travel Advisory
As of June 12, 2025, the U.S. Government updated its travel advisory for the Dominican Republic to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
This doesn’t mean “don’t go,” but it does mean travelers should stay alert and take extra steps to stay safe. The change stems from rising concerns about violent crime, including robbery and assault, which can affect both locals and visitors.
The DR remains a beloved tropical getaway, but it’s no longer a “fly in and relax” type of trip, at least not without being prepared.
Level 2 Advisory
A Level 2 advisory is the second-lowest out of four levels in the U.S. travel warning system. It signals that there’s some risk, and travelers should be cautious but don’t need to cancel plans. Think of it like a flashing yellow light: you can still go, but don’t let your guard down.
These advisories often relate to crime, political unrest, or health concerns, and they’re intended to help travelers make informed decisions, not spark panic or deter all movement.
What Triggered the Change?
While U.S. officials didn’t pinpoint one specific event, the updated advisory reflects an uptick in violent crime, particularly in tourist-frequented areas. Crimes like armed robbery, sexual assault, and theft are reported even in well-patrolled resorts.
The police presence has increased in recent months, but officials caution that criminal activity continues to pose a threat.
Safety Tips
To stay safe, experts recommend these precautions:
If confronted by a robber, don’t resist, your safety matters more than your belongings. It’s all about being smart, not scared.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Don’t flaunt wealth, leave the flashy jewelry and designer bags at home.
- Avoid using phones or devices in public where you could be targeted.
- Travel with a buddy or group when possible, especially after dark.
- Never leave food or drinks unattended at bars or restaurants.
U.S. Embassy Alert
On July 23, 2025, the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo issued a Demonstration Alert warning travelers of planned protests that could disrupt traffic and spark tensions in certain areas.
These demonstrations are mostly peaceful, but they can change fast. Tourists are advised to avoid large gatherings, steer clear of protest zones, and stay tuned to real-time updates via local news or the embassy’s alerts.
Dominican Government’s Tourism Response
The Dominican government insists that it prioritizes tourist safety and continues to invest in secure tourism. Officials highlight that 100% of tourism workers are vaccinated, and COVID-19 cases remain low in key travel zones.
Despite these positive health markers, the biggest concern today is not illness, but crime.
What Other Countries Are Saying
The Dominican Republic isn’t just under scrutiny from the U.S.; other countries like Ireland and the U.K. have also issued advisories encouraging heightened caution.
Their governments recommend travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance, register their trips, and monitor weather conditions due to the ongoing hurricane season.
Don’t Cross the Haiti Border
While in the Dominican Republic, avoid any temptation to hop over to neighboring Haiti, which is under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory due to kidnapping, gang violence, and civil unrest.
The border area is particularly risky and not recommended for tourists under any circumstances. Even though both nations share the island of Hispaniola, their safety outlooks are drastically different.
What Are Other Caribbean Countries Facing?
The Caribbean may feel like paradise, but not every island is equally safe. While the Dominican Republic is at Level 2, others, like Haiti and Venezuela, face Level 4 warnings.
Countries such as Jamaica and the Bahamas have also experienced surges in violent crime, prompting updates to their advisories.
The bottom line? Always check the most current travel alert before planning your tropical getaway.
Recap of the U.S. Travel Advisory System
Let’s break it down:
- Level 1 – Normal precautions (like Canada or Japan).
- Level 2 – Increased caution (like the Dominican Republic).
- Level 3 – Reconsider travel (due to conflict, unrest, or instability).
- Level 4 – Do not travel (think Haiti or North Korea).
These alerts are based on crime rates, health concerns, terrorism, or natural disasters. The Dominican Republic sitting at Level 2 isn’t a red flag, but it is a wake-up call to plan responsibly.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Certain groups of travelers should take extra care. Solo female travelers, digital nomads, and couples using dating apps may be more vulnerable to scams or attacks.
Tourists staying in Airbnb rentals or walking at night in unfamiliar areas are also at higher risk. Officials recommend sticking with registered hotels, arranging transportation in advance, and sharing your itinerary with family.
Should You Cancel Your Trip?
This travel warning does not prohibit travel, but it does give travelers plenty to think about. If you’re nervous, it’s okay to reschedule or pick a destination with a lower advisory level. However, thousands still visit the Dominican Republic safely each month.
If you go, you just need to plan smarter: research your hotel, stay connected, and be mindful of your surroundings. A dream vacation is still possible, you just can’t go into it blindly.
Register with STEP Before You Fly
Want to get updates straight to your phone? Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free U.S. government service that connects you with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate while abroad.
STEP alerts can warn you about civil unrest, weather risks, or safety issues in real time. It’s easy to sign up and gives loved ones peace of mind knowing you’re on the radar in case of an emergency.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong Abroad
If things go sideways while you’re in the Dominican Republic, like losing your passport, getting robbed, or needing emergency help, the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo is your go-to. Keep the embassy’s contact info saved on your phone and written down just in case.
They can help replace documents, provide guidance, or coordinate emergency support.
Travel Smarter, Not Fearfully
Level 2 means proceed with caution, not panic. Travel smart by doing the following: Use official airport taxis or hotel shuttles only.
Also, consider setting up location-sharing on your phone for an added layer of safety. Enjoy your trip, but don’t let vacation mode turn into vulnerability mode. Here’s additional steps you can take:
- Book hotels with good security reviews.
- Avoid isolated areas at night.
- Keep a copy of important documents in case of theft.
Stay sharp, travel safe, and plan ahead, especially if a rare celestial event is your next destination. Here’s why your 2026 solar eclipse trip deserves a spot on your calendar now.
Final Word
In the end, the travel advisory is there to inform, not alarm. By staying alert and planning ahead, you can still enjoy the Dominican Republic’s beauty without putting yourself at unnecessary risk. Regularly check the U.S. Department of State advisory page for changes.
Take responsibility for your safety, and don’t rely on luck or “it won’t happen to me” thinking. Moreover, smart travel isn’t just about where you go, it’s about when. Some of Earth’s most breathtaking places won’t be around forever. See these stunning spots before they vanish.
Have you traveled to the Dominican Republic recently or changed plans because of a travel advisory? Share your experience or tips in the comments below.
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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
