Travel advisories and what they mean for your trip.
There has been a lot of information in the news lately about the travel advisory in the Dominican Republic. Understandably this has caused concern for travelers. So I thought I’d give my opinion.
First let me say this blog is meant to be an opinion piece only. I cannot guarantee a specific outcome for your travel. Ultimately you will have to make your own decision about what is best for you and your loved ones.
So a little background. Recently there have been news stories about D.R. travelers. One woman alleges she was brutally attacked in January while on resort while looking for a late night bite to eat. That assault is under investigation. Additionally 3 travelers have died while in the D.R. 1 couple was found dead in their bed with no signs of violence. Their cause of death is still under investigation. Another woman traveling with her husband also suddenly died. The cause of death is still under investigation.
Now let's discuss the Travel Advisory. There are four levels of advisory. Every country is listed between level 1-4. Here is the break down. The following information is from the Department of State.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions: This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.
Level 2 - Exercise Increased Caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.
Level 3 - Reconsider Travel: Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory.
Level 4 – Do Not Travel: This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so.
Currently Dominican Republic is classified as level 2. Use increased caution, due to crime. The department of state suggests you should always be aware of your surroundings, don’t physically resist any robbery attempt, don’t be flashy and display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. They also suggest that you leave the resort only with a guide and follow their advice at all times..
If you have decided that you want to pass on your travel to the Dominican Republic and you have already booked travel contact your travel agent. Cancellation fees will likely apply. The closer you are to your travel date the more hefty the penalty. So the sooner you make the decision, the better.
Here are some other things to consider about travel to Domincan Republic.
This advisory has been in effect for some time now. It was reviewed and updated on April 15, 2019 but it is not new and it has not been upgraded.
There are also level 2 advisories in effect for Jamaica, Mexico, The Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and many other Caribbean and beach locations.
China recently released a travel advisory for travel to the United States.
Bottom line, only you can decide if you feel comfortable traveling to The Dominican Republic. If you decide to go there or anywhere else, remember to exercise caution. Be aware of your surroundings, stay with your group, especially at night, and use caution leaving the resort.
Before you travel, you can find out more about your destination’s advisory level by visiting,
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html/
Happy Travels!