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US raises travel alert for popular tourist destination amid crime concerns

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Published  June 14, 2025 9:06pm EDT
Travel
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The Brief

    • The U.S. State Department raised its travel advisory for a popular tourist destination due to rising crime.
    • Officials warn that violent crimes like robbery and assault are common, even in areas with more police.
    • Travelers are urged to stay alert, avoid showing valuables, and follow safety tips while visiting.

WASHINGTON - Just as the summer travel season gets into full swing, the U.S. State Department has raised its travel advisory for the Dominican Republic in response to ongoing crime in the area. 

What is a Level 2 travel advisory?

Dig deeper:

On a scale of 1-4, a Level 2 advisory means visitors should "Be aware of increased risks to safety and security. Specific risks are described in the Travel Advisory," according to the department's website. 

What they're saying:

"Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists," the department added. "Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals from online in secluded locations."

"Criminals are rarely caught and prosecuted."

The department added that robbery, homicide and sexual assault are prevalent in the country. 

Cotubanama National Park, Isla Saona, Dominican Republic. (Photo by: Cristina Perez/VWPics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

What should I do if I travel to the Dominican Republic? 

What you can do:

The State Department is offering these safety tips:

  • Pay attention to your surroundings.
  • Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
  • Be vigilant about where your phone is and avoid using it openly on the street.
  • If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
  • Travel with a partner or group if possible.
  • Do not leave food or drinks unattended.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
  • Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Resources available to tourists are:

  • 911 emergency response system
  • Professional tourist police force (POLITUR)
  • Private security personnel in resorts

The Source: The information in this story comes from an official update issued by the U.S. State Department, which raised its travel advisory for the Dominican Republic to Level 2. This story was reported from Los Angeles. 

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