One of many Caribbean’s most secure journey locations is Punta Cana. Violent crimes are basically nonexistent, and the crime charge is low. All vacationers ought to train warning, but it surely is sufficient to train the identical measures they train again house.
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February 5, 2024: Punta Cana: A budget-friendly paradise on US Information & World Report’s high seaside trip checklist
Punta Cana’s famend seashores have been featured in US Information & World Report’s checklist of “26 Reasonably priced Seaside Holidays for Vacationers on a Funds.” This curated checklist highlights scenic seaside locations worldwide that present worth for budget-conscious vacationers. The area provides seasonal offers, together with low-season reductions and free stays for kids through the summer season. Even within the winter, Punta Cana maintains affordability, with a number of all-inclusive properties promoting charges underneath $300 per night time for 2 individuals.
Areas to keep away from
In Punta Cana, train warning in most areas of the Veron and Friusa neighborhoods.
Regardless that there are safer pockets in these areas, the crime charge is barely increased there.
Keep away from remoted areas, such because the seaside, at night time. Stay on the resort property. When you comply with this, your journey shouldn’t current any difficulties.
Moreover, some frequent disturbances and incidents may flip violent within the border areas between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, particularly in Dajabón. Because of this, the safety state of affairs there may be extraordinarily unpredictable. Right here, emergency providers are continuously unavailable.
Frequent Scams
- Images deception – a prevalent rip-off in Punta Cana includes locals asking you to take their image. They hand you their digicam, and as you come it, they intentionally drop it, accusing you of breaking it and demanding cost.
- Taxi fare manipulation – be cautious when taking taxis in Punta Cana; at all times request the driving force to make use of the meter. If not, it’s possible you’ll find yourself paying considerably extra in your journey.
- ATM help fraud – at money machines in Punta Cana, somebody may supply that will help you keep away from native financial institution charges. Nevertheless, their true motive is to make use of a card skimmer to scan your debit or bank card and observe you getting into your PIN, permitting them to later empty your account.
- Bar swindle – pleasant people could strike up a dialog and lead you to imagine in mutual pursuits. They’ll recommend going for a drink at a close-by bar, the place they’ve a partnership. After a number of rounds, you’ll be shocked to seek out your self paying 5-10 instances greater than anticipated.
- The fowl trick – whereas strolling via Punta Cana, somebody may throw a white substance in your shoulder, making you suppose it’s fowl droppings. A “useful” native provides to wash you up however seizes the chance to pickpocket you through the course of.
Official Journey Advisories
U.S. Travel Advisory – Stage 2: Train Elevated Warning
The nation is healthier geared up to police violent crimes like armed robberies, homicides, and sexual assaults due to the institution of an expert vacationer police corps, the set up of a 911 emergency line, and the focus of assets in resort areas. Nevertheless, the widespread availability of firearms, the use and trafficking of unlawful medicine, and a poor prison justice system contribute to the excessive total charge of criminality.
Canada Travel Advisory
Petty prison actions similar to pickpocketing and bag snatching are frequent all throughout the nation. Thieves continuously goal vacationers. Vacation seasons usually see a rise in crime. These occasions happen at seashores, resorts, airports, bus terminals, and on public transportation.
Security Ideas for Punta Cana
- Maintain your money discreet – When you select to enterprise outdoors your lodge and discover Punta Cana, be cautious about displaying your cash overtly.
- Keep away from public transportation – public transport in Punta Cana, similar to buses and “guaguas,” is usually unreliable and crowded.
- Go for taxis – It’s advisable to make use of taxis when touring round Punta Cana. They’re extra comfy and fairly priced.
- Train warning with moto conchos – whereas moto conchos (moto taxis) are a preferred and entertaining mode of transportation in Punta Cana, utilizing them will increase the chance of accidents in comparison with taxis.
- Keep away from giant gatherings – when exploring past your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, steer clear of giant crowds, as they are often potential hotspots for pickpocketing.
- Avoid poorly lit areas – Sure areas outdoors vacationer spots could lack correct lighting and be much less safe. Keep on with well-populated areas with different vacationers for security.