We were in Punta Cana in October and the mosquitos were terrible. At dusk they would literally swarm anyone standing near a light of any kind. In the evenings they were even inside the air conditioned casino.
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Overall it is safe for women to travel solo in the Dominican Republic, but like anywhere in the world, common sense and sensible judgment should always be on your agenda. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or back streets alone late at night. In the resort town of Punta Cana, sexual assaults are common at night.
Some people think that bed bugs are no more common in hotel rooms or vacation rentals than anywhere else. According to recent NPMA data, however, 80% of pest control companies surveyed reported that they had treated hotels and/or motels for bed bugs infestations within the past year.
Tourists should be aware that there is a risk of contracting sicknesses from unsanitary food. The best way to ensure a great vacation is not to overindulge. Wash your hands before eating and avoid food from street vendors and dairy products that have not been pasteurized.
Be cautious when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, be wary of rides or other invitations, avoid walking alone at night and don't leave drinks unattended. If you're a victim of a sexual assault or other crime, you should report it immediately to the British Embassy.
Looking at crime rates, Punta Cana is safer than Cancun. There are no drug cartels in Punta Cana, which makes a difference as violent crime is uncommon. Of course this does not mean that Cancun is not worth visiting, it just means that you have to be a lot more careful.
When I was in Punta Cana this past November I had many bites on my feet and ankles. I wish I had known more about sand fleas before. I found this info and thought I would pass it on. Try to avoid the beach after it has rained.
Not eat raw meat and fish (ceviche). Although ceviche is a favorite gourmet dish of many tourists and residents of Punta Cana, it is important to make sure the exquisite dish is prepared of fresh raw meat or fish duly cured in citrus (lemon or lime) juice and spiced with chili peppers, salt, onion and other seasonings.
Brushing teeth with tap water in the Dominican Republic is not recommended unless the water quality is guaranteed to be filtered or treated. In most cases, using boiled, filtered, or bottled water is a safer option for traveling.