Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Santo Domingo Este, Dominican Republic
1. Mercado Modelo
A popular souvenir market located in Santo Domingo Este. Known for its unique, handcrafted goods. Avoid fake vendors who might overcharge.
- Authenticity: Buy from recognized vendors and check the quality of items
- Price Negotiation: Always negotiate prices before purchasing
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit, crowded areas for safety
2. Parque Mirador del Sur
Scenic park offering stunning views of Santo Domingo. Watch out for pickpockets in crowds.
- Safety in Numbers: Stay with a group and be aware of your belongings
- Official Tickets: Buy tickets at authorized booths to avoid scams
- Emergency Contact Information: Have emergency contact numbers saved and accessible
3. El Conde Street
A bustling street with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. Be cautious of individuals offering assistance that may lead to theft.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels suspicious, remove yourself from it
- Use Official Taxis: Use official taxis or rideshare services for transportation
- Carry Essential Items Only: Limit the amount of cash and valuables you carry
4. Zona Colonial
Historic district filled with colonial-era architecture. Be wary of overpriced food or services.
- Compare Prices: Research prices beforehand and compare them to avoid overpaying
- Avoid Isolated Restaurants: Choose restaurants that are busy and have good reviews
- Street Food Safety: Ensure street food vendors use clean, sterile equipment
5. Museo de Arte Moderno
Modern art museum featuring local and international artists. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Secure Belongings: Keep belongings secure in a cross-body bag or locker
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets online to avoid ticket scams at the museum entrance
- Ask for Museum Map: Ask for a map and avoid following strangers inside the museum
6. Playa Juan Dolio
Popular beach destination known for its clear waters. Watch out for rental scams or overpriced services.
- Research Prices: Research prices of rentals and services before arriving
- Use Official Rental Services: Rent equipment or services from official, reputable companies
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas for safety
7. Parque Central
Iconic park located in Santo Domingo's historic center. Be cautious of pickpockets and scam artists.
- Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and belongings
- Avoid Isolated Spots: Stay in well-lit, crowded areas for safety
- Use Cash Machines Wisely: Use cash machines at banks or inside shopping centers
8. Avenida Máximo Gomez
Main avenue with shops and restaurants. Be wary of individuals offering fake merchandise.
- Check Quality: Inspect items carefully before purchasing
- Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices before purchasing
- Use Official Taxis: Use official taxis or rideshare services for transportation
9. Museo Casa de las Americas
Art museum showcasing art from the Americas. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Secure Belongings: Keep belongings secure in a cross-body bag or locker
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets online to avoid ticket scams at the museum entrance
- Ask for Museum Map: Ask for a map and avoid following strangers inside the museum
10. Playa Boca Chica
Beach resort town with white sand and clear waters. Watch out for rental scams or overpriced services.
- Research Prices: Research prices of rentals and services before arriving
- Use Official Rental Services: Rent equipment or services from official, reputable companies
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas for safety
11. Catedral Primada de America
The first cathedral in the Americas. Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and belongings
- Avoid Isolated Spots: Stay in well-lit, crowded areas for safety
- Use Cash Machines Wisely: Use cash machines at banks or inside shopping centers
12. Museo de Arte Popular
Art museum featuring traditional Dominican art. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Secure Belongings: Keep belongings secure in a cross-body bag or locker
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets online to avoid ticket scams at the museum entrance
- Ask for Museum Map: Ask for a map and avoid following strangers inside the museum
13. Playa Bayahibe
Beach town with snorkeling and diving opportunities. Watch out for rental scams or overpriced services.
- Research Prices: Research prices of rentals and services before arriving
- Use Official Rental Services: Rent equipment or services from official, reputable companies
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas for safety
14. Playa Punta Cana
Popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches. Watch out for rental scams or overpriced services.
- Research Prices: Research prices of rentals and services before arriving
- Use Official Rental Services: Rent equipment or services from official, reputable companies
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas for safety
15. Museo de Arte Moderno del Hombre Dominicano
Art museum showcasing Dominican art and history. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Secure Belongings: Keep belongings secure in a cross-body bag or locker
- Buy Tickets Online: Purchase tickets online to avoid ticket scams at the museum entrance
- Ask for Museum Map: Ask for a map and avoid following strangers inside the museum