Justina • June 25, 2025

Traveling Abroad? Keep yourself safe, especially with the current state of the world.

Global crime levels remain high in many tourist destinations. For example, the Dominican Republic scores around 70/100 on Numbeo’s “crime level index,” with violent assaults and armed robbery also rated high (69.6/100)
Rural travel poses greater risk: rural road fatalities are 2.7× higher than in cities, contributing to 54% of all global travel-related deaths .
Hotel break-ins are on the rise: a recent case in Benidorm, Spain involved teenage intruders entering multiple rooms, highlighting growing vulnerabilities in hotel security

🚗 What to Watch For

Thieves targeting vehicles: opportunistic smash-and-grab events at traffic lights or parked lots are common—keep doors locked and valuables out of sight
Taxi safety risks: beware of unlicensed drivers who may overcharge or pose a threat—use official apps or hotel-authorized taxis
Avoid roadside scams: fake “helpful” strangers pointing out flat tires may actually be distracting you to steal from your vehicle

Room break-ins: choose mid-level floors (3–6), avoid ground-floor or stairwell-adjacent rooms
Hotel safes aren’t always secure: default codes can be easily bypassed; use a cable-and-lock luggage system or bring a portable travel safe. If neither of those options are available then opt for the in room safe as something is better than nothing
Fake hotel staff: don’t open rooms to unexpected maintenance/security personnel; always call the front desk for verification
Fire safety and exits: learn fire evacuation routes, and keep a door-stopper alarm at hand
General vigilance: secure windows, draw curtains at night, don’t advertise room number

Pickpocketing & bag snatching: common in busy tourist zones; keep valuables zipped and concealed, don’t use back pockets
Moto-snatchers: in the Dominican Republic, thieves often snatch items during drive-bys. A common example is snatching a phone from an unsuspecting tourists hands while they are holding it up to look at something or take a photo
Distraction scams: petitions, fake accidents, or offerings of bracelets are frequently used to divert attention and steal
Stay out of trouble at night: avoid dim streets, walking alone after dark, and areas with political demonstrations or unrest
Know local emergency services: have numbers for police, ambulance, and your embassy saved
Be mindful of your jewelry: tuck in your necklaces. Make sure your jewelry is hidden. For woman especially, turn your wedding ring around and face it inside of your hand

Split cash/cards: follow the “three-stash rule”. Carry what you need for the day, keep backups in different places (hotel, suitcase). Consider a dummy wallet to surrender in case of a mugging
Hide valuables discreetly: undercover safes, travel pants, RFID-blocking gear, and small safes protect you from both physical and digital thieves
Use safety-tech: apps like American Red Cross, SMART Travel alerts, and CDC Yellow Book can help with emergencies, geo-fencing, and health advisories
Stay informed on local culture and laws: research laws, customs, and local events to avoid legal trouble or misunderstandings
Vehicle vigilance: lock car doors, park near lights or elevators, keep windows up, and avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
Don’t resist thieves: personal safety matters more than possessions. Give up valuables and focus on returning safely
Share your plans: inform someone about your itinerary. Know where your embassies are and register with your embassy if staying abroad for an extended period of time
Blend in & dress down: avoid flashy jewelry or strong tourist cues (flags, team apparel). The less you stand out, the safer you’ll be

By combining awareness, simple safety tools, and smart habits, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy your journey with confidence.