The beautiful Caribbean city of Santo Domingo is an important landmark in the Dominican Republic, as it attracts close to six million tourists per year. Its fascinating history and stunning landscapes offer a wide range of places to explore, and the tropical setting is a perfect place to relax.
Santo Domingo Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
In a foreign country, you are at an equal risk of contracting a disease or suffering a medical mishap. But unfortunately, your domestic medical insurance will not cover your medical bills here, as you are outside your home country. The answer is travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Santo Domingo?
While it is not legally mandatory to purchase travel medical insurance for Santo Domingo, it is highly recommended for several reasons.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Santo Domingo?
Aggressive traffic. Rampant malaria. Robbers and criminals. Traveling to Santo Domingo does not come without its own risks. You might require medical attention, and you might have to pay more money than you can afford to receive it.
To ensure that you remain financially stable even after your trip to Santo Domingo, buy travel medical insurance.
Things to Do for Travelers in Santo Domingo
The Three Eyes National Park
This is one of the top tourist attractions not only in Santo Domingo, but in the entire Dominican Republic: The Three Eyes National Park. This is a captivating site with a series of limestone caves, deriving its name from the three beautiful, blue lakes (ojos) it has.
You can even book a tour, which will tell you how the caves and the lake were formed.
Columbus Park
The central square of Ciudad Colonial District, Columbus Park is one of the most prominent historical landmarks of the city. It’s a bustling place that’s a must-visit for any tourist who wants to experience the culture of Santo Domingo.
Other places to visit in the square include:
- Catedral Primada de América
- Calle El Conde
- The famous statue of Christopher Columbus
National Botanical Garden
The National Botanical Garden of Santo Domingo is a paradise for nature lovers. The serene beauty, exotic scenery, and tropical environment makes it the perfect place for a relaxing day out.
Don’t forget to check out the Japanese Garden section, and book tram tours that will help you explore the area easily.
Plaza de España
Plaza de España is a vibrant, open square filled with a large variety of restaurants and classic buildings. The plaza is an amazing spot to explore.
Don’t forget to check out the Alcazar de Colón, a famous museum in the square.
Juan Dolio Beach
You should not miss out on Juan Dolio Beach. An underrated attraction, this beach is close to the city center and is a perfect place to relax, surrounded by clear water and velvety sand.
The beautiful areas to explore and extravagant restaurants to dine in make it a must-visit.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Santo Domingo
Pickpockets
In crowded areas and tourist hotspots, pickpockets are a common nuisance that plagues tourists and foreigners. Be especially careful around Columbus Park and Plaza de España.
Roads
The roads of Santo Domingo are dangerous and unpredictable. Navigating these traffic-ridden and aggressive roads might pose a challenge to foreigners used to more organized roadways.
Our advice would be to rely on local drivers and to hire a taxi instead of driving your own rented vehicle.
Taxi drivers
It is common knowledge that taxi drivers rip off unwitting tourists. Santo Domingo drivers are no different.
To avoid overpaying, agree on a rate before heading to your destination, or pay according to the taximeter.
Another concern is that in Santo Domingo, drivers may offer to sell drugs to tourists. Maintain your distance from such offenders.
Malaria
Malaria is rampant in the whole of the Dominican Republic. Carry mosquito repellent and antimalarial medicines as approved by your doctor to reduce the risk of contracting this deadly disease.
Crime
While pickpockets pose a mild threat in public places and areas where tourists flock, robberies are not uncommon in the streets of Santo Domingo.
While roaming around, do not flash your money or jewelry. Stay clear from high-crime areas such as Cristo Rey, Los Prados, Villa Mella, and San Carlos.
Before You Travel to Santo Domingo - Do This
Be prepared for pickpockets
Pickpockets are common in public places. Buy a slash-proof bag and an RFID wallet to avoid being a victim.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are deadly in Santo Domingo. Malaria, dengue, zika, and chikungunya are potential risks for tourists, with malaria being a high risk. Carry mosquito repellent and antimalarial medicines.
Buy Santo Domingo insurance
You can never really predict the future; all you can do is be prepared for it. So, buy travel medical insurance to be ready for any mishaps that may occur during the course of your trip.