Food Concerns
It is widely recommended to drink bottled water and canned drinks. It is also wise to avoid consuming ice or raw vegetables. Most hotels provide guests with bottled water upon request. To avoid intestinal upset, it is best simply not to drink the tap water. You may also want to consider using bottled water to brush your teeth.

Sun Stroke
While on vacation in the Caribbean, you will probably be spending a lot of time in the tropical sun. Try to avoid long periods of sun exposure during the hottest time of day, usually between the hours of noon and 3. Be sure to use sunscreen of at least 30 SPF and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Jet Skis
Be extremely careful when renting jet-skis. Often inexperienced tour guides allow their clients to follow too closely or operate the jet-skis in other unsafe manners. Make sure that the rental company has adequate medical/accident insurance, is staffed with personnel on-site with water rescue training, and properly demonstrates safe operation of the vehicle to you before you rent or operate such equipment.

Diving
Diving equipment provided by dive shops may not meet acceptable safety standards and due to frequent use, may be substandard or defective. Unless you are certain that scuba diving equipment is up to standard, you should not use it.

Parasailing
Parasailing is offered at many Dominican Republic beach resorts. Be aware that by putting your name on the passenger list, you may be relieving the boat operator and owner of responsibility for your safety.

Health Risks
In the tropical climate of the Dominican Republic, mosquitoes flourish which raises the risk for catching diseases through their bites. Be sure to use plenty of insect repellent especially in the hours during dawn and dusk. However, Dengue fever is caused by the bite of a particular mosquito which is active during the day. This disease is characterized by flu-like symptoms and usually last only a few days. While there is no treatment, acetaminophen and lost of fluids usually help. Malaria is also another disease transmitted through mosquitoes. Again, use a lot of insect repellent and before traveling, ask your doctor about malaria pills.

Medical Insurance
Although most tourists visit the country without problems, it is helpful to always be prepared in case of an unforeseen emergency. Before leaving the country, check with your insurance provider to see if you are covered while traveling and be sure to carry proof with you at all times. You may also want to look into travelers’ insurance, offering coverage for medical, evacuation, flight accident and life insurance.