U.S. Embassy urges citizens to respect laws when visiting Dominican Republic

The U.S. Embassy called on its citizens visiting the Dominican Republic to prioritize their safety when practicing extreme sports or consuming alcohol, as well as to respect local laws, especially regarding controlled substances.

The warning was issued on the eve of Spring Break, which is a popular vacation period granted by universities and schools in countries such as the United States.

The U.S. embassy says ATV-related accidents and excessive alcohol consumption at resorts are the most frequent risks among adventurous tourists.

In addition, it warns that the possession of controlled substances, regardless of their legality in other countries, can lead to “serious legal consequences” in the Dominican Republic.

“When visiting the DR, tourists choose from a variety of travel experiences. While some prefer to relax on the beach, others participate in activities that may involve greater risks,” begins the brief message of the diplomatic mission to its citizens, published on March 3.

The alert, issued two days before Konanki was last tracked in hotel surveillance video, is aimed at urging Americans to take precautions when engaging in extreme sports and consuming alcohol.

The diplomatic mission stresses in its message that “the U.S. Embassy urges you to stay informed, respect Dominican laws, and prioritize your safety. “