Paborn

There have been "pimps" who work with make tourists for years. They can provide a good service but at a price. there is a bar called Marlowe's that is excellent . I have never even heard credible reports of violence against gay tourists. The Colonial zone is well accustomed to it. As are the surrounding areas -all Dominican hotels check the ID of anyone who goes into the hotel with you. In fact, they keep the cedula at the desk until the guest leaves. Often, they will call up to verify. the Colonial zone is indeed. a world heritage site. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European city in the new world - the first cathedral in the new world. The place was, literally, founded by Columbus. You are only warned, as do here, against Grindr. It can be very good but if you take yourself outside the system at least have the sense to meet at Paco's ( coffee shop) or Marlowe's.

I am a 74 year old retired corporate type who worked in New York for 30 years. I have been traveling to the Dominican Republic for 40 years . I am headed back in June , was there in February. I love the place! I never stay in resorts, I used do to gay or gay friendly hotels now I just use airbnb. The DR may be the "8th poorest nation " but I have to question that - is it based on the poor distribution of income? It is, I do know, the wealthiest place in the Caribbean, it is the number one tourist destination in the area. It handled Covid very well and stayed open for travel. indeed, I was there several times during the period. I have both American friends who live there and Dominicans. It is a very friendly place. I'm deeply shocked by some of the comments here. Safe? there are bad areas in every country and in every city. Don't go there. You don't have to stay in a resort - there is a burgeoning middle class and too many restaurants and entertainment venues to mention. There are a few gay bars and one hustler bar. One can meet a gay Dominican or pick someone up - IT IS NOT HARD. I have made over 160 trips in my 40 years and have heard of people having trouble but I believe they would have had trouble anywhere. On my next trip I will be in an Airbnb - very affordable, see movies, go to a jazz club, eat at cheap place and white table cloth one, go to a friends new exhibit at a gallery and, yes, go to a gay bar. I prefer a long term friend and I have one who I will be with. I find the country amiable, the people friendly and sincere. It has its problems but it's not Haiti or Jamaica. Haiti is extremely dangerous a total no go. What I consistently hear about Jamaica is that you must stay in the resorts as it is very dangerous. That IS NOT THE SITUATION IN THE DR - not by a long shot.