Dominican Republic Warnings

As I skidded across slippery roads on the way home tonight, travel warnings about the Dominican Republic filled the radio waves. A resort security guard has been arrested in the recent shooting death of a Canadian tourist and suddenly the country is no longer safe. For Canadians at least...

Really?

Safety First?According to the Globe and Mail: "While violent crime, including assault, has affected a few foreigners, petty crime, including pick-pocketing, is common in urban areas. Thefts have been reported in resorts. Canadians should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially after dark."

Sounds like good advice whether I'm walking down Young St or sunning myself in Barbados.

Two years ago I traveled to Barbados for work (it was a tough gig) and traveled with a photographer who, for lack of a better word, owned the title egomaniac. The trip was challenging from the moment our private jet (yes, it was a really tough gig!) lifted off, but I didn't realize how challenging until we arrived at the Bougainvillea Resort.

I had booked the rooms and made arrangements for all the filming and interviews. I specifically requested a room facing the beach and not on ground level. We were offered 2 rooms on arrival - both facing the street, one on ground level and one on the fourth floor.

He scooped the keys to the fourth floor room.

I've traveled alone extensively and I've learned there are two things women should never do on a solo journey:

• Accept a room on the ground floor
• Apologize

I took the keys out of his hands, informed the clerk I'd take that room and left him to settle the bill.

While I won't be traveling alone or visiting the Dominican republic on my Princess Cruise, I won't be easing up on my standards either. Safety may not be the first thing to consider (fun and sun always come first) but it's always there - and always my responsibility.

The warnings from the Globe and Mail are just plain common sense. And good advice no matter where you visit.

Will the recent warnings to the Dominican Republic make you second guess an upcoming visit?