Tourist facilities vary, depending on price and area. A U.S. passport is strongly recommended, since it can expedite entry and exit and is more readily recognized as a form of positive identification. Charter passengers should verify entry and exit requirements with the charter company. Minors under 13 years of age traveling alone or with anyone other than a parent must present written authorization from a parent. This authorization must be notarized at a Dominican consulate.
General strikes called by labor and political groups occur periodically.
At these times, American citizens should review their security practices and maintain a low profile. Although these strikes are not targeted at foreigners, it is advisable to be careful when traveling throughout the country, and in urban areas, travel should be done on main routes whenever possible. Street crowds should be avoided. Additional advice about strikes may be obtained from the U.S. Embassy at the telephone numbers listed below. Petty street crime involving U.S. tourists does occur and normal precautions should be taken.