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Dominicans and the Tourists

In the first six months of 2008 alone, over two million Dominican Republic tourists found their way to the island. Consider the expense of staying at a resort, eating at restaurants, viewing tourist attractions, and whatever else comes to mind, and it is not difficult to imagine the positive impact that tourism could have on the area economy. Take into account the fact that less than ten million people actually live on the island on Hispaniola and you will hopefully start to understand the impact of tourism on the region. Dominican tourism is not only a commodity for visitors, but it is, in fact, an economic staple for the local community. The economy is not the only part of the county that is affected, however, as tourism has carved its own proverbial niche into the culture of the Dominican Republic.

Tourists and the Language


If you think that Dominican Republic tourists do not have an impact on the culture of the island, you need to look no further than the languages the locals speak to see that you are wrong. The official language of the region is, of course, Spanish, yet because Dominican tourism monopolizes much of the island, English is commonly spoken throughout the popular tourist locations. Travel away from the tourist hotspots and you will find that English is less commonly used, although most people on the island speak at least fair English. That said, if you are going to spend more than a week or two in the Dominican, it might not be a bad a idea to crack the cover of that old high school Spanish book and brush up on the basics.

Tourists and the Economy


All-Inclusive resorts and fancy tourist attractions throughout the Dominican Republic are only as good as the people who work at them, and in a nation where the unemployment rate resides over fifteen percent, you better believe those with jobs are glad to have them. Dominican tourism is the staple of the Dominican economy with approximately one-in-seven Dominican workers holding a job related directly to tourism. That number is misleadingly low, also, as it does not include the numerous construction companies and workers who earn their living building, up-keeping, and renovating for the tropical resorts. While most tourists just believe that they are enjoying a wonderful vacation get-a-way, Dominican Republic tourists collectively provide economic stability for the small, tropical nation.

Safety and Security in Dominican Republic


Unfortunately, not all aspects of Dominican tourism are positive or productive. All potential Dominican Republic tourists should be aware that foreigners to the island are often targeted for petty thefts, and the tourists should then take some precautions. For example, carry your cell phones in a pocket as opposed to in a purse or on a clip. Also, be aware that pick-pocketing is a common crime, so carry only what you think you will need with you, and leave the rest locked in the resort where you are staying. Do not leave valuables in unattended cars and be wary of strangers, especially during the night hours. It is recommended that tourists never travel alone at night outside of the resort locations, and to use extra caution if you must travel alone.

Dominican Republic tourists have a lot to look forward to as they embark on their vacations, but no one should leave their home country without researching where they are going first. Dominican tourism is great for the nation and the region, and on top of that, it is a wonderful place for you to regain that passion and vigor for life. Regardless of you reasons for visiting the Dominican Republic, you can be assured that your stay will not only be relaxing and entertaining, but will be assisted by thousands of Dominican workers who want to make your stay as wonderful as possible. While there are some minimal concerns, preventative measures and thoughtful planning will easily allow you to avoid the small percentage of problems the island does contain. All you really have to worry about is how to cram everything you want to experience in the Dominican Republic, into the time you have set for you vacation.



 
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