Your Essential LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to the Dominican Republic!

Dominicans may be open-minded about LGBTQ+ social issues, but same-sex PDA has a long way to go - so affectionately caressing or holding hands in public with your partner will cross a red line with some locals and earn you funny stares.

Kissing in public is taboo outside the main metropolitan destinations like the Zona Colonial in Santo Domingo or resort towns like Punta Cana.

Hookup and dating apps are commonly used in the D.R., and although we can't recommend one specifically, be safe as some people try to take advantage of tourists and rob them. Make sure you receive multiple pictures and preferably meet in parks, bars, or public spaces - don't invite anyone to your place unless you are 100% sure this person is legit and is not looking for money.

Sex workers, like in many countries, are typical in the Dominican Republic, and local workers can be seen at certain bars, carwashes, nightclubs, festivals, and obviously straight-up brothels. So, if you're out venturing into uncharted areas, looking for the proverbial "good time," it would be wise to watch your drink, wallet, and car keys.

Male gigolos in the D.R. are called "Sanky Pankys" and are known for their Latin charm and ability to persuade customers into giving them as much cash as possible. For some male sex workers, the ultimate goal is to marry a foreigner and obtain a travel visa to any major country like the U.S., Canada, Spain, etc.,

Female workers are also dubbed "Chapiadoras," or "Chappy" for short. It is derived from the English word "Chop" for these female seductresses' ability to 'chop' the money right out of your account.

Public sentiment towards LGBTQ+ people, in general, may vary from one generation to the next, and even though the D.R. is a religious country, it's not like they're out with pitchforks in the street. In fact, you'll find religious Dominicans even friendlier than most.

You'll also be surprised to find that many of day-time Dominican tv show hosts are openly gay and well-received by viewers, like the popular show "De Extremo a Extremo."

To really let loose without the constraints of society and party all night and day, these following hot spots are burning bright with excitement:

Punta Cana

The D.R.'s largest tourist destination, Punta Cana, is party central on the east coast, with unforgettable clubs like Oro Disco and Imagine Nightclub - apart from the buzzing beaches of Playa Macao, Bavaro Beach, and Juanillo.

La Romana - Bayahibe

La Romana is the ideal place for a truly secluded getaway, where your business is your business, and the open Caribbean shores are your playground. Don't miss a chance to visit the romantic Saona Island.

Puerto Plata

The province of Puerto Plata has always been known as a destination where anything goes in the dark of night - especially in the beach towns of Sosua and Cabarete.

The best advice regarding places to go to is to keep the PDA at a minimum. Holding hands might get a pass, but kissing and other things won't be seen with welcoming eyes in public places like restaurants, museums, and stores.

The Dominican Republic is a lovely travel haven where you'll absolutely fall in love with the weather, the people, and the beaches.

Remember to be smart about your expenses and be safe at all times. If you follow this essential guide, you'll indeed have a chill time. And if you travel during June or July, come and participate in the Santo Domingo Pride Parade. It's a party full of color, live music, and excitement - accompanied by an organized official LGBTQ + after party at one of the hottest Gay clubs in Santo Domingo or a decked-out venue.

Written by Diego Angeles.

Published October 2022.