The Dominican Republic is a Caribbean nation located on the eastern most portion of the island of Hispaniola. As with many other Caribbean, Central and South American nations the Dominican has a rich history packed with events that include people from almost every continent. Yet it all begins with the presence of the Mesoamerican tribes of the Tainos. Their traditions can still be found in the modern Dominican culture, as well as methods of cooking, sewing and crafting. In fact, many of the arts and crafts for sale along the beaches and alleys of the country have their origins in various ethnic groups living on the island.
Unfortunately, what was wholly acceptable as an art form 1000 years ago, is not necessarily so anymore. Species near extinction become protected, and can no longer be harvested. Plant, insect and animal species that are invasive in other parts of the world must not keep being reintroduced to lands outside of the Dominican. Thus, we have the long list of goods prohibited and restricted from entering the US from the Dominican Republic.
To begin with, cultural artifacts and property are strictly forbidden from entering the US, and most likely prohibited from leaving the host nation. Items like these can be defined as archaeological and ethnological materials with historical, religious, secular or social significance to the host country. Those are broad terms, but basically it means anything from the pre-Columbian period and forward. Any article that is written, crafted, carved, sewn, molded, cannot be removed. Even if it includes an export certificate, as counterfeit certificates are very common.
Despite these regulations, Dominican artisans still make traditional crafts using restricted materials for sale to travellers. Perhaps they are aware of the restrictions and only seek to make a quick peso. Or perhaps the crafts people are unaware. Whichever scenario it is, travellers need to be informed on the goods they can bring home the US, and those they cannot. Ornately carved turtle shells are very common among the little shops of the Dominican Republic. They are beautiful, true works of art. They are also forbidden to enter the US, simply as an attempt to curb the harvest of the species. Dominican authorities are working to crack down on the situation, but every traveller should do their part by not purchasing any.
This has been just a brief overview of a few contraband items from the Dominican Republic. Stay tuned for the next article in this series to find out more. Strive to educate yourself on your destination before leaving home, it will make your trip far more worthwhile and enjoyable!
Unfortunately, what was wholly acceptable as an art form 1000 years ago, is not necessarily so anymore. Species near extinction become protected, and can no longer be harvested. Plant, insect and animal species that are invasive in other parts of the world must not keep being reintroduced to lands outside of the Dominican. Thus, we have the long list of goods prohibited and restricted from entering the US from the Dominican Republic.
To begin with, cultural artifacts and property are strictly forbidden from entering the US, and most likely prohibited from leaving the host nation. Items like these can be defined as archaeological and ethnological materials with historical, religious, secular or social significance to the host country. Those are broad terms, but basically it means anything from the pre-Columbian period and forward. Any article that is written, crafted, carved, sewn, molded, cannot be removed. Even if it includes an export certificate, as counterfeit certificates are very common.
Despite these regulations, Dominican artisans still make traditional crafts using restricted materials for sale to travellers. Perhaps they are aware of the restrictions and only seek to make a quick peso. Or perhaps the crafts people are unaware. Whichever scenario it is, travellers need to be informed on the goods they can bring home the US, and those they cannot. Ornately carved turtle shells are very common among the little shops of the Dominican Republic. They are beautiful, true works of art. They are also forbidden to enter the US, simply as an attempt to curb the harvest of the species. Dominican authorities are working to crack down on the situation, but every traveller should do their part by not purchasing any.
This has been just a brief overview of a few contraband items from the Dominican Republic. Stay tuned for the next article in this series to find out more. Strive to educate yourself on your destination before leaving home, it will make your trip far more worthwhile and enjoyable!
About the Author:
BookIt.com is an online travel company determined and dedicated to becoming the leader in providing travelers with the most intuitive online booking experience full of relevant information, helpful guides and travel tips. Find great deals on hotel punta cana at BookIt.com!
No comments:
Post a Comment