JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A local woman canceled her trip to the Dominican Republic after hearing reports of eight Americans who died while vacationing in the Dominican Republic.
The latest, a woman in her 50’s who was celebrating her birthday, was found dead in her hotel room.
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The pristine beaches on the island of the Dominican Republic are what lure close to 6 million travelers every year.
But some are canceling their vacation in paradise amid reports of mysterious illness and deaths.
Rhea Rodriguez and her family planned a four-night getaway to Punta Cana in July.
Rodriguez paid $500 to cancel the plans.
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“It was not a risk I was willing to take, or if I went, I would not have peace of mind.” Rodriguez said.
Several families said their loved ones had a drink from a hotel minibar in the Dominican Republic before falling ill and dying.
A local travel agent with Discount Travel said no one who planned a trip to the Dominican Republic with the agency has canceled it thus far.