Hey everyone --

A group of us (24 - 28 yr old men) plan on hitting the Dominican Republic in August. But don't know which place has the better: beaches, nightlife, partying, overall good times.

We're all from NYC, so our idea of nightlife doesn't consist of the in-resort casino, theater or vapid in-resort club. The ability to have nightlife options is IDEAL.

I've been looking at Boca Chica, but am afraid once the sun goes down there will be no where to go and hang out. Plus i heard about some nonsense curfew ?

Anyone have any ideas where the better part of the island to stay at, would be really appreciated.

I think the majority of resorts are in the Punta Cana area. I believe unless it has changed drastically most people didn't venture off the resorts. It just wasn't the place where you were able to this safely. We were there many years ago however and things may have changed. Have you considered zny other places?

Sounds like San Juan would be more up your alley.

The DR is not the best place for off the resort entertainment.
You might want to consider Cancun or Riviera Maya, Mexico.

Could you tell me more about Riviera Maya, Mexico. ?

Where would be the ideal Hotel ? is an AI worth it ? Nightlife options ?

Thanks,

Staying at an AI is a matter of preference. If you tend to drink a lot and eat a lot and don't want to hunt for places to do either, then yes...AI is great.
Look into some resorts in Playa del Carmen or in Cancun. Check out deals with Apple Vacations and Fun Jet.

The Maya Riviera is nice but I think it is more family oriented. I would look into Playa Del Carmen hotels on the beach. They are no AI and there are some very nice ones there. Of course Cancun itself is also a party type atmosphere if that is what you want. If you stick with cancun, try www.riucancun.com they might have some good deals in August. As said try checking applevacations.com

the great thing about the Dominican Republic is that you can't go wrong no matter where you stay - all the resorts are fabulous - all have great food, fantastic night life, breathtaking beaches & lots to do...however, you've got to stay there once it gets dark; during the day, go ahead and explore the island, but at night, stay put - not to scare you, but, yes, it's true what they say about the crime rate, especially if they know you're a tourist - and I should know, having been married to a Dominican & having lived there for almost 3 years!

For nightlife, you definitely want Cancun, Aruba, or San Juan.

Of these, Cancun is the most equivalent to DR in terms of cost.

The DR actually has great off-resort nightlife in Santo Domingo, and Boca Chica is relatively close (though still 30 minutes away by an expensive cab ride). Nevertheless, I don't think it will give you the atmosphere you are looking for.

Look for a resort in Isla Verde in San Juan. The beach is much better out there. You might take a look at the Water Club. This is a boutique hotel across the street from a good beach, and it has a decent in-house rooftop bar/club, then you can easily get into Old San Juan for the real nightlife.

Aruba has the best nightlife of any Caribbean island outside Puerto Rico.