margot

I was told there were armed guards everywhere, and while the beaches were beautiful, the Punta Cana area was quite dirty and impoverished. Any recent experiences? I was thinking of going there, but can't decide.

Parrot Mom

As in Mexico, Costa Rica, Jamaica...there are security guards at all resorts, the D.R. is no different.. It is a poor country with the biggest industry of tourism. Punta Cana is a great resort area, unfortunately away fromthe city..gorgeous beaches and resorts. Punta Cana is the fastest growing area in the Caribbean, the Dominicans are wonderful people and I wouldn't hesitate to go back..Oh yes..one of the largest resorts in the world is in the process of being built..they say it will outrival Disney.

marisol

Margot,<BR>The Dominican Republic beaches are absolutely gorgeous! I have been all over Mexico and the Caribbean and to the South Pacific and they are still among the best in my book. There is almost nothing to do in the the town (well, there really isn't a town, is there?) so you won't see a lot of the poverty because you'll be in beautiful resorts, casinos and restaurants and laying out on a pristine white sand beach that goes for miles!<BR><BR>Oh! and I didn't notice one armed guard the whole time! I think those are more prevalant in the bigger cities. I 100% highly recommend it!

x

Punta CAna is a good choice for an all inclusive holiday. The beach is very good and prices are reasonable. The people are gregarious and friendly. The resort area is not dirty and while hotels all have security, some of whom may be armed, no one is walking around with an assault rifle. Whoever told you what you reported were wrong except for the improvished part and that you will find on many Caribbean Islands. Go to www.debbiesdominicantravel.com and read many dozens of reviews on Punta Cana all-inclusives.

margot

I forgot to ask, is the water/food in the DR very safe to eat/drink?

kcromey

Me and my family vacationed in Punta Cana for one week in February of this year...first time ever to the Carribeans...very positive experience...the beaches were absolutely gorgeous...the people were so friendly and wanted to do everything for you...the resort we stayed at was drop-dead gorgeous and immaculate...I never felt unsafe...I would walk alone sometimes at night by myself and my two older children would go over to the other resorts in the complex at night and never had any problems...never saw a single gun...Sure, you will see poverty on your way to the resorts.. but there is poverty in alot of the Carribeans... If you don't want to see it then you better stay away from the Carribeans. I brought gifts with me to give some of the employees and they really appreciated them...and I did tip them even though we were staying at an all-inclusive...they are just happy to have the jobs so they can make a living...I am alreay planning our next trip back there next year...Any questions please feel free to e-mail me and I will be glad to answer them.

ML

Margot,<BR>Have not been to the Dominican in almost nine years, we stayed then at Casa De Campo. Wonderful vacation and yes there were men with automatics mostly noticable at night. However one night walking back to our villa we were followed he was probably harmless person he kept trying to talk to us I stopped to complain to a guard and he did have a gun however he was nice but seemed had more to drink then we. Got back to the villa safely and called security. Also I like to travel places were I am not confined to a resort,we like to explore. <BR>I was advised not to go even to town. <BR><BR>