Cheap Vacations To Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Overview
This beach strip located on the East coast is the perfect destination for some rest and relaxation. Punta Cana is one of the most popular tourist destinations and attracts people from all over the world, including Bill and Hillary Clinton. This area has been built up specifically with the tourist in mind offering all amenities, plus how can you go wrong with kilometers of fine white sand beaches dotted with palm trees.
Weather: 15 C – 35 C
Language: Spanish, some English is spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP); $1 CD = 40.41 DOP (as of December 3, 2012)
Getting There & Getting Around
Punta Cana is serviced by the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ).
Walking: As Punta Cana is mostly tourist resorts walking around the area is easy.
Shuttle Buses: Most major hotels in the area offer a free shuttle bus service to various popular destinations in the area.
Taxi: The taxis in Punta Cana are unionized and therefore charge uniform rates with the average rate for trips within Punta Cana being $30. This is the most comfortable way to get around.
Car Rentals: There are several car companies that in Punta Cana and are available at the airport as well as most resorts. While the main roads and highways are generally in good condition side roads are usually in poor condition. All road signs are in Spanish which can make driving a challenge for those unfamiliar with the language.
Guagua: This is a bus that runs between cities and picks up those along its route. This is an inexpensive way to travel but they often travel over capacity which can make traveling uncomfortable.
Hotels
Barcelo Dominican Beach  ★★★☆☆
Bavaro Princes All Suites Resort, Spa & Casino  ★★★★★
Caribe Club Princess Beach Resort & Spa  ★★★★☆
Tropical Princess Beach Resort & Spa  ★★★★☆
Riu Bambu  ★★★★★
Riu Naiboa  ★★★★☆
Attractions
Dolphin Island
This man made island allows tourists to get up close and personal with dolphins in the ocean.
El Cortesito Flea Market
This is a well visited place for both tourists and locals featuring a vast array of souvenirs and clothing from the Island’s top designers.
Horseback Riding
Riding over the white sand beaches makes for some great photography.
Manati Park Bavaro
Ctra.Manati, s/n, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
This park is houses many species of birds, reptiles and fish as well as providing live shows with dolphins, parrots and dancing horses.
Marinarium
This marine park on the sea offers snorkeling with sharks and rays.
Punta Cana Ecological Reserve
This reserve offers a short guided tour through a real jungle with an optional swim in a cool spring at the end.
Rancho Jonathan
Rancho Jonathan offers caving adventures to the Boca de Diablo caves.
Safari-type Excursions
Four-wheel bikes, buggy rides, jeep safaris, monster trucks or helicopter rides offer a privileged view of the tropical wilderness. There are a dozen companies that offer these adventure tours.
Restaurants & Nightlife
Areito
Fuego Gastro Bar
This restaurant offers a flavourful menu and excellent service. Try the 7 course tasting menu and you won’t be disappointed.
The JellyFish Restaurant
The JellyFish Restaurant is one of the top rated restaurants this country with menu items including chicken bleu cheese crepe, Thai red snapper and fresh lobster.
Mangu
This bi-level club has a DJ and a full bar that will keep you dancing all night.
Outside In Bar &Restaurant
This small restaurant offers an American friendly menu with favourites like fish and chips and exotic Papaya smoothies.