Dominican Republic
Rhodes Traveled
Rhodes Traveled Favorite All-Inclusive Resorts
✈️ Flying Into the Dominican Republic
Major airports:
Punta Cana (PUJ) – Most tourists fly here; large, modern, very busy.
Las Américas (SDQ) – Near Santo Domingo; better for city or west coast access.
La Romana (LRM) – Smaller airport, ideal if staying at Casa de Campo or nearby resorts.
🚗 Getting Around the Island
Airport Transfers: Pre-book with your hotel, trusted shuttle companies, or local guides like Punta Cana Mike.
🛑 Avoiding Tourist Traps & Crime
Say no politely but firmly to overly persistent vendors, timeshare pitches, or beach “guides” offering unsolicited help.
Use official taxis or apps: Uber operates in Santo Domingo and parts of Punta Cana. Avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis.
Leave flashy items at home: Jewelry, expensive electronics, or big wads of cash can attract attention.
Stick to filtered water and sealed drinks to avoid stomach issues.
✅ Best Practices
Carry a copy of your passport (leave the original in the hotel safe).
Use ATMs inside banks or resorts, not on the street.
Tip in pesos or small USD bills — it’s appreciated, and service workers rely on it.
Always confirm tour pricing in advance and book through reputable sources (hotel concierge, known operators).
The best time to visit the Dominican Republic is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for beach vacations and exploring. May to August sees higher humidity and occasional rain, but it's still a good time to visit with fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid September and October, which are peak hurricane season and can bring heavy storms and travel disruptions.
Punta Cana
🏆 Top 5 Things to Do in Punta Cana
🌴 Relax at Bávaro Beach
Soft white sand, calm waters, and lots of beach bars — perfect for lounging or swimming.
Many resorts are beachfront, so you’re already there.
⛵ Catamaran or Saona Island Excursion
Take a full-day cruise to Saona Island, part of a protected nature reserve with stunning shallow sandbars.
Includes snorkeling, drinks, and beach time — a highlight of any Punta Cana trip.
🛺 Take a Cultural Tour with Punta Cana Mike
A must-do for anyone wanting an authentic, local experience beyond the resort.
Tours include visits to schools, local homes, plantations, and small villages — fun, informative, and non-touristy.
🏞️ Zipline & Eco Adventures
Head inland for ziplining, horseback riding, or buggies through jungle and countryside.
Top tour operators include Scape Park, Bavaro Adventure Park, and Canopy Adventure Zip Line.
🍽️ Dine Outside the Resort
Try La Yola (fine seafood on the water), Jellyfish Restaurant, or Citrus (for international cuisine in Los Corales).
Don’t miss a beachside dinner at Captain Cook, known for fresh fish and local vibes.
La Romana
La Romana is a quieter, more upscale destination on the southeastern coast of the Dominican Republic. It’s best known for the luxurious Casa de Campo Resort, world-class golf courses, and the charming artist village of Altos de Chavón. Unlike Punta Cana, it offers a more relaxed, exclusive atmosphere with easy access to cultural sites and natural beauty.
Punta Cana is the Dominican Republic’s most popular resort destination, located at the eastern tip of the island. It’s known for its all-inclusive beachfront resorts, coconut palm-lined beaches, and turquoise waters. Visitors come for relaxation, adventure, and a wide range of tours, from catamaran cruises to cultural excursions.
🏆 Top 5 Things to Do in La Romana
🏛️ Visit Altos de Chavón
A replica 16th-century Mediterranean village with cobblestone streets, artisan shops, a church, and an amphitheater.
Offers stunning views of the Chavón River and a small museum of Taino artifacts.
🏌️ Play a Round at Teeth of the Dog Golf Course
Ranked among the top golf courses in the Caribbean, located inside Casa de Campo.
Oceanfront holes and impeccable landscaping make it a bucket-list course for golfers.
🏖️ Chill at Bayahibe or Playa Dominicus
Less crowded than Punta Cana, with crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Bayahibe is also the launch point for Saona Island tours.
⛴️ Take a Boat Trip to Catalina Island
A gorgeous coral island known for snorkeling and diving on vibrant reefs.
Popular catamaran day trips include beach BBQs and snorkeling stops.
🍷 Dine & Stroll at Casa de Campo Marina
High-end waterfront restaurants and shops with a Mediterranean yacht club vibe.
Great for a romantic dinner or sunset cocktails with a view.