Punta Cana

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Punta Cana is the name of a region in the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic. Covering about 420,000 m2 (approximately 1,100 acres), the region is home to a coastline of sandy white beaches and to a town of the same name.

Located in the province of La Altagracia and population estimated at 100,000, the region borders the Atlantic Ocean to the east. To the north, it borders Bávaro and El Cortecito beaches. It also limits with Cabeza de Toro, Cabo Engaño and further west with Juanillo.

Despite the area being fairly deserted, the proximity of Punta Cana to other major resort areas such as Bávaro and Uvero Alto make the town one of the top Caribbean destinations.

Peak Season: Peak season in Punta Cana tends to run from December to April. Prices in both airfare and hotel increase dramatically during these times, while dropping in the summer and early fall months.

[edit] Understand

The resorts are low-rise and beautiful. The grounds are lush and tropical with foliage, lagoons and palm trees along with peacocks, flamencos, ducks, parrots and other wildlife that stroll the resorts’ grounds. The majority of the resorts are very large and spread out – like small cities. This means lot of walking. Some resorts have golf carts and trams to accommodate guests’ needs. Punta Cana has so many great resorts that will meet every expectation: golf, scuba, fishing, windsailing, yachting, fine dining, relaxation, spas, children's programs and more. The sales staff is knowledgeable and available to consult and recommend the perfect resort to meet your expectations.

[edit] Climate

Punta Cana has a tropical climate. Although it is mildly windy, the ocean in the area is mainly shallow, with several natural marine pools in which visitors can bathe. The weather is fairly constant, with an average temperature of 26°C. The hottest season lasts from April to November, and during the day temperatures might reach 32°C. From December to March, temperatures during the evening are around 20°C. Very little rain falls around the area, mostly because of the flat landscape. The summer months tend to be very warm and very humid. It is suggested to wear loose fitting, cotton clothing – so pack light.

[edit] Language

• Spanish
• English is spoken at most resorts
• Be sure to brush up on your Spanish skills before visiting Punta Cana. Many of the natives know English, but very little. It can become very frustrating when you can't communicate with one of the locals or an employee of the resort.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

American Airlines is a popular carrier that schedules flights from many US cities to Punta Cana International Airport. Other major carriers from the United States include Spirit Airlines, USA 3000, Continental, US Airways and Delta. Air Canada also offers flights to Toronto].

Most people going to Punta Cana are staying at a resort. With a resort package most hotels will have airport pick up arranged for you at the Punta Cana Airport. Just look for your hotel name on a sign that many guides will have, and they will direct you to your bus.

In fact, Punta Cana has one of the busiest and best connected airports in the region, sometimes receiving more flights than the Aeropuerto Internacional de Las Américas, located in Santo Domingo (at about a three-hour drive).

The Punta Cana Airport has a beautiful thatched roof and is an open-air design. Upon arriving at the Punta Cana airport, each passenger is required to purchase a $10.00 tourist card before entering customs. After retrieving luggage and clearing customs, arriving passengers will be greeted by their tour company representative and directed to board the correct bus for transfer to their resort.

The department of migration is now photographing all United States citizens who enter the Dominican Republic with birth certificates and photo ids. This will not affect United States passengers who travel using their passports. This plan has been adopted to reduce the number of illegal aliens who use these documents to later gain illegal entry to the United States. The computerized systems are in place at each of the international air and maritime ports.

[edit] By boat

[edit] Get around

Tour Operators: Most passengers arriving in Punta Cana International Airport have prearranged local transportation through a tour operator. These companies have representatives at the airport to guide guests to vehicles waiting to take them to the reserved resort. If you are traveling with a tour operator it is highly recommended that you attend any welcome meetings and orientations offered by your tour operator. In these meetings you'll receive important information regarding your hotel and immediate area information, activity and excursion options, and departure information.

You can also book your airport transfers in advance from the comfort of your home with Dominican Airport Transfers one of the Dominican Republic's leaders in airport transfers servicing all airports and tourist destinations. You can actually get an instant quote and book online on their automated site. Dominican Airport Transfers office is located in Santo Domingo City.

Taxis: If you are not traveling with a tour operator, a number of taxi drivers are available just outside the Customs area to provide you transportation to the place of your choice. All taxis operate with standard rates; most drivers carry a copy of these. The best thing to do when hiring a taxi is to clarify your destination and the price in advance. You pay upon arrival at your destination. Most hotels have taxi stations on or near their property; in most cases a bellman or front desk clerk can order a taxi for you. Taxi drivers accept dollars, pesos and euros.

Local Buses: For the more adventurous, the local bus lines operate on most of the roads of the area, for a minimal cost. The downside to public transportation in the Dominican Republic is irregular bus schedules, crowded vehicles, and potentially unsafe vehicles, drivers or passengers. Although for the most part it is a safe and effective means of transportation, it is generally recommended to use one of the more frequented means of getting around.

Rent-a-Car: A number of car rental agencies like Europcar, Budget and Avis offer service in the area of Punta Cana and Bavaro. Many hotels have car rental concessionaries on their properties. Keep in mind that their driving laws, habits and conditions may be different from the ones you are used to. When renting a vehicle always take the maximum available insurance, keep a map of the area you intend to drive in, and make sure you are comfortable with the drive.

[edit] See

• Santo Domingo: This is the first European settlement of the Western Hemisphere. It has preserved its colonial heritage for more than five centuries, and is recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Come to visit the first Cathedral of the Americas or the Alcazar de Colon, the palace of Diego, son of Christopher Columbus.

• Altos de Chavon: A modern-day artist's village resembling a 16th century Mediterranean town. It is set upon a spectacular hillside cliff overlooking the winding Chavon River. It is home to a 5000 seat amphitheater, an archeological museum, craft workshops, artist’s studios and an assortment of galleries and restaurants.

• Bavaro Runners: A highly popular safari excursion in the area, experience the real people, scenery and life of the Dominican Republic. During your day, visit typical Dominican homes, authentic sugarcane plantations, and go horseback riding on a spectacular beach.

• Saona Island: Take a day trip to this spectacular island set in the natural reserve of The Parque Nacional del Este. Relax on powder white sands, where palm-studded beaches meet the soft surf of the Caribbean waters, and sometimes even dolphins swim alongside your catamaran!

• Manati Park: For the animal lovers this park features exotic fish, horses, parrots and the chance to swim with real dolphins! Stroll along the lush gardens, take pictures of the beautiful orchids and tropical plants, or buy some local crafts in the souvenir shops.

[edit] Do

• Marinarium: In this unique water park you can experience some of the best snorkeling in the area, complete with nurse sharks and sting rays! Enjoy a Coco Loco as you cruise along the coast to your final stop, a waist deep natural pool in the sea.

• Aquatic Tours: Spectacular 2-passenger speed boats where you can cruise the coastline in style. Snorkel equipment and instructions included!

• Kontiki: Come to dance in true Caribbean style to live steel drum music, classic reggae, and the rhythms of the Islands, along with some spectacular snorkeling on Buccaneers Reef!

• Dolphin Island: A short boat ride takes you to a floating platform where visitors can swim with trained dolphins right in the sea. The package includes 15 minutes of free time with these unique creatures.

• Seaquarium: Scuba diving with a twist; Seaquarium is the unique tour that pairs you with a driving helmet and allows you to walk the bottom of the clear waters with an unforgettable view of reef and coral life- no certification required!

• Rafting: Situated near the town of Jarabacoa, come and visit the “Dominican Alps” where 18 different waterfalls cascade between chasms of rock to water the rich, fertile earth below. If you’re a whitewater fan, The Rio Yasque is the longest river in the Caribbean and offers challenging courses like the “Mike Tyson” which features a 12-foot vertical drop.

• Helicopter Tours: Change perspective and take your pictures of the Punta Cana coastline from hundreds of feet in the air. Fly over lush palm-studded coastlines, golf courses, vast stretches of white sandy beaches, and an array of shipwrecks.

[edit] Buy

[edit] Currency

The local currency is the Dominican Peso. Its value fluctuates between 30-35 pesos per US dollar and 36-41 pesos per Euro. Although any currency can be changed into pesos, it should be noted that in some situations it may be difficult to exchange pesos back into your original currency. We recommend exchanging only small amounts of money at a time to avoid any inconveniences. Most banks exchange Dollars, Euros, and Traveler's cheques and can process cash advances on credit and debit cards. Don't forget to bring proper identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Please note that local ATM machines disburse only pesos, contact your bank for related service fees. If you are planning a day tour to Santo Domingo, you will find that everything is much cheaper than you would at the resort. Souvenirs, clothing, artwork, liquor, etc., will be about 1/4 to 1/3 the price at your resort.

[edit] Shopping

If you walk outside your resort to the city/area internet cafes will also be half the price.

Make sure you spend the remainder of your Dominican pesos. It is next to impossible to convert your pesos back to US dollars or euros.

There are a variety of shops that are along the beachfront of each resort. These shops are owned and operated by the locals of the Dominican Republic. The people of the Dominican Republic love to barter for the price of items. They may offer you a certain price for an item, but they expect you to work the price down. It is imperative that you get the item for as cheap as you can. Often times, the locals will offer you a price for an item that is much more expensive the actual value of the product.

When walking along the beach also realize that the people at the shops will bother you to come buy something from them. It can often times become annoying because they will keep pestering you until you come and look at what they have to offer. Realize though that all you need to do is tell them that you are not interested and keep walking. The people of the Dominican Republic are very friendly and become offended when you walk right past them without at least acknowledging their presence. A simple "no thank you" will do fine and you can go on with your business.

Note: Don't buy dried animals (turtle shells, sea shells...etc) because A.) It is illegal, so you will not be allowed to bring them through customs, and may get arrested trying; and B.) It encourages the locals to kill these beautiful creatures. Reef life should stay in the sea, so help to preserve these endangered animals by buying other types of souvenirs.

[edit] Eat

The all-inclusive resorts offer all kinds of great food. Make sure that you speak with your representative to book your preferred restaurant for dinner in advance. Many all-inclusive resorts have various types of restaurants. Make sure you take advantage of all their cuisines by reserving a date and time.

Keep in mind that the standards even at the five-star resorts are not the same standards as North America or Europe. Try to eat peeled fruits and vegetables. Stay away from food that may have been sitting for a long time.

There are also a variety of restaurants located around Punta Cana that the locals visit quite often.

• Capitan Cook - Cortecito

(809) 552-0645 If seafood is your favorite, try what locals have declared the best lobster in town. With a huge open grill and enormous platters, it is hard for sea food lovers not to enjoy this beach-side restaurant. It is located right on the main beach strip.

• High Wave - Bavaro Shopping Center

(809) 309-0500 This comfortable setting offers American-style food and music with an upbeat atmosphere. The lounge area is ultra chick with big screens keeping up with the latest in sports and the terrace has big tables for big groups. It is walking distance from the two main clubs and the largest casino in town.

• La Yola - Punta Cana Resort & Club

(809) 959-2262 Whether it is a special dinner for two or a business meeting, the formal setting and superb cuisine are tailored to satisfy the palate and style of the most demanding international connoisseurs. Set in the Punta Cana Resort Marina, the restaurant stretches out over the water, providing patrons with a truly unique view. Make sure to reserve your place well in advance.

• Las Lenas II - Plaza Friusa

(809) 552-6776 Spanish style coffee shop and bakery with wireless internet access. Comfortable seating, urban clientele, and great food along with the rustic decoration give this place a welcoming character. The bakery provides hotels in the area with the choicest deserts and is the best place to have breakfast in Punta Cana.

[edit] Drink

• Drinking from the faucet is not recommended. You should be okay using it to brush your teeth, but don't swallow it. Most hotels provide bottled water in the rooms; restaurants and bars use purified water and ice for your food and beverages.

• All-inclusive resorts have an endless supply of liquor. You may also drink at neighboring resorts, but you may have to pay or let them know your room number and resort name at the very least.

• With the sun constantly beating down on you (much stronger since it is right next to the equator) and the endless supply of alcohol, dehydration is very prominent. Be sure to make sure you hydrate yourself often with water or you may end up in a doctor's office suffering from dehydration and a fever!

[edit] Beer

Presidente is the most popular national brand of beer, and it is readily available anywhere. For other national brands, like Bohemia and Quisqueya, you may only find them outside the resorts.

[edit] Rum

They also specialize in many different types of rum:

• White Rums are generally light-bodied. They are clear and have a subtle flavor. These are primarily used as mixers and blend particularly well with fruit flavors.
• Golden Rums also known as Amber Rums are generally medium-bodied. Most have spent several years aging in casks, giving them a smooth palate.
• Dark Rums are traditionally full-bodies, rich, caramel-dominated rums. The richest of these rums are consumed straight up.
• Anejo and Age-Dated Rums are aged rums from different vintages or batches that are mixed together. The youngest rum in the blend contains a blend of rums that are at least 10 years old.

[edit] Coffee

Though in most Latin and Central American countries coffee is produced primarily for export, most of the coffee grown in the Dominican Republic is savored within its borders. And Dominicans, like Europeans, enjoy their coffee strong and black. One useful phrase for tourists to learn when ordering coffee is "sin azucar" (no sugar) for the simple reason that the locals measure by tablespoon rather than teaspoon.

[edit] Sleep

• Map of hotels in Punta Cana

• Gran Bahia Principe

First-class all-inclusive resort located in Playa Bavaro. Hotel has main restaurant and six specialty restaurants available. Along with nightly entertainment, they have their own entertainment village located at the entrance to the resort.

• Barcelo Bavaro Beach Resort

A part of a spectacular 1921 room all inclusive resort, just 20 km from Punta Cana International Airport and 190 km from Las Americas International Airport. This hotel has 600 rooms. They are located on Bavaro Beach, with fine white sands stretching for 12 km, in the middle of shady coconut groves, with a coral reef that keeps the waters warm, calm and inviting. We are an All Inclusive Resort, offering outstanding accommodations, around the clock activities, and superb meals and beverages.

• Punta Cana Grand

Located to the east of the Caribbean coast of Punta Cana on the beach front protected by the coral reef and surrounded by a large tropical garden. It is close to the Fishing Yacht Club, 7 minutes from the golf courses and just 20 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport. The hotel has 460 rooms, the majority with sea views, others with direct access to the pool. They are all equipped with King or Queen size beds, terrace or balcony, air conditioning, satellite TV, direct-dial telephone, minibar, coffee maker, safety deposit box... in short all the fittings appropriate for an establishment in this category.

• Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana

Sunscape The Beach Punta Cana puts the accent on family fun with first class accommodations and exciting activities in spectacular locations. Enjoy sunny beaches, shady palm groves, wild water sports, awesome entertainment, clubs and activities for kids of all ages, and spectacular dining… and best of all, no worries, no reservations, no wristbands!

• Excellence Punta Cana

Guests discover unprecedented all inclusive freedom at this resort that is built along 1 mile of endless white sandy beach surrounded by thousands of palm trees. Experience the most generous a la carte diner from a wide selection of menus and variety of 7 a la carte restaurants and 9 friendly bars serving premium international brand beverage. The resort offers a full service, world class Spa, a seaside wedding gazebo and state of the art meeting facilities. A huge meandering swimming pool features bridges, waterfall and swim up palapa bars.

• Riu Palace Macao

This beautiful beachfront hotel is located within the Riu Resorts Complex in Punta Cana. This Colonial-Styled Luxury Hotel nestles the middle of a Shady Palm Grove right on White Sand Beach. It is mandatory that at least one person over the age of 21 years or over is present in every room during spring break Seasons either February - March or April or during student group stays year round. The remainder of the year at least one person over the age of 18 years or over must be present in every room.

[edit] Get out

[edit] Departure Information and Tips

• It is highly recommended that you check with your representative a day in advance for updated flight information, amount of souvenirs you may bring back, weight and size allowances for baggage to your destination, and the time at which you will be picked up from the hotel.

• Before leaving your room check everything and make sure you have your passport! It is the only thing that cannot be mailed to you after you leave.

• Most hotels have a check out-out time between 12 and 1pm. Show up early to sort out any problems.

• To get the best rate when exchanging pesos, do so before you pass the checkpoint at the airport

• Be sure to arrive in the lobby 15 minutes before your scheduled pick up. The bus will usually leave promptly 2-3 hours before you need to be at the airport so you have enough time to clear immigration and obtain your flight tickets.

• On arrival you had to fill out a tourist card. This will now need to be submitted at the airport; try not to lose this because you will have to buy another, paid in cash before you are allowed to leave.

[edit] Customs

U.S Customs

• 1.) Total of $800 of merchandise duty free
• 2.) 100 (Non Cuban) Cigars
• 3.) 200 cigarettes (1 Carton)
• 4.) 2 liters of alcoholic beverages (must be over 21)

Canada Customs

• 1.) Total of $750 of merchandise duty free
• 2.) 50 Cigars
• 3.) 1.14 liters of alcohol or 24 cans of beers
• 4.) 200 cigarettes

Europe Customs

Beligum, Germany, Netherlands, Spain

• 1.) 50 Cigars
• 2.) 2 liters of alcohol
• 3.) 200 cigarettes

France

• 1.) 50 cigars
• 2.) 5 liters of alcohol
• 3.) 400 cigarettes

Finland

• 1.) 50 cigars or 200 cigarettes
• 2.) 1 liter of strong alcohol (above 22%) or 2 liters of aperitives (max 22%) or sparkling wine
• 3.) 2 liters of wine
• 4.) 16 liters of beer
• 5.) Additionally, a total of 175€ of other merchandise duty free

[edit] Emergency

• It is imperative that you are aware of the local emergency contact information before visiting any country outside of the United States. Due to the language barrier, it can often times be difficult to find the type of service you are in need of during an emergency. To be on the safe side, plan ahead!

[edit] Police

• (809) 686-8227
• There are 24-hour stations next to the Sitrabapu bus terminal in Bavaro and at Galerias Punta Cana near the airport.

[edit] Medical Services

• Centro Medico Punta Cana

(809) 552-1506 Near Plaza Bavaro and the local bus terminal It features a multilingual staff and in-house pharmacy. Open until 9pm for visitors and 24/7 for emergencies

• Hospiten Bavaro

(809) 686-1414 Situated near the airport, Hospiten's multilingual staff and fully equipped facility is available 24/7 for emergencies

[edit] Pharmacy

• Pharma Cana

(809) 959-0025 Hours: 9am-10pm This pharmacy is located near the airport and is the main pharmacy of the area of Punta Cana.

• Farmacia el Manglar

(809) 552-1533 Hours: 8am-12pm This pharmacy near Plaza Bavaro offers delivery to many of the local hotels in the area.

WikiPedia:Punta Cana

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Many Informations about Punta Cana and Bavaro