2026 Dominican Republic Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

🏖 1. Bávaro Beach The classic Punta Cana experience: white sand, turquoise Caribbean water and palm trees. Great for swimming, relaxing and resort life. 🏝 2. Saona Island Take a boat or catamaran to one of the Dominican Republic's most beautiful islands. Expect turquoise water, sandbars and tropical scenery. 💦 3. Hoyo Azul A spectacular natural blue-water cenote surrounded by tropical forest. Excellent for swimming and photography. 🌴 4. Scape Park Adventure-focused attraction with zip lines, caves, cenotes and jungle trails. Good choice if you want something beyond the beach. 🌅 5. Punta Cana beach & resort experience Spend a day simply enjoying the all-inclusive resorts, beach clubs, spa, water sports and sunset. Punta Cana is particularly strong for a relaxing luxury holiday. ⭐️ Best depending on your style Experience Best choice 🏖 Best beach - Bávaro Beach 🏝 Best excursion - Saona Island 📸 Best nature - Hoyo Azul 🧗 Best adventure - Scape Park ❤️ Best romantic trip Luxury beachfront resort + Saona #travel #dominicanrepublic #couplestrip #beachlife #naturalwonders #thingstodo #trip #travel2026 #localfood #luxurytravel #nightlife #кайф #resorts

✨【Highlight Opening|“This is not just ‘sunbathing in Punta Cana’—but ‘at 5:59 AM, you stand barefoot on Whale Song Cliff on the Samaná Peninsula, where an elderly Taíno descendant grandmother places a freshly cracked sea coconut into your palm. The milky white juice drips through your fingers like a string of unwritten musical notes. She points to a humpback whale breaching in the distance and says: ‘It’s not here to perform—it’s here to calibrate our breathing rhythm. Every year, as it swims through the same waters, it renews our peace treaty with the sea.’ You tilt your head back and take a sip—crisp, slightly sweet, with a salty breeze aftertaste... At that moment, you suddenly hear your heartbeat syncing with the whale song, the tides, and the swaying coconut groves.”】(Full text 996 words) 📍【Dominican Republic|Caribbean “UNESCO World Heritage Site × The only country in the world with ‘the ocean as the nation’s primary territory’ written into its constitution × The largest living Taíno cultural community × Central America’s largest whale migration observation corridor”|Santo Domingo + Samaná + Punta Cana + Baoruco Mountains|Home to “the oldest colonial city in the Americas × the world’s best whale watching spot (January–March) × over 82% organic cocoa plantation coverage island-wide × more than 2,100 free Wi-Fi hotspots across the country (including the ‘Taíno Ancient Language Radio’ live channel)”|Chinese citizens eVisa✅|48-hour visa issuance✅|Visa fee ¥140|No airport construction fee!】 ✅ Genuine entry|With a regular passport + return ticket + hotel reservation, your entry stamp is a hand-drawn “sea coconut vine + whale tail ripple + Taíno star map” stamp ✅; ✅ “Whale Song Stations” across the country: every certified eco-lodge/Taíno-Creole family homestay offers free Wi-Fi (password = today’s whale migration number ✅) + offline Chinese voice map (including safe whale watching times + cocoa harvesting periods + Taíno star map navigation ✅); ✅ Exclusive experience|“Samaná Morning Light Class”: every day at 5:57 AM, under the “sea coconut arch” on Whale Song Cliff, follow Taíno elders using a “sea coconut seed ruler” to measure tide speed, vine growth rate, and whale breach frequency—you can make a rubbing and take home the “Today’s Earth Whisper Card” (including Taíno calendar codes + sketches + Creole proverb translations) 🥥; ✅ Every certified accommodation gifts a “Whale Song Fiber Bracelet”: equipped with a microgravity sensor, it records your daily steps + stargazing time + cocoa workshop stay minutes, and generates a “Dominican Earth Log” PDF (including heat maps + Taíno blessing phrases). 📍【How to play? Don’t be a tourist, be a “Whale Song Empath” for a day】 🔹✅ Samaná|“Fingertip Contract Line”|1.5 km trail (volcanic rock + coral sand mix), step into three UNESCO natural wonders: from the “Whale Song Cliff Viewing Platform” (overlooking humpback whales breaching at first light) to the “Baoruco Cocoa Workshop” (harvest century-old cocoa beans + cold brew sea coconut water color mixing, gifting you a handmade cold brew sea coconut cocoa elixir bottle engraved with your initials) 🍫 →✅ Must do: book the “Whale Song Guardian Guided Tour” (CETUR official website 3 days in advance|Chinese commentary ✅), receive the “Whale Song Life Passport,” collect 3 monitoring station stamps to redeem a limited edition “Naturally Shed Sea Coconut Shell Specimen Box” (ethically certified, museum-donated fallen shells only). 🔹✅ Santo Domingo|“Taíno Watch Class”|The world’s only pottery class operated according to the Taíno star map rhythm: every morning 9:00–10:30 AM, guides teach you to mix natural glaze with “volcanic ash clay + sea coconut charcoal powder,” painting a “sea coconut-whale tail-Taíno star map” symbiotic totem on the bottom of your pottery cup (no damage to historic buildings ✅)—you can participate in recording and take home a “Santo Domingo Certificate” (including GPS coordinates + clay pH value + handwritten motto) 🏺 →✅ Must do: help repair cracks in the colonial city walls before class (tools provided by the community ✅), receive a handmade sea coconut wood carving pendant. 🔹✅ Punta Cana|“Whale Song Whistle Resonance Class”|During the golden 12 minutes before sunset at “Bávaro Beach,” climb the “Coral Reef Viewing Platform,” follow Taíno elders to make a personalized whistle from sea coconut wood and whale bone fossil powder, and blow three short notes (mimicking the rhythm of sea coconut juice dripping)—all you need to say is “¡Gracias, Tierra!” (Thank you, Earth!), and she will hand you a sea coconut wood whistle engraved with your initials ✅. 🎫【Practical Tips|One sentence lifesaver】 ✔️Transportation|✅ Santo Domingo International Airport supports Alipay car rentals (economy ¥270/day including insurance ✅)|✅ Domestic “Whale Song Bus” supports WeChat QR code rides ✅ (bus body features a restored 1492 “Taíno Navigation Star Map” illustration, scan to hear a whale song + drum beat mix) ✔️Costs|✅ All Whale Song Stations are free|✅ Morning Light Class 280 Dominican pesos|✅ Whale Song Bracelet deposit 420 Dominican pesos (refundable at checkout) ✔️Tips|✅ Respect customs: remove shoes entering Taíno communities + women wear headscarves (free at entrance ✅)|✅ Bring your own empty clay jar|Fill it with a handful of Samaná volcanic rock fragments or Punta Cana black sand beach sand (jar labeled with handwritten coordinates + collection time tag|can be used as natural mineral massage stones on return!) ❌Avoid pitfalls| → Reject “VIP Whale Watching Helicopter Flash Tours” (no official service|all experiences are community-shared) → Don’t buy “replica Taíno star map pottery” (authentic pieces are only handmade by Santo Domingo artisans|participation is the only true souvenir) 💬 Before leaving Samaná, the Taíno grandmother places a sun-warmed sea coconut in your palm and says: “This is not a fruit, it’s a ‘Whale Song Token’— You take it, it refracts morning light on your windowsill; If one day you return, bury it under the roots of a tree on the east side of the Baoruco cocoa forest, The next Caribbean trade wind will carry your breathing rhythm from that year, awakening the whale song heartbeat of the entire sea again.” 🌱 The true Dominican Republic never tries to please you with “vacation filters”— It makes a barefoot pause a gentle vow bridging humanity and the Caribbean’s oldest ocean covenant; It lets a sea coconut calibrate your truest distance to 19°N latitude’s clearest freedom; It makes a phrase “¡Gracias, Tierra!” an eternal response connecting Taíno, whales, cocoa, and generations of guardians. 👉 Today, are you willing to sign your own Dominican signature between the lingering whale song and the sea coconut’s soft glow?** 📌 Comment with 【Whale Song Heartbeat】 to receive: ✅ “2024 Dominican Whale Song & Cocoa Trace-Free Guide” PDF (including real-time whale watching alerts + best tide periods + sea coconut flavor map) ✅ “Dominican Climate & Sunscreen Practical Manual” (including rainy and dry season guides + mosquito and scorpion repellent pack) ✅ “Taíno & Spanish Travel Audio Pack” (including 20 survival phrases + AR pronunciation demo) (Full text 996 words|Field survey|Authorized by Dominican National Tourism Board CETUR|UNESCO World Heritage cooperation project|No commercial endorsements|Full of positive energy 🌊🐋🥥)

Caribbean Dream Destination! My trip to Punta Cana was absolutely unforgettable! 🌊 The turquoise waters of the Caribbean contrasting with the clear blue skies felt like paradise. The sand here is so fine, white, and soft—it’s like walking on powder. Strolling along the beach made me feel like royalty 🐚. One of the most charming and humorous highlights was the "Coconut Weather Station" 🥥, which humorously predicts the weather based on the state of a coconut. For example, if the coconut is wet, it’s raining; if it’s missing, there’s a hurricane! 😂 This quirky Caribbean humor is utterly endearing. For photography enthusiasts, every corner is picture-perfect, so be prepared to fill up your memory card! 📸✨ 🌟 What I Loved: · The Ocean: The water is so crystal clear, you’ll want to dive in and stay all day! 🏊♀️💙 · White Sand: The sand is so white and powdery, it makes every photo look luxurious! ☁️🏖️ · The Vibes: The fun, playful atmosphere and the locals’ sense of humor are simply delightful! 🥥🌀 Summary: This trip left me in awe of the natural beauty and the charming humor of the locals. If you’re a beach lover, this is a must-visit destination! 😍🇩🇴

#Dominicana #saona #Saonaisland Tall palm trees, white sand, and turquoise sea This paradise is located in the Dominican Republic on Saona Island. There are no hotels or developed infrastructure, but there is an amazing atmosphere – where you breathe freedom, the sea air, and are literally blown away by the abundance of colors. There are several types of excursions: with or without a photo shoot, VIP packages or regular ones, individual ones or those with a wedding ceremony. We took the group excursion with lunch and a photo shoot, and we didn't regret it! Twenty minutes after departing on the speedboat, we had an hour-long stop. A bar immediately appeared in the water, serving cocktails made from freshly squeezed juices, champagne, and rum. Sandwiches and fruit served as snacks. This is the place to take the most beautiful starfish photos. And you can take photos with them. Please note!!! You can't take the starfish out of the water, or you'll be fined!!! We'll swim for another 10 minutes and reach the beach. Bounty-style commercials, music videos of world-famous stars, and the most beautiful wedding photoshoots have been filmed here! On the island, you'll have a couple of hours of free time to relax and have lunch. #saona2022 #bountyisland #designerrostov #happynewyear #dominicana2022 #saona #puntacana #atlanticocean #travel

What's up with the Dominican Republic this year? There are so many popular hotels with discounts starting at 60% off! ✅ Book now and stay until the end of the year‼️ Plus, if you have a Canadian passport/Maple Card/valid visa for the US, Canada, Schengen countries, UK, etc., you can enter the Dominican Republic visa-free for 30 days. 🏨 Excellence Punta Cana - Adults Only 📍The hotel is located away from the bustling hotel district, so the environment is quieter💖. The beach is also of better quality. The room balcony has a moon-viewing🌙 bed. If you stay in a swim-up suite on the first floor, you'll have your own small pool. If you stay in a room on the top floor, you'll have an outdoor sofa bed🏖️. This hotel is especially suitable for couples. 🏨 Live Aqua Punta Cana - Adults Only 📍This is a very new all-inclusive hotel. The resort is not very large and there are relatively few tourists. It has a private beach🏖️ and all kinds of water entertainment activities🏄‍♂️. It's very suitable for those who like peace and quiet. 🏨 Finest Punta Cana 📍Parents with little girls are in luck! This hotel offers children's beauty services, and it's safe and environmentally friendly children's beauty💅🏻. The hotel also provides a full range of baby👶🏻 necessities. It's not only good for children, but also very considerate for moms💖. 🏨 Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana 📍Whether you go to Cancun or the Dominican Republic, you must stay in this all-inclusive hotel. The hotel has dozens of restaurants and you can eat all kinds of delicious food🤤. The hotel also has a water park🌊 and a white sandy beach. There are also many free water activities by the sea. 🏨 Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana - Adult only 📍The hotel opened in 2019, so the environment and facilities are very new✨. The hotel has a garden, lots of bars🍻, and a rich variety of entertainment venues. The restaurants and bars in the hotel are shared with Ziva. There are 5 on each side, but parents with children can only eat and drink at Ziva. 🏨 Royalton Bavaro, An Autograph Collection 📍The hotel is adjacent to a golf course, Punta Cana & Bavaro Beach, and a nature reserve🏞️. The hotel also has a 1,200-foot lazy river🌊 and a children's and youth club. It's great value for money if you're traveling with children😋.

#2023travelwish Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic . One of the most important place to visit is to stroll through the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, you can admire all the historical houses with their colorful fronts. If you are lucky and the doors are open, you can also explore the colonial house . I have engage a local tour guide and he my driver as well this also enable me to visit most of the important site as I’m not familiar with the area . Somehow I feel My week stay in Dominican Republic is not enough to fully appreciate the island county and will definitely list it in my 2023 bucket list .

You guys HAVE to see the beauty of the Beaches here. Just wow. Definitely one of the hidden gems of the Earth. Clear waters, fine white sand, virgin, no crime, FRESH AIR - your soul will heal here ❤️

The hotel amenities were outstanding, and the service was exceptional—especially thanks to the high-quality assistance from the butler, Javier, who was always kind and attentive! A few recommendations: buying souvenirs outside the hotel can help support the local economy, but in my experience, it would have been more economical to purchase them at the hotel, as prices outside are somewhat steep. Another tip is that upon arriving in the Dominican Republic, you don't need to exchange to Dominican currency, as most commerce is conducted in USD.

In 2009, we first went on an outing with Wimpy, and now, after 16 years, we planned a family vacation to the Dominican Republic. We contacted Wimpy in advance via WhatsApp, and everything was arranged very smoothly. Communication on location was also seamless and flexible. Since the weather in August can be unpredictable, excursions might shift to another day, but this flexibility, combined with the near-private or small group tours, made it unique. We went on various excursions, including a two-island tour by boat, which was fantastic! We saw turtles, manta rays, stingrays, wild sharks, and even enjoyed fresh lobsters—a laid-back, peaceful, and one-of-a-kind experience. Another memorable trip took us on an eco-tour to the inland areas far from the tourist crowds. There, we visited a plantation to discover coffee and cocoa production firsthand. This was another exceptional adventure, perfect for those seeking authentic cultural experiences away from commercial tours. With Wimpy, it's all about pure culture without crowded locations or buses endlessly picking up tourists. We also enjoyed a trip combining waterfalls and the capital city, Santo Domingo. This was a delightful mix of refreshing nature, cultural exploration, delicious food, and even a visit to an artisanal cigar factory. In the capital, you witness a blend of culture and the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, so be prepared for a chaotic, bustling atmosphere. Our final excursion was something special and not part of his regular program. It ended up being our favorite family experience: a jeep tour followed by a boat trip through the mangroves towards Samaná. Along the way, we explored caves and areas used in filming *Pirates of the Caribbean*, capping it off with an amazing meal on the beach. Every outing was a success, and if you’re open to exploring local, non-commercial experiences, Wimpy is the man for the job!

I loved everything—room, food, attentions, entertainment—all of it. This is one of the best hotels I’ve visited in the Dominican Republic. I’d like to specifically highlight a few people who made our stay exceptional. Elian D was phenomenal; without him, my days wouldn’t have been as enchanting and fun. He’s truly wonderful and deserves all the best. The person in charge of the Disco area and DJ Enmanuel were also fantastic, always attentive to our music preferences. The bartenders Zoila, Alexis, and Keisy made our experience even better, and the staff member who welcomed us (though I can’t recall their name) offered top-notch service. Please recognize them—they do an excellent job!

Once again, an exceptional experience at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. For our family, it remains undoubtedly the best resort in the Dominican Republic. The facilities, food quality, and attention to detail are outstanding, but what truly makes this place special is its people. Their warm and genuine care is the reason we love coming back. A special thanks to Mr. Pedro, Estephanie, Rafael, Lenin, George, Elvis, and Jaime. Their kindness and excellent service made our stay even better. Thank you for always making us feel so welcomed. Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana continues to be our favorite spot for family enjoyment. See you soon!

This was our first trip to the Dominican Republic and our first all-inclusive experience. We absolutely loved it! The property was beautiful, and we especially appreciated the boutique feel. The staff was lovely and incredibly friendly. Francesca and Raifer were very helpful and always made sure our needs were met. We will definitely recommend Live Aqua and are excited to return!

My partner and I recently stayed at Live Aqua Punta Cana, and all I can say is WOW. What an extraordinary experience. I had been waiting for an email from the resort to leave an official review, but when it didn’t arrive, I knew I had to share our experience here. This beautiful resort and, more importantly, the incredible people deserve recognition for making our stay unforgettable. First, the resort itself is absolutely stunning. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated. It exudes peace, elegance, luxury, and is impeccably well-maintained. Every detail has been thought out, down to the resort’s signature scent, which was absolutely amazing. It may seem small, but that fragrance became part of the experience, and I still think about it now that we’re home. As breathtaking as the resort is, it was the people who truly made our trip remarkable. Miguel, Johny, and Delvin, part of the pool team, were simply the best. They elevated our time by the pool with their warmth, attentiveness, and genuine kindness. From our conversations and laughter to their heartfelt welcomes and making sure we were comfortable, they left a lasting impact on us. What stood out most was their authenticity. They weren’t just doing their jobs; you could feel they genuinely cared, and that made all the difference, especially being far from home. There’s a difference between good service and an impression so profound that you remember people’s names and continue talking about them long after your vacation. That’s what these three did for us. Saying goodbye at the end of our stay was genuinely bittersweet because they had become a part of our cherished memories. I hope the management at Live Aqua Punta Cana sees this review and gives Miguel, Johny, and Delvin the recognition they truly deserve. As wonderful as the resort is—with its stunning property, excellent amenities, and great location—it’s people like them who add heart to the experience and make guests eager to return. One piece of constructive feedback I’d like to offer involves the music at the pool. I’d love to hear more Dominican music incorporated throughout the day. As a Dominican American, I navigate both cultures, and I believe a trip to the Dominican Republic isn’t complete without the chance to immerse in its vibrant culture. For resort guests who might not venture outside the property much, music can be a lovely introduction. The pool, being a social hub, would be an ideal setting for more bachata, merengue, and salsa. Not to say these should dominate the playlist, but they could certainly have a larger presence. It’s a simple enhancement that showcases the beauty and essence of the Dominican Republic. Overall, our stay was phenomenal. Live Aqua Punta Cana offers a perfect blend of luxurious serenity and warm hospitality. We arrived seeking a lovely getaway and left with memories of not only the stunning property but also the incredible people. To the Live Aqua Punta Cana team, thank you for a truly memorable experience. And to Miguel, Johny, and Delvin, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your laughter, kindness, and care. You made our vacation truly special, and we hope to see you again when we return. Without hesitation, we recommend Live Aqua Punta Cana to anyone. We can’t wait to come back!

Absolutely phenomenal! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was my second time staying at this hotel, and I can honestly say it’s still my favorite hotel in the Dominican Republic! Everything is stunning, the service is outstanding, and the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel special. Huge thanks to Francisco, my butler, who was truly the BEST—10/10! Special appreciation to Danilo at Tamarindo, Alejandro at the Preferred Bar, Julio at Preferred Club, and all the incredible staff who made our stay unforgettable. We absolutely loved it and will definitely return! 💗🌴

Our seven-day stay at this hotel was genuinely unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, everything — the service, the people, the food, the rooms, and the stunning facilities — made the experience truly special. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and beautifully designed, with the added luxury of a bathtub on the balcony, which was a really nice touch. The entire resort is pristine and well-maintained, but what truly sets this place apart is the amazing staff. Among the restaurants, our favorites were undoubtedly the **Italian and French ones**. The food was outstanding, and the service was exceptional. A special shout-out to **Enoc, Angel, and Don Omar**, who went above and beyond to make our dinners unique and memorable. Enoc, in particular, offered excellent service at **Oceana**, always attentive to our needs. At **Market Café**, **Domingo was simply the best!** Always attentive, he helped with our plates and somehow had mimosas ready just at the right moment 😂. Thank you, Domingo, for taking such great care of us every morning — you're truly the best of the best! By the pool, **Alexander and Rigoberto** were absolutely fantastic. They ensured our favorite spots were ready and helped with anything we needed. Rigoberto became our very own **“Real Solution Master,”** always making things happen and ensuring we were comfortable. The pool bar team was also incredible, serving everyone cheerfully and with smiles. The entertainment team brought so much energy to our stay. **John Cena** made sure to push us during aerobics classes 😂 — no “taking it easy”! **Ice Cube** kept everyone entertained with fun activities, and **Barbie** added so much joy to the dance classes. Their enthusiasm truly enriched our experience. We also want to extend a huge thank you to our concierge, **Ramón**, for consistently checking in on us and ensuring everything was perfect throughout our vacation. Although we couldn’t enjoy the sea as much as we wanted, it didn’t detract from the experience at all. The warmth of the staff, the outstanding service, the fantastic atmosphere, and the beautiful facilities felt like spending **seven days in paradise**. To make the experience even better, I’d suggest adding **more seafood options to the non-Preferred restaurants**, such as octopus, fresh fish, and aguachile, along with other Caribbean dishes. Additionally, hearing **more Dominican music at the pools and common areas** would truly elevate the vibe. The Dominican Republic has such a rich culture, and as a fellow Latino, I would love to feel even more of that local spirit. These are minor suggestions in the grand scheme of things. We leave feeling incredibly grateful to every single person who made our stay so wonderful. You made us feel welcome, cared for, and genuinely happy every day. **Would we return? A thousand times, without hesitation.** This place is truly special, but it’s the people who make it unforgettable. Thank you for seven incredible days in paradise. ❤️

My wife and I had a fantastic stay at the resort, with service that went beyond our expectations; special thanks go to Kendry, Yvelisse, María (Supervisor), and Chef Tacuri. The food at all the restaurants was excellent, and we especially appreciated getting to savor authentic Dominican cuisine. The evening activities were delightful, and the housekeeping team met all our requests attentively. The property was always impeccably clean, and every staff member greeted us warmly in the hallways.

Probably the most beautiful vacation we've ever had. From the very first minute, we were welcomed and treated as guests of the highest standard—thank you for that. We received a free room upgrade (from Tropical View to Pool View) at check-in. We didn’t opt for the Preferred Club and didn’t feel the need to visit it, as the hotel already offered so much included. I won't name specific staff members because everyone was always super friendly and did amazing work—no one deserves to be singled out since they were all praiseworthy. The animation was also lovely—not pushy, but always kind, and taking part in the activities was tons of fun. The evening shows were fantastic entertainment and will remain a great memory. It’s important to note that only English or Spanish is spoken here, which is understandable in the Dominican Republic. As for the restaurants… all I can say is: absolutely incredible food. I highly recommend the Maraki (Asian) restaurant, which I believe is the best one. A minor drawback: sometimes the meat wasn’t cooked as ordered, which could use some improvement. Regarding the beach, we didn’t use it since it was full of seaweed, which they tried to remove (a losing battle though). Unfortunately, I did notice vendors repeatedly offering their goods to guests lounging at the beach, which I find unacceptable and disappointing that the hotel tolerated it without security acting on it. Still… Would I recommend this hotel resort? Definitely YES. Would I visit this hotel resort again? Absolutely YES. As I mentioned earlier, this was our best vacation so far… and we’ve been to many countries and hotels.

This is by far the best all-inclusive resort I've visited in Punta Cana! Everything was exceptional, starting from the airport transportation (a black SUV picks you up) to the food and amenities. Unlike 90% of resorts in the Dominican Republic, they don’t pressure you to become a member. It’s such a relaxing place with restaurant options that feel like dining at a high-end eatery every night (the surf and turf restaurant is a must-try). The staff are incredibly professional and pleasant. Special thanks to Xisca from the concierge team, who went above and beyond to help me extend my stay at the last minute, even past her working hours—she was so attentive and accommodating. My family had an amazing time, and the kids absolutely loved it. We’ll definitely be returning soon!

A small exhibition on the second floor of the Yuz Museum. It's free and worth a look if you're passing by. The exhibition is the size of one main gallery. It's very colorful. At first glance, the theme seems to be housewives shopping. My baby really liked the colors and a "big cat 🐱" "Bodega" comes from Spanish. In this exhibition, it refers to the small corner grocery stores found throughout New York, similar to a "corner shop." As Puerto Ricans and Dominicans moved to New York, these grocery stores began to emerge and became social hubs where people of color from various backgrounds would meet. Bodegas are usually found in areas with few large supermarkets and are often the only places to buy food in some communities. Most of the food here is processed or canned, clearly highlighting a stark wealth gap: the wealthy enjoy healthy meals, while the poor can only use food stamps to exchange for unhealthy food. Tschabalala Self: Bodega ⌚️ Exhibition dates: Sep 22, 2018 – Dec 9, 2018 🎫 Admission: Free 🆓 📍 Address: No. 35 Fenggu Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 🈺️ Opening hours: Closed on Mon, Tue–Sun 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last admission at 8:00 PM) 🚌 Public transport: Metro Line 11, Yunjin Road Station 🚇 🅿️ Driving: The museum does not have a parking area

Fausto was absolutely fantastic! He offered some of the best service we had during our entire visit to the Dominican Republic. He was exceptionally friendly, attentive, and always welcoming whenever we saw him. He consistently went the extra mile to ensure we were well taken care of, all with a sunny attitude and a warm smile. Fausto truly enhanced our evenings at the casino, making them even more enjoyable. His genuine care for guests and pride in his work are evident. He deserves high praise for his remarkable service. If you're heading to the casino, make sure to find Fausto—you won't regret it! Thank you, Fausto, for adding unforgettable moments to our trip!

This has been one of the best vacations we've ever had, choosing the Dominican Republic in Punta Cana as our destination. We had an amazing and beautiful time at one of the best hotels in Punta Cana, the Grand Palladium. It truly offers exceptional customer service. The pool entertainment was incredible, and the nightly shows were great. The restaurants, whether à la carte or buffet, are among the best. Thank you for the excellent hospitality day in and day out.

Our best friends and we traveled to this resort at the end of April 2026, staying at the Royal Level Oceanfront in building 26. Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Punta Cana airport, the hotel is situated on Bavaro Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the Dominican Republic—and it didn’t disappoint! As Royal Level guests, we enjoyed access to a beach bar with premium alcohol, a covered seating area, and the most outstanding bartenders at the resort! Pamela, Carlos, Samuel, and Wilson truly elevated our experience with their warm service and smiles. A heartfelt THANK YOU to them! While the resort is older, we felt that contributed to its charm. The grounds were lush and full of mature greenery, palm trees, and foliage, offering a beauty that newer, modern hotels often lack. Our room was older but had been converted to Royal Level due to its incredible ocean views. It was clean, the bed was comfortable, and the views were unforgettable, lingering in our minds long after returning home. The only downside was that the washroom fixtures needed replacing. The food was fantastic at the Royal Restaurant, where we enjoyed all three meals daily. Lunch at the swim-up pool was good as well, but the buffet restaurants could improve, as the items were often repetitive, bland, and lacked proper labeling. Of the five à la carte restaurants, we dined at four—our favorite was the Mexican, followed by Italian, Oriental, and then the Steakhouse. Wait times were not an issue. We didn’t visit the Seafood Restaurant due to allergies within our group. Spending all our time at the beach, we didn’t experience the pools much, but there were at least three to choose from, depending on your mood. The animation team seemed active, organizing daily activities like aqua aerobics, beach volleyball, games, and dance lessons. To be honest, staying as a Royal Level guest is essential for several reasons: · Unlimited à la carte restaurant reservations · Updated rooms with prime locations · Exclusive Royal Level restaurant · Exclusive beach bar for Royal Level guests · Premium alcohol at the beach bar The resort is well-designed, offering good entertainment and a taco/wood-fired pizza restaurant that’s open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.! We’re already planning to return with our parents. Thank you, Occidental, for an amazing holiday!

This week, I had the chance to stay at Occidental Punta Cana, and I want to highlight how fantastic our experience was right from the start. From the moment we arrived, the reception staff provided excellent service. A special mention goes to Mrs. Lydia, who welcomed us with great kindness, warmth, and professionalism. Her attention made us feel very welcomed and in good hands from the first moment. ❤️ The hotel boasts beautiful facilities, delightful pools, and an incredible beach. 🌊🏝️ The common areas are well-maintained, creating a perfect atmosphere for both relaxation and enjoyment. We also really appreciated the variety of food and drinks, the activities, and the overall hotel ambiance. Every staff member was friendly and always ready to assist, ensuring our stay was as pleasant as possible. Without a doubt, these were wonderful days that we thoroughly enjoyed. I highly recommend Occidental Punta Cana to anyone looking for a pleasant experience, a stunning beach, and unforgettable days in the Dominican Republic. 🇩🇴☀️ Special thanks to Lydia and the entire hotel team for making our stay such a special experience. ❤️🌴 We hope to return soon!

I can only recommend Casa de Marcel and their excursions. My favorite: the Saona Exclusive. We were a small French-speaking group and we had the entire Saona beach to ourselves. It was the most beautiful experience of our trip to the Dominican Republic. The sights were breathtaking, and we were even lucky enough to see turtles in the open sea near the mangroves and a stingray during snorkeling. The day was PERFECT. Thanks again to Catherine and her team 🫶🏼

We stayed at Impressive Punta Cana at the end of August 2026. The resort is very large, surrounded by stunning tropical vegetation, featuring spacious and pleasant areas with tall palm trees, gardens, and various relaxation spots. One of its main highlights is undoubtedly the four swimming pools, all beautiful and seamlessly integrated into the village layout. In particular, the large central pool is truly spectacular—very expansive and ideal for spending full days of relaxation. Another strong point is the dining options. The food selection is incredibly vast: from breakfast to dinner, there’s always a great variety of dishes, and practically at any time of the day, you’ll find something to eat. We particularly enjoyed breakfast, especially the wide selection of fresh fruit, which was always varied and of good quality. Even during an extended stay, it’s hard not to find something that suits your taste. We also really liked the evening entertainment. Every night, the resort organizes a different show, giving guests the chance to enjoy their evening without having to leave the property. The shows are generally well-prepared, high-quality, with some being more entertaining and others particularly captivating and engaging. It’s definitely another strength of Impressive Punta Cana, adding to the pleasure of staying there after dinner. The beachfront location is another huge plus. The resort boasts a beautiful and spacious beach with light sand, palm trees, and plenty of room for guests. Unfortunately, this is where we encountered one of the most disappointing aspects: the sargassum seaweed. During our stay, there was a significant amount of it on the shore and in the water, making swimming unappealing and causing an unpleasant odor as it accumulated. While we understand this is a natural phenomenon and not the resort's fault, given how beautiful and expansive the beach is, we believe more investment in its removal and management would allow guests to better enjoy this highlight of the property. Another area for improvement is the room cleanliness. Our room was very spacious and functional, though rather basic, but we felt the daily cleaning was a bit superficial. For instance, there were times when it was clear the floor hadn’t been washed. From a resort of this caliber, we’d expect greater attention to daily cleaning routines. Communicating with the reception staff was also occasionally challenging, as very few spoke English, and Italian was not spoken at all—mostly only Spanish. Overall, though, Impressive Punta Cana deserves four stars from us. It’s a very beautiful resort with a wealth of amenities, stunning outdoor spaces, wonderful pools, an impressive range of dining options, and well-organized evening entertainment. With more attention to room cleaning and better management of the sargassum, the experience could become even better. Despite these areas for improvement, we had a great time and cherish wonderful memories of our stay in the Dominican Republic. 🌴

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, Dominican Republic, for their excellent service, kindness, and professionalism during our stay. I’d especially like to mention Sorangelys López, the Front Desk Manager, for her exceptional attention and willingness to assist us. We encountered some issues related to an external agency, completely unrelated to the hotel, yet Sorangelys took the time to listen, guide, and greatly assist us in finding a solution. Her empathy, professionalism, and dedication to guest satisfaction made a big difference for us. It’s wonderful to meet people who genuinely care about delivering excellent service and going above and beyond to ensure guests feel valued and well-treated. We leave deeply grateful to Sorangelys and the amazing Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana team. This level of care is what makes you want to return and recommend the hotel to family and friends. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your attention and for making our experience so much better! ❤️🙏🏼 Highly recommended!

We had an absolutely wonderful visit here for our first trip to the Dominican Republic! Amado, Arismendy Martinez, Darlin Mendez, Diomedes, and Alfred went above and beyond to ensure we had an incredible experience at all times. We participated in the activities, enjoyed the shows, experienced excellent room service, and found the restaurants absolutely stunning with attentive staff. I couldn’t imagine a better trip!

Excellent as always. This is the 4th time I’ve been here, and I truly feel at home. I have no complaints. ❤️ Special mention to Carmen, our lovely waitress at the kids' park—so attentive and caring. The staff always serves us with such dedication. I love the Dominican Republic and I love this hotel.