Any recommendations for places to stay in the Dominican Republic?

[JoeM]

If you do decide on the DR, Punta Cana resorts can be very cheap and the beaches are really nice there with pink sand. Many Europeans go there so the feel can be a bit different than a vacation spot where primarily Americans go.( topless, fat guys in speedos, bad or no manners from people that cut right in front of you) We had a great time there a few years ago but you have to be prepared for the differences.

FIrst, it is a very poor country so you probably don't want to venture out of the resort you stay at. (although people do and say they have no problems - I wouldn't do it based on the one time we did venture out). If you do venture out, people will be pestering you non stop to buy their junk in the public areas.

All inclusives are generally well run and the thing there. If you like to drink, as the Europeans do there, you would have a good time as liquor was included and was not watered down. You generally don't want to buy their wines, champagne or extras as they charge hefty prices for those. If you like to eat, they serve tons of food. Again, get used to a European just cutting right in front of you as you wait on line for a buffet breakfast or lunch.

I would check tripadvisor.com for more info.