Went a couple of years ago, stayed in Punta Cana at an all inclusive place. Loved it. Did a few things we fancied at the time like an island tour/safari thing, speedboat trip (self drive), fishing (crap) and golf (in resort - fantastic championship quality course, almost deserted). Lovely people, great beaches, will definitely go back.
Went last year and stayed in the North all inclusive. Can recommend the cable car up the mountain and if you do that pay the $10 for the guide as they know the best places for pictures. Also visited the Damajaqua Waterfalls. This was the best trip in both of our view and worth doing if that way.
Absolutely loved the island and cant wait to go back !
Been 5 times, once to punta Cana, 4 times to puerto plata, stayed and hotel called gran ventana, built, owned, and run by Dominicans, lovely place, lovely staff, you won't be disappointed, great price also, as you may know, going out into town etc can be a bit iffy,loads of trips to do also
I went there last year for 2 weeks all in, at Dreams but its not cheap, but got own beach use, 6 restaurants inside, casino, 3 pools, loads of small bars and 2 big ones, a big entertainment room and entertainment on the beach and in whole place throughout the day and evening, a lovely place and did some good tours as well. Beautiful place and everything free and can choose type of food want for dinner in evening eg Local food outside restaurant, Italian, French, Grills, Japanese, seafood, spainish and a cafe (massive restaurant that does all food want eg chips, pasta etc etc.)Lovely and as much drink as want, the place is very well kept and a great vibe around the place. Suits all types, i went with gf and her family.