{"id":49743,"date":"2019-07-26T00:06:01","date_gmt":"2019-07-26T04:06:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/?p=49743"},"modified":"2020-02-18T00:22:26","modified_gmt":"2020-02-18T05:22:26","slug":"things-you-should-never-do-in-punta-cana-t2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/things-you-should-never-do-in-punta-cana-t2\/","title":{"rendered":"30 Things You Should Never Do In Punta Cana"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.bahia-principe.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

If your type of vacation is being totally off-grid and as far away from home as possible, then Punta Cana is definitely the place for you. Much like its other beach paradise counterparts like Bora Bora, Boracay, Maldives and Fiji, Punta Cana is the perfect getaway to be completely removed from the rest of the world, given that it\u2019s located at the Eastern most portion of the Dominican Republic. It is meant to be enjoyed by spending days endlessly meandering around town, falling asleep on the beach while listening to waves of water lapping at the shores, and just basically having the best time of your life.<\/h6>\n
But if you truly want to make it the best vacation you\u2019ve ever had, here are 30 things you should never do when visiting Punta Cana.<\/strong>
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Worry About Staying In Your Resort The Whole Time<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.excellenceresorts.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Located in the popular tourist attraction that is the Dominican Republic, those that prefer to visit Punta Cana normally remain within their resorts. Never worry about remaining in the confines of your resort, which will most probably be an all-inclusive booking. Most of Punta Cana\u2019s visitors choose their resort based precisely on the hotel amenities, aside from its location on the beach too, of course. Not that you shouldn\u2019t head out to see the rest of the sights and sounds of the rest of what this resort town has to offer, but there\u2019s no shame in wanting to just stay in your hotel, laze on the beach all day with a cocktail in one hand and book in the other. You are on vacation after all.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Veer Away From Your Tour Group<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.excursions-puntacana.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Going to a new place, especially one so far from home, is both exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. Not only are some of the concerns due to language barriers, but getting lost and even being taken advantage of by unsavory locals can be a problem. If you go decide to go on a group tour, never veer away from them. That way you can stay within the safety of having someone official bring you around town.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Leave Your Things Unattended<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.hypeandstuff.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

When visiting Punta Cana, never leave your belongings unattended, no matter where you are. Sadly, since this particular tourist attraction heavily relies on travelers to help keep their economy up and running, locals know visitors tend to have more cash and other valuables with them. Because of this, theft is a real problem so regardless of where you are while you\u2019re there, always make sure to keep your things safe and be on the lookout at all times.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Swim In The Nude<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/cdn7.dissolve.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

No matter how tempted you might be to be a bit more free in your mode of dressing while in Punta Cana, never attempt to swim in the nude, or even go topless for that matter. It is actually against the law to be topless in public in the entire Dominican Republic. Of course, there\u2019s nothing that officials can do if you decide to do a bit of topless swimming in the confines of your own private villa so if you need to set anything free, be sure that its only you and your chosen partner that gets that full frontal view.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Buy Something At The Given Rate<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.iheartdr.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

People love to bring home trinkets and other goods from the places they visit, and Punta Cana sells quite a few in the marketplaces that you can find right on the side of the road. Never buy something at the original rate that a vendor gives though. Rather, always haggle with them which they\u2019ll actually expect. If you don\u2019t, then you\u2019ll end up paying way more for your chosen items than what they are really worth.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go Without Knowing A Bit Of Conversational Spanish<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.fluentin3months.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Since Spanish is the Dominican Republic\u2019s local language, then knowing a number of phrases will surely help you out quite a bit. Whether it\u2019s knowing how to ask just a few questions about directions or just knowing some Spanish greetings, these little phrases can go a long way. And to make things even better, you can also ask your concierge to write a few things down so you can show them around when needed.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Drink Water On Tap<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.irishtimes.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Unlike many other areas around the world, drinking tap water in the Dominican Republic is not okay. Even when eating in certain restaurants, it will be safer to order bottled water rather than asking for house water because you never know where the water actually comes from. Be sure that the bottle you get also has a sealed cap and always ask if the ice is purified too before drinking it. If you aren\u2019t careful, you may just find yourself bent over a toilet for the remainder of your trip.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Attempt To Drive<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.autismawareness.com.au\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Driving in Punta Cana is truly an experience in itself, but not one to be taken on if you aren\u2019t comfortable trying to figure out the rules last minute. Not only are seat belt laws not really enforced, but many of the other road laws almost feel like suggestions rather than precedents that must be followed. Never attempt to drive if you have never driven in Punta Cana before but rather ask the concierge from your hotel to help you find suitable transportation when needed.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Take A Taxi<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.puntacanatravel.org\/<\/p><\/div>\n

In that same regard, never take a taxi from the side of the road either. Not only are they incredibly expensive, but unless you are a big group, you\u2019re going to find yourself with an empty wallet before your trip has even truly begun. Upon your arrival, be sure to ask your hotel to fix your transfers from the airport already, and when required, ask them to help you find a suitable ride to wherever you need to go.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go Without Cash<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.puntacanatravel.org\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Almost everyone these days prefers to use credit cards to purchase anything, especially when traveling. That way, that they don\u2019t carry too much cash with them. But when visiting Punta Cana, never go without any cash at all as some places will only except actual money rather than a plastic swipe. And don\u2019t worry about changing your American dollars into Dominican pesos either, most places actually accept dollars at their establishments and the exchange rates aren\u2019t that bad, for the most part at least. Just be sure to watch out for any sketchy money exchange places so that way, you won\u2019t end up getting scammed.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Refuse Mamajuana<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/media-cdn.tripadvisor.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

This next tip probably had you looking twice, but no matter how much you wish it said marijuana, that\u2019s not what you read. The word you are seeing is mamajuana, and it\u2019s actually a typical alcoholic beverage served in the Dominican Republic made with \u2018rum, red wine, honey, and local leaves and bark.\u2019 Crazily enough, it is also what the locals consider \u2018liquid Viagra\u2019 and they even have weekly workshops to teach visitors how to make it for themselves.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Buy Illegal Drugs<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.drugfoundation.org.nz\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Although this is one tip that really doesn\u2019t need any reiterating, never buy illegal drugs, no matter how \u201csafe\u201d you think the source you are buying from is. Both marijuana and cocaine are very common in this area, given that there are loads of tourists out drinking and enjoying the nightlife of the island basically ever single night. But the Dominican Republic has very strict laws and take drugs very seriously so unless you want to end up locked up abroad, just say no.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Hire A Prostitute<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/amp.businessinsider.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Reportedly, prostitution is actually legal in this part of the world, but even if that\u2019s the case, never hire one. Both drug and people trafficking is an issue in this area and you never know if the women you choose to solicit for sex, or possibly attempts to solicit you, is actually part of a horrible forced sex trade or not.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Be On Time<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/cdn.pixabay.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Much like the Spanish, the locals in the Dominican Republic are hardly ever on time. If you\u2019ve plans with someone for 4 o\u2019clock, don\u2019t be surprised if they actually show up half past 4 and be completely unapologetic. It\u2019s totally common for them to be relaxed about time, and they wouldn\u2019t blink twice if you do the same. Of course if you are meeting for a business meeting, then showing up on time is really just basic common curtesy and professional.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Say No To A Night Out<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/cdn.pixabay.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Music and dancing is a huge part of the Dominican culture and many of the resorts have clubs and bars that stay open way into the early morning hours. If someone asks you to go out and have drink or go dancing, unless they are complete strangers of course, don\u2019t say no. Put on your dancing shoes and expect to have one of the best nights of your life as you get to watch and join in the immense vibe and energy that the entire island has to offer
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go In May<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/media-cdn.tripadvisor.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Almost all year round, Punta Cana is blessed with some of the most beautiful weather you will find anywhere in the world, which is also what makes it a favorite location for travelers to go to during the colder winter months. But when planning your trip, never go in May. This is when the island experiences its \u2018rainy season,\u2019 which means you\u2019ll spend most of your trip watching water fall rather than floating around in it.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Worry About Being Overdressed<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/ak4.picdn.net\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Yes, the Dominican Republic is a location for rest and relaxation, but don\u2019t be surprised if the locals seem overly dressed. Most of them dress to impress, and they also take a lot of pride in what they look like so if you happen to head out for dinner or a night on the town, or more so headed to church, never worry about being overdressed. You\u2019ll actually look more like you belong there!
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go Out During A Typhoon<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.straitstimes.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Because of Punta Cana\u2019s location, the chances of being affected by horrible typhoons and hurricanes is higher than other areas nearby. If you happen to be there at a time when there are hurricane warnings, be sure to listen to the management of the hotel and remain where they tell you. As the saying goes, it\u2019s always better to be safe than sorry.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Pay More At Your Resort Than Needed<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/t-ec.bstatic.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Often times, most of the resorts in Punta Cana offer all-inclusive packages that already include the room rate, all your meals, alcoholic beverages and sometimes even have some forms of entertainment as a part of their package. Of course there are other things that your resort might still charge your for so just be sure to double check all your charges and what\u2019s actually included in your package so that you never pay more at the end of your trip than you\u2019re supposed to.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go Swimming Without Asking About The Water First<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

If you\u2019ve chosen to go to Punta Cana then it\u2019s safe to assume that you enjoy the beach and everything that comes with it. Just remember that safety should always be your number one priority so never go swimming without asking about the water first. If management tells you that there happens to be a strong undertow that day, it would be best to stay closer to shore rather than heading further out to sea.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Forget To Wear Sunscreen<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.wellandgood.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Even though the weather in Punta Cana normally stays at a lovely average of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, never forget to lather on your sunscreen. Whether you\u2019re going into the water, walking around the town, or simply sitting on the beach while enjoying a book and a cocktail, sunscreen will always be necessary. Besides, your skin will surely thank you later.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Leave Your Bug Repellant At Home<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.rei.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Just like sunscreen, never leave your bug repellant at home. The Dominican Republic has a number of pesky bugs and mosquitos, some of which are even said to be infected with the dreaded Zika virus. Before heading out anywhere, spray on a hefty amount of bug repellant and always reapply throughout the day.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Refuse A Trip To The City<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/media.tacdn.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Even if you are staying in one of the nicest resorts, never refuse a trip into the city to see the capital and other areas near Punta Cana. There is a rustic charm and beauty to the island that is worth experiencing at least once while you\u2019re there, because who knows when the next time will be? Just go with a tour group or a guide from your hotel to make sure that you will be taken to safe areas the entire time you\u2019re out exploring this vibrant place.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Forget To Tip Your Servers<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/media-cdn.tripadvisor.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Unlike some other tourist destinations, in the Punta Cana, never forget to tip your servers. Whether it\u2019s the staff at the hotel, the waiters in the restaurants and bars you go to, your bellhop or even your driver and tour guide, a few extra dollars will surely go a long way for them. Even if you don\u2019t have Dominican pesos just yet, they\u2019ll be happy to receive their gratuity in US dollars too.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Pass Up A Trip To The Spa<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.puntacana.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Most of the resorts on the island offer some of the most incredible spa services and amenities you will find anywhere in the world, so never pass up a trip to one. Not only are they decked out in every type of steam room, sauna room, relaxation areas that serve fresh fruits and teas, jacuzzies, and even air pools, but the service is sure to be top notch. Besides, you\u2019d be crazy to say no to a day of total relaxation and pampering anyway.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Eat Seafood You\u2019re Unsure Of<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.iheartdr.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Punta Cana is known to serve up some of the yummiest seafood you\u2019ll find, but you also need to be careful of where you choose to eat it. Never eat seafood anywhere that you\u2019re unsure of, unless you don\u2019t mind getting food poisoning. If someone offers you some food and it looks like it\u2019s been sitting out a awhile, politely decline and head to another restaurant where you know everything is made fresh.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Forget To Check If You Need A Visa<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/mollyligon5thhour.weebly.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Many times people from the United States forget that they actually require a visa when traveling out of the country. In the case of the Dominican Republic, Americans are required to get a travel visa online through the Dominican Republic website, unless you aren\u2019t staying for longer than 30 days. If that\u2019s the case, you can just buy a $10 tourist card upon arrival at the airport.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Go Home Without A Few Stones<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/villataina-pfmwv1vqf2or.netdna-ssl.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

The Dominican Republic is known for two different types of stones, amber and larimar. Many times, amber is used to fossilize flowers, insects, leaves and other items, while the stone larimar \u2013 which is basically blue amber \u2013 is incredibly pretty and can also be set into jewelry. These would also be a wonderful souvenirs should you want to bring anything home to family or friends.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Travel Without Insurance<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/www.eturbonews.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

One of the worst things that can happen to you or any of the people you are traveling with is to get sick while on your trip. Never travel anywhere without insurance, and more so to the Dominican Republic. Should something horrible happen, you don\u2019t want to find yourself in financial crisis because you can\u2019t pay your medical bills. Always insure yourself and everyone else you happen to be going on the trip with just to be safe.
\n<\/h6>\n

Never Forget To Take Photos<\/h2>\n
\"\"

Source: https:\/\/cdn.pixabay.com\/<\/p><\/div>\n

Of course, if you are lucky enough to make the over 3000-mile trip from America to Punta Cana, never forget to take loads of photos of your time on this gorgeous space of land. Even though you will fill your hearts with endless amounts of memories to take home with you once your trip is done, having actual photos to look back on will be something you can truly cherish forever.<\/h6>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

If your type of vacation is being totally off-grid and as far away from home as possible, then Punta Cana is definitely the place for you. Much like its other beach paradise counterparts like Bora Bora, Boracay, Maldives and Fiji, Punta Cana is the perfect getaway to be completely removed from the rest of the world, given that it\u2019s located at the Eastern most portion of the Dominican Republic. It is meant to be enjoyed by spending days endlessly meandering around town, falling asleep on the beach while listening to waves of water lapping at the shores, and just basically <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":49744,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wprm-recipe-roundup-name":"","wprm-recipe-roundup-description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[29,6596],"tags":[483,8171,8157,201,8172],"yst_prominent_words":[23040,23030,23035,23036,23017,23023,23037,18556,23039,8813,23041,23025,23033,23015,23020,23032,23038,8811,23021,23027],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49743"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=49743"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49743\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":49745,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/49743\/revisions\/49745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/49744"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=49743"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=49743"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=49743"},{"taxonomy":"yst_prominent_words","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awesomejelly.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/yst_prominent_words?post=49743"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}