Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is a tourist mecca, but the reality is that this easternmost enclave of the Dominican Republic is essentially a private playground for the hotel industry. With a population of just 138,919, the area is dominated by a staggering 50+ megaresorts catering to foreign visitors. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the local government is divided between the municipality of Higüey and the Verón–Punta Cana Touristic Municipal District. While Punta Cana boasts pristine beaches and reliable year-round warmth, those seeking an authentic Dominican experience may find the area overly sanitized and insular. This is a destination best suited for all-inclusive vacationers content to remain within the confines of their resort.