I was a travel agent from 1982 -1994, my ex hubby is still an agent and specializes in last minute trips.
I have been to the Dominican Republic at least 15 times, Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romano, Sosua.. I have even been to Haiti (other side of the island)
This is a pretty cheap place to go, there are some really good deals out there and the hotels are clean, the food is okay, good value for your money... Dominican people are lovely.
Islands I prefer are Grand Cayman, Turks & Caicos, Antigua, St Kitt's, Barbados, St. Lucia, British & US Virgin Islands ~ but they are more expensive.
Mexico, I love Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Ixtapa, Manzanillo.. I can't stand Acapulco... what an awful place for families.
I have been to Cuba 4 times (in the Veradero area) and have enjoyed every trip, the beaches are gorgeous also very good value for your dollar. If you have not tried Cuba you should consider it.
I hate the Bahamas and Jamaica ~ because of the pushy people.. you can't leave your hotel without being pestered or harassed by locals.
My daughter has never been bored in the Caribbean, we alternate from the pool to the ocean, there are activities for kids and shows at night, fun things like crab races...etc... but it is definately a relaxation holiday.. not a Go GO GO week like Disney and I can see where some people may get bored.
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