Hi

They were once 2 seperate areas on the East coast but they have merged in to one long combined beach / hotel area now stretching over 30 miles.

These might give you an idea of particular hotels -
http://www.punta-cana.us/Map_of_Punta_Cana/page_1699521.html

http://www.debbiesdominicantravel.com/eastcoast.html

thank you ,now i understand, are there any better parts to bavaro than others , would it be safe for 2 women to walk around at night, or could you suggest a hotel close to the shop etc, thanks.

The further you get to the bottom of the map the calmer the sea should get because you are heading more towards the Caribbean sea, having said that it can depend on what time of the year you intend going because you do stand the risk of some choppy conditions during hurricane season. If you are more pool people this won't be a problem as virtually all of the hotels have fantastic pools.

You are probably safer here than in a major city anywhere in the world. Mum and I have regularly travelled to the DR without a problem but of course you do have to take the usual precautions you would in any strange place. Don't go out wearing loads of flashy jewellery or carrying expensive camera's unless you have them secreted, carry any handbags over your body or on the shoulder away from the road, it has been known for bags to to be snatched by young men on motorbikes (it happens in a lot of countries) and don't go anywhere very isolated or dark. If you want to go further afield you can usually find a member of staff that will escort you on their day off, just make sure you agree a price before you set off. The other option is to arrange a price with one of the licenced taxi drivers to take you where you want to go and wait for you to return, that is often cheaper than paying for some of the coach excursions, the hotel reception staff will usually know of one who speaks reasonable English.
Whatever you do, don't hire a car. The Dominicans drive like maniacs, its just not safe.

As to hotels, I can recommend both Sirenis Tropical and the Bavaro Princess, both offer suites although there are rooms in the Cocotel side of Sirenis. They are both set in beautifully kept grounds with Sirenis being slightly smaller. The Bavaro Princess is very spaced out so they have a shuttle bus to ferry you around the hotel grounds. The pool at Sirenis is better IMO but the Princess has two, one very quiet and one right by the beach where they have activities.
Food is great in both, its often different from what people are used to in Europe but the vast selection means nobody should starve.

There are so many hotels along this stretch of beach you are spoilt for choice really, its a case of deciding what you want from a hotel and researching. I've read lots of reviews where people complain that the hotel was too large so you might like to consider that if it matters to you.

Please be aware that you will see some poverty outside of the resorts, this was something I didn't know the first time I visited the DR and I was quite worried but once we reached the hotel I was relieved to see how beautiful it was.

I'm always happy to help people wanting to go to one of my favourite places so please, just ask if there is anything else I can help with.

Lynn

thanks for the replies , checking out a few hotels at the moment cant decide which one would me best suited for me and my mam so having a look at a few. thanks again