hi janette,


there are market stalls that set up most nights in the grounds of the hotel. They are ok ish for tee shirts and the like, but if you don't want, just say no thanks and carry on walking. Don't feel hassled just tell them you are not interested and they are fine.

The big trip they push is to Saona Island. I really wouldn't bother. Some of the trips leave you at a souvenir shop at 9am to wait for another bus to take you the rest of the way. It's a long day and too much of it is spent travelling. Save it for when you go back to the south of the island.
There are trips out to sugar cane plantations etc.
We took the helicopter back to the airport going home. None of us had been in one before and for @ $80 each, it was well worth it.

Apparently there is a small market 10 minutes walk from the hotel, but we never bothered looking for it.

The only "essentials" you might want to bring are feminine products and stuff to control a dodgy stomach as these things are mega expensive in the hotel shop.

They have an internet cafe which costs @ $3 for 20 minutes, and also a free wifi zone in the foyer, should you wish to bring a laptop with you.

have fun

jr