I spent a full week in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic this month.
The DR is a very beautiful place...on the beach and sometimes in the countryside. I saw a lot of poverty yet I wasnt on a research trip I was vacationing so I will just comment on vacation related things.
I stayed at an All-inclusive hotel..."Occidental Grand Flamenco, Punta Cana".
The accomodations were $130 per night for a couple. I felt as though the service was good and the food was decent (we didnt go hungry). Transpo from airport to the resort were aranged by Expedia.com. We met no unpleasant staff members.
The BEACH AS YOU CAN SEE WAS AWESOME!
I woke up early everyday for sunrise.
Sorry..no topless beach photos.