My Home Hotel Punta Cana

There was a lot of street noise, and I could hear violence outside. Inside, tiny bugs were crawling around, the refrigerator didn't work, and the room didn't even have a doorknob. Water stopped flowing to the sink, and it took ages to get even a little warm water in the shower. The towels wouldn't absorb water. You also had to pay for everything on the smart TV, even when you had your own accounts.

The room looked clean at first, then I noticed something moving on the pillow beside me and found a few unexpected guests. It was also very noisy, and although I was promised a taxi when I arrived, they completely forgot to arrange it. If you're broke, you can get by, but otherwise do yourself a favor and avoid this place.

The bed was really soft and comfortable, and the room had good Wi-Fi, a TV, a couch, and a large closet. We booked two nights before flying home to British Columbia. The rooms were clean, the service was good, and the area was nice. Hot water at this price point often comes late in the afternoon or evening. It was cloudy and raining while we were there, but the lack of hot water wasn't a big deal. I could shower off the beach sand and wash my hair, and it wasn't that cold. Some people had raised concerns about safety in the area, but I felt safe. The Dominicans were friendly and helpful. As anywhere, take the usual precautions at night. I think some people who question safety may not have traveled much or spent time around people who don't look like them :) There's a lovely restaurant up the street. The chef has been cooking since the 80s, and his dishes had very good seasoning and vegetables. Highly recommended. Bring a few pairs of earplugs. Street noise, barking dogs, and crowing roosters are everywhere you go.

After missing my flight, I needed somewhere cheap near the airport for the night, until the next day. It's a 10 minute drive away, and the room, sheets, and towels were clean. There was steady street noise and a slight old cigarette smell in the room, but for $28, I had nothing to complain about.