Ask BT

Are Punta Cana and Puerto Plata pretty much the same? My husband and I are looking for a relaxing getaway. I love the beach but prefer the pool, and nightlife isn't important-I want to avoid a lot of noisy drunk people. -Fiona Turano, South Huntington, N.Y.

The two Dominican Republic resort centers are actually quite different. Punta Cana has the best beaches-that dazzling white sand and perfect Caribbean climate-but there's nothing to do besides hang out at the beach and whatever activities your resort provides. Avoid Punta Cana's European-owned resorts, which attract large groups who come to party. Puerto Plata tends to be calmer and less expensive. Although it gets more rain, Puerto Plata has interesting tourist sites nearby, including the oldest fort in the Caribbean. You'll find hundreds of resort reviews at the excellent private website debbiesdominicantravel.com.

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