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Punta Cana

Dominican Republic
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Escape to the tropical paradise of Punta Cana, where pristine beaches meet swaying palm trees. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, bask in the warm sunshine, and indulge in endless relaxation. From world-class resorts and thrilling water sports to exploring lush rainforests and vibrant nightlife, Punta Cana offers something for everyone.

Overview

Approximate flight time:
8 hour 50 minutes (total distance approx. 4234 miles)

Airlines that fly direct:
TUI

Airport in Punta Cana:
Punta Cana Airport (PUJ)

Seasons:
High: December - July
Low: August - November

Currency: Dominican Peso (DOP)

Arriving at Punta Cana Airport (PUJ)

Punta Cana Airport is the main airport to travel to Punta Cana and the Dominican Republic in general, there are several means of transportation available for onwards travel. The airport has five terminals and International flights will arrive at Terminal A or B.

Taking a taxi is probably the most convenient way to get to your final destination, as you get a door-to-door service from outside the Customs area of the airport to your hotel. A trip to downtown Punta Cana should take around 20-25 minutes, it is advised that you agree a price with the driver before you travel.

For those looking to spend less, the local bus lines operate at a minimal cost. You will spend less but be warned that transfer time can take over an hour as the buses stop many times en route. Buses (or guaguas, as they are known locally) are located outside the Arrivals Hall of both terminals and tickets are purchased on board.

Pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.

What to expect in Punta Cana

Punta Cana, the easternmost tip of the Dominican Republic, borders the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches along the coastline from Punta Cana to Uvero Alto rival those anywhere in the Caribbean, with soft, white sand, and warm aquamarine waters, not forgetting, of course, the bordering coconut palms.

The official language of Punta Cana is Spanish. However, with tourism being such a large industry, most locals speak English very well. You will also find that although the official currency is the Dominican Peso, many Punta Cana resorts accept US Dollars ($).

One of the best things about Punta Cana are the year-round high temperatures. June is the hottest month with an average temperature of 28°C and the coldest is January at 25°C. The wettest month is September.

Culture in Punta Cana

The Dominican Republic has a multicultural past that is, today, reflected by strong European, African, and native Taino Indian influences. This mixture of cultures has produced the current social identity of Dominicans, showing up in their food, music, art, sports and religion.

For an opportunity to explore an untouched portion of the Dominican Republic, head over to Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park, a private protected nature reserve. Activities include cultural exhibits, a petting zoo, a sugarcane exhibit, five different swimming holes and an iguana habitat. Learn how chocolate is produced at Choco Museo Punta Cana and whilst you’re there, pop into Don Lucas’ Cigar Factory.

Punta Cana enjoys a unique cuisine, blending Latin American ingredients like rice, beans, meat and, seafood with traditional Taino dishes that feature yucca, plantains, and potatoes. Adding to that mix are African recipes using similar native ingredients. You can’t leave without trying casaba, a deliciously crispy flatbread made from indigenous cassava (yucca) plant. Sometimes it is topped with meat and other tasty toppings or it may be simply sprinkled with salt, spices, and fresh lime.

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