Travel to the Dominican Republic for Less: From Punta Cana to Santo Domingo

Enjoy countries that combine a Caribbean flare with some history? With cities that date back to the first Spanish colonization of North America, the Dominican Republic is the ideal vacation spot for those who enjoy the old and the new. To further your efforts, dealnews has rustled up some budget-friendly offers to make the vacation a reality.

We know how frustrating it can be to find an easy, complete travel package, so here's our first suggestion: Apple Vacations offers a 7-night flight and hotel package for two at the All-Inclusive Now Larimar Punta Cana (from about $500 per person; search for "dominican republic" and it's the third deal from the top), set in the Bávaro Beach region of Punta Cana. There, you can experience the many expansive ocean views, white sand beaches, and lush gardens La República Dominicana has to offer. If you need a shorter stay, consider this 4-night flight and hotel package for two at the All-Inclusive Dreams La Romana Resort & Spa (from $290 per person via coupon code "100DR") just 90 minutes away from the Now Lorimar. Either stay includes $200 in resort credits for vacation necessities such as spa treatments and romantic dinners.

If you've already booked a flight, check out the all-inclusive Lifestyle Tropical Beach Resort & Spa in Puerto Plata (from $22 per night, double occupancy required; it's the first deal under "Travelers who looked at..."). Here at the easternmost part of the island, you can join the multitudes and shop at Playa Dorada Plaza, explore the Amber Museum, or enjoy beaches back-dropped by sky-scraping mountains. (When you're paying $11 per person for a resort, it's a little easier to just relax, n'est-ce pas?) Alternatively, try the 3-night hotel stay for two at the Fishing Lodge Cap Cana in Punta Cana (from $379), which includes a $100 credit you can use for food and beverages.

At about three hours away from Punta Cana (and 1.67 hours away from the La Romana), we definitely recommend a visit to Santo Domingo; not only is it the nation's capital, it's also the site of the first permanent European settlement in the Americas. To soak in some of the history, perhaps you'd like to visit Catedral Primada de América (the first cathedral of America) or Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (formerly known as Universidad Santo Tomás de Aquino, one of the first institutions of higher learning in the western hemisphere). Either way, you and your loved one(s) will likely leave with many experiences to talk about back home.


^{At the time of publication, these travel deals offered the lowest prices we could find. Deals may include blackout dates, additional taxes, and fees. Double occupancy may be required.}