The Caribbean - Dominican Republic Info

I'm looking to take a trip to the Dominican Republic mid July, and I was wondering which area of the island I should look to head to? I'd be going for a few days (around 4) and flying into Puerto Plata or SDQ. I'm just not sure which place would be better to see and "experience" the DR. I'd have just finished 10 days in the BVI, so I'm not really looking for a place to sit on the beach, rather I'm looking to see the island, culture and food.

Any recommendations as to which city I should fly into?

I'm looking to take a trip to the Dominican Republic mid July, and I was wondering which area of the island I should look to head to? I'd be going for a few days (around 4) and flying into Puerto Plata or SDQ. I'm just not sure which place would be better to see and "experience" the DR. I'd have just finished 10 days in the BVI, so I'm not really looking for a place to sit on the beach, rather I'm looking to see the island, culture and food.

Any recommendations as to which city I should fly into?There is no beach in SDQ, but the colonial centre of the city is worth a 1-2 day visit at least. Never been to POP.
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13F

Punta Cana or Bayahibe are the places for you!

Punta Cana or Bayahibe are the places for you!

What are some of the highlights of each place? Are they easy to get to from Puerto Rico's SJU?

Thanks.

Anybody have any recommendations for what do with 4 nights, and 3 full days flying into SDQ. I'd get into SDQ around 7:30pm on a Thursday, and leave around 6am Monday, giving us Friday, Saturday and Sunday to either explore other areas and make it back, or explore Santo Domingo.

Any experiences, recommendations, tips, places to avoid, etc are well appreciated. Thanks!