Las Galeras

Cool spot at the tip of Samaná Peninsula. Wetter than Punta Cana, with more tropical, organic feel. Lots of expat-run businesses, many Russian and French speakers, lots of activity and music playing at all times. Prices a bit more reasonable than Punta Cana and felt less resort-y, with beautiful public beaches everywhere. Wished I could have stayed longer. Caution: the one lane road can be a bit of a free-for-all with mopeds, trucks, and cars weaving in and out of each other, though people do a remarkable job of yielding and keeping each other safe. Come to a complete at speed bumps if you have to to prevent bottoming out. The Kia i was driving didn’t have much clearance making the speed bumps are very... effective. That being said, I had a lot of fun driving in the area and all the activity made hwy 7 fairly well-lit almost the whole way. Stayed at a quaint Airbnb for around $40/day.Read more