Why adults-only AI works in the DR
Three reasons. First, PUJ airport gets you on resort property in 30 minutes — less transfer friction than Cancún's Hotel Zone. Second, the resort scale: Royalton CHIC, Catalonia Royal Bávaro and Barceló Bávaro Beach all run 400+ adults-only rooms, meaning the resort can support multiple pool decks, restaurants and bars without quality cuts. Third, the dining: à-la-carte gourmet without reservation walls, premium liquor included, and dinner-time entertainment built for grown-ups.
Punta Cana vs Bávaro vs La Romana
Punta Cana (Royalton CHIC) is closest to the airport — 25 min — and runs the most amenity-dense adults-only resort in the DR. Bávaro (Barceló Bávaro Beach, Catalonia Royal Bávaro) trades airport proximity for a wider beach and a slightly slower pace. La Romana (Catalonia Royal La Romana) is the quietest of the three — a 90-min transfer from PUJ but a more boutique adults-only feel.
“The DR's adults-only resorts are the value answer to Mexico's Royalton CHIC for travelers from US/CA/UK.”
What to add to the trip
Saona Island catamaran from Bayahibe (45 min south of Punta Cana) — most-booked excursion in the DR. Hoyo Azul cenote at Scape Park (Punta Cana). Altos de Chavón at Casa de Campo (La Romana). For honeymooners, ask about Cayo Levantado as a pre/post stay — premium island base 3.5 hours north.
