Welcome to Punta Cana: Where the Beaches are Pristine and the Drinks are Stronger than a Category 5 Hurricane.

You’ve finally made it to the promised land of Punta Cana. Get ready for sun, sand, surf and a whole lot more at this premier Caribbean destination. This place is paradise on earth, but with paradise comes some quirks. Here are the most fascinating facts and oddities about Punta Cana that your travel agent probably forgot to mention:

Cows Freely Roam the Streets

When you think of a tropical beach vacation, livestock generally doesn’t come to mind. But in Punta Cana, cows meandering down the road are a common sight. Locals let their cattle graze freely, so don’t be surprised if you have to stop for a crossing cow on your way to the resort. On the bright side, this makes fresh dairy products easy to come by! Got milk? You bet.

There are More Pools than People

You can’t walk far in Punta Cana without stumbling upon a pool. The pools at the resorts are less for swimming and more for lounging with a drink in hand. The pools all try to one up each other with elaborate designs, swim up bars and party vibes. Just don’t get too tipsy and mistake the lobby fountain for a pool, unless you’re looking to put on an impromptu wet t-shirt contest.

Buggies are the Preferred Mode of Transportation

Ditch the rental car, the best way to cruise around Punta Cana is by buggy. These souped up golf carts are available to zip around town and between resorts. Feel the warm breeze in your hair as you joyride from beach to beach. Just try not to hit any cows, speed bumps are no joke in these things.

It’s Always Pina Colada O’Clock

The national drink of Punta Cana is undoubtedly the pina colada. Frosty piña coladas are flowing at all hours of the day at every beach, bar and pool. Don’t even think about ordering anything else, it’s piña colada paradise here. Though after your 10th piña colada you might have trouble remembering what exactly paradise feels like.

The Nightlife is No Siesta

The party here does not stop when the sun goes down. Nightclubs pump beats into the wee hours of the morning. All-inclusive resorts have entertainment into the night with dancing, music and shows. There’s also casinos and bars dedicated to keeping your buzz going strong. Be prepared to turn in at dawn and sleep ‘til noon. The nightlife scene here does not disappoint.

So Many Activities, So Little Time

Between the world class golf courses, casinos, water sports and resort amenities, you’ll need a vacation after this vacation. There’s activities for the thrill seekers like dune buggy rides, parasailing, speed boats and wave runners. For the chill crowd there’s spas, yoga on the beach, snorkeling and just straight up beach lounging. With so many options it’s impossible to do it all, but have fun trying!

Beware Sand Fleas Nibbling Your Toes

The beaches may look pristine, but lurking in the sand are pesky critters waiting to make a meal of your feet. Sand fleas are nearly invisible but you’ll feel their bite, which is way more annoying than painful. Just don’t let those little suckers deter you from digging your toes in the soft sand. Be sure to wash your feet after frolicking beachside.

Dominicans Do It Better

The people that call Punta Cana home really know how to live life to the fullest. Dominicans live by the motto “don’t worry, be happy” and their positive outlook is contagious. Kick back with the locals and learn the meaning of “island time”. Time moves a little slower here, so relax and go with the flow. Party with Dominicans to experience the true spirit of Punta Cana.

Brace Yourself for Bachata

Bachata music is ubiquitous in the Dominican Republic. The sensual dance is commonplace at the resorts and nightclubs. Feel the rhythm as the bachata takes over your body and soul. Let loose those Latin dance moves you’ve been practicing. Or just watch in awe as the locals own the dance floor. Bachata is the true heartbeat of the DR.

Seas the Day with Ocean Adventures

The sea life below the waves in Punta Cana is just as stunning as the shoreline. Take it all in with snorkeling and scuba diving excursions. Come face to face with vibrant tropical fish, sea turtles and coral reefs. Charter a boat to explore deeper waters where dolphins, whales and sharks may make an appearance. The ocean offers endless opportunities for adventure.

So get ready to soak up the sun, vibe to bachata beats, swig piña coladas and make some memories in Punta Cana. Just beware of sand fleas, watch for cows, and pace yourself at the swim up bar. This paradise destination will capture your heart with its infectious energy and natural beauty. Don’t just dream of a Caribbean getaway, live it to the fullest in Punta Cana!