But it's a total shame that you didn't get the chance to go outside Riu. Most "all-inclusive" resorts will actually keep the visitors away from the real Dominican scene. For most of them that's the best thing to do, as a "gringo" venturing alone in the DR is a sure call for "helping guys" looking for dollars.

If you ever get back here and feel adventurous to go out on your own, I would suggest you don't go to a beach All Inclusive hotel, but to a City Hotel (in Santo Domingo or Santiago) and start from there. Many hotels have professional tourism personnel to guide you to many places, and you always have Fodor's and Lonely Planet guides to the Dominican Republic, which I find to be a good read before and during the trip. And, of course, having someone local in the DR is probably a good idea too, so you can count on me for that if you ever come back here My country is amazingly beautiful and fun, and the people is so nice

Dario – we stayed on the Riu hotel resort and felt pretty much restricted to it which was a shame as we'd have loved to see more of the island (we booked on an excursion but they never came to pick us up!). The people and the weather were great, but we never really got to sample local food or culture (restricted to what was cooked which didn't appear very local!).

Luc – things are good thanks, just been a mad year with a lot of ups and downs. Looking forward to some time off over the next week plus planning for an exciting 2010 Hope you're well!

Dwippy – we didn't realise it was halloween until after we'd booked it. 31st October is just another day to me usually, of course not now, it's my wedding anniversary

Are you a halloween person or was it just convenient?