Week of 6/7-6/14 in the DR.
Just got back last week. Usual short trip. It went much better compared to the last trip. Women wise. Food wise, it was pretty bad until I heard a great piece of news, lamentably late. An Italian restaurant in Cabarete. Beach side, I think it is how it is called. Those that are into food, may want to try it but it is in Cabarete. The dollar exchange rate is 50.6 at Caribe and interestingly I got the same rate at Playero supermercado, when I paid with foreign currency.
Mangoes aplenty and good ones. There are Chinese eateries even on the main drag now so yes, certain changes are visible and probably investments in real estate is happening. Girls I cannot speak of. There were plenty on the streets despite the heat but I have no need as those I need, visit me directly. Had a BnB place, so I could make my cuppa tea when I wished. The day I left, put all the unused grocery in a bag for a girl to take home with her. No wasting anything. Very pleased with that.
So, to sum it up, I just visited the DR and came back, and not in a body bag! Granted I only had a couple of Coronas and Grappa. Most stay way from such things I guess at the "unlimited drink" places. Jajaja!