Travel time Punta Cana/La Romana

We will be in Punta Cana (Iberostar) over Xmas and some of the avid golfers would like to golf in the La Romana area. How long would it take to drive there? Would taxi be OK and what would approximate price be? Are there reliable buses and would that be better? Bus price? It looks somewhat close on the map but, of course, that's quite deceiving. Any information would be much appreciated. Thanks.

Well I would not suggest a taxi in this case. I went from Punta Cana to Santo Domingo by car and that took about 3 hours. La Romana was about 1 1/2 hour away and that was by car. Taxi will cost you a fortune. I would suggest you take a local bus. I am not sure if you can go direct from Bavaro, Punta Cana or if you have to transfer from Higuey. The bus might cost you $77 R.D. Pesos which is about $7.50 CDN., and I am being generous. Hope this helped. Have a great time!