I have never had a problem in Luperon either, but videos like the one below give many a bad perception of it.
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4waPi9ldk_k
Sounds like a lovers tryst gone bad. He should have bad the guy.
Playa Ensenada is a mile from Punta Russia. Fantastic beach and at least 40 bars and restaurants on the beach. Do Not buy a house there without a good lawyer. And not one from that area.
I have lived in Luperon many years. It is a sleepy lil town. Not much crime. Not much to do. People are more laid
Back. Beaches are small but nice. Go to either of these places and enjoy.
Perhaps your lasts visits took place during the weekend? that's when la ensanada gets packed with dominicans who arrive in those yellow american school buses from Santiago.
This summer I was with a friend there during the week and we had the whole beach for us!
Give it a go during the week, it's still very quiet and laid back.
Quizas - I don't claim to be an expert on Punta Rusia - that would be Hillbilly and family from Santiago
But I did notice more development over the years, also the roads where vastly improved. I cannot help but think that must have increased traffic. And in reality the village used to be very small, so any increase is noticeable.
Okay, you are all confusing me..... now I'm not sure if we go to Punta Rucia or Playa Ensenada - which one has Elsa's restaurant??