Sorry to ask u a basic questions, but is a publico and guagua the same thing?
But I also enjoy the guagua experience for what it is. It's a different culture and I believe I'm richer for experiencing it. I did taptaps in Haiti and rode buses with goats. It helps you appreciate what you've got.
The range for guaguas is quite varied. You have the huge air conditioned buses run by Metro and Caribe that go rapid direct from place to place.
Then you have the opposite extreme and the more common beat up old buses that are meant for about 7 passengers. They often meander along and stop for every person on the side of the road until they have 15 people inside. The ticket guy hangs out the door which does not close or does not exist.
Most of my experience is somewhere in between on the 2-3 to a seat, air conditioned ones with maybe 5-6 rows. They might make one stop but typically go direct to your destination. They will have a crucifix graphic with some sort of reference a Dios. Depending on the driver, they blast music, most often gospel.
The first time I ever rode one was between Samana and Las Galleras complete with an elderly gentleman holding 3 live chickens tied together by the legs. Some of them are definitely not for anyone with an aversion to the local, every day life. Others are no different than buses I’ve taken in the UK.
The next was sitting on the passenger side from Samana to Kite Beach with full view of the coast the entire way. I’ve since driven that highway but there’s something about the guaguas that makes the adventure a little more immersive.
There is guagua etiquette where everyone gives up their seat for the elderly, for women with children, or pregnant women.
More unwritten rules too but perhaps better suited for dedicated thread.