Anette, the crime rate in the DR is by no means appalling. Yes, where petty theft is concerned, it is probably higher than in Scandinavia, but generally the DR is a very safe country to travel in.
The all inclusive idea is not only competitive (as described by others) it also appeals to people, like Scandinavians, who come from far away and have absolutely no idea of what to expect where the local price levels are concerned. Most have heard that the Caribbeans are expensive (which is true in most cases but not in the DR) and are then assured by the AI concept. At least everything is paid for, no unpleasant surprises! Or, as one of the Scandinavian tour operators put it: Your wallet is on holiday, too.
What most people don't know is that the DR is a cheap country to stay in as a tourist. Food and local drinks are very cheap, especially compared to Scandinavian standards. Eating out is affordable too. What is expensive is the imported goods, but you can easily live without them, the local produce is generally of a very high standard.
Why then go AI? It depends on what you want from a holiday. If the general idea is to be somewhere warm and tropical, by a pool or a beach and mingling mainly with other tourists and taking the occasional tour out but otherwise let yourself be entertained by the different games and shows put on by animation team of the hotel, the all inclusive is your best choice. This is exactly what you will get. As somebody else put it, you might as well have gone to Mallorca, but if you like your holidays like this, it is a good choice.
If you want to feel how far you have really travelled (and not only through jet lag), if you want to sample a different life style, a different rhythm in everyday life and a stunningly beautiful nature, then stay away from the all inclusives. They won't offer you that. Travel independently, it will also give you a chance to see more than just one place. You can travel very, very cheaply by bus in the DR. The big nationwide buses from Caribe Tours and Metro are fast, reliable, comfortable and - for a tourist with a high Scandinavian income - dirt cheap. The little local guaguas are fun, not at all comfortable and even cheaper.
Personally, I travelled around and stayed at a couple of different small hotels (go to Samana!!!) for nearly two weeks with my family (husband and two small boys, age 3 and 5). The last two nights we checked in at the Riu Mambo in Bahia Maimon outside Puerto Plata and it was a perfect way to end the holiday. Great hotel, beautiful surroundings. But I would have hated to stay there longer. The all inclusive concept is great for just relaxing, but I tend to get bored eventually by this kind of "summercamp for adults". But as I said: To finish off and digest all the different impressions it was ideal.
Regards,
Susanne
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