I was in Punta Cana this past September and we stayed at the Melia Caribe.
Beautiful resort with multiple pools (with swim up bars), 9 a la carte resturants, nightclub, casino, etc.
I agree with Reefrunner about the sleezeball people trying to get as much money out of you as they can.
Funny Story
I wanted to buy my wife a little "Punta Cana" jewlery so I went into a shop on the beach (I had $15 US on me at the time), and found a nice bracelet/necklace set and asked how much. This dud pulled me aside and said $150 for the pair...I was like..sorry wasnt looking to spend that much...he asked how much I have on me...I said $15...he said no way, cant do it for that...then he said $75 for the pair....I said...i only have $15 on me. He then said $30 for the pair....to which I said forget it...and started to walk away...he then stopped me and said ok $15 for the pair.
SOLD!
He didnt own the shop, so he was trying to get $150 and give $15 to the owner and pocket the rest!