Travel to the Domincan Republic?

Has anyone been?
Is it better than Puerto Rico, as far as the beaches, and maybe activities?

Thinking of staying in La Romana, at the Coral Canoa.
However, there are many places: Punta Cana, the Amber Coast, each with its respective advantage.

A guy I work with went to Punta Cana. He liked it but they REEEEEEALLY gouge you once you get there. Don't even think about making a phone call from your hotel room. Anything not included in the package cost an arm and a leg too. He didn't go back this year.

Thanks, Pappy,

Did your coworker have any other comments, like the quality of the beach, the warmth of the water, etc.

I take it an all-inclusive is recommended, no doubt due to an artificially inflated tourist economy.
BTW, where did he go this year?