The resort bubble: tap water, the sun, and the all-inclusive excursion markup

Even in the resorts, drink bottled water and avoid ice from unknown sources; the hotels' own water is purified. The Caribbean sun burns fast; reef-safe sunscreen and a hat are a daily matter. The excursions sold by the resort desk (Saona Island, buggies, zip lines) are the same trips local operators in town sell for less; book directly or through your guesthouse. Keep valuables in the room safe, and use the hotel's taxi or an app rather than hailing on the road.