Aactually you would enjoy yourself IF you research the areas you are considering. We all had a great experience and would highly recommend a visit. The people are wonderful, the police very helpful, and the beaches and islands are gorgeous. We stayed in Bayahibe (just east of La Romana on the southern coast). Enjoyed boating to Saona Island with Seavis Tours, and an amazing day sail to Catalina Island with Pro Excursions that included a run up the River Chavon and a sail past Casa de Campo. Both are excellent outfits right out of Bayahibe. So research that area for accommodations.
Many people head for Punta Cana, but there you have only resorts and nowhere to go. Staying in Bayahibe or Dominicus you can see these towns and experience the people and evening dinners. Guests staying in Punta Cana must also transfer to Bayahibe to take the best excursions. You can fly into La Romana or Punta Cana, we flew into Punta Cana and the drive to Bayahibe is on a newer highway.

"Travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life — and travel — leaves marks on you.”
-Anthony Bourdain