PUNTA CANA PODCAST

From guest to manager: Hotel industry insights

Industry insights take center stage in this episode of The Punta Cana Podcast. Join us as we talk with Alberto Dugarte, who shares his powerful story of moving from Venezuela to the Dominican Republic, starting as a night receptionist, and rising to become the manager of a top hotel in Punta Cana.

Get inspired by his transition to expat life, his love for the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic, and how he turned opportunity into lasting success. Whether you're considering moving to the Dominican Republic, looking for Punta Cana living tips, or want real advice on how to start a business in Punta Cana, this episode delivers.

Finding peace underwater becomes a powerful journey of diving and wellness in this episode all about scuba diving in Punta Cana. Join Roberto — a passionate advocate of language, creativity, and wellness — as he explores how the ocean becomes a source of healing, clarity, and balance. Punta Cana: A Wellness Oasis Beneath the Waves Through the lens of diving in Punta Cana, this episode dives into the intersection of adventure and wellness, uncovering how underwater experiences promote both physical health and emotional well-being. Roberto shares his love for diving, his connection to fitness and nutrition, and how community and teamwork—core to his values—extend even into the world of underwater exploration. Whether you're curious about diving in the Dominican Republic, passionate about wellness travel, or seeking ways to live a more mindful, active life abroad, this Punta Cana Podcast episode brings valuable insights and inspiration.

Education is the focus of this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, featuring visionary educator Vivian Paulino, founder and director of Pauline's Garten, a thriving private school in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Born in Santo Domingo and raised between the Dominican Republic and the United States, Vivian shares how her journey—rooted in faith, family, and determination—led her to pioneer innovative learning solutions during a time of personal and financial crisis. When the 2008 recession made it impossible for her to afford a traditional education for her young daughter, she responded with boldness and determination, creating an educational sanctuary that today serves countless families in the region. In this episode, we explore what education in paradise is truly like.

From Passion to Purpose: A Marathon Towards Success

Athletic life in Punta Cana meets purpose and passion in this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast. This week, we dive into a story fueled by passion — for fitness, for freedom, and for building a meaningful life in Punta Cana. Join us as we speak with Mandy Herfst, whose journey embodies the essence of living with purpose and passion in paradise.

Discover how a deep passion for running became the foundation for personal growth, business opportunities, and a fulfilling expat journey. From early morning training sessions to creating a balanced lifestyle abroad, this episode highlights what it means to live with passion every single day.

Welcome to our latest episode, “Giving Back to the Community in Punta Cana | Tabitha’s Closet.”

In this impactful edition of the Punta Cana Podcast, we speak with Cora Taveras, originally from Canada, who shares how she turned a simple donation idea into Tabitha’s Closet—an expanding outreach initiative that supports families, orphanages, churches, and charities across the Dominican Republic.

What began with collecting clothing and household items has grown to include food, furniture, beds, refrigerators, and other essentials—all distributed completely free to those in need. Through Misión Caribe and with the support of expats, volunteers, and international foundations, Cora’s work is a true testament to compassion and community in action.

Whether you're interested in meaningful ways to give back, exploring life as an expat, or simply want to be inspired by real impact, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update.

Have questions about volunteering or moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave a comment below—we’d love to hear from you.

How to protect your investments in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic? In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we speak with Miriel De La Rosa, partner at Krescent Law and a key figure in the region's legal landscape. With experience in real estate, corporate, civil, and intellectual property law, Miriel shares essential information for those looking to invest, relocate, or start a business in Punta Cana. She explains the legal foundations for starting a business in the Dominican Republic, how to protect your assets, and how to avoid the most common legal mistakes foreign investors make. Whether you're considering a move abroad, exploring business ideas in the Caribbean, or already living the expat life in Punta Cana, this episode is packed with expert advice you can trust.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel. Hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!

Do you want to learn more about moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave us a comment and ask questions below! We can answer any of your questions.

Welcome to our latest episode, “Giving Back to the Community in Punta Cana | Tabitha’s Closet.”

In this impactful edition of the Punta Cana Podcast, we speak with Cora Taveras, originally from Canada, who shares how she turned a simple donation idea into Tabitha’s Closet—an expanding outreach initiative that supports families, orphanages, churches, and charities across the Dominican Republic.

What began with collecting clothing and household items has grown to include food, furniture, beds, refrigerators, and other essentials—all distributed completely free to those in need. Through Misión Caribe and with the support of expats, volunteers, and international foundations, Cora’s work is a true testament to compassion and community in action.

Whether you're interested in meaningful ways to give back, exploring life as an expat, or simply want to be inspired by real impact, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt stories.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell so you never miss an update.

Have questions about volunteering or moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave a comment below—we’d love to hear from you.

Travel Insights: Secrets Revealed for Life in Punta Cana! In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we're joined by Felicia Garcia, a seasoned travel agent and marketing manager who left her hometown of Chicago to start a new life in the Dominican Republic. After living in Punta Cana for almost three years, Felicia has turned her passion for travel into a successful business with @rzotravelservices, helping her clients create unforgettable memories around the world. With over 15 years as an independent travel agent, Felicia specializes in destinations such as Europe, Ireland, the Caribbean, Mexico, and ocean and river cruises. In this episode, she shares expert advice on traveling to Punta Cana, insider tips, and her personal journey after moving abroad and starting a business in the Caribbean. Felicia also explains why Punta Cana is an ideal destination for travelers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking for a more peaceful and meaningful life surrounded by beauty, culture, and opportunity.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel. Hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!

Do you want to learn more about moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave us a comment and ask questions below! We can answer any of your questions.

U.S. Veteran Support Beyond the Military: Life After Service Abroad, In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, I speak with Brian Scott, aka Ranger Smith, a U.S. veteran and passionate advocate for his fellow veterans. Brian shares his incredible journey from his accomplished military career to becoming an advocate for veterans support beyond the military in the Dominican Republic. Having served in numerous combat operations and earned a Master's in Social Work, Brian discusses how he continues to help veterans navigate their challenges, from mental health to employment, even after their military service. He highlights the exceptional resources available to veterans in the Dominican Republic and why more are considering making the move abroad for better care and opportunities. Brian also explains why Punta Cana is an ideal place for veterans seeking community, support, and a new purpose. Whether you're a veteran looking for resources or simply curious about life as an expat, this episode is filled with valuable insights and inspiration. Don't miss this powerful story of service, advocacy, and finding a new chapter in paradise!

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel. Hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!

Do you want to learn more about moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave us a comment and ask questions below! We can answer any of your questions.

Authentic Italian Cuisine Restaurant in Paradise! In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we talk about bringing authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Punta Cana with Frank Tantalo. Join us as we discuss the journey behind creating a true Italian food experience in the Dominican Republic, with fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and traditional recipes.

If you’re a foodie looking for the best Italian cuisine in Punta Cana, or if you’re interested in starting a business in the Dominican Republic, this episode is for you!

Whether you're thinking about moving to the Dominican Republic, starting a business, or investing in Punta Cana real estate, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe to our channel. Hit the notification bell so you never miss an update!

Do you want to learn more about moving to the Dominican Republic? Leave us a comment and ask questions below! We can answer any of your questions.