punta cana/catalonia bavaro/ 1st time in DR! need advice!

[sunnygirl]

My husband and I are going to the DR for the first time next week. He just wants to relax but I want to experience some local day and nightlife. If we only do 1 or 2 things, what is the most recommended? (Our travel agent, who has not been to DR but whose friends have been, recommended a jeep tour and swimming with the dolphins? We do not scuba dive.)

Are there any good local clubs/bars that we can walk to (a mile or so is not a problem)--heard our hotel is out of the way?

Also, will we have to get up at 6 am for a palapa? We specifically picked this resort bec. we didn't want to have this problem.

Also, is it necessary to tip since it is an all inclusive resort? If so, who and how much? Don't want to offend...

What foods/drinks are a must to try. We're not of Dominican or Spanish background so we have no clue.

Thank you in advance for any and all advice for our trip...