Midwest US Travel to and from DR

As many Canadians are aware...but, US citizens may not be...there are GREAT direct flight deals to Samana and Puerto Plata from CANADA...luckily for us Toronto Pearson is a 3 1/2 drive from us in Metro Detroit.  However, be prepared with price comparisons and a map to explain to DR airport personnel WHY you would be flying to Canada as an American.  That has been our only real hassle.  Not the Canadian border, not the US border...but checking in for flight to Toronto.  Our favorite airline by far is Westjet...and while the exchange rate was in our favor we were getting round trip flights for $360-$400 for a 4 Hr. direct flight!  You might find a AA flight from Detroit/Chicago, etc. for less into POP...BUT it's usually a 24+ hour flight itinerary one way...and for the $20 and a 3 1/2 hour drive...not worth it!