| Great Honeymoon |
| Hotel NH Real Arena |
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Kyle >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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| Ill try and write a short and to the point review. We both were very satisfied with the resort it was great and we had a lot of fun. It was also our first carribean vacation. There were some things we could critique about the hotel but nothing to complain about. They did an outstanding job. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| We went to the marinarium and the dolphin explorer. We had a great experience with the marinareum and a bad one with the dolphin explorer. The dolphin explorer was over priced, we missed a lot of the event because our driver kept us in the van for an hour while trying to find another couple at another resort. Then they wouldnt allow us to take pictures and charged an arm and a leg for thier own pictures. I implore you to not go on the dolphin explorer. The marinarium however was great. It was priced very well. We swam with sharks stingrays and in the coral with the fish and it was great. The people were extremely nice as well, we had a great time in this excursion. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The grounds were very nice and there was an army on people keeping them clean. Id just look at pictures. What I liked was you could windsurf kayak and katamaran all for free. The people who rent them out are quite rude though. The only people in the hotel I thought were. Beach chairs were quite packed, but beach wasnt. they had security guards keeping away the local peddlers so that was very nice to not be bothered by them. The water was nice. Prabably not the best ive seen in the whole of the carribean but just as good as any other in punta cana. |
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| Other Comments |
| We had a great time and would go back again. All the staff were extremely courteous and they went out of thier way for you. I could critique some things, but nothing bothered me and we are both fairly picky customers. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| The bars were great. Never had to walk more than 100 feet to have a drink put in your hand. My wife thought Roberto at the beach bar was amazing. If you didnt get the paradise club you might have to wait for drinks at some bars. They didnt have a good top shelf selection though....just some nice gin, disarrono and nice vodka. No high end tequila and only dominican rum. I Read a lot of reviews saying the food was bad. I think this was prolly a little black and white. There was food that was very very good and there was also food that wasnt very good. |
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| Rooms |
| The rooms have marble like floors and are very fancy with nice showers. The beds prabably wernt the comfiest but they wernt terrible either. Ours was near the beach, but i was noticing some of the rooms were near the dance club and if you go to bed before 2 those rooms would be awful. |
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| Your Arrival |
| We arrived at the airport. The airport is very hot and busy. The apple vacation people were nice, they took us to the hotel. I was a bit apprehensive before we actually got into the lobby because of the area. You could see like poor carribean villagers and some piles of rubble and garbage piles then every so often you will pass some nicer resorts but can only see the gates. Once you get through the gates and get into the lobby, the lobby is very nice with fountains and....just nice. We booked the paradise club and for the little bit extra its really worth it....atleast to us. They seem to go out of thier way for you more and theres some extra amenities that are nice. |
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| had the best time |
| Hotel Sandos Caracol Eco Resort & Spa |
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karen >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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I hear all the bad things about royal elite but in really life. My husband and myself went they in early 2009, after a 6 week trip to jamaica that end witha friend getting hurt. We had a great time and did buy a one bedroom, since then we have had a couple hickups but all has been worked out. We returned to sandos caracol in december and had no problems. no problems booking or with are stay. the have changed thing and are working hard to make it all right. we love the staff and the staff loves us no are money. like we found in jamaica they love your money not you.
cant wait to get back there |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| lots |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| clean and nice |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| fast, good and clean |
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| Rooms |
| nice clean and cleaned everyday with towel animals on the bed |
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| Wonderful....Once again. |
| Hotel Riu Palace Aruba |
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Emily09 >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| This was our second time ot this resort. We had such a good time the first time, we decided to take our 8 year old this time. He really liked it and had a blast. We had no issues or complaints. The staff is wonderful. We received 3 phone calls through-out the week from the director of the resort to make sure our stay was good and we had everything we needed, Very nice!! |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| We booked all of our excursions with DePalm tours, they have a rep in the lobby. We went on the baby beach tour, which I would highly recommend especially if you have young kids, our 8 yr old loved it. We went on a 4 hour snorkle trip which was great, food, drink and fun! We also went to DePalm Island which was a blast, we went on the half day, which was perfect, pay the admission and everything is included: drinks, food, water park, snorkle, basketball, volley ball. Very very nice for the price and everything that comes with it. |
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| Arrival |
| Upon arrival we were welcomed by the staff with a welcom drink. Quick check in, but the room was not ready, she told us to go eat and then come back and the room should be ready, which it was. The lobby was clean and smoking in NOT allowed, outside only, which was great. The front staff was very friendly and effecient. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The beach is pefect, white sand, clear water and hardly any waves, what more would you want. Shade is hard to come by, as people do wake up at 5am to grab a spot under the shadey area, but grab a spot under a palm tree its nice, provides protection from the sun and plus you didn't have to get up at 5 to get it. Pool chairs are the same, but you wait till 1:30 the chairs are easier to come by. Pool area very clean, and nice. |
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| Other Comments |
| We went to dinner one night off the resort, We ate at Moby Dick. Which was very very good. The atmosphere was very nice and elegant. Pricey but worth it. The staff was excellent!!! |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| We tried 3 out of the 4 reservation restaurants, The Italian, The steakhouse and The Gourmet. The steakhouse and the gourmet were excellent, very very good. The Italian was good also, I just liked the other 2 a little better. Reservationa are required at the 4 Ala carte restaurants, you need to make these between 9-12 every day for that night's seating, 6:30 or 9:00. Its not hard to make reservations, we always got our first choice, one morning we forgot to make reservations and went to the lobby at 1145 and we were given a reservation for the gourmet. The buffet was very good for breakfast every day, we ate dinner a few times also, which was once again very good, something for everyone!! Miss the food already. The pool bar was quick and entertaining, staff wonderful. We went to the outside bar everynight, very nice and laid back, perfect way to end the day. The lobby bar has nightly shows, which were either good or comical, but still stayed to watch. |
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| Rooms |
| Our room was in building A, right in the center of the resort, great view of the pool and beach, wonderful sun sets from the balcony. Of course our room had the double beds pushed together, which did not bother us, it was ok for a vacation, they are not that hard and we slept fine every night. The bathroom was big with a stand up shower and tub combo, 2 double sinks. The balcony was average size, enough for 2 chairs and a small table, very private. Yes, the TV is outdated, but who comes to a place like this to watch TV???? No musty smell or smoke smell in the rooms. AC was good, kept the room nice and cold. Never heard our neighbors next door or loud noise in the hallway. |
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| Loving Cayena Beach Club! |
| Hotel VIK hotel Arena Blanca (LTI Beach Resort Punta Cana) |
| User Rating:
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Skye >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| We went to visit the kids at an orphanage with Melanie from the office. She was a great guide. We learned more about the island and saw things that many tourists do not see. Definitely worth learning about. |
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| Arrival |
| Very quick through the airport since they are looking for tips. Check-in at Cayena Beach was very smooth and bags were delivered to our room in a timely manner. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Beach was cleaned daily by a cleaning crew who cleaned up the seaweed early each morning. The beaches were beautiful white sand with palm trees. There were plenty of watersports and activities daily. The pools were very clean and I saw a man putting chemicals in at least twice that week. The grounds were taken care of well and were always clean. We saw a guy with a machete knife trimmming the bushes. That was kind of fun. |
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| Other Comments |
| If DR was closer, we would make this an every 2 year event, but we're on the west coast and it's much too long to make this trip too often. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| Buffet was okay. The food at all restaurants doesn't have a lot of flavor, but it was still good. El Cano lunch specials were really good, especially the crab stuffed chicken. Look for Pazqual when you go there. He's a character and will make sure your meal is good. He's the restaurant manager, I believe. |
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| Rooms |
| The rooms were in good condition and we had no problem with them. Staff was very helpful if we had issues. The cleaning people decorated our room with flowers one day and put our bedspread into neatly decorated ways each day as well. There were small fruitflies that are all over the Caribbean that were sprayed for at least once during the week, but they didn't bother us. |
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| iberostar bavaro...3rd time |
| Hotel Iberostar Bavaro |
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rich >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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just back from iberostar bavaro for our third time....place hasn't changed. thats a good thing! we arrived from chicago, as usaul getting thru customs smooth. off to hotel, quick! check in a bit shaky this time as there was confusion on our room. while we waoited, off to lunch and some grilled lobster in the buffet. all in all everything went smooth. only one problem the whole time...arriving in our room the tv remote was broke. notified the front desk that day and the next. was never fixed....totaly not like the the usual iberostar way of doing things.
last day there we got to relax on the beach and enjoy tropocal storm bonnie roll by. was pretty cool.
this was the the first time we had to contend with rain. duhhh it's the tropics.....
took a tour of the new grand hotel...wasn't impressed.
will probably go back a forth time.
feel free tocontact with questions
rich and gayle |
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| A trip to remember |
| Hotel Barcelo Maya Beach |
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Cathi >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jul, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| We arrived later than we wanted to due to airline problems. The first room we had was hot we went to the desk and went to dinner. When we returned to our room the problem was not fixed. They moved us to a temporary room for the night. The next day we were moved to a cool and comfortable room. We went to the pool which is very nice. I got out of the pool to go to the restroom and fell on the slick tile around the bathroom area. I broke my left arm and dislocated my shoulder. I had surgery and spent 2 nights in the hospital. The hotal I believe did not show any compassion, concern or care that I had fallen at their hotel. The manager told my husband they were not responsible because I did not have shoes on. Be very very careful around the pool we saw people fall with and without shoes. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| many things to do without leaving the hotel |
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| Arrival |
| 1 hour 25minutes from the Airport!!!! |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Be very very careful There is SLICK tile in some areas!!!! |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| The was very good!! |
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| Rooms |
| cool and comfortable |
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| dining out in Mazatlan |
| Hotel El Cid Castilla Beach |
| User Rating:
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Gary >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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| Don't carry a tab outside the resort pay as you go, we went to Joe's oyster bar after carrying a tab for drinks for a party of 4 from about 7.30 to 10 15 pm the bill was just under $200 US. We were being charged $15 US for a rum and coke in contrast we payed $20 US at senor frogs for all you can drink from 9.00 to closing and its right next to the El Cid |
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| Fabulous Family Resort |
| Hotel Iberostar Cozumel |
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Shannon >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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Our family enjoyed our stay here at Iberostar! We especially enjoyed he staffs friendliness and willing to help. The resort is a beautiful paradise with beautiful flamingos, peacocks & big iguanas!
The swim up bar was a plus with our son as well as his father :)
We enjoyed most of our time in Cozumel at the resort, the daily games, shows and other activities were fun & entertaining!
Thanks for a memorable vacation! |
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| Wyndham big Mistake |
| Hotel Wyndham Cozumel Resort & Spa (formerly Reef Club) |
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Shannon >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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We purchased a 'vacation club' in 2003 and traveled to Cozumel almost every year and enjoyed our stay here UNTIL we arrived this year with our son (8 years old) and are told we are limited access to the resort bc the hotel has gone 'ALL ADULT'!!!!! We were NOT notified of these changes and were told 'sorry' upon our arrival & that we could leave our kid in 'kids club' in order to enjoy the 'all adult' area of the resort. Yeah right, who is going to leave their kid in a foreign country with complete strangers for hours on end to enjoy other areas of the resort!!??? We were limited to less that half of the resort and there were big signs posting 'No one Under 18 Beyond this point'...needless to say we caught a cab to find another resort to spend the week!!! We lost our maintenance fees and are currently trying to receive our all inclusive money back...we didn't stay/eat/drink there so it's only fair for a refund, right? Waiting for my apology that has yet to come!!!
It's not Mexico's fault that some owners at a resort are scumbags with no customer service skills!!! We love Cozumel...Wyndham Reef Club not so much! I believe Wyndham has made a big mistake in going All Adult!!!! And we will never stay there again as long as it's all adult! |
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| Other Comments |
| Wanted to leave a ZERO flower rating but required something which explains my ONE flower rating. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| Restaurants and Bars in the 'family' area close and you will not have access to drinks or food after dinner time...where the all adult area is open later in the evenings. No late night snacks or drinks by the pool!! |
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| Your Arrival |
| No customer service skills whatsoever!! |
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| BEYOND OUR EXPECTATIONS! |
| Hotel Ocean Blue Golf & Beach Resort |
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ivelisse >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| I have traveled many times to Dominican Republic, i was born there ;) This was my first time in Punta Cana. I was very pleased with this resort, mostly with the service. WOW i have never seen so many people smile and look like they enjoy what they do everyday. Most important to me is cleanliness, we were part of the hotel that has privilige attention through their vacation club and I have to tell you my suite was cleaned TWICE a day, just like the cruise ships, they had a turn down service. AWSOME. I had to tell her not to keep replenishing all the alcohol in my room, the outside bars were enough for us. Our bldg was #10 and right next to it we had a separate area for VIP breakfast which turned into the beach restaurant for @ lunchtime for the rest of the guests. We also have a roped off area at the beach. I have to tell you that even the places that were not for VIP guests were also clean, we had some friends in other bldgs yes there is a difference in the liquor in the room, the ammeneties in the bathroom and the outside furniture is wicker not plastic BUT THE SERVICE is the same for everyone regardless your status. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
we did a catamaran excursion with VIVA COLONIA TROPICAL its right at the hotel, ask for valentinno..check them at vivacoloniatropical.com
we also did dune buggy through dirt & beach...great! |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The pool is very active with music and dancing & some contests BUT thats only at one end, the other end is a little quieter for those who want to rela & read a book.... |
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| Other Comments |
| I am very nervous & anxious when i go somewhere unknown to me, even though this is my homeland, punta cana was new to me and this resort was the best pick. We never saw anyone harrasing us for the time share but then again my daughter bought one the last time she was there :) thats why we are now PRIVILIGE GUESTS...so you never now, if you have the time give them a try |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| we had dinner at all the restaurants, the mexican was our favorite because JONATHAN (our waiter) was the best. also the food was very very good and the mamajuana shots are the best. Tequila shots do not compare to this. |
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| Rooms |
| amazing! is the only word to describe it...clean, beautiful,coMfortable...I DIDNT SEE ONE SINGLE BUG!!! BUT then again it may not be the season for them ...i think is more into the july/aug months |
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| Your Arrival |
| Check in was very quick but then again we also have a private check in lounge. |
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| Photos: http://bahiaprincipecayacoa.com |
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| I was not pleased |
| Hotel Gran Bahía Príncipe Cayacoa |
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gisela >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| The hotel scenery was great, the room was very roomy poor lighting, the toilets kept backing up for 3 days. upon our arrival of 7 family members we all had to carry our luggage to the room. The food was not very pleasing in the Dalia buffet, everything was repetitive, the food was just missing taste and texture. Two of our servers Luis and Edwin were really rude to us seems that if we don't tip they didn't like to serve us and we didn't even get a chance to tip he catered with much better attitude to the Europeans.I complaint to Marcos the Front Desk Manager and expressed his staff rudeness including the lady in the pool bar she was very rude and spoke very nasty of her customers and proceeded to tell my father we were a bunch of animals drinking. I also asked that he speaks to the chef in regards to placing some type of Dominican food since I am Dominican and there was not one thing Dominican on the menu and it was cold also. The next day i saw one new item added. They also have A La Carte restaurants however you cannot enjoy all of the three restaurants unless you stay more than five days and they do not tell you this information until you go ask not when you pay for the hotel, i don't agree with this i think they should let their guess know or when they sell the package is very deceiving. The guys that do the entertainment Jhonatan,Leiny,Johan,Yubi,Araceli and Bernanrdo they were great they did a great job and also Emmanuel @ El Pescador restaurant. I wouldn't go back the hotel is extremely quite and entertainment is limited @ night. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| activities were good. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| beach staff was really nice, not enough activities for the beach and guest |
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| Other Comments |
| Entertainment staff was great really pleasant and friendly jhonatan, leiny, Johan, yubi, Araceli, Bernardo. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| El pescador, Dalia buffet. We actually took the ride down to the town to eat because the food at the buffet was aweful. |
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| Rooms |
| 3 rooms were rented and we were separated we asked that we were kept together and I booked the hotel with 4 weeks out. |
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| Great beaches and dive shop and boats on site!!! |
| Hotel Wyndham Cozumel Resort & Spa (formerly Reef Club) |
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peter >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Solo
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| I went to this resort right after being seperated and went with the purpose of diving and putting my past behind me. It was a great place with a dive shop and dock right on property . The drinks were always cold and the food hot and good. what else could someone ask for while on vacation. Staff were accommadating and the rooms were nice(not amazing ,but not just clean) |
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| I Love the workers at this resort, second time there and would defiently stay again. |
| Hotel NH Krystal Laguna Villas & Resort |
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Shannon >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| My sister and I have just gotten back from a week at the N.H. Krystal Lagoon, this is our second time here at this resort and can't wait to go back. From the Bartenders to the Gardeners to the entertaiment staff and the maids it was a wonderful stay, the only complaint that I would have is the bathrooms on the pool side had very limited of toilet paper and wern't very clean, but over the week it had gotten better, we had just gotten back so it is very slow this time of year so there was not much to choose from at the buffet, but always somthing to eat. Alexander the bartender at the main pool we meet our last stay there two years ago and soon as he saw us remenbered us right away he is a amazing guy, very friendly and prompt at trying to help with anything you need, there was always a drink in our hands. The garderners also great and friendly people, would do anything to assist you, weather it was to give you a coconut or make you something handmade they would do it tip or not they were just happy to give you something.the weather was amazing, very warm this time of year, alittle to warm, but the pool was there to cool of anytime you got hot, which was often. you had no problems to find a lawn bed due to low season, out of 690 room there might have been 200 guests, which was great for service if you wanted a drink or anything for that matter. Check in when we arrived was very slow due to low staff this time of year, it was a hour wait to check in, they served coctails while waiting in line which was very nice. The room were very clean and spacious, the maids kept it very clean and if you run out of something she will always go out of her way to try to assist you. There was 3 out of the 7 la carts open for service, the Steakhouse, seafood and Italian, you book them the next day apon arrival, from 9am to 5pm, they take ahour for luch.there is a bank on site and you can also get cash at the front desk but better to change at the bank, there is also a gift shop and hair salon open daily. During the day for luch you can visit the buffet resturant or snack bar which is located by the main pool, which serves from 10am in the morning sanwiches and fries and 12 noon pizza, chicken, pork, salads this is open until 5pm. the buffet resurant opens for supper at 630 and is open until 10. So if you are looking for a great place to visit for the price I would recommed this to you. If you are looking for a 5star resort this is not the place to go, but like I said this is cuba and for the price I would stay a month or longer if I had to, I hope my review was a help to you, CHEERS and have a great stay if you deside to make this your destination,I would call the people here my family and my home. |
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| Cheap but not too bad |
| Hotel Playa Sanssouci |
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Rich >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Solo
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| I love Cabrette because its not too crowded during the day. Its a little bit touristy but not so much as to not exspose you to some of the real culture of DR. This hotel was a good choice for me because I was traveling alone and wanted fewer distractions. I wouldn't take a family here because there there's not much more to do than sleep, eat and lay on the beach. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| There's not a whole lot to do at the hotel itself. Its basically a place to rest after running around all day. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| This area of the beach is frequented by locals, mainly because there is a small apartment building you pass on the way into the hotel. Everyone that I met was frendly and helpful but they essentially keep to themselves and their families. The beach itself was clean albeit unkept. The hotel didn't provide beach chairs. At night there is and armed guard who stops and identifies EVERYONE coming near the hotel. |
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| Other Comments |
| I went here to get some R+R and study for an exam in relative quite . The rooms are a little old and run down, but they're clean. All in all, this place doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles but it covers the basics and it is cheap (~$55 US per day) You get what you pay for. I'd actually give it a 3.5 if I could. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| This hotel is at the east end of Kite Beach. Its a 10 minute walk on the beach to get to the bars and restaurants. Although I never had any problems, it gets pretty dark and deserted on this end of the beach so you should travel with a group. (I didn't travel east on the main street but I hear tell of a bakery that serves a good breakfast Anot too far in that direction) |
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| Rooms |
| The first room I had was on the first floor and had a patio right on the beach. Unfortunately, it was on the corner of the building that got a lot of foot traffic so it was fairly noisy late into the evening. The air conditioner wasn't working in that room either so I moved to a slightly smaller room on the top floor with a balcony overlooking the beach. Both rooms had kitchenettes, minifridge and 13 inch cable televisions. |
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| Your Arrival |
| The entrance is off the main street, down an alley of sorts. The taxi pulled up right in front of the glass sliding doors of the office. The manager was helpful but not particularly friendly. |
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| Warm and friendly staff with delightful gourmet offerings |
| Hotel Iberostar Bavaro |
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wellington >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jun, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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| Traveled with West Jet from Toronto because of their humane departure time. Accompanied by my wife and 3 year old son. In spite of the chaotic check in process, we departed smoothly and arrived uneventfully. Baggage clearance and bus ride to Iberostar Bavaro was comfortable in an air conditioned bus. We were the only arrivals for that resort. The resort was very busy. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| On the resort, lots of activities. Pool exercises, Latino dancing lessons, Spanish classes and endless activity. A small Casino next door and a small commercial center with Disco. We did not partake in any off resort activities. |
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| Arrival |
| Check in was smooth and quick. The weather was very humid and hot. No wet towels or cold drinks greeted us. But on request, the drinks came. The staff spoke comprehensible English and answered all our questions. Room Safety boxes were available at $2 US/dy. We were given a map and directions to our Suite (#1248). It was a bit of a walk but the room was ready and very very cool to our delight. Eight suites were housed in a two level structure. Very few had an ocean view. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Bavaro beach need no description. Nice sand and water. No Sea weed was noted and the beach was clean. There is one large pool on site and a smaller adjacent kiddie's pool. Beach towels here required a ticket provided on arrival and requested on departure. The resort is mature and has lots of shade. Beach chairs were abundant and thankfully there is no need to grab and secure a chair early before sunrise. The grounds were well kept as with other Iberostar properties. The only set back is mosquitoes. After a rainfall, they are out. Repellant is advised. |
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| Other Comments |
| In total, Iberostar Bavaro was a great choice for a vacation. Unfortunately humidity is a factor. Our only misgiving was the Airport. It is not Air Conditioned and HOT..hot. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
Let me preface by indicating that we select resorts by choice of dining facilities. Iberostar Bavaro succeeded to our delight. On site there are 5 alacarte restaurants requiring reservations. For a one week stay you are allowed 3 bookings. They were nice and gave us six. Four were air conditioned. We ate at the Japanese,Cajun and Mediterranean. The Gourmet was for couples only and the Steak House was open air (BeachSide) as was the Buffet. The menus were very interesting and food, good as was service. The Japanese was a set back when compared to that in Toronto, but still interesting. What was outstanding was the Buffet. Dinner was great. The menu changed a bit each evening. On Fridays it's Lobster night..delightful fresh grilled lobsters. There was a fresh coconut stall with staff opening up the nuts. There was also a fruit stall.
Lunch was available at the Buffet site and also at the Beach Site(At nights this became the Steak House). Lunch at the Beach Site...excellent. On Thursdays there is a seafood lobster Jambalaya..huge pots with rice topped with half lobsters. A must for pics and dining. There is also an all day ice cream hut near by. At the Italian food station on alternating days roasted suckling pig was served. At the grill station some traditional Dominican food was available as were grilled chicken, steaks and other meats. Lots of vegetables and deserts. There was also a health juice station available all day serving fresh melon and papaya juices next to the towel exchange station.
Food was delightful and remarkable. As usual, dining choices were also available with the adjacent Iberostar Punta Cana and Dominican Resorts. |
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| Rooms |
| We requested an upper floor and this was provided. The rooms were very comfortable and clean. The Air Condition was central and with out noise. We had a walk out balcony with an area to hand wet clothes provided. All electrical outlets did not need adapters. A few minutes after arrival, a phone call came advising our baggages were on the way. Subsequently a baby crib arrived also, which we had not even requested. Unfortunately we did not need it, but it was very thoughtful. |
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| Great place to stay surounding area excelent and the people frendly |
| Hotel Las Brisas Huatulco |
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dave >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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| No problems with this resort at all lots of walking and stairs but not a problem actualy me and my wife lost weight even though the food was good lots to do in the area and the tours to the remote bays should be experianced we will be going back in 2011. |
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| A Beautiful Golf Resort with there own Private Beach Club! |
| Hotel Embassy Suites |
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Isabel >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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We stayed here in March of 2010 with some family members.
I have been throughout the D.Rep and have never stayed at such a clean,safe and friendly resort! If your looking for 24 entertainment this is not your place. They are in a gated community with huge homes surrounded by an 18 hole golf course. They have a huge outdoor pool and can always find lounge chairs!
A kids pool, 2 tennis courts, mini golf, putting green and driving range.
The hotel is very clean and the staff are so friendly. They have a private beach about 5 mins from the golf course and offer free transportation. There is a restaurant there with hammacks and chairs right on the water. Great food!
There is a Spa adjacent to the Hotel and they have many types of massages and a salon for guests. There are many good restaurants in the area and taxis are cheap to go to and from They offer various types of excursions.We went on a day tour of Santo Domingo and Catalina Island. There is something for everyone and its close to everything! I give it a 5 star rating for families,business travelers and golfers.. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Golf ,Tennis, mini golf , kids playground , kids pool , mini golf , scuba diving and excursions available off the grounds |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
Big lagoon shaped pool Private Beach club and restaurant
18 hole golf course |
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| Other Comments |
| They also have an all inclusive plan for those wanting to stay at the Hotel. We went to several restaurants in the town of Juan Dolio and were very pleased |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| 2 restaurants and 2 bars The bar in there Atrium is like being in a jungle but air conditioned! |
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| Rooms |
| Huge! They are all suites with a separate living room, bedroom, bathroom, microwave, refidgerator coffee maker iron blow dryer and balcony |
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| Your Arrival |
| Very friendly welcome and quick check in |
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| Elegant, serene, classy place. plus world class snorkeling right off the beach |
| Hotel Akumal Beach Resort |
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Carolyn >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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A lush tropical oasis-like having your own private resort. High staff to guest ratio. Quiet, elegant & very classy. But, the best-not pricey! This sleeper dream of a place is in the middle of world class snorkeling in calm lagoon-like Akumal Bay- fantastic colorful coral groupings, loads of fish & huge tortugas.
Superb night snorkeling-bring your light. Food is pure and fresh. Not big on things like cream sauces, but rather the likes of perfect roast prime rib, carved turkey, mexican specialties, fresh grilled fish. Excellent salad bar. No pretension here- just perfection. Can't wait to return! Just loved it. |
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| Exceedingly Abundantly above ALL I could ever have Hoped for... AWESOME- WOW - FABULOUS |
| Hotel Be Live Grand Marien |
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Mary Anne >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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This resort was More than I could dreamed it would be even after seeing photos on line, it was Beyond... our dreams... all the way,.,,,,, 4+ star
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
There is always something to see & do, the Pool games were lots of fun for us for an afternoon laugh... dancing lessons everyday at 5 pm, spanish also is taught pool side.
there is a nice pool bar & a resteraunt above it is airconditioned Italian cusine |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
lovey, soft light gold/ beige sand... easy to walk on, and CLEAN beach
water was warm & lovely, lots of places to sun & also hide in the shade... mango trees all around provided a wonderful canopy over us on a day we so needed to rest & enjoy the breezes |
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| Other Comments |
I'd HIGHLY reccomend this resort , I cant say anything bad about it at all
the only thing we found hard to deal with was the number of peddlers, selling their wares, and they hound you on the beach, or while on tour/ excursion in Puerto Plata, the people there need to make a living & so many are selling art, jewllery, carved wooden boxes, or in town square, a lilttle boy came and gave me a yellow flower
tip tip tip - they ask if you dont...
that was the only part of hte trip which made us feel like they could ruin a lovely time.
yet knwoing they need so much.. be careful, and go with your gutt instink when you talk with them... I bouight some nice jewllery from a boy at the beach, and he was very easy to talk with... no pressure; then there are some who will tell you $250 US... for items we canget here at home at dollar store.. and pay a total of $10
they insist you wear this or that & they fill a bowl with things they want you to buy,... i certainly learned much and how to say NO.. and walk away.. strong & OK with not being taken. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
WE loved the SANTA Fe- (mexican bar& grill) - had the Chicken Fahita's and the portions were large, enjoyed also the 3 mix plate with shrimp and steak and chicken breast. this was our favoritw resteraurt a la carte; next ws the BUFFET, always good & more than plentiful, with fruits, and salads, and choice from the grill. such as porkloin, chicken breasts, fish, shrimp, pork roast, salmon, huge beef roasts, the display & garnishses were amazing... the staff -excellent & polite & always wanting to serve you more
lots of servers, friendly warm, and obliging
There is a Great resteraunt overlooking the, and it is air conditioned- serves Italian cusine, dress is nice shirts, shorts, but ladies take a sweater, or shawl... it teends to be tooo cool up there.
we had pork tenderloin, and beef tenderloin... was very good, as was the desserts....we were WOW'd again |
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| Rooms |
WE were surprized when we got an OCEAN VIEW ROOM, in Bldg 3
Kingsize bed... and warobe with lots of rooom to put away clohes, larege closet, and safe, bathroom was also a good size & the maids kept our rooom clean & adorned with fresh flowers & towel art each day; we made sure to tip here veryday & Ileft gifts for her ( perfume, soaps, candies, etc.) |
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| Your Arrival |
we arrived early in the morning around 10:30 am, such a warm wlecome & very efficient, our bags were kept secure by the front lobby watchman, and we could used the hotels resteraunts& bars, and pool while we waited for our rooms to be fully ready.
WE were greated with pineapple & Coconut drinks, and BIG WARM friendly smiles
and HOLA's....
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| Totally Awesome, Well worth every cent |
| Hotel Iberostar Dominicana |
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Mike >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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The Iberostar Dominicana exceeded both mine and my wifes expectations. We traveled there for our five year anniversary, and were completely blown away at everything, especially the staff. The people work from sun up to early morning hours, and all day long are singing and dancing, while smiling the entire time.
They make you feel like there is no communication or cultural barrier. They make you feel like you are at home. From the time that we showed up, to the time we left, we were joking around and laughing with the staff and other visitors.
Jonny P. and his fellow staff members at the bar are probably the best in the world. He was awesome, and weather you leave a tip or not, you will get the royal treatment. I have read many reviews before we went that said you get better service if you tip. I would say that you get the same whether you do or not. These people treat everyone the same, and I just cant say enough good things about them. Don't get me wrong, we left tips because they definetly deserve them, but I don't want people to miss out on this experience because they think they will get poor service without tipping, you won't.
Overall, this will be the only place I ever travel in the Dominican Republic. The only problem that we had was with our local travel agent, which was our fault for booking through cheapcarribean.com. This guy was a real ass! He scheduled an appointment for our first full day there, to go over what was available to us, and offer the excursions, and stood us up, and then did it again the next day. But that has nothing to do with the hotel.
All in all, I was very impressed, and am usually not with anything.
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| Excellent all the Way , this Resort exceeded our expectations, we had a marvelous time |
| Hotel Be Live Grand Marien |
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Barrie >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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The Resort was not only clean, and grounds well kept it was beautiful beyond description. Behind the resort is Mt Issobel Torres, which overlooks Puerto Plata. The days temperatures were around 30- 40 degrees incl. humidity sunny days for teh most part of our stay- we had a few rain showers, and one evening of "torrential" downpour" unlike anything I had ever experienced, the staff took it all in stride, and provided umbrella's , and an extra glass of wine & beer while we waited for the rains to cease.
The view is breath taking, and the lay out of the resort is very walkalbe, and makes the most of all its ammenities. We always had fine service, and great food at all the resteruants. The staff was very gracious, and polite, alwasy keeping things in order. They were friendly & plesant, our room was well maintained, and each day we where graced with towel art, swans& hearts with flwoers. We left a ti0p and gifts for our maid each day ( fellow travelers had told us to bring small perfumes, and lipstick, and pantyhose, childrens vitamins, toothpaste, soaps, things that she might not be able to afford on her her meager wages.) Our miad was delighted to recieve the gifts we had brough _ i was also prpared with gits for children, toys & blow up balls... with smilie faces, and little girls jewllery, and things for their hair,.. Next time we will bring more school supplies, and ask the airline about bringing items down to give as gifts & to help families there |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
We were only there 7 days. and we had 5 day trips
1) OUTBACK SAFARI - was most excellent, intersting, informative & fun- our guide KENNY ( ask for Him) was a fountain of knowledge- and also great fun.
we toured sugard cane feilds, saw farms, visited a small school (where we took school supplies) & tasted fresh ground and brewed domincan coffee, we also visited the rural community that this OUTBACK supports, 1/2 of your fare goes to the school !
we had a great lunch at the outback headquateres, and then off to do some BOGGIE Boarding, body surfing on a very secluded beach; we also went to a mountain stream, and found a fresh water pool to swim in. that was perfect to get off the salt water. drinsk flowed freely all day & they took great care to see we were all happy & having a good time..... 5 stars!!!!!! ya
ps- your travel group wont give you this partifular tour option...
I booked all mine here online... from HOME and saved $$ and loved the freedom to choose OUR OWN TOURS
2) FREE STYLE Catamaran - what a glorious Day of Sailing and SNorkleing in Sosua Bay.. it cost us about $84 US each but well worth it for the experince of seeing thsoe incredible coloured fish.. amd corals. under the sea.again... go to the REAL DR online and book this EXCURSION. ( link provided below) you will NOT regret it
3) Puerto Plata Tours with HOLA - WE had GERMAN for our guide- excellent very knowledgeable about the history and area..... what an excellent value $37US each, the tour included:
Brugal Rum Facotry, Jewllery Factory & Store ( Bring money), then a Cigar Factory & Store; next stop Fort San Filpe, then AMber Museum, then off to the Cable Car & UP Mt Isbobel Torres. to see a great view of Puerto Plata.
there was cloud up there when we arrived at the top 300 feet up, but it did clear & I got some fabulous photos.
http://www.therealdr.com/store/puerto-plata-excursions-80/
4) DEEP Sea FSIHING --- STAY AWAY FROM **GONE FISHING** NOT a good value & no fish or service....
5) We made our own Tour on Sunday- as we hired a taxi & went to church, and sight seeing. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
Clean and lovely, very nice layout. always kept, each day grounds men were working, mowing lawns, weeding,.. keeping things beautiful.
Beach sand was a light golden brown, soft, and free from stones, or cutting shells. it was nice to walk on. the ocean was also clean & warm nice to swim in.
We enjoyed the pool, after our excursion days, to cool off & get refreshed. We also joined in some of those 4:00 O'clock pool side games.. was fun, the staff really get you to join and feel a part of a fun holiday comminity,..sometimes they dress up like caats, sharks, palm trees... and otehr tribal get ups... supperman also plays volleyball!
was fun, youthfull, and refreshing. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
There are 4 a la cartes & 1 buffet which helps to keep variety the spice of life
THe display of choices is beautiful, and a wonderful and tastey selection greeets you each day.
Sunday there is a GALA Buffet dinner, all other reseraunts are closed,
one night a week tehre is also a BBQ and Beach Party for all to enjoy.
( Unfortunately we missed that- as we were so tired from a days excursion we went to bed very early; but heard this LLUD party.. for hours...
the next day I found out just who was making that racket outside OUR bedroom balcony
it was the entire resort, all guests partied on the beach...
oh well we still had a good nights rest, next time we will join them!
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| Rooms |
The Room was spacious, and overlooked teh ocean, which was lovely, we could here the birds in the mornings, and thought the open air concept of the hallways was quite unique.
The furniture was all wood & spanish with the Oasis, palms with the theme.
clean rooms, with orange/ rust coloured cermanic tiled floors, bright yellow walls, and nice linens, and curtains.
We also appreciated teh safe provided, (you have to pay extra to get the lock & key)- but peace of mind is worth it- to keep vauables safe. |
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| Your Arrival |
Our arrival was smooth- we noticed jsut how small the airport was, it can recieve only one plane at a time, however the staff are helpful, and going through customs was noneventful, we all boarded small buses to take us to our hotels (quaint, small, bumpy little buses, with some airconditioning) and a very friendly & welcoming guide- takes you to your hotel. We enjoyed his descriptive tguided tour to our hotel which was only 20 minutes away.
Upon arrival at our hotel, the porters greeted us & helped us with our bags, which nede to stay in a secure area until our offical check in time. WE had about 5 hours to enjoy the the resort, before our rooms were ready for occupancy. We learned alter from others to give a tip $10-$20 US and presto you WILL have a room... ( so we will keep that in mind for next time)
the POOL was lovely as was the beach, clean and free from litter.
WE were also greeted by a young gentleman in WHITE- we learned alter on that these "folks" are hired to bring you to the VIP area, where you are given the opportunity to sign and pay into a resort vacation program, and get better room rates & deals.
Our friendly "pal" met us almost daily.... and called us his borhter & sista from a differnt mother - how cute!... he made us feel warmly welcomed, and he wanted us to have a plesant stay. |
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| Amazing vacation, can't wait to go back! |
| Hotel Majestic Elegance Punta Cana |
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Jen >
1 contribution(s) United States of America |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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Group
My husband and myself (mid – late 20s), my parents and my aunt & uncle (late 50s)
We had a great time and would go back in a heartbeat. My husband and I are already talking about next year’s trip!! I would recommend the ME to anyone looking for a nice, relaxing vacation with a little sun and a little fun.
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| The Michael Jackson show was awesome, it really is an amazing show and I highly recommend it. We also saw the circus act too, it wasn’t bad, something to kill the time. We would usually hang out at the lobby bar or over at the sports bar at the MC. The bartender at the sports bar was obsessed with the Red Sox so it was funny to watch her reaction to the games. We did have some issues with one of the bartenders at the lobby bar, he would continually ignore us, didn’t matter what night it was or who in the group went up to order. We have no idea what his issue was. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The place is gorgeous, I was absolutely amazed when I walked in to the lobby and saw everything. The place blew me away. It was exactly what I expected and more; marble floors, huge chandeliers, nice comfy chairs in the lobby. The grounds were just as beautiful. The pool and beach were fantastic, no problems getting chairs at either. I noticed a lot of people from the Club at the regular pool though, not sure why they wouldn’t use their own pool. The pool and beach bars were great. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| The food is what I expected for an all-inclusive. The buffet for breakfast and lunch was good, by the end of the week I was a little sick of it but there was nothing to complain about. We absolutely loved Asadito, 9 Doors and the See and Sea, good food, good service. The Gourmand was rather mediocre, food bland and service not so good. We wanted to order a bottle of wine so the waitress said the Sommelier would come over. He finally came over to take our order when our second course came out. The Italian was pretty good, nothing fantastic but nothing bad either. Overall we liked the food and really had no complaints. |
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| Rooms |
| We stayed in the standard room not in the Club section. The room was great, marble floors, king size four post bed, Jacuzzi in the room, the square toilette was a little strange as was it being separated from the rest of the room by a glass door. I do wish there was a dresser of some sort and not just shelves in the closet but it wasn’t a big deal. |
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| Your Arrival |
| We had no issues getting the hotel, were greeted with a cold face cloth and a drink. We were there 2 hours before check in so we knew the rooms wouldn’t be ready but we were able to check in and get our bracelets, had some issues with the room though. When we booked with a travel agent we requested that our rooms be together and we also sent an email 2 weeks before left asking again to have rooms together. They give us our rooms and my parents are no where near the rest of us, so they ask for a closer room and are given one down the hall from my husband and me. We all go to our rooms after killing time at lunch and having a drink in the lobby. My parents go into their room and there are twin beds! Needless to say they were not happy. The front desk tells them there aren’t any rooms left, my dad finally talks to a manager later that night and she gets them a room the next day with a king bed and close to the rest of us. Luckily everything else for the week went smoothly. |
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| Don't expect too much. |
| Hotel Tryp Cayo Coco |
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Sandra >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | With friend
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4 stars to all staff. Always smiling doing their best to keep clients happy.
It's obvious the Melia chain is neglectful during the low season.
For instance the quiet bar is closed leaving adults no area to spend a quiet evening and no drinks nor coffee offered at the Italian and Oriental restaurants. No music. We sit, eat and leave. And we don't eat that well.
The water below the main lobby bar should be cleaned and covered. It's ugly and it stinks. I don't understand, as it cannot be a main attraction but repulsive.
The waiters, with embarassement, had a shortage of juice, straws, drinking glasses, coffee, milk, amaretto, etc..
What could they do? It's not their fault, but some folks don't understand that the Hotel management is to blame.
No fumigation, lots of mosquitoes. Cutting down some more..
The food, everywhere was awful and we know that no matter how much we complain it will never change.
Generally the bars and tables were always dirty.
Would not recommend this hotel. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
Okay.
Beach not clean. Water amazing. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
Dirty.
Food, Cuban standard: Bad |
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| Rooms |
| Clean. |
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| Your Arrival |
| Quick check-in. |
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| Best holiday i hav eva bin on in mi life !!! :) |
| Hotel Celuisma Tropical Playa Dorada |
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Danielle >
1 contribution(s) United Kingdom |
| May, 2010 | Leisure | Family
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it was brilliant, i neva wanted 2 leave, the staff were the funniest people i hav eva met and the kindedest. the food was exceptional every nite and there is a wide variety too. the swimming pool was really refreshin n clear !! sensational !! it is gorgous weather every day, the beach was the whitest, softest, best sand you had ever walked along. the sea was as clear as glass and stretched as far as the eye can see.The rooms were cleaned thurally every day and were spotless, the beds where the comfiest i had ever slept on, the flour was clean and crisp. the tv was quite large, lots of wardrobe space and the bathrooms were spotless.the entertainment was excellent and every nite was different shows and performances and the last nite show was exceptional.
i would recoment this hotel to everyone and i would go again in a minute.
the only thing i would say is that dont go there just for a week because it is 2 far to travel for just 7 days so i recomend goin for 2 weeks insted, but overall it is the BEST EVA !!!!!!!!!! |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| the day trips were exceptional and i would advise you to go on them all, also there is a wide range of acitvities to do in the grounds including a spa, golf, tinnis, gym and many more. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| the pool was cleaned every nite and was cool and calm, they hav a seprate bit in the pool incase you want to have a game of vollyball and the staff regualy hosted games during the day. there is also a mini pool where your youngsters can go and make friends. also round the bak of the tennis courts there is a jaquzzi where you can chill. the beache was raked every morning so it looked clean and inviting every day, the sea was as clear as glass and relaxing. the grounds were simple to find your way around and spacious. |
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| Other Comments |
| all i can say is that i would recomend this hotel to everyone and i would deffintly go bak there agen !!!x big thumbs up :) xx |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| food was exceptional every nite and there was a choice of quite alot of bars to attend, otherwise go to the buffay witch was top standed every nite. the bar staff and waiters are very friendly and helpfull and the drinks were chilled and refreshing. |
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| Rooms |
| everything about the rooms were top class !! do i need 2 say any more ?!!! x |
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| Your Arrival |
| arrival was teriffic, you get the blast from the heat as soon as you get off the plane but you soon get used to it. the baggs came quite quick and | |
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