Grand Sirenis Tropical Suites: soso

The rooms need face lifts and repairs, the pool was in poor condition. Many of the tiles were broken or damaged, algae was found on the walls and most corners. The grounds were well maintained and the a la cart restaurants were quite nice. The buffet was boring, pretty much the same everyday. Sadly, our fault, but we were expecting the white Punta Cana sand that we had on many other trips. This resort is on the Atlantic side so the sand was tan. Nice beach to walk though.

Occidental Caribe: Great trip to Barcelo Punta Cana

The hotel/resort is huge but still has that cosy feeling in that the swimming pool areas are divided up into quite/kids area and an open area with a pool side buffet and bar. There are ample lounge chairs at the beach and pool areas. The room we had was very nice the couple of snags were fixed with in hours or our request. The maid service was very good and our room was kept in good order. night time entertainment in the theater was equal to anything from Las Vegas. No problem signing in or out  [... read more]and our Sunquest rep was quite helpful. The wait and Bar staff were well nice and made an effort to keep our inquires satisfied. The food was good at the main buffet with a large variety and the restaurants at night were excellent.. The only thing folks from here should note that if you use Hotmail for your internet it will not work in Dominican Republic. The WIFI is rather expensive there at a cost of 10$ a day or 49$ a week. You can buy it by the 1/2 hour for 5$. If you want to leave the compound to go to closest town cabs will cost about 15 to 25$. It is VERY pricey on the compound for suntan lotion or after-sun stuff. A bag of chips 300 grams is $7. Stuff in the local area are 30-40% cheaper in the towns. All prices are in US dollars. Dollars can be used anywhere even Canadian dollars. The clerks will change the price listed in Pesos over to US or Canadian dollars. Most off compound places are close to bank rates. The reception desk also will change currency. They have a rate chart up for several types of money. Have a bunch of one dollar bills (US $) for tipping. Leave a dollar a day for maids and then 5 or 10 $ on last day. Tip waitress or bartenders a buck or so every 5 times they serve you. Also the helpers in the dining rooms. Our Rep told us all tips go into a pot and all the workers share. There are many activities you can do so if you want you can keep busy. Overall we enjoyed our trip to Barcelo Punta Canada

Excellence Punta Cana: Perfect Resort

It has been our third year at The Excellence so I don't think I need to say anymore. Would I go back, absolutely. The service, food and atmosphere are very relaxing. It is a great place to get away and everyone is very friendly.

Bahia Principe Escape Ambar: Above Expectations

This resort was recommended to us by our travel agent. My boyfriend and I are 24 and 26. Upon arrival at the resort we were dropped off at Ambar 3 for check in. The staff sat us down and started explaining about the envelopes we would receive. It was very difficult to hear the staff instructions in that lobby but the envelopes were self explanatory. We were given a welcome drink (Coco Mango) which I loved. Once they had our signatures and information we waited to be loaded into shuttles to deliv [... read more]er us to our rooms. This took over half an hour as they did not have enough shuttles for all of us. It was really too lengthy of a process, we just wanted to get to our room and go eat. We were very overwhelmed about the size of this resort when we first arrived but after the first day we realized that it was not bad at all. We were in villa 84 in Ambar 2 and it was beautiful. We were right in front of the jaccuzi area and first Ambar pool. The pool area was beautiful and well maintained. We loved the pool side sushi bar! Our view was not great (we faced out onto a construction area) but after a few days we came to enjoy how quiet that location was at night. When we first arrived in our room they had balloons and flowers everywhere. We were disappointed by the half empty or completely empty shampoos and bath gels in the bathroom and by the opened beverages in our fridge. We called housekeeping to fix these issues but instead of replacing everything they ended up taking away our bath wash and not replacing them for a few days and only leaving us with shampoo and lotion. The room was beautiful, everything was spotless and the looked brand new. The tub was a bit worn looking but it was still usable. We would advise people to pre-book your A La Carte's before they arrive. Luckily we were able to get a few 9:15 reservations but that was all that was available. The only three restaurants we could get into were Don Pablo, Bella Italia and Maiko. Don Pablo was fabulous but you get extremely small portions of food. My salad was three pieces of lettuce, four tomatoes, two pebble sized dollops of cheese and one dollop of dressing. The food was delicious though and the atmosphere was lovely. Bella Italia (located at Esmerelda) was a joke. It took us forever to find the place because the signage at Esmerelda is really confusing. The appetizers (buffet style) were cold and mostly fried foods. We both ordered the lobster and salmon pizza. When it came it was drowning in oil and was basically inedible. The lobster was actually shrimp which was also disappointing. We left this restaurant extremely disappointed. Maiko (at the Punta Cana) was nice. The Tapenyaki show was alright but short. The chef didn't really do any tricks while he was making our food. I liked that you got to try all the proteins he cooked (normally you get one protein). Dessert was disappointing as they didn't have the one thing on the menu everyone wanted. Fried ice cream. They gave no explanation for why they weren't serving it and just kept saying no when we asked. The buffets at Ambar were delicious. A lot of variety and different themes every night. I most enjoyed the lobster on the grill and the pasta station. Breakfast was the same, a lot of variety in the food. We loved how long the buffets were open for during the day. They had long hours so we never missed a meal. They were very on top of refilling the food and replacing when empty. The staff coming by the tables were pretty good, sometimes they forgot to get you a drink but if you asked again you would get an apology and they would bring it to you. The beach was beautiful. We didn't spend a ton of time there because we loved our pool but we enjoyed a few afternoons there. There are always loungers available but not in the shade. If you want shade, get up early. If you don't care then you will be fine. Maintenance was always grooming the beach and so it was well taken care of. No seaweed anywhere. We walked down to the next resort (The Majestic) and their beach was disgusting. Covered in weed. Maintenance was crazy at this resort. Staff were always cleaning and fixing things. When you told them about something not fixing they fixed it immediately. They wash down lounge chairs daily at night and the pool side as well. They also hose the paths down to keep them clean. The grounds were beautiful and nothing was out of place. It seems like cleanliness is a big priority at Ambar. The staff were friendly but the language barrier is difficult at times. We googled basic words so we could communicate with those staff who don't know any English. I would recommend learning some Spanish basics before visiting Dominican! There are shuttles running up and down the resort so you don't have to walk everywhere. They run from 6am to 3am which is amazing and they come every 2 minutes or so. The shop keepers on Ambar are not pushy which we liked. We went to the Punta Cana and got hassled by the vendors. The only plus of the outside vendors is you can haggle with them for better prices. The spa was amazing but expensive. Best massage I have ever had. Very clean premises and friendly staff. The gym was run down a bit. Some machines were broken and its in the basement so its not very appealing. On Valentines day the resort went all out. There were balloons and streamers and signs everywhere. They had a lot of activities to take part in and special cocktails were served. The bars on Ambar are really good and the liquors you get are definitely worth the extra money you pay for Ambar. The butler service is slightly confusing. We apparently were supposed to meet ours but never did. We didn't even really understand their purpose but it didn't take away from our trip in any way. Pillow service was cool and so was the aromatherapy sprays they offered. We had a photoshoot on the resort with Henry the photographer. It was free and you could buy however many photos you wanted at the end (on a CD). The session was 45 minutes long and we took photos in the gardens and on the beach. They were high quality and high resolution. Definitely would recommend for couples going here! Overall we were really impressed by Ambar and would return in the future. We would recommend this resort to others. Some people said it was too big but we enjoyed all the options available on the property.

Marien Puerto Plata Hotel: Relaxing vacation

I thought the resort was a great size, food was good but service was not the best , grounds were clean and not to far from everything, I found the rooms need upgrading and had musky smell but once we changed our rooms it was fine .all the rooms need is some small repairs .the service in buffet and bars was very slow.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana: All around more than you can imagine!

Hotel- I dont even remember what star it was but it was like a 5. From amazing room service- hate to say it but very picky- everything was cleaned prompt and everything new was provided daily. Staff- Everyone was so attentive and polite, guests and staff included. answered all questions and will personally introduce and tell you whats going on around the hotel and how the things are that youve tried Restaurants- Mexican, Italian, Bellini Bar and Seafood 2 minutes outside of our room! I loved sea [... read more]food and he loved mexican! Pool- Morning, Afternoon, and Evening- right outside our room so it was too easy to take a quick dip and change your towel asap for a dry one- and they didnt mind! Beach- Hardlyyyy seaweed at all if any where we swam. Amazing waters and not crowded Things to do- excursions- Bavar Splash- 99 Each bought on the airplane.. Snorkeling, Speed boating( you drive your own too- unreal!) and Ocean Dive (also just so worth it) Also the Royalton hotel was a 5 minute walk and we were able to drink and enjoy their entertainment as well! They had more lively night entertainment- on resort was more music and good to enjoy Waterpark- Yes this deserves its own category. My boyfriend and I were here DAILY better than the few weve been too in ontario...

Sunscape Coco Punta Cana: Exceeded expectations

Contrary to the many negative reviews that I read, myself and the 13 people in my group had an excellent time. We all agreed that though not "perfect" we all had no negative complaints. The staff were friendly, grounds beautiful, entertainment fun and the rooms were fine. I recommend the Side by Side catamaran and dune buggy excursion as highly enjoyable and well worth the money.

Sunscape Coco Punta Cana: AWESOME RESORT

WE were a group of 22.....LOVED every minute. Entertainment Staff made the trip---BJUJI, MINI ME, EVELYN, LUCIA , MISTER CHOCOLATE , SPAGETTI .... :) Sunwing reps excellent , swim out in block 17....the best !!! Ocean & pools.....amazing Staff in restaurants went over and above ...lots of food options . GREAT STAY... thanks again

Catalonia Bavaro Resort: Simply Beautiful

As a whole the resort was great!! Excellent amenities , great food with an unbelievable selection. Rooms where nice bars and service was impeccable. The on site golf course was amazing. The only flaw is how pushy they are with trying to sell the time share next store and the people they let on the property to sell their crafts. THEY DONT TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER!!! but that's trivial considering the paradise you are truly in. Love it!!

Grand Sirenis Tropical Suites: Dated.

We were given rooms in B block which we were told were the best. When we went to get our keys we were all now in J. J had a major problem with sewer smell & air that didn't work. 2 in our group had to insist on a change due to health concerns. New room was much better but we had to get help from our Transit rep because the front desk kept putting us off. pool bathroom is disgusting. They need someone there more often to clean & supply.. Food was decent & the wait staff very pleasant.

Sunscape Dominican Beach: Was okay.

The resort is self was good, although as we found out it has been sold. There are many repairs that needed to be done and the buffet was the same every night. Last year (2015 ) the buffet was much better. The grounds were kept cleaned and staff was very friendly.

Iberostar Selection Hacienda Dominicus: Paradise Island

Great landing amazing welcome at the Iberstar Dominicus Hadienda the room always inviting cozy and the service awesome the grounds with ponds, greenery amazing fruit trees and imported palm trees from Africa the birds dance of the peacock and Flamingos enchanting lite up path reminds me of the path in the wizard of Oz magical for all ages and for persons of all kind of different abilities the board walk to the ocean makes this sandy beach by the sea accessible for everyone. The food and restaura [... read more]nts 5 Stars and best of all the Staff are family amongst each other and with their guests! Very creative performances involving the children of guests I. Their stage performances! I was there for two weeks could have extended my stay for one month! I refer to this place as Paradise Island!

Alsol Del Mar: Fantastic vacation - loved the resort and the staf

The resort was wonderful, exactly what we expected. A quiet small resort, only two restaurants, the beach grill at lunch and the main restaurant, but the menu changed nightly. Infinity pool was fantastic, a small beach, lots of cabanas and lounges. Special shout out to Cappauccino for coordinating the entertainment, Julia and Yaniris our servers at the beach grill and Bety our night time maid. All staff were very helpful and responsive to all requests.

Bahia Principe Grand Bavaro: Beautiful Resort

What can I say, it was a wonderful vacation! The weather was great! This resort is beautiful, everything is well kept, a shuttle is available if you need a ride. Pools are clean, entertainment staff awesome, beach is beautiful, food & drinks great. This was my second trip here!!

Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada: Excellent Resort

Nothing but positives to say with the exception of cockroaches twice in the room. They are obviously dealing with this as we were advised that they would be fumigating our block of rooms one morning. Otherwise nothing but praise. The food in the buffet was fresh, varied and good quality. It was easy to get great service in the bars without waiting. The animation team offered lots of varied games if that's what you want and they were fun but not in your face if you weren't interested. Lots of lou [... read more]nge chairs on the beach, harder around the pool if you wanted sun. Good quality gym. Housekeeping was fine. Overall, a really nice resort and excellent value. Our best DR, we have been in DR 4 times.

Wyndham Alltra Samana: Over all for what I paid good deal

Food was good ,Rooms were okay little trouble with toilet no queen size bed was unable to push them together ,water was always available to many tree for me water a little weedy ,drinks were okay Servise very slow don't be in hurry for a drink

Cayo Levantado Resort: Tropical Paradise

I was pleasantly surprised. The grounds at the resort are immaculate. It is very lush, the beach is small but we never had a problem finding chairs in the sun or shade under the many palm trees. The drinks are very good, and the service is excellent. The hotel is spread out so there is a lot of walking, or if you prefer you can take a cart around the resort.

Barcelo Bavaro Beach: I have been to better

Although the resort was somewhat nice and you did have full access to the adjoining resorts, I found this resort very boring the entertainment was lacking, service was not up to par either. I have been to Punta Cana numerous times and this resort is the only one I would not return to. It did have some good qualities but the bad out weighed the good in my opinion. The beach was beautiful minus a lot of seaweed but I am going to chalk that up to the high winds during my visit. The rooms were sub p [... read more]ar as well as the food. Rooms were never clean upon us returning from a day at the beach around 5 pm. We had to ask for towels everyday as well. I will not be recommending this resort to anyone however I would HIGHLY recommend Trip Central as they were great throughout the whole booking process and answered all my questions even the stupid ones. 5 Stars for them.

Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort: Good for kids. Couples, not so much...

This hotel is dated and the rooms are due to be renovated. Which is just as well as the room we received was terrible. Dirty grout etc. We travelled as three friends and had booked one room with three beds. They initially gave us a horrible room with a two beds and a cot. It took a lot of arguing at reception and showing of other rooms before we got one of the renovated ones, which turned out to be a good room. Food was ok. Some nice dishes, some not so good, I have never seen so many ways to r [... read more]e-purpose a hot dog... the next day, the day after... Pools were good, if dated. Lobby bar was good, staff here were very good. Beach was excellent. This resort is not on the main Punta Cana beach, but the beach was beautiful. Shows and entertainment were very good. Resort had a small water park which was actually quite impressive for a hotel, but hardly used. Like it never quite worked as an attraction. Short walk from hotel, yes an actual walk, which might put off those who can't leave the buffets. Lots of Russians, German and Canadians. Lots of smoking. My sunglasses were stolen... If with kids, this resort would work. If a couple, look somewhere else.

Cayo Levantado Resort: Fantastic Holiday - Great Resort

My wife and I recently spent a wonderful week at Cayo Levantado with 3 other couples. We have been to the Dominican Republic many times in the past, a number of which were Bahia Principe resorts. I must say, this was my favourite spot. The island setting is incredible. We were all looking forward to a week of relaxation and "getting away from work", and the Cayo Levantado did just that. It allowed us to relax, have some good laughs (and a few beverages) and eat some excellent meals. The people  [... read more]there are very friendly, although there is a bit more of a language issue at this hotel than I have noticed at some of the other resorts that we have stayed at. We never had to search for someone to help us with directions, get a drink, etc. They were always there for us. The restaurants were very good, especially the Rodizio. I would highly recommend that you book this one a couple of times during your stay. The food was excellent, and plentiful. The Don Pablo is also a must during your stay. The morning buffet was very good, especially if you have the chefs make you up a special omelet or something else to your liking. Service by the staff was excellent. The grounds were beautiful. It didn't take you long to walk to anywhere, but if walking is not your thing, the tramcars were always there to take you to where you wanted to go. The paths were well kept and the greenery was immaculate. Lots to do around the beach. Kayaking and paddle boards are available every day (and included in the package). Lots of fun and a good workout if you have the desire to try to kayak around the entire island. We did the Zip Line adventure in Samana and it was excellent. It was my first time zip lining but the others that went had all done it before and said it was the best zip lining they had ever done. Good long runs (and many of them). The balance of the trip was very interesting as you got to see a lot of Dominican culture on your tour back to the resort. In speaking with other guests that we met, all of the tours (especially whale watching) were excellent value for your money. Overall, a VERY good trip and an excellent resort. People can always find fault in every place you stay, but there is very little to complain about at the Cayo Levantado. We will definitely look at coming back, and I have been preaching the virtues of this resort to friends and colleagues ever since I returned. Wish I was still there!!!