Barcelo Punta Cana

by
July 24th, 2009

AIRPORT - I always find airports nerve-wracking, but this is a small one. After you've passed through security and immigration, you'll come to the usual taxi drivers and people meeting travellers. Take a look around for a kiosk from your travel company - they'll tell you which bus you need to be on to get to your resort.
RESORT- There is an ATM machine in the lobby. I didn't use it, but saw several people obtain pesos.
- there's a paper at the concierge desk everyday that outlines the daily activities schedule. In typical tropical style, it's a guideline as opposed to a strict schedule, but if there's something you're interested in, you can ask about it.
- Lobby bar 2 has pool tables, but also a lot of other board type games. We enjoyed backgammon, chess, jenga in the evenings.
- the internet room has many computers that seem to work very well. While we didn't always have water in our room, the internet always seemed to be working (HA).
ROOMS- if you get to your room and there isn't a lock on the safe door, just go to the front desk and they'll give you one with the key.
- The fridge was stocked everyday; our maid was meticulous with her cleaning; our king size bed was very comfortable although my husband thought the pillows weren't big enough.
- in my opinion, the rooms are the only detraction at this resort. We had small maintenance issues and the bathroom fixtures are well worn and shabby.
- Late check out was possible for $10 per hour. It was so nice to leave our passports etc in the safe and to be able to freshen up before starting the journey home.
OFF RESORT - Zipline with Bavaro Runners was very well organized and safety conscious. It's also a good way to get off the resort and see some of the countryside - just be prepared for unbelievably bumpy roads! I live in Winnipeg, which is known for our crummy potholes, and this was SO much worse!
-There is a market outside the security gates to the left (about a 10 minute walk). Look for a line of flags and the "artisan" sign. The vendors are VERY aggressive, but it's a chance to buy t-shirts, etc. It was suggested taking a deep breath and doing some stretching exercises before plunging into the world of "cheap, cheap...hello lady,,, come into my shop lady"!! I don't like the pressure, but wanted to get the usual souvenirs, so went for it.
BEACH - some activities on the beach need to be booked ahead of time (for example, book today for tomorrow for a 1/2 hour catamaran ride with one of the water sport staff)
- there's many beds and lots of trees so it was always possible to find shade.
- the beach is AMAZING, and all other issues fade away while gazing on that sand and surf!
I don't know that we would return to this resort again, but for the price we paid it was a great holiday.