Kevin

Hi folks, I need your opinion on what is the best all-inclusive in punta cana, dominican republic and why. Also, is it safe to take a cab into town and is there anything in town to do or see. Also open to suggestions on other destinations, thinking of playa del carmen in Mexico! Has anyone stayed at a Riu or Barcelo? Thanks for your suggestions. Kevin

Nat

Hi - I went to Punta Cana earlier this year and stayed at the Punta Cana Beach Resort. You'll want to stay away from there - the food was OK, but the service was not. Plus the ocean was not tolerable - the smell was awful. Shopping was at least an hour away, but was quite limited to expensive souvenirs. So, although I can't help you with the best place there, at least you won't waste your time with this hotel. Rgds.

Parrot Mom

We spent a week at the Catalonia Bavaro, a beautiful facility, gorgeous beach and humungus pool. There are side trips, but if are thinking of taking a taxi you will pay through the nose, because the union has killer prices. For shopping I would definetely recommend taking a trip into Santo Domingo where in the Mercado Modelo you will probably find some of the finest crafts. We are going back to Casa del Mar this winter, a smaller type resort (not as widely spread out), magnificent beach and the food was really good. For more info on resorts go to.../www.debbiesdominicantravel.com./

Dolli

Hi, my husband and I were in Punta Cana earlier this year. We stayed at the Melia Caribe Tropical and loved it. We will be returning soon. It is a very large resort, food and service was great. Punta Cana does not have a town, it is made up of mostly resorts. I have been to Cancun and loved it also but have since been to other places with palm tree lined beaches which is definately a more tropical feel. The Rui Palace in Playa del Carmen seems like a great choice. I love AI, just for the simplicity of it but have never let that keep me in the resort. Write to me directly if I can answer any specific questions. Good luck

S. Lacroix

Hi Kevin,<BR>I haven't been to Dominican Republic yet but I indend to in January. We are planning to stay at the Riu Palace Macao in Punta Cana. I understand Punta Cana has the best beach in the Dominican because it is on the Caribbean side. When it comes to Riu's I can tell you they deliver what they say, but please stick to the newer hotels. I tried the Riu Tequila in Playa Del Carmen. It was great. It's a 1 or 2 minute shuttle to the beach or you can walk it in 2 minutes (no more) Honestly. I've been to the Riu Yucatan (right next door to the Riu Tequila) and it is also a great hotel but a bit older. I only saw the Riu Palace in Playa Del Carmen when it was in the construction stage. I've been to Riu Tropical Bay in Negril Jamaica. It was beautiful and brand new. Not much shopping but the beach, the water the hotel the food was fabulous. I would also like to hear from someone who went to the Riu Palace Macao in Dominican. Not to be mistaken with the Maleo hotel in Dominican.Good Luck on your vacation.<BR><BR>Sue

Peter Wheeler

Spent the last two winters at Melia Tropical-Caribe Punta Cana.It is a wonderfull property with excellent food eleven restaurants on the property to choose from! Very clean , beautifull beach that has a barrier reef about one mile offshore which breaks down the ocean swell. Lots to do including scuba,snorkel,sailing,dancing,etc. The staff was extremely friendly, there is a small casino on property,huge pools biggest I've seen! You can walk for miles on the beach and find lots of native day shops,remember to barter everything! If they ask for $10 offer $5 and stick to it.There are many many all-inclusives in Punta Cana I can recommend any of the Melia properties you won't be disappointed!!!<BR>Also you won't want to leave so the cab is not going to be an option.