Have been reading comments on this area and have a few questions. First, is there any kind of shelling directly from the resort beaches or further off? Secondly, are American and foreign beer offered at the all-inclusives, particularly the Paradisus? Thirdly,, has anyone tried the restaurants away from the resorts, I suppose that means in the city? Lastly, how about the Barcelo Bavaro Palace? Any good? Thanks.

Go to...www.debbiesdominicantravel.com. there did not seem to be any peddlars on the beach.. I understand bothering tourists is now forbidden in the D.R.

Ed: I stayed at the Paradisus in early February. They had Presidente beer on tap but had Heineken and other beers (Corona at the Mexican restaurant) as well. Top shelf liquor is included here but ironically it is hidden (on a bottom shelf!) and you have to ask for it. Once I knew they had Stoli, Absolut and Cuervo Gold, I was set! If, by shelling, you mean peddling, I echo the sentiments of the last post. There is no one on the beach at or near the Paradisus trying to sell anything. It was quite a refreshing change from other caribbean beaches! They do have gift shacks along the beach but they are further down and are actually legitimate stores. We didn't try any restaurants beyond the resort mainly because there were 8 at the Paradisus and the variety was enough to keep us there. There is really no city of Punta Cana to speak of and you'll see that as you get shuttled from the airport to the resort. The only restaurant I heard people mentioning was Captain Kidd's down the beach. However, most of the people talking about this place were from other resorts where there was no lobster to be found. You can get it at the Paradisus at several of the restaurants so we didn't feel the need to venture out. If you have any other questions about the Paradisus, I'd be happy to help out as best I can.

Karen <BR> <BR>Thanks for the response and info. Actually I learned something new - another meaning for shelling. Actually, I was speaking of shelling for 'shells'. Are there any in or around the area? Thanks for beer info also. Are you at all familiar with Barcelo Bavaro Palace? Thanks <BR> <BR>ed

Ed: I too was unsure of exactly what you were asking with regards to shelling. I really don't recall any spectacular shells on the beach. Seaweed yes, though!

Stayed at the Palace last December. Walked the beach every day and didn't see much in the way of shells. If you stay at the Palace you can also use the restaurants at any of the other five resorts that make up the complex. All kinds of beer is offered but only local beers and liquors are included in the all inclusive price. Saw only one restaurant on the beach that was within one mile of the Palace. YOu have so many restaurants to choose from at the resort there is no need to leave the resort grounds. Another reason for not leaving the resort grounds - there is nothing to see. <BR>I posted an extensive review of the Palace at Debbiesdominicantravel website. <BR>If you can't locate that site let me know and I will e-mail it to you. Tried to post it on this forum but it didn't get done - reveiw must have been too long.