Dominican Republic: Iberostar (June 2001)


My adult family and I stayed at the Iberostar Punta Cana for 7 nights in mid-June 2001.

This all-inclusive resort is located along the stunning Bavaro Beach on the island's northeast coast, and just 15 miles from Punta Cana International Airport. This hotel has 427 units (334 standard rooms, 13 family-sized rooms, and 80 suites) spread over two four-story buildings. The property also features a spa (for an additional charge), buffet and a la carte restaurants, sports activities, entertainment, casino. Rooms have either two double beds or one king-size bed, balcony,  air conditioning, ceiling fan, hairdryer, TV, telephone, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, and complimentary mini-bar (including soft drinks, beers, and bottled water).

Restaurant options include Marinero La Marimba, Start Rock Café, La Cana Steak House, The Pagoda (Asian), La Sibila, Maria Bonita (Mexican), Higuey Buffet, La Hispaniola (Buffet)

This Iberostar complex consists of three separate hotel areas: Bavaro is the best of the three, and consequently, the most expensive. Punta Cana and Dominicana are equal. All three properties are adjacent to one another, and they share some facilities like the shopping street/plaza, disco, casino, and theatre. The Bavaro has casitas, and the other two properties do not. Guests of the Bavaro can eat anywhere on the three properties, but guests of the other two cannot eat at Bavaro. (As guests of the Punta Cana section, we tried to eat lunch at the Bavaro pool buffet, but we were asked to leave. The Bavaro guests wear different colored wristbands that distinguish them from Punta Cana and Dominicana guest.) I think the Bavaro had a Japanese restaurant and something else (maybe Mediterranean). You can walk around on their property, you just can't eat in their restaurants or drink at their bars (I think they have more top-shelf brands). Bavaro may also have 24-hour room service, while the other two do not.

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