Friday, November 14, 2008

Paradisus Palma Real

I just returned from a 3 night stay at Paradisus Palma Real in Punta Cana. The airport there is pretty cool with those giant thatched roof buildings. Getting a taxi can be a bit of a hassle, you are accosted as soon as you go outside but the ride is a short half hour. The entryway and lobby of the resort are gorgeous, the hotel centers around a giant courtyard looking right through to a massive pool and great beach. We had a garden view room and it was well appointed. The beds were very nice and the maid service was unbelievable considering it was three guys making a mess in there. We made sure to take good care of her when we left. Paradisus has a main buffet and five or six restaurants which require reservations and a bit of a dress code. Not having anything other than shorts and flip flops we were restricted to the buffet which suited us fine. There is a good selection with fresh fruit and juice. The dishes themselves could be a little off, not bad per se, just not what you expect but I think that's standard in the Caribbean. Overall the staff were very warm and considerate and if you can manage a little spanish they'll appreciate it. Tips here and there are also more than welcome. This all-inclusive is pretty much all couples as well as a few wedding parties. There were only two families with kids but maybe there's more during the peak season. I talked to a bride and groom from Ohio who raved about their stay for their wedding and honeymoon. A great place for a couple who wants a beautiful setting and a nice quiet vacation (except a show every night and a small casino almost nothing at night)

Peter Cacciari

No comments: