I'm 20 years old, currently reading Psychology at university. I'm starting a photography course next...
I'm 20 years old, currently reading Psychology at university. I'm starting a photography course next year to pursue my hobby, but I have no idea as to a career. I just believe in being happy no matter what you do!
Member since:23.12.2006
Reviews:25
Members who trust:1
I went to the Dominican Republic last August when it was lovely and hot, but if you want to go this time of year, you'll have to be careful - that month is in the middle of the hurricane season.
When I arrived there, the Dominican had had a hurricane earlier that morning, and so there was still a lot of high wind, so the flight getting there was pretty bumpy. And still on the topic of hurricanes, we had to fly around one on the way back, so just be careful what time of year you decide to go.
The weather was always gorgeous. Very hot (if you like that sort of thing) and clear skies. It got a bit windy at times but it was a welcome breeze in the heat.
I stayed at the Gran Ventanahotel in Playa Dorada. Very nice hotel, and the staff were really friendly. The GranVentana has loads to offer, and the staff are always wanting to get people off their sunbeds and doing something like joining the activities.
Every morning there's a water-robics class in the main pool to music, vollyball on the beach and then water vollyball in the afternoon. The activites are really fun, and one time they had a Boys v Girls water balloon fight in the pool, which got every so slightly out of hand when people on sunbeds were taking balloons out of the pool and throwing them at people in the pool, but it was all good fun.
If there's one thing you have to do in the Domincan, you have to atleast have a look at the excursions. I would recommend the paradise island, saona island and ocean world trips. Paradise island is nice for getting away, but it's a lot of travelling by coach, yacht and speedboat. Saona island is on the Carribean side, and is a true paradise and your perfect idea of the carribean - white beaches, crystal clear waters and palm trees. The Ocean World trips offers experiences like no other. When I went, I held and swam with Sharks, played with a dolphin and fed Sting Rays, in the water with them.
There's entertainment every evening. Just depends what your taste is. They offer something for children every night, and there's always some form of competition happening. If staying at the hotel isn't quite your thing there's a nightclub and a casino on the complex.
My favourite thing about the Gran Ventana was everything was all inclusive. Yes, its more expensive when you come book the holiday, but when you get there, you never have to think about paying for ANYTHING. Just go up to one of the 4 bars and get a drink. Stroll into the restaurants and eat what you want and as much as you want.
There's 3 special restaurants that require booking, but they're really nice. Again, this is part of the all inclusive. There's an Ocean Grill Steak House, Italian Restaurant and a Carribean Restaurant. Children are allowed in, but there's a small dress code for each like no t-shirts.
At the hotel itself, they have a Bureau de Change, Internet facilties, a hairdressers, beauty parlour, shops, and a tourist desk. They have a shopping centre further down the road, but its all in the complex.
This place is definately a place for those looking to experience something different, but it also has a relaxing side to it. The action is by the pool, but the beach is relaxing. They do have a quiet pool, but I never went there, so I don't know what the access to the beach is like.
Sorry this has been a lengthy report, but I hope its helped anyone who wanted to know a bit about the Dominican
Honey for Ciao that's not a lengthy review! I rated you "Very Helpful" because in all fairness that was pretty outstanding for a first review. I'd finish this comment, but my baby is crying AGAIN...
Bollinger28 06.01.2007 17:27
Good insight into the hotel but you might want to add a bit more about Playa Dorada in general. Alternatively, you could always get Ciao to move your review to the existing Ciao category on the Gran Ventana Resort (which can be found at http://travel.ciao.co.uk/Gran_Ventana_Beach_Resort_Dominican_Republic__5109200). Lexy PS Welcome to Ciao.
NH Hotels, the hotel chain leader in Europe, with more than 300 hotels in 20 countries in Europe, Latin America and Africa. Enter into our web site and find the best available tariff at all times
Advantages: Beautiful place - Ideal for couples and families - very friendly place Disadvantages: Very quiet nightlife - not much to do in the evenings and evening entertainment not up to much
Advantages: Beautiful place - Ideal for couples and families - very friendly place Disadvantages: Very quiet nightlife - not much to do in the evenings and evening entertainment not up to much
Jan 6th, 2007
very helpful by (40%):
helpful by (60%):
