Vh- Gran Ventana Beach Resort, Puerto Plata

Last September I was planning mine and my boyfriends first holiday and we wanted it to be good as it was our first holiday away together and we had a whole year to pay for it so we didn't mind what we spent. After browsing the net for a good couple of hours and a lot of good reports from friends and relatives we decided on the Dominican Republic. I had a look at all the usual websites you check to get the most competitive price and I decided on booking with Portland direct who are a direct sell agent (that are part of the big Tui group including Thomson etc) After having a look through all the ... more

I have decided to write an opinion about this hotel complex as, to date, it is the most fantastic place I have ever stayed. I stayed at this complex in 1996 just after it had been built - back then it was immaculate. I have recently seen it on a holiday programme and it doesn't appeared to have changed much so I feel I am still able to give a very reliable opinion (or as reliable as my opinions get!). The complex itself is situated in the Playa Dorada in the north of the Dominican Republic - it is rated as a four star all-inclusive resort. The first thing that struck me when I arrived was the ... more

As with every holiday, me and my boyf spent a lot of time researching hotels and areas in the Dominican Republic before settling on the Gran Ventana Beach Resort in Playa Dorada. This seemed to be the most lively area with nice beaches, and the reviews for the hotel were all very good, so of course our expectations were high. And we weren't disappointed. After a smooth 8 hour flight and 20 minute comfortable transfer, we arrived at the Gran Ventana. We were the 1st drop-off point so we didn't have a chance to see any of the other hotels, but they are all located in 1 area called Playa Dorada ... more

The Fateful day came, three days before we were due to fly to the Dominican Republic and the Riu Meringue. I had saved for an whole year, this was to be my holiday of a life time. Due to stomach problems at the Meringue, all British guests were advised not to go. We were offered the grand Ventana Beach Resort. I was very suspicious, what if they were trying to palm me off on a cheaper more down market holiday, than the one I had bought and paid for? Thankfully, we excepted the offer, but went with dread. Upon our arrival, it was dark, Oh my gosh I thought, where on earth have they sent us? Bus ... more

My husband and I visited this hotel in Oct 2004 and we went back again in Oct 2005 with two of our daughters and their husbands. (The Dominican Republic is not as expensive as some of the other caribbean islands and was affordable for them.) The whole hotel is kept sparkling clean and the staff can not do enough to please. You can spend your days doing nothing but lazing on the beach or around the pool (the swim up bar is fun), or you can join in the fun. There is a very hard working entertainment team who arrange games and things to do all day long - we personally found this irritating but a ... more