July 17, 2005
08-19-2005 8:47 pm
July 17, 2005
color=#0000ff> Iberostar Message BoardHola!
My husband and I just returned home from the Costa Dorada. We had a wonderful time. The weather was excellent considering the fact that Hurrican Dennis just blew by.
The pics that are posted on sites of the resort do not do it justice. However my husband took some fantastic pics which we will post.
The food was great considering that this is an all inclusive. There was plenty of fresh fruits, juices and vegetables at the buffet at all times. There were also 3 specialty restaurants; Brazilian, Mexican and Tropical. We ate at all 3 but really enjoyed the Mexican. All were air conditioned and served buffet appetizers and desserts. We advise taking an antacid prior to eating, as we got ill the second night, after that, we had no tummy troubles.
The staff were very friendly and helpful. A tip of a dollar or two here and there to our waiters, bartenders and maids, really goes a long way and is truly appreciated although not expected (since their pay wages are very low).
The beach was nice but very windy and the ocean was not as clear as some in the Carribean, however many people enjoyed the beach, just be careful not to get burned since you might not feel the intense heat of the sun. There are mosquitoes so bring spray. They are much smaller than the ones you get in the States, and you don't even know they get you until it's too late. We were also told that by taking Vitamin B complex keeps them at bay.
The pool is marvelous, always clean and refreshing, not too cold just right. It is so large that no matter how many people are swimming, there is lots of room and you can float on rafts. I suggest bringing a hot/cold cup so that your drinks stay cold by the pool. There is no need to bring beach towels since there are plenty and you may exchange wet ones for dry ones throughout the day. We had lovely lounges under palm huts, but make sure to get out by 8 or 9 am to ensure a spot under the huts, you'll need some shade during your first few days.
The evening shows put on by the Star Friends was entertaining albeit dated. Which probably explains why we were in bed by 9! The night time skies are breathtaking as you will see in the photos my husband took He suggests avoid using flash try using the natural lighting with a long exposure setting to get the best pix. Make sure you support the camera to keep it steady as not to blur the photo.
Our room was in bldg 7 overlooking the pool, it was a perfect position, nice and quiet yet close to everything. There was a hair dryer and I brought my straightening iron which uses the same voltage as the States. I would advise bringing a travel iron too. I did borough one from the hotel however there was a 2 hr time period in which to use and return. The shower was good and hot and plenty of pressure. There was a small fridge which was stocked with water, beer and sodas all free.
We did go to Puerto Plata for a half day, we stopped at some shops and a Rum Factory, Amber Museum and Fort. Just do not take a pic of the man with the Donkey unless you are prepared to pay! We did not go to the Jeep Safari or Ocean World, but we heard they were fun.
We went as a couple but many brought children who seemed to have a great time. I would recommend this resort to all; young and old alike.
We will definitely come back to the D.R. but perhaps visit Punta Cana next time. The country is beautiful with huge mountains and torquoise seas. The Dominicans are very charming and go out of their way to help you, just be sure to smile and make sure to take your digital camera!
Paraiso Del Mar Paraiso Beach Paraiso Lindo Paraiso Maya Quetzal Tucan Cozumel
Costa Dorada Bavaro Dominicana Hacienda Dominicus Varadero Bella Costa Tainos Daiquiri Punta Cana
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