We along with our friends had the pleasure of vacationing at the Gran Bahia Principe Samana in the last WEEK OF March 2007. We flew from Toronto. The Flight was good and the Samana Airport was excellent. We had some of our baggage checked by security both on the way in and way out – security was very pleasant, asked a few questions and wished us a good vacation – could not have been more professional.

The bus ride from the airport is a ride that has many interesting sights along the way – it is under an hour with stops at the other Bahia – the driver was excellent at maneuvering the bus in very tight roads and driveways. You soon realize that the Samana region has wonderful scenery and landscape – different from either Puerto Plata or Punta Cana. To be sure do the Runners Day trip to see some really amazing country!!

Arriving at the Bahia you will be amazed at the beauty and quaintness of the resort. The rooms are by far 5 star++ - very clean very well outfitted and the view is fantastic – we were on the third floor facing the water – could not get a better room bar none. Sunsets were beautiful. Waking up from in your bed you can see the cruise ships early in the morning anchored a short distance off shore. The pool area is not large but well accommodates the resort – never crowded and very enjoyable. The activity co-ordinator J.C. (Juan Carlos) did a great job all week meeting people and getting everyone to participate in fun activities. The staff put great effort into the night shows and they were enjoyable. The taxi ride to the market in town is worth taking – prices are quite good.

The food was good. The buffet is your best bet with good selection for every meal. The a-lacarte restaurants did not suite our tastes and we are not picky eaters – just found that they were too bland and too strange. The house wine is really not drinkable – it has to be from a mix – about 10 minutes old – we stayed clear of it after one meal. If this is the worst complaint about any resort it is really a minor detail – and this was our only little gripe…

The drinks were good – great margaritas by SUPER EMMANUEL!!!

The beach area is small but sand is good. The surf during our week was rough and the waves take you by surprise – good fun – but know your limits – use good sense and leave all glasses and hats on your chair or the waves will claim them.

We missed whale season by a week or two. If you want a great spot to whale watch this would be it – just book at the right time – this was not a priority with us. The weather was a mix of sun cloud and some light showers – but good and warm into the 80’s – we got well tanned despite the cloudy periods. As I mentioned previously you must do the Samana Runners day trip. We had a fantastic time. Remember school supplies are always needed in the DR so we always take some with us. If you tell the Runners guide before you leave on your excursion that you want to stop at a school they will stop for you – but keep reminding them along the way – just so the don’t forget. The trucks are fairly comfortable and move fairly fast on the trip. The landscape is fantastic. They make a couple of stops to show some specific sights. At noon we stopped and had a great lunch at an Ocean side restaurant. Lots of Brugal and Cervesa. Our trip was cut a little short by a very intense afternoon thunder storm. The jeeps are open sided. We had some dollar store rain suits with us and we were the only dry people when we returned. Not a bad suggestion to take them along unless you don’t mind being drenched if a storm hits. Also make sure your digital camera is waterproof or has a water proof carry bag. We gave our suits to the guide and he said he would give them to his kids.

Just came back on February 16th after two wonderful weeks at he Gran Bahia Principe Samana. We too were concerned somewhat with some of the negative reviews. We thopught we would experience it for ourselves and get our own opinion. The brochures explained the resort and it sounded wonderful to us. Well, it was more than we expected. It was fantastic. The 4 1/2 star rating is not far off. The only things needed to put it at 4 1/2 or higher are the completion of the tennis court area and the bar staff getting a better knowledge of drinks. But let it be known that the bar staff were fantastic and made every effort to accomodate our requests. All the staff from upper management to front desk personell to waiters to bar staff to service personall to maids were outstanding. The quality of the service was first class and the food was great. We found the buffet to have a great selection of items. It was most enjoyable to have the quartet playing and singing at our table on a number of different evenings. We had the opportunity to eat in the two specialty restaurants at least 3 times each and never experienced a bad meal. It was a nice change. The Animation Team (Activiities Group) headed by Noris were great and ensured we had lots of activities to partake in and enjoyed their nightly show at 9:45 each evening. And what can we say about the very talented "Kiki". He provided us with so many funny moments. The send off (on our leaving to return home) was simply very much appreciated and a wonderful jesture. We joined in the competition at Darts, Horseshoes, Bocce Ball, Oympics, Bingo and even the exercises ( in the pool and on the beach). The fruits of our labour (Fun) from winning some of these events came home with us. There was never a dull moment and if you wanted peace and quiet to read or sunbath there was every opportunity for you to do so. It is true there are no water sports here but it was so nice to have the peace and quiet. This is definitely not a resort for children. There is the constant sight of staff cleaning, sweeping, watering plants, working in the gardens. They were making every effort to ensure everything was constantly clean and looking attractive. The beach area is small but I think adequate for this 110 room quaint hotel. We found the beach to be most enjoyable and the ocean very refreshing. The ocean was like a bath ( so warm)- most days it was calm and on other occasions we did some body surfing in the larger waves which arose. The pool (only pool) is a bit small but just the same was good. The pool area was always busy. The beach area could stand to have most lounges as they were taken very quickly in the morning. As for the room- As mentioned by someone else it rates a 5+- beautifully maintained, four poster King Size Bed which was just right and the prioxity to the ocean with that view were a highlighjt of every day. The sunrises and sunsets were a delight. You never had to worry as the resort had security at the front gate. We watched the Super Bowl in the Piano Bar area and had a great time and sat out until 2:00 am. Remember the Gran Bahia Principe Samana is all-inclusive so we drank, ate, sitting in shorts watching the game and after doing the same under the stars. We experienced sunny weather every day with temperatures in the mid 80's. The area is so beautiful with lush vegetation. You should keep in mind that this area is not developed and most of the people are not as fortunate as us. We brought pencils and candy etc from home and gave it to the children in the neighboring towns.

We went on excursions to Cayo Levant , the town of Samana (about 1/2 hr away), Los Terranas, Jeep Safari Experience and the Catamaran. We had fun on all of them. Could say so much more in a positive way but space is limited. We would like to express our thanks to the management at Gran Bahia Principle Samana , who made themselves always available to us, and joined in many of the activities like the parties at poolside. We were all introduced to the complete management staff at poolside during one of these luncheon parties.They were also suttlely present to ensure all facets of hotels were being run in a efficient manner with quality and service being given the utmost attention. We met and enjoyed the company of many new friends who also made our stay most enjoyable. As has been mentioned before this is a "Diamond in the Rough". If you get the opportunity to experience it, do so soon, it is going to be a very popular destination as time goes by. We would definitely without hesitatation recommend the GRAN BAHIA PRINCIPE SAMANA. We have already done so and forwarded pictures to our travel agent to show prospective clients the beautyand warmth of this part of the world

As mentioned before Samana is just opening up to large volumes of tourists so many things you can get in Cancun or Puerto Vallarta you wont be able to get here(no Wal-Mart or other large stores), but that was the draw for us.

The staff I'm sure is still in training, but they try their best. Most senior staff speak some English but the rest are more than willing to let you practice broken Spanish when you need something. Take a small Spanish dictionary with you, it will be a great help.

If you are adventurous you can go into Samana and usually around the markets (not that many) there are guys that will get you anything you want, From renting a 4X4 and driving you through the jungle to finding you the alcohol you want as well as any other request. Very friendly.

WARNING - There seems to be a cam at the security check in Puerto Plata for those passengers going onto Samana. The guards target women and search their purses, then one of them distracts you by getting you to work your camera or explain any medication you have (even signing to my wife) as the other takes cash out of the wallet. One lady near the end of the line caught him pocketing $100 but when she complained they all kept saying "No problem" and none of them would help her. Once she told others on the flight about it they started checking and others found they were missing money as well. So don't keep you cash in your wallet, or let them search it then ask for it back before you let them continue

Flight - From Vancouver about 6 hours there with a stop in Puerto Plata and 8 hours coming home with no stops from Samana. Air Transat tries to get as many people on as possible so if you are a large person (over 6'2") you will find economy cramped. It may be worth it to pay the extra $150 per person per leg to upgrade to first class.

Airport - Its still going through growing pains as we almost had to take a 4 hour ride to Puerto Plata for our flight as the radar system went down. They managed to get it fixed in time though and we were spared that trip. Still its about an hour drive from resort to airport. There is now a small snack bar in the secure check in area (sandwiches, chips, pop all expensive).

Rooms - If you don't like noise request a room near the gazebo as they set up a theatre every night from 9-11 and they play the music LOUD (as they do in all of the D.R.). Otherwise the rooms on the fourth floor have only a small window and no balcony. The rest are generally the same. Small gifts are really appreciated as well as money, but you don't have to feel obligated to tip. All staff work 6 days a week, 14 hour days with a break for lunch. They all have uniforms which I'm sure are supplied but they can use things like used footwear as well for there own time.

Beach - The beach is small but they keep it clean and its guarded so no locals are allowed on. The stairs at the far end lead to a private house.

Food - Buffet style, but quite good. Its not a huge selection but just as good or better than when we stayed at Barceló last year. They do run out of the odd thing now and then at the end of the service sometimes, like syrup for the pancakes.

Restaurants - They are both open now. One is seafood the other French. If you want to go book as soon as you can, like right after you check in as the best times are snapped up fast. They were OK but not spectacular. The outside trips -

Playa La Rincon is not to be missed. It is rated one of the top 10 beaches in the world and it doesn't disappoint. About 5 miles of white sand beach with beautiful turquoise water. The far end on the right, over the hill by the restaurants, has larger waves. Stuff to buy, 2 places to eat and drink and souvenirs to buy. $70 return for your own taxi that stays with you all day.
El Limon is not for those with fear of heights. The trail goes on the side of the mountain and can be very intimidating.
Cayo Laventado - the resort side is available if you take the free shuttle provided by the resort. It takes 5 per trip and goes twice per day. See the front desk to book your spot. If you take the other water taxis you wont be allowed on the resort end of the island even if you show your bracelet.

Advertised by Airtransat at 4 ½ stars, 103 rooms but we suspect only 70 or so were ready. Travellers – Two parents and two 16 year olds in two separate rooms. Not yet 4 ½ stars but potential is there.

The Samana Penninsula is truly a beautiful place, (Extra rain keeps the area lush but happens almost everyday) The area has not yet been totally commercialized so you do not have resort after resort on the beach along with all the Time Share reps and vendors but it is not completely ready for tourists yet and this may or may not be what you are looking for. Locals are very accommodating and you will interact with them more in Samana, than in other areas in the Dominican Republic.

We booked with Airtransat (Itravel2000.com) and paid the premium to get the “Royal Golden premium service”. Other than we had a great room and view, this was probably a waste of money. We had recently traveled to the Mayan Rivieria and stayed at Gran Bahia Akumal (Royal Golden) (See our separate review) as well and thought we would have similar perks and services but this was not the case so don’t expect similar “Gran Bahia service and amenities”.

Two days before we were to depart, we were given a “courtesy advisor” that the watersports, second pool and tennis courts which were advertised were not available, but this actually means, Airtransat makes you aware but you cannot change your location or do anything about it, as it is simply a “courtesy”.

Airport – The Samana airport has just opened and does not have any food, beverages or duty free but it saves a lot of time rather than traveling from Puerta Plata (4 hour bus ride) but you need to watch where your flight lands as some flights are still going to Puerta Plata.

Rooms – The picture in the Airtransat brochure is not correct, the room is actually much nicer, look at the picture for the Cayo Levantado resort’s room as it also has the four poster beds and balconies. The shower water pressure and temperature were great – best we have ever had in the Dominican. The view was spectacular and we believe that this is a Royal Golden perk as others mentioned bad rooms and views. Maid service, towels and mini-bar were all done reasonably well each day we would certainly say the rooms were 5 star. Maids appreciate little things from Canada, like candy, makeup, children’s clothing and anything with Canada on it. (Go to the Dollar stores and stock up on a few things to leave something each day) Airtransat advertises a separate check-in but there is only one reception area and no special perks for Royal Golden. Found that changing currency was difficult at reception, they had very little money and often only large bills 1000 peso notes so take some small US bills for tipping, etc.

Tennis Courts – Not open (Courtesy advisory) and they look like they will be repaired some day but not soon.

Beach – There is a very very small beach – don’t plan on walking on the beach as there is nowhere to walk to. The waves and surf are there each day and may be more than you are hoping for but our 16 year olds like the waves. Very disappointed though, that there were no water sports at all. “This was part of the courtesy advisory from Airtransat”. On the bright side there are no vendors or time-share reps. However, on windy days (happens a lot in this area), the waves pretty much took over the beach. No beach bar, or pop, water or anything on the beach.

Pool – Very small and we understand that there is a second one but this was not open, also part of the “courtesy advisory”, clean and great chairs. Pool bar is not swim up and the bartenders are generally there most of the day, fully stocked however, their skills are limited but they are pleasant and try. They are also willing to let guests help them make drinks so this can be fun as well.

Staff and Service – During the week we were there, we noticed great improvement in the staff and service and they are truly trying but they are very inexperienced and 3 star at best.

Food – A la carte, (two but only one is offered each day) are very okay, gourmet food so the portions are very small. Men and teens will likely leave hungry. Choices are limited but should satisfy most people. The Buffet is really standard, nothing special and very small. They have one chef who handles the grill and pasta bar and it gets quite backed up but is generally pretty good. (Not 4 star yet)

Bar Service - Capuccino is listed in the menus but not offered, in fact coffee and tea are hard to get unless it is at meal time. Drinks are not generally good unless they are basic drinks and premium liquor often comes with a surcharge, small but a surcharge all the same – Bailey’s was 90 pesos or $ 3 US for a LARGE glass. (In Mexico this was included so watch your package) Smirnoff Vodka was included but you needed to request it and often point and be insistent, but Absolut came with a surcharge. Advertised a separate lounge for Royal Golden but there wasn’t one. In Mexico, this is part of the separate check-in, concierge, etc. and serves premium alcohol, etc. –

Excursions –
Jeep Safari - Traveled to a local farm for a tour of the plantation and got to meet and greet with the locals, lots of children along the way, take candies, school supplies, etc (They are not familiar with Canada so Canadian items are great) for the kids as they are really appreciate them and are obviously very poor. A school tour usually happens but they were off for Christmas break so that was not included. A typical Dominican lunch is provided at a ranch and is very good with reasonable bathroom facilities. A back road trek and a dip in a waterfall (not El Limon) follow in the afternoon. (Would recommend this tour – ask for Edward)

Cayo Levantado – Beach Day - $ 55 – includes transportation but you can get free or cheap boat transport from the Bay – take a taxi to the bay. Includes the beach but it is a local beach and free – locals will charge you for chairs and there are vendors who will try to sell their wares. (Happens with our without a tour) Lunch, beer and pop is also included but you could simply go to the island and buy lunch from a vendor – prices are really reasonable. Pina Colada’s are sold in pineapples and Coco Loco’s are sold in coconuts for about $ 3.00 (watch the rum) and they are not included. We actually bought seafood for lunch (extra charge but worth it) We enjoyed our trip but were very disappointed that when we asked the Airtransat rep (Valerie and Sheila) about going to the island on our own was not allowed as the resort owned the island now. Some guests thought that the excursion allowed you into the resort for the day but that is not the case – you are on the public beach which is very beautiful but available on your own for much less money.

Shopping in Las Terenas - $ 25 per person for half day, and a cab would be $ 25 each way and you would have control of your time. Shopping is okay but mostly European vendors with fixed pricing, very little bartering. 2 hours should be sufficient but it is about a one hour drive to get there so you should really want to shop. Very near Gran Bahia El Portillo but this looked like it was under major construction.

Horseback Riding to El Limon Waterfalll – On its own or packaged with shopping and lunch, this is truly an unbelievable experience. It was very very wet and quite scary in the mountains. Each horse has its own guide to help you and you NEED them. Very nervous and not sure why this was still offered by Airtransat considering the weather but we all arrived safe and sound. Walking and climbing is also required so dress appropriately and be fairly physically fit. Great interaction with locals but not something we would do again…

Well, we just got back yesterday from a week at the GBP Samana. Nearly everything you may have heard is true (in looking at other review sites), but let's see if we can sumarise!

First, the location. Beautiful. On a bluff overlooking the Bay with the south coast of the bay in full view and the odd cruise ship passing by your window. One hour bus travel from the new Samana Airport - beware: don't expect YVR or YYZ... it's new, airy, air conditioned but has NO services. No coffee, bar, water, shops or anything. It'll be officially opened by the President of the DR in January sometime, so by then I'm sure these facilities will have been added. So if you want to buy Duty Free etc etc...do it before you get to Samana!

The drive to the hotel is really nice - the whole area is lush and 'rustic'. Don't worry about the driving habits.....just close you eyes from time to time and take a deep breath. I strongly advise against renting a car. Not worth the stress...after all, you're on vacation!!

The Hotel. Brand new renovations mean good and bad - good that everything's sparkling new (such as virgin towels, virgin decor etc etc) - bad, well, everything's new!!! So there are teething problems with the rooms - but we found nothing unsurmountable. The toilet went in to perpetual motion on it's first flush....fixed that in a minute; then it "whined" every time it filled up - partially fixed that; towel replenishment was somewhat haphazard for the first few days - then that fixed itself. Little things that didn't detract from the good things. The room itself had full a/c (beware - the a/c only works when you close the balcony doors - they have a magnetic sensor on them that activates it...took me a day to figger that one out!). Large and airy rooms with nice bedcoverings - BIG four-poster King Bed - not the quasi-King you often get. Great balcony with a view to die for. There's a TV - though we never even turned it on as that's not why we were there!. Also a Jacuzzi bathtub - some people had trouble with theirs, but ours was fine. 90% of the time the water was hot, but sometimes it ran tepid.

Food etc: Good selection in the buffet - breakfast has all you could want; lunch and dinner had a good selection of Mexican/Western dishes. We actually had the full Turkey dinner on Xmas eve - and they realy really do try their best to please....but remember it's Island Time wih a vengeance! There are two a la carte's - Le Gourmet and Pescadores. You must book these. They really do need to get a Maitre d' as often the booking arrangements were, well, haphazard to say the least. But over the week, things improved and I've no doubt these improvements will continue. Just needs a bit of organisation. As usual, here are always guests who think they can organise everyone else. We just sat and stared at how totally rude many of them were. Several of us from the BC area just laughed and it was a great topic of conversatoin round the pool the next day!

Hotel facilities. Nice pool area, small beach area, nothing much for the kids....some reviews suggested it should be a "couples/adults" location and I'd second that. If you want all the water spoorts, kids activiies, kids pool then this is not the place. If you want a classy (well - it's getting there), peaceful (already there), uncomplicaed vacation, it's just fine. Someone asked about security? Don't worry. There is all night security in the grounds, and the whole hotel is gated with entry guards. In-room safes are available and I never saw or heard of any concerns on that front. The staff are good, but they are inexperienced for the most part. But they learn quickly. English is only spoken by the more senior staff - your regular waiters, room maids and so forth don't have any fluency. So take your Spanish phrase book with you! We went Air Transat and the reps were at the hotel every day and helped out with all the teething problems. There were floor shows most night round the pool, and being Xmas week, there was some disco/dancing. The shows were done by local troupes, and entertaining - maybe not Vegas, but Samana is not Vegas, thank goodness!

Typical anecdote: We asked for a Margarita on Day 2 from the bar. The waiter checked the menu, selected the ingredients from the menu description, and mixed them. I said "Could we have salt (sal) round the rim, please?" Look of confusion - so tried sign language. After several discussions with the other waiters, and several attempts, we ended up with a spoonful of salt being put into the Margarita. Made for an interesting drink. By Day 3, we had solved the problem - and our Margaritas came with all the right stuff in the right place! By the way, "Brand" licors are not in the inclusive prices. So you get your licor from a range of generic bottles. Brandy, Scotch, Rum etc etc are all local "Normandy" branded bottles. I suspect this is a generic alchohol with appropriate colourings and flavourings added. So drinking them neat was not fun....but when mixed in a cocktail - it was fine.

Summary? Beautiful hotel, beautiful location, plenty food, lovely rooms and views, very pleasant staff, nice pool area for swimming and lounging (but could get crowded), small but nice beach good for bodysurfing. NO timeshares; NO vendors.