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| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
Grand Paradise Playa Dorada: Grand Paradise Playa Dorada Reviews |
| Total User's Score 4.2
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By Occasion... |
By Traveller Type... |
| Based on 19 reviews |
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| At the base of a mountain, overlooking the lovely bay of Playa Dorada Beach. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
User Rating:
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Debbie >
23 contribution(s) |
| Apr, 2010
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| The trip from Santo Domingo took us 4 hours including a stop allowing for a coffee and a piece of fried chicken. I travel with my chauffer Miguel who, as some kind of father, drops me off at the entrance of Grand Paradise Playa Dorada. La Reina (the queen) has arrived in Puerto Plata for a 3-night stay. |
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| Hotel: |
Check in:
Upon arrival I am being courteous greeted by bellboy Sandy who takes my suitcase and sets it aside. I walk to the front desk to hand over my reservation, passport and business card. After some undefined “behind the counter” action I am handed my documents and being accompanied, by a friendly female member of staff, to an office behind a glass wall. I am kindly offered a seat and a drink. A different lady, who looks more likes a “jefe”, asks me for my documents and leaves. I feel that something is up. It does not take long before the lady returns with some kind of fill-in form and a silver wristband, which I surely will need to eat, drink and enjoy the other All-inclusive services.
It is only 2.15 in the afternoon, meaning that I arrived early. My room will be available in about an hour and the first lady takes me to the restaurants, which are located near the beach and where, according to her knowledge, free Wi-Fi internet access is being offered. Not so! More about this later.
While walking back to the reception to see if my room is ready, I notice that most of the guest are walking around with a red wristband and not a silver one like mine! At the reception I quietly ask what the difference might be between the two. It turns out that silver means VIP. Now I realized why the first part of the check-in procedure felt so different.
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| Room: |
Sandy, the friendly and laughing bellboy, accompanies me to my room# 9201 and tells me that it is excellent. He is right!
The white/beige/turquoise-decorated room on the first floor with an ocean view turns out to be more like an apartment. A living area, a dining table for two persons, a kitchenette and a refrigerator below the kitchens counter, which is stocked with a Coke, Sprite, a large bottle of water and holds an ice cube tray. A door connects this room with the one next door, a really nice feature for parents traveling with kids.
The separate bedroom has a huge king-size bed and as usual I conduct my “how clean is this room test” and conclude that the maid also cleans underneath the bed.
The balcony looks out over the beach and the turquoise sea, has an area with a table and two chairs and is also super clean. Too bad: the balcony door cannot be locked. I will mention this to the reception.
Bathrooms always are prone to problems and I wonder myself: “who is actually taking a bath while on vacation?” The modern walk-in showers, which take up less space give the bathrooms a much cleaner look and make them look less dated. Anyway, this bathroom has a tub with a shower curtain that hangs slightly uneasy over the edge. The camarera found a creative solution by folding the shower curtain in a way she also does occasionally with the toilet paper or towels.
Although this should not be necessary in the year 2010, I do appreciate the effort.
The hose of the shower itself is kind of short and the water flow is being hampered once you take the shower of the wall in order to use it by hand.
All in all the most important thing is that the bathroom is clean and large enough for one person.
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| Service: |
Soon after checking out my room and taking some pictures, someone knocks on the door. It turns out to be a visit by the room service department. A lady carries an extra large plate with a variety of fresh fruits while the gentleman holds two plates and silverware. She put the surprise on the table and whispers to her colleague that I am here by myself and therefore just need one plate. As soon as the friendly people leave the room I “attack” the succulent precut pieces of melon. Delicious! This should not come as a big surprise knowing that every seed you drop in the fertile tropical soil of the DR will grow into a tree.
I walk to the reception to tell them my balcony door does not closes. The door has been fixed during my stay.
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| Internet: |
Always a challenge …
It is too bad that in nearly every resort I visit, I have to search for a quiet spot WITH a Wi-Fi Internet connection, let alone a power outlet for recharging my laptop battery. In this regard there is a lot left to be done for the hotel chains anno 2010, the year where everyone, young and old, walks around with Iphones and blackberries.
In contradiction to what the lady at the reception desk told me, it seems to me that guests at the Grand Paradise Playa Dorada do need to pay for Internet, which I believe is a bad thing. A self-respecting hotel should offer Internet as a free service.
A Colombian staff member who sees me getting irritate while walking around trying to find Wi-Fi, tells me that normally the costs for Internet are 3 USD for 30 minutes. I say normally because it turns out that there are two available WiFi connections named GPSD and GParadise. The latest you can find near the lobby and shop and…. surprise, surprise, this connection is free and super fast! It did cost me two hours to be able to get to work. Unfortunately the next day the Internet in the whole region was down.
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| Grounds: |
| The hotel rooms are located in one of approximately 15 white buildings, all with four floors and positioned around the pool. They are connected by perfectly maintained walkways cutting through beautiful gardens. The beach, or rather the two beaches of Grand Paradise Playa Dorada are gorgeous, overlooking a bay with again abundant vegetation. I spot various type of birds, even a hummingbird! |
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| Restaurants |
Drinks:
Paradise Playa Dorada also waters down the white wine, which is being confirmed by various staff members after I make a joke about it. Watering down wine is becoming a trend in all-inclusive resorts. You are better off drinking vino tinto, which is not bad at all. The choice of national brand drinks is sufficient. The resort only has one bar on the beach, Sinners, if you want a coffee you need to go to the restaurant.
Restaurants:
I have been able to discover three restaurants in Grand Paradise Playa Dorada. The buffet restaurant, the grill restaurant on the beach and the Italian restaurant with air co near the pool. During my stay only one of the two restaurants opened. One day the grill, the other day the Italian restaurant. The available choices at the buffet restaurant are ample. Everything looks fresh and both breakfast and dinner tasted fine.
It is a shame that the buffet staff does not change the table clothes more often. I have to put my plate on top of the food stains of my predecessors.
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| Activities: |
| The best prices on excursions you will find with Carlos, on the Grand Paradise Playa Dorada beach. Carlos is being mentioned in various reviews and I have met some of his very satisfied customers. For more “tailor-made” tours and transfers I recommend Asaira Tours operated by the very dependable Martin Espinal: www.isairatours.com |
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| Conclusion: |
| An excellent hotel with a very friendly and accommodating staff. I can recommend it! |
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| Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/debbiescrr/sets/72157623740830774/ |
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| Finest, finest in all Puerto Plata, friendly family oriented. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Ann II >
2 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2010 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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EXCURSIONS: OK regarding this one thing I don't agree is the scare tactics of the tour operators. They tell everyone upon arrival to go to the info meeting. Great go and get much of the information.BUT!!! They tell you that you should not buy anything from the the sales people on the beach regarding excursions. BULL!! the excursions are the same and at the half of the cost if not even less. If you do not go on the excursion due to weather you do get your money back. They are telliing you that they take a deposit and then disappear. Well if this is the case these sales people would never be there think about it. You check it out for yourself.There are many people who stay at the resort for long periods of time as the sales person who is selling the excursion if you can speak to another person who had gone.
Re: Insurance well all the excursions are on government property so all these other places have to pay insurance as well. Think also you have your own insurance I'm sure so no matter what your covered. They tell you this to put fear in you.
The best excursion for your buck and the most exciting one that the hotel does not sell because they say it is dangerous is the falls. You see the country side way of life, mama's kitchen, how petrafied wood carviing done, have lunch in the mountain, walk through the streams to the cave of falls, climb the waterfalls with the help of perfessional guides, taste sugar cane and much more for as little as 45-50 US if you have a group even cheaper. Or book more then one excursion. You are supplied with a life jacket helmet and the cost of $2 water shoes. So if your planning to go bring your own water shoes and you don't have to rent theirs. If you go the guide will put markings on his face this is from a clay that is formed byt the natural walls of the falls. This is like a clay mask (ladies pick a pice up and ask them and bring a piece home) it is worth a mint here if you have it done in a spa.
Also if your going they will tell you to buy candy but it is better if you bring pencils, pens, crayons, balls etc to give to the children. As you go through the towns in the mountains children run after the trucks for these items candy is ok but they get to much from all the trucks going to the falls. Dentist are expensive. More things needed even such as little toothpaste or brushes even clothing anything you think of besides candy even the raincoats from the dollar store. Just for your info.
Vendors anyone not knowing how it works there offer 1/3 of what they are asking they will try to get the most out of you as they can. Yes there are scammers (anywhere) you go. Go with your gut or talk to people first some will recommend some who have been honest to them. When you offer walk away ans say that is all your offering they will call you back. If you don't want to bargain give them your last price and walk away. It gets to be to much for som |
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| Your Arrival |
Staff very friendly and if you have a problem they are more then happy to help you out. Though many people use the angry approach because yes they are tired from there journey. Although the staff will help out the best they can remember not everyone knows the circumstances for different issues but your vacation is what you make of it as well. If the problem is not able to be resolved right at that moment it does get taken care of by the following day.
I feel they do there best and that it is acceptable.
If anyone is not sure of anything make sure you check with you travel agency for anything even if you think it is so minor it could make a big difference how you vacation starts out, before arriving and then blaming the hotel or staff. Re-upgrades etc. Ask what kind of room your getting not all views are the same.
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| Rooms |
| Very clean and comfortable. Has a iron borad, iron mini fridge with some pop and water refreshed daily if you need more just ask. They will supply it. Has a blow dryer, TV, coffee maker and a balcony so you can have your coffee in the morning enjoying the beauiful weather even if raining at times. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
Restaurants: Food is plentiful if not liking something there is always something else. Food is very good especially the Eden that is my most favorite if you want to be waited on and served with perfection. Very friendly and the atmosphere is just breathtaking like sitting right on the beach in the open air listening to the waves of the beach, watching the stars.
Micheal Angelos: This has not been my most favorite but is good and located indoors surrounded by the pool. Another nice choice for a change of the buffet again being waited on to perfection.
Buffet again has much assortment.
Downfall of the Eden and Buffet if it is raining and raining hard you may get a bit wet it is open to the outdoors. They need to have some sort of barrier to open and close if this is to happen. But is sure makes it interesting at times. Again no place is perfect so make it what you want. Under different circumstances the staff did their best to make it comfortable for you and serve you the best they can. Sure once again you may get a waiter or waitress having a bad day as well all do. Just give them a smile and they will respond back.
Food temperature in the 2 al la cartes you get hot plates and food in the buffet sometimes the food is not as hot as you may like it the steamers are hot but sometimes being outside prevents the food from staying hot. Again much assortment of everything. Awesome!!!!
IT IS SAD TO SEE SO MUCH WASTE. You see people take so much food on their plates and leave more then half. This is an embarassment to any of our cultures and countries never mind the way it makes the staff feel when they may not even had much to eat themselves and have to remove a full plate of food to throw it in the garbage. It it not much of a deal to take a little and go back to get more if still hungry. YES WE PAID ALL INCLUSIVE BUT IT DOES NOT INTITLE PEOPLE TO ABUSE THE BENEFITS. Maybe if people thought twice about it it may not cost as much as it does to travel all inclusive. If you think it is ok to do this and not think twice you have NO! compassion for people in general. Just my feeling and comment as this trip I had seen so much of it.
All 3 bars staff very friendly and 1 of the bars has expresso, cappachino machine but needs one more at the sinners bar. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
I never used the pool but the surroundings of the pool are beautiful, clean and a swim up bar. The grounds of the hotel well kept very clean just be careful when the ground is wet tiles get slippery. You always see them cleaning and looking after the grounds. The beach is cleaned every morning. At
Well as everyone knows there are people who like to make a vacation a little difficult for other vacationers in regards to stealing towels off beach chairs. If you are going to save your lounger on the beach you should bring an old towel to put on it. Reason if you lose your towel or if someone steals it due to them losing their own eg: miss placing it after getting so drunk you are the one who will have to pay for it. They do tell you upon arrival if you lose it you pay. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
Kids Club: Well let me tell you this is soooo much fun for the kids. You will be able to trust Sweety with all the needs of the children. She is TERRIFIC!!! with kids. They are kept busy and even put a talent show on Sat nights at the beach party.
Sweety is also part of the entertainment in the evening getting people up to dance.
Now also Cheeky they spelt his name differently (Chiky)He also was an outstanding part of the activity group. He included everyone and made it fun.
Over all the activity group needs improvement but you still had some fun with them.
Entertainment in the evening was good an assortment also had music at the front entrance as well at the pool bar. Then had different shows, magic show, kareokee.
Would like to see the gym open it's NOT!
The water sports and staff are great. Always friendly and helpful. The water sports are included but good to give them tips if you go on the catermeran as they do not get paid much and live mostly on tips. See Frank and El great guys!! |
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| Other Comments |
Casino is open
Regarding tipping it is not necessary but remember even here waiters/waitress make less money due to tips well it is the same in the Dominican.You get good service then tip if you want to wait to see who serves you without tipping first then tip at the end of your vacation. Or if you don't want to tip give them a gift. Take things to give instead of giving money like kids clothing, shoes, toothpaste, school stuff deordarant etc expensive for them and is appreciated.
Even cooks you can see they work hard sweating behind the bbq grill or open fire. |
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| travel |
| Don't take the taxi's in front of the hotel go in front of the plaza they will 200-250 peso's max 9$-10$to take you to puerto plata instead of 40$US they are scammers. |
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| Rooms are beautiful and beds very comfortable, neat clean. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Ann II >
2 contribution(s) Canada |
| Dec, 2009 | Leisure | With Spouse/Partner
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| OVERALL; I feel overall you will be very satisfied with this hotel and staff. If your 1yr old or 100 yrs old they make it what you want it to be. If you want quiet and not to be bothered one side of the hotel at the beach is just this and if you want excitement, games, music and a little bit of craziness then join the other side of the hotel at the beach. So there is something for everyone. |
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| Rooms: |
| Rooms are beautiful and beds very comfortable, neat clean. They have a blow dryer, iron and ironing board and well stocked in your needs. |
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| Restaurants and Bars: |
| The buffet Hibbicus is great with a wide variety of foods don't like one there is much to choose from. The Eden a' la'carte is wonderful very nice evening for dinner. Service outstanding and food delicious. Micheal Angelo's a'la carte I do not care for, this is only my opinion some people do like it. Although service and atmosphere is wonderful food needs improvement. The eden and hibicus is right on the beach so your looking out over the water while eating, could not get any better. Even one evening all the tables were put right on the beach and enjoyed a BBQ with your feet in the sand and candlelight. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds: |
| The beach well no words to discribe it, this is I feel the most beautiful beach in Puerto Plata. Very clean sandy sparkling clean water. With a variety things to do watersports right on hand with outstanding service. cayaking, windsurfing, catamaran, snorkeling all right there not having to go far away. Pool with swim up bar everything is right at hand, even a beach bar. Grounds well kept beautiful. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel: |
I have been several times to Puerto Plata and this time did not go on tours this time. The tours are available though and well worth it especially the falls one (Jeep Safari) this is the most bang for your buck to see country side, way of living and the beauty of the mountain and climb the water falls in the cave of the mountain. If you plan to go on a tour like this it is most times people do not know that children run after the vehicles expecting candy because people have not brought other items. If you plan ahead bring school supplies, pen, pencils, crayons, coloring books, hair clips, toothpaste etc instead of candy since it is difficult to go to dentist and these items are needed more.
The activities in the day were improving but was lacking this year. I have to mention again about the Pro Diver shop the water sports events this was so much fun this year as previous years did not have much of a selection to do but now it has improved 100%. They also have the banana boat for only $10 so much fun. Nightly entertainment was good had many different shows the only thing is that it is difficult at times to see as people go in front of you while watching as it is in different places of the resort and not always on a stage so you need to find a seat that others not going to be in front of you. This is a challenge. There is a disco on premises but it was more suited to the young group not middle to older age group. Yet had made a suggestion regarding this in our comment paper.
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| Other Comments: |
| I have been to this hotel before and after the renovations and they have done a terrific job. Sure there are still a few bugs to iron out as in any reno's. I have to say people are friendly and most welcoming. Oh almost forgot to mention they now have a photo shop right on premises and they are very professional, friendly and the work they do is outstanding. We got a package done and they bring the beauty out of anything and anyone. They are amazing and glad to see this there. I don't use the kids club but can see the kids having a blast and then in the evening the kids put a show on before the adult entertainment starts. Will one day bring my grand kids here to enjoy. |
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| A-mazing! |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Victoria >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Dec, 2009 | Leisure | Family
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Where do I begin!
For christmas my mom treated my sister and I on a vacation to Grand Paradise from December 19th to the 26th so we spent our holidays there, and we couldn't have had a better time! We jokingly say we'll never be able to go on vacation again because we've set the bar so high with this vacation. It was great everything from the food to the people. And considering it rained for 3 straight days out of the 7 we were there for, we still had an amazing time. |
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| Your Arrival |
| We arrived late, about 8 pm and were greeted with drinks and very friendly service! We were given a room key and our bags were brought to us in a matter of minutes. We got ready and went straight to the beach where there was a show on the beach with dancers and competitions. Afterwards we went to the disco located on the resort which was about a minute from our room, we ended up in a club only minutes from the resort and finished the night, or should I say early morning, off with a dip in the ocean! It was a great first night. |
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| Rooms |
| Our room was cleaned daily, water was always filled and we made sure to tip regularly considering our room was covered in sand almost every single night (poor cleaning lady:( !!). AC worked, beds were comfortable, tv worked, no complaints! Our view was terrible but we didnt ask for a fancy view or anything(we probably should have) but we figured we wouldn't be spending most of our time sitting in our room anyway. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| We ate at the buffet most of the time, but did make a reservation at Edens(Edans?) and the food was good. We spent christmas eve at the Italian restaurant and the holiday dinner was fab, the soup was to die for. The buffet was big and although the selection was pretty much the same most days, we got lucky being there during the holidays and enjoyed the festive feasts :) |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| Before going we read a few reviews and didn't hear too many good things about the pool, we were skeptical but very please once we got there. The pool was decently big(with a pool bar!!) and the beach was huge! When we needed to recover in the mornings we would go for a walk down the beach passing other resorts and found grand paradis' beach was the biggest and cleanest of the few beaches we past! Unfortunatly, it rained for 3 days straight but due to the layout of the resort, it was easy to get around without getting soaked and we were able to get out of our room and enjoy everything, except the beach, on those horrible rainy days. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| You can book activites with the hotel, or from the people who approach you with trips on the beach-just make sure they're legit (sounds sketchy I know, but we did it and not only saved money, but had the time of out lives!!!!). We met a guy named Carlos who showed us pamphlets full of trips with everything from hourse back riding through cities to 4-wheelers, dolphin swims, snorkeling, anything you can imagin. We went on the jeep safari trip and payed $45 American each, it was unbelievable! We drove to a mountain where we walked through what looked like a jungle to these gorgeous waterfalls-which we then climbed! They took us through cities and to a cigar factory, it was an all day excursion and did I mention how friendly everyone was?! We also did the dolphin swim on christmas day, which was a little more expensive but 100% worth it! |
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| Other Comments |
| The resort was great, every single employee was friendly and hilarious. We met so many people, we came to the conlcusion that all of Montreal decided to go on vacation when we did-everyone was french! Not complaining though we had alot of fun and we happened to make some friends we actually still keep in touch with, it what such a friendly crowd. We didn't want to come home at all, I would definitely go again only this time for 2 weeks instead of just 1! |
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| In my opinion this resort is not a 4 star at all. More like a 2.5 or 3 |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Ricardo >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Oct, 2009
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Arrival: September 23rd to September 30th
We were not part of a tour and when we arrived at the Puerto Plata airport we found that the only way to get to the hotel was to take a taxi. $33 US dollars. for a 20 minute ride.
We arrived at the hotel at 02:50 PM and were told by the reception that we had to wait until 3 to check in. We went to get some and food and returned at 03:45. At that time we were told that it would be a few minutes until the room was ready. Nothing happened for about 15 minutes, when I went back to talk to the same lady, she was on the phone and passed the paperwork to someone else. This person looked at it and then picked up the phone and stayed on it for ten minutes. By this time I asked for a manager and was told that the manager was not there. Finally around 4:30 PM they managed to get a room.
The reception people get about a negative 5 star rating from me.
Rooms:
We had a room overlooking the tennis courts, overall very nice, furnishings were nice and in good condition. Very nice tiled bathroom. Small Dorm type refrigerator with a gallon of water and two small bottles of soda. Water was replenished daily. Soda was not. Maid cleaned room daily but always seemed to forget to replenish something like tissues, toilet paper, floor mat and we had to chase after her to get these things.
Restaurants and Bars:
We ate at the Buffet and Edens restaurant. Buffet was not what a 4 star resort should have (more like a 2 star). Food was lukewarm at best. Seemed like what was leftover from the previous day would keep on coming back. I think the Chef just followed the recipes and did not taste the food. They had a seafood dish with squid, clams and something else (octopus or conch) which was like trying to chew your car's tires.
The omelet station was good preparing omelets and fried eggs. If you like bacon with your eggs, bring your own. They had it only one day and it was wrapped around a piece of banana. Only daily meats for breakfast were small sausages and what they call fried salami (more like bologna).
Service at the Buffet was spotty, you would get your initial drinks (wine, beer) but if you wanted another glass, you had to walk over to the bar and get it yourself.
We ate at Edens restaurant one night only. I had a steak that was covered with melted cheese and sauce so that you really could not taste the meat.
My wife ordered their "Salmon Steak" I guess it was our fault to assume that it would be grilled. The alleged salmon was steamed and then some pepper sauce was put on top. (I tried and it was almost as good as the food they serve in most hospitals) |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds: |
| Beach was nice and clean, lots of reclining chairs but other than the few coconut palms no other shade. They need to put some umbrellas or something so that people that want to enjoy the beach can get shade if they want it. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel: |
| We went to the town of Puerto Plata for a day. Taxi to the town is $17 US per person from the Hotel. But if you walk for about 15 minutes to the main road you can get a taxi for $5 US for both of us. You can also take one of the very small guaguas (small minivans) for 50 cents each to the center of town. Not that much to see in town, rum factory and Cathedral were OK. The Malecon (Waterfront road) would be nice if the beach was not covered with trash. |
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| Other Comments: |
In my opinion this resort is not a 4 star at all. More like a 2.5 or 3. There are many other 4 star resorts that are much much better than this one.
Email Ricardo: RichardsRicardo@rocketmail.com |
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| Not Bad |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Christine >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Oct, 2009 | Leisure | Family
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| I have been to this resort 2 times. This trip was my second visit. I was travelling with my sister, mother and aunt. I wanted to go back to this resort because my travel partners have never been out of Canada, so I wanted to go somewhere where I at least felt comfortable and knew what to expect. The resort was newly renovated when I went the first time Dec 2008. So I knew the rooms were at least updated. |
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| Your Arrival |
| Arrival went smoothly, no problems with our check in. We were given our rooms right away. |
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| Rooms |
| We had no problems with our room. The last couple of days we did notice quite a few ants in the bathroom. They did leave a notice in each of the rooms saying that they would be spraying all the rooms and grounds on our last day. Apparently, whatever they were using to spray was not harmful to you.?? It really didnt matter as we were leaving on that day. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
| We did not go to the a la cartes. I can not say for sure but we looked at the menus and nothing really looked that great so we just didnt go. We only went to the buffet. The food is not the greatest here. I found the same thing the first time I went. Luckily, there is a Pizza Hut and a couple of sports bars at the mall down the street. We only ate at the mall 2 times during our stay. Its really not that the food is not good it is just really repetative. After a couple of days, just the smell of the buffet kinda made me feel sick. The breakfast was the best meal of the day. Really enjoyed that. Lunches we ate at the small buffet, cause we could just stay in our bathing suits. Lunches were not great. We did go in off season and the resort was not even close to being full, so I guess they dont offer a full menu. Lunches on our first trip were ok. actually only because they had fries. Other than that still the same, not that great. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The pool is ok and they have a small pool bar. They also have a jacuzzi pool which was nice. The beach was okay and you get the usual guys trying to sell you crappy jewellery. How much beaded jewellery does one person need. We did most of our shopping at the mall down the street. The grounds were very well kept. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| Entertainment staff really try to get people involved with all the activites. Generally, lots of things to do if you want to get involved. We booked a couple of tours with Carlo on the beach. He usually stands right at the edge of the property near the beach bar. All the staff know him and he is great, I would totally recommend using him to book your tours. He booked us our trip to the Ocean World trip. He actually took our deposit and booked the trip for us and then the next day had one of the staff come and get me at the pool to go and see him. He wanted to re-write the booking because the company he worked for got a reduction in prices and he wanted to make sure I got the discounted price. Great guy really. |
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| Other Comments |
| I have been here twice and I wouldnt go back again. I prefer to go to Punta Cana. The beaches are way better. The Food at this resort is the only reason I wouldnt go back. I am a picky eater, so if you have no issues with food, then go to this resort. The staff are very friendly and the rooms and grounds are clean. |
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| Our days consisted of relaxing on the beach. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Angie >
2 contribution(s) United States of America |
| Aug, 2009
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Arrival July 31, 2009 - August 7, 2009:
Just back from Grand Paradise, Puerto Plata July 31-Aug 7, 2009. We are Americans in our 40's. We were looking for a quiet, relaxing vacation and that is exactly what we got. Our days consisted of relaxing on the beach till about 2pm then making our way to the pool bar. We hung around the pool until about 6pm then we would make our way to our room for showers. We ate dinner around 8:30pm then would sit near the pool, have a few drinks and enjoy the entertainment. Normally we were in bed by 11pm. There was a disco onsite but it didn't have a "club" atmosphere. There may have been "party places" nearby but we weren't interested so we didn't even bother to look for them. We did go to the mall that was a 3 minute walk from the resort but we didn't appreciate being "hunted" by the shop keepers. There is a little Italian restaurant next to the mall that has wonderful food and bottled beer at a reasonable price.
Rooms:
We had a 3rd floor balcony room overlooking the pool area with 2 dbl beds, tv, big closet, iron w/ironing board, frig, safe & hair-dryer.The A/C requires you have a room key in the thermastat for it to operate. No elevators. Ask for a room away from the pool if you turn in early or don't want the noise of the pool area. We enjoyed sitting on the balcony and watching the activities. We tipped the housekeeper daily & received extra towels & 16oz bottles of Sprite/Coke. The toiletries were not replenished during our entire visit but there was plenty hot water. Refrigerator had 1gal water but no alcohol. Rent the safe ($20/wk). Overall, our room was modern, large enough for two people and relatively clean (bring slippers).
Restaurants and Bars:
3 restaurants--1 buffet & 2 a la carte. Food is comparable to a cruise ship. The grill in the buffet restaurant was very tasty. Being an open-air restaurant, it was pretty hot even for our 8:30pm seating time. Make reservations for the a la carte restaurants in a.m. There is 1 beach bar, 1 pool bar & 1 swim up bar. NO bottled beer-only Presidente served in plastic cup. No beach service. Drinks are weak but if you patronize (tip) the same bar and bartender daily, he will take care of you by stiffening your drinks and finding a cold mug for your beer. |
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Beach/Pools/Grounds:
There were plenty beach chairs all though you have to drag them out to the beach yourself. The sand was course, the water was beautiful and overall the beach was very nice. There was a lot of seaweed in areas but it is pretty is to avoid. There are trinket vendors & timeshare sharks from the LifeStyle Resort on the beach but if you stop them before they start giving you their speech, they will eventually leave you alone. The beach was never crowded. The pool & jacuzzi close at 7pm which is disappointing. The pool area is very clean & there are 3 showers to rinse off sand. There were plenty chairs although those closest to the pool are gone by 10am. The pool was never crowded.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
You can book tours/excursions thorugh the hotel I wouldn't do it again. We went on the Puerto Plata City Tour and Cable Car. The tours of the Amber Museum and Rum Factory were very short (15 minutes)& very boring. We didn't reach the cable car until after noon and it was too late in the day because the clouds had already moved in and we couldn't see down the moutain. You can take a cab into the city and walk to some interesting spots and enjoy yourself more than the tour of Puerto Plata. We did speak to other couples who booked the Paradise Island excursion at the mall and they said they really enjoyed it and it was worth the money. I can not recommend this but over the week, we befriended a staff member who acted as a taxi/tour guide for a day.We gave him $40 and in his personal car he took us to a local restaurants for some fantastic fish, local bars for some ice cold bottled beer and to the neighborhood he grew up in and the one he currently lives in. We met some of his !
school friends as well as his family. He also took us to Sasua which turned out to be nothing more than tourist trinket shops and brothels. Yes, brothels. Apparently, prostitution is legal and monitored by the government. We really enjoyed meeting locals & eating local food.
Consider booking your excursions at the mall.
Other Comments:
The Animation Team hosted pool games, aerobics, dance lessons and other activities during the day. There nightly activities such as Karaoke, Movie Trivia, Merengue band, WII games depended heavily on crowd participation. Bring all your essentials because you will pay rediculous prices for sunscreen, razors, candy, bandaids, aspirin, etc. Use the same bartender and tip him daily-stiffer drinks & cold mugs for the beer. Book excursions at the mall or with the beach vendors. They are the same excursions but cheaper. Be aware of the restaurant operating times. Attend your welcome meeting with the hotel rep. She will confirm your airport shuttle service (if you booked it)and return flights.If the purpose of your vacation is to "party" then consider another resort.
gotalaf@aol.comn |
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| Photos: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=96006&id=617849800&l=e220366326 |
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| I would never go back to this resort every again |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Kris >
3 contribution(s) Canada |
| Aug, 2009
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Arrival Aug 13-20:
We had a great flight down. When we checked in everything was great. We were a group of 7. It was my son's birthday. My husband and i travel alot to the dominican and this resort was the worst.When it came to the rooms that a different story. We tried not to let it get to us and ruin our vacation. Our flight back was the worst we had to stop at punta cana. we couldn't get off the plane and the plane was very hot we sat for 1 1/2 hours like that then they over booked the seats so that was other 1/2 hour to see if someone wanted to take a flight the next day. So we were there for 2hours hotter then you know what we try to get air at the doors and the flight attendant yelled at us to get back to our seat. not very good customer service. Never had problem flying with Air Transat but this flight home was bad in a airplane for almost 9 hours and the flight is only 4hours
Rooms:
Superior gardenview ya right looking at the tennis court whats that?? We were suppose to have 3 room attached they were beside my parents and we were in the next buliding.Our 2 girls had to have there own. there floors were always wet because the A/C wasn't working right then the bathroom the toilet leak so they put the towels around the floor so they didn't slip. Then the resort had to nerve to try and get us to pay for 3 towels that got dirty from them putting them on the floor. Make sure if you go always catch the maids to make sure the put water and pop in your room if not you won't get it.That is just a few. Every other rooms had chairs on there balcony but not us???
Restaurants and Bars:
We eat that the buffet alot do to being picky eater. great food not very hot but we could eat.
Beach/Pools/Grounds:
the beach is great. not very busy which was even better. pools were good and the bar too.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
they had some activities that were good. they have a disco up stairs that starts at 11pm and goes till 1am we have 2 girls and 1 boy that like to dance. even those we were there they weren't aloud to dance not very busy inside so i can't see why there should have been a problem they are my responsible.the entertainers were great.
Other Comments:
I would never go back to this resort every again. I you want a good resort stay at Grand Venta which is right beside this resort. |
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| Highly recommend it |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Kerry & Family >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| May, 2009
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| Arrival: April 23-30, 2009 |
| A few days prior to leaving for our family vacation (myself 43, my mother 67, two daughters 17 and 19 and their two friends 19 and 20), Conquest went under which affected many vacationers - those already on vacation and those soon to depart. I did not book my vacation with Conquest, but this unfortunate event left many agents scrambling to get their customers back home, which resulted in our in-and-out-bound flights being changed - but lucky for us, it was for the better. We booked our vacation through Travel Last Minute and flew with Air Transat. While at the airport in Toronto Air Transat announced there were seats available in first class at an addition cost, which we took advantage of and we were happy we did. It started our vacation off fantastic - Jen in first class made the best mojitos! We arrived in Puerto Plata just before 11:00AM, it was sunny and hot. Luggage was brought out quickly, boarded our air conditioned tour bus and arrived at the Grand Paradise by noon. Check-in time is 3:00, so our rooms were not yet available. We grabbed a drink and headed to the beach to wait. After an hour or so, two of the three rooms were available and an hour after that mom and I got our rooms. The people at check-in are not as pleasant as the rest of the staff - not rude just so-so. |
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| Rooms: |
| Well! These rooms were the most beautiful rooms I have stayed in. All rooms have been fully renovated and are mucho modern. The beds and pillows were very comfortable and clean. No smell of dampness that is normally experienced in the Carribean resorts. The maids ensured fresh water each day in the mini-fridge and the rooms were equipped with 4-cup coffee makers, coffee and tea. There are nice flat screen TV's in each room - which made my mom happy because she was able to catch Dancing with the Stars while there. Very impressed. All of our rooms had ocean views - mom and I on the second floor, king size bed and balcony with wicker patio furnature. Both of my daughters rooms were just above us on the third floor, once similar to our room but with a double bed and the other was a two-storey loft style room with two separate bedrooms and kitchenette. Water pressure was not the best in the loft-style room, but great in the other two rooms and air conditioning was perfect in all three. The other thing I was happy to see is their care to incorporate energy efficient features - all bulbs were compact flourescent, programmable thermostats in every room and the resort encouraged re-using towels. Nothing bad can be said about the rooms. |
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| Restaurants and Bars: |
| We were at the resort at the beginning of low season, therefore, it may have been at 2/3 capacity which resulted in not all restaurants being available each day. Normally I lose weight on these Carribean vacations because the food is not the greatest - this trip I gained weight! The buffet at the Hysbiscus serves breakfast and lunch each day and is opened most days for dinner - it is a covered open-air, Ocean-side eating area - vaiety for even the most picky eaters - very good. Be sure to sit in Victoriano's section - he treats you like royalty. You never have to wait for water or drinks and when he see's you coming, you are greated with a smile and a hug - he deserves every cent and works hard for his tips. There was one day where only Edens and Michael Angelo a-la-carts were the only two choices for dinner - both were not good and I'm not a picky person. The atmosphere of the two a-la-carts was great but the food less than so-so. Again, buffet is the way to go and if there is not something there for everyone to enjoy - well they are probably too hard to please even in North America! All bars were great - one major disappoinment was the swim-up bar was closed. I would have rather seen one of the other bars close during the day and have the swim-up bar open. From mid-might to 1:30ish, the sandwich bar was open. A huge selection of meats, cheeses, breads, trimmings and a panini press. I only made it one night, but the kids made it most nights. Very nice. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds: |
| The grounds are immaculate, green, lush. The pool is the cleanest pool I have ever experienced in the Carribean! Could have had something to do with the fact that the swim-up bar was closed - you know as well as I do that some of the "regulars" at the swim-up bars sit there and drink all day and very seldom leave the pool to empty their bladder - but I would rather like to think it is because they keep it so clean. It was quite large and cool. Plenty of chairs and umbrellas each day. Watch your towels as one family we met there had one of their towels stolen from their chair while in the pool - it will cost you $25 US if you lose your towels. No reflection on the resort - was most likely a guest. The beach is absolutely gorgeous - plenty of chairs and very clean. BUT, be prepared to be swarmed by people selling things. It get a bit annoying after a while because they are very, very pushy. I am not a rude person, but at times have to be firm to get some of them to stop pestering. So the beach is beautiful, but because of the annoyance of sellers, not very relaxing. But from what I understand, this is the norm for Dominican. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel: |
Being an avid Cuba vacationner, the nightly entertainment is not the best in DR - or perhaps I have been spoiled with Cuba entertainment. Although they try their best, the Cuban's are spectaular in comparison. They did their best and it was okay. We saw a great magician show, poker-night was a blast (not for money - just for fun) a so-so dancing show and two live bands. The entertainment/animation staff were the best - Lucas with the crazy Eddie Murphy laugh always got every up and playing something - morning to night. La Bamba, Rambo and Dennis made sure that every feamle danced and BonBon and Bubbles made sure the men got on the dance floor - even if the guests were hesitant at first, by the end of the night the vacationers couldn't wait to get up there. We had a lot of fun with this group. Only went to the disco once, but never many people there so I can't comment much on that. Beautiful disco if people would go. Thanks Lucas, LaBamba, Rambo, BonBon and Bubbles for the fun times!
My family booked the Safari tour with Playa Runners - it was $78 US per person but after experiencing it, I know it is the best money I spent. There are people on the beach that try to sell you the trip for less but what people don't know, and it is not promoted as such, that a portion of the money goes to help the schools and children of Puerta Plata. Everything they sell, proceeds go toward school supplies, desks and keeping the school grounds safe. This year, Playa Runners installed plumbing at the school for the kids. They had a boy and girl shack with a concrete block with a hole in it as a toilet. When the kids went on Easter break, Playa Runners installed new bathrooms with flusing toilets and a place to wash their hands - the kids couldn't believe it! They do wonderful things - so please book through them. What your excursion consists of is a beautiful country drive, a tour of a typlical Dominican family house, how they produce, prepare and cook their own foods, explanation of their plants and trees and lifestyle. A stop at the top of the most beatiful mountain where you can purchase rum, coffee, arts and jewelry. A stop at the most beautiful beach with huge waves to boogie board (boards supplied) and horseback riding, a stop at an outdoor restaurant for an amazing typical Dominical lunch and rest time on the beach full of hammocks. Then to a hut where the make cigars right in front of you, let you sample before you purchase, then another stop where you are given a fresh coconut to drink from (rum optional if you haven't yet had enough because all ice cold drinks - non-alcohol and alcohol are all included in the tour), you can eat the coconut after, you can buy rum, honey, chocolate, coffee there too). I am sure I am missing something - but if there is one thing you plan on doing, make sure it is this one. When you visit the school, the tour guide makes a note of any donations you bring (I brought some school supplies to leave there) so that they know where the school is lacking and can concentrate on those things. Just amazing! Bravo Playa Runners!
We also went snorkeling and fed banana's to the fish. That was different, but because the ocean scares me a bit, it wasn't my favorite thing - so I wouldn't be the best person to rate this activity. |
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| Other Comments: |
The one sad part of this trip was that it rained about 2/3 of our vacation. Toward the end it was getting frustrating. But the few days of intense sun was wonderful. That would have been the only thing I would have changed.
Would I go back there? In a heart beat. The Dominican people are wonderful, happy, kind-hearted and fun. Is it perfect - no - but pretty darn close. Again, Carribean resorts cannot be compared to North American standards, but this is for sure a 4+ star in the Carribean and highly recommend it. We have many beautful memories from this trip. Not only the wonderful staff they have there, but the wonderful family we met and spent much of our days with - Crazy Liz, Joce, Doug and Nick - from our family to yours - thanks for the fun times! |
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| Was a great vacation at Grand Paradise Pto. Pta. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Janel >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2009
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Arrival:
arrival from new jersey was just a little late but good flight
Rooms
oceanview building 9 rm 9206
Restaurants and Bars
hibiscus buffet, edens for snacks, michaelangelo reservations edens at night reservations only, 4 bars
Beach/Pools/Grounds
best beach location, big pool
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel
the staff has activities during the day, shows at night. we went on the jungle safari, and by taxi to the town of puerto plata to the amber museum and the brugal rum factory, and shopping around the town.
Other Comments
it rained quite a bit during the week of 3-18 thru 3-25, but it did not stop us from doing what we wanted to do. there were some mosquitos, due to the wetness. we had some nice sunny days and got good color. the resort is all brand new, very nice compared to what it was. staff very friendly, always willing to help. we met up with darlene gunther, we had a suitcase full of toothbrushes,paste,soccer ball baseball,crayons,books,pencils, for the kids there.was a great vacation.
redroses27@aol.com |
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| In Playa Dorada there are other better choices. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Jane >
6 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2009
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Arrival
We stayed at nearby resort but had enjoyed Paradise several times over the years. Knowing they had had reno's done we were eager to check it out with the possibility of going back. We asked at the Front desk to wander through and were asked to wait for personal to be available to show us. There were 5 of us wearing bracelets from a nearby 5*resort. Unfortunately, we were not greeted warmly and after waiting patiently for 10 minutes, asked again how long we would need to wait. I was rudely told "they were busy" and did I not see the people that had just registered. (They had already left the front desk area and there were only 3 people at the desk, 3-4 employees in attendance) We decided not to stay and as I left I told them we were doing so and that they had just lost the opportunity of our repeat business as their attitude was unwelcoming. As we turned to leave the Bell captain, recognizing us from previous visits, offered to take us on a walk through the resort. We agreed to do so.
Rooms
Unfortunately we were unable to see inside any room but the outside has been greatly improved-glass railings, new patio doors, fresh paint, nice patio table/chairs etc look grea. Apparently new beds/furniture,linens, baths etc too. Attic rooms are 2 old improved into 1 large room?
Restaurants and Bars
We just walked through but things seem very similar. We always really liked the patio/buffet restaurant area. The view of the mountain/ocean is absolutely great and it was one of the things we most liked about Paradise.
Beach/Pools/Grounds
Beach is great/pool looks the same and grounds have been cleaned up. there was lots of overgrowth of bushes/trees etc but the plantings are much neater, fresher and it gives the illusion of more space , wider walkways and cleanliness.
Other Comments
Grand Paradise looks good from our walk around the resort. However as my friend commented as we left" it takes more than a coat of paint to fix it." We had concerns about attitude of some staff, impatience of Front desk staff and poor response of wedding planner a few years ago. It appears that "customer service" has not changed. We are saddened that many employees of long service were fired last April when renovations began and most have not been brought back. We asked about some folks by name; were told they still worked there when in fact we know for sure they don't! too bad Grand Paradise--you will not see us again. If looking for quality , friendly, welcoming staff best look somewhere else; with the number of resorts in Playa Dorada there are other better choices. |
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| We did have a very good time |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Leslie >
4 contribution(s) Canada |
| Mar, 2009
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Arrival: Mar 3 - Mar 17
Arrival went fine, a bit of wait at the airport for people to board the bus, but that was ok as it gave us a chance to drink our first Presidente...lol. The trip to the resort was quick, and we only had one stop, before we reached the Paradise. Greated with a fruit slushie, while we waited to check in. We arrived around 11:30 a.m. and were pleasantly surprised that we were able to get our room right away. We have been used to having to wait untill 3 p.m. to get it.
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| Rooms |
| This is where we had some issues. The first room that they wanted to give us was facing the field/helicopter landing pad. We were not to thrilled about that, so asked to be moved. So they moved us to another building facing the pool on the second floor. Everything looked good, so we un-packed. That was when hubby noticed that the balcony door didn't lock. Shouldn't be too big of a problem, as we were on the second floor. But then we discovered that when they replace the old door during the renovations, the new door was smaller. But instead of filling in the larger opening, they just put in the new door. So above our door was a two inch gap. We weren't afraid of rain coming in, but we didn't want to be feeding the mosquitoes all night. That is also when we discovered that the bathroom door would not close, as it was about one inch too big for the frame. So we packed up our luggage, and headed back to the front desk. Room number three on the ground floor in the 800 block seems to be the ticket. Balcony door locks, bathroom door closes, no gaping holes in the wall, so we un-pack again. Now we are going to head to the bar, but need a tinkle first.......toilet won't flush.....arrrrrr!!! This time one of the managers comes to our room to check it out. He brings a maintance man with him. Maintance man takes a plunger and and has a go at it. But that is not the problem, the toilet isn't plugged, it just doesen't have enough water to flush. So Maintance guy grabs the garbage can, fills it with water, and pours it in, presto, the toilet flushes. The manager decides to show us another room. The next one that he takes us to is right near the Pool bar. We look at it, and decided that we have had enough moving for one day, so we told him that we would stay in the other room for the night, and move in the morning. The next morning we decided that we didn't want to move again, everything else in the room worked well, and we could pour water in the toilet to flush it. So that is what we did for the next 2 weeks. No problem. Now I did say that our balcony door locked. It did for about the first 8 days, then all of the sudden, it wouldn't lock any more. Not quite sure what happened there. We decided it wasen't a huge issue, as someone would be seen, if they tried to climb over the railing to get in. On our last full day at the resort, we came back to our room to find that maintance had been in and installed one of those pin locks that goes through the frame. |
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| Restaurants and Bars |
We found the buffet to be very good. Hubby isn't a big fan of buffets, but he enjoyed this one. Good selection of food, and quite tastie. We always had a good breakfast, but would have liked to see bacon on the menu more often. They had it maybe 3 times a week. For lunch, we usually went to the pizza station. First time I have ever seen tuna on a pizza.....lol.
We went to Michelangelo's on the second night that we were there. Our reservation was at 8:30, and that might have been a mistake. The anti-pasto bar had nothing left on it, and that is one of the things that hubby really likes. We had no sooner sat back down after getting our salad, and the main course showed up. We both had a chicken dish, and we were not impressed with it. A dried out chicken breast, on tomato sauce, with a baby potato, and one carrot, cut in half. With the chicken being as dry as it was, we can only guess that they nuked it. We decided that we would leave, and go to the buffet.
We went to Edens twice and really enjoyed it both times. We had the beef tenderloin, and it was wonderful. Not regular dominican beef, you could actually chew it...lol We didn't go to the bars too much at night, as we are not really night people. They pool bar is where the entertainment was. We did listen to the music one night, and it was good. They also had kereoke that night, but we didn't stay for it. The beach bar is where Allan works, and he is alot of fun. All of the other bartenders did a great job too. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
The beach is great, perfect for long walks. We usually stay in Cofresi, and as much as we like it there, you can't compare the two beaches.
The Pool, what can I say, it was cold. Very seldom did you see any one in it, even the spring breakers avoided going in. When we finally discovered where the "hot tub" was, we spent a fair bit of time there, as it was a couple of degrees warmer than the pool.
The ground are kept very clean. Can't really call it beautiful, as it mostly consists of walkways between the buildings.
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
We didn't get involved with any of the activites on the resort, as we spent most of our time off of the resort. We did watch a few pool games though, and I guess people were having fun. Hard to tell though, through all of the shivering. We went on the Freestyle Catamaran. We go every year, and it is always alot of fun, for us any way. It was very rough that day, and there were alot of people who got sick. Four people got off in Sosua, they weren't going back on the boat. I offered people my motion sickness pills, but by the time you are feeling sick, it is already too late. All I can say about that is, if you are going out in a boat, take a pill 30 mins before you go, even if you think you won't get sick. A rolling ocean in a small boat, is alot different than going fishing out on the lake.
We did spend alot of time off of the resort, as we have friends that we like to go and visit. We did make it to Cofresi a couple of times to visit Chris and Mady's. One of our favorite stops is at our friend Rafi's bar. She is on the Malacon, near Long Beach Park. We would just hop on one of the "buses" at the front gate, and get let off at the stadium, and walk down to the malacon. Only cost 15 paseos each.
We lucked out, the Independance Day parade, that is usually on Feb 27th, was on Mar 15th this year. Not quite sure why. So we sat at Rafi's and watched it. Front row seats. |
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| Other Comments |
| This was our first trip to the Grand Paradise, or Playa Dorada for that matter. We did have a very good time, and would probably go back, if we don't go back to Cofresi that is... |
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| I still think it is the best resort in the Playa Dorada complex |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Gina and Rick >
1 contribution(s) Canada |
| Feb, 2009
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Arrival:
Jan 29th with sky service. A group of ten of us went on Holiday. Flight was late but nothing you can do about weather. Flight home was even later and our luggage was in Toronto long before us.
Rooms:
The rooms are clean and well kept. The only problem was we were on the ground floor and the patio door didn't lock. After a few complaints to the front desk they screwed it shut and we couldn't open it for the rest of the holiday.
Restaurants and Bars:
Buffet and Italian was very good. Edens was very poor service and never did get dinner rolls or dessert. The waiters were not busy but didn't seem to want to wait on us. After 2 hours left and never did get offered coffee or dessert or wine. The salad bar lacked the main ingredient Lettuce. The Buffet is the greatest always something to eat and lots of choices. When I go back I wouldn't waste my time on the ala carte restraunts.
Beach/Pools/Grounds:
The beach was beautiful and the ocean was great for swimming. The pool was to cool for us and it didn't seem to get much use.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
DO NOT BOOK AN EXCURSION WITH CARLOS...He is a rip off. We booked the jeep safari and didn't get to see anything we were promised. Picked us half and hour late had to stop for gas,pop and ice. A very disappointing day...John is the guy on the beach to book tours with. Don't forget to go down the beach to the left to the orange market great prices and alot of fun bargaining.
Other Comments:
A great resort but still has a few growing pains from the major renovations... I still think it is the best resort in the Playa Dorada complex.. Would I go back.........in a heart beat |
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| Will make many return trips to Paradise!!!! |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Kim >
10 contribution(s) Canada |
| Feb, 2009
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Arrival: Feb 8 - 15
Arrival was great. Left Toronto at 0610 am and was at the hotel just after lunch time. The staff had a great refreshing welcome drink as soon as we walked in. This was my 4th trip to Paradise so was excited to see the new renovations. We also took along some newbie's with us. A group of 13 in total. Some of our rooms were not ready yet but it did not matter. We just dropped our luggage and started showing the crew around. Hit the swim up bar right away.
Rooms
We had a total of 5 rooms, 4 of which were called Junior Suites. (The old attic rooms.) Wow....these rooms sure are the place to be now. Very roomie and comfortable. But if you can't climb stairs then not the place to be. Our 14 year old twins had their own room and just loved it. We had rooms in buildings 6, 12, 13 and 15. The renovations are very beautiful and still ongoing. During the week, the work continued on our room which would bother some I'm sure. At the start of the week we had no kitchenette and by the end of the week, we did. Yeah sure, there are lots of little glitches still to be worked out but hey....be patient. The rooms are always kept clean and we loved the complimentary bottled water and pop left in the fridge daily. The electronic keys were a bit of a pain but not a huge deal. Our air conditioning worked great, just left one of the keys in all the time. Our problem that kept repeating was no cold water.....just hot....too hot to shower in.
Restaurants and Bars
Enjoyed the buffet......lots of food all of the time. My brother and nephew loved the omelette fella. If you can't find something to eat, then there is something wrong.
Went to both ala carte restaurants. What an improvement to the italian. Looked like a funeral parlour before. Now much brighter and updated. The food was very good. A bit disappointed with Eden's. They have changed their menu and it was OK but not outstanding. However, we celebrated my nieces birthday there and the staff were very good. Candles in a cake and sang for her. She was tickled.
The bars are all good......service is excellent. Glad to see Allan and Juan again. The kids loved Allan. Go Wiarton Wild !!!! The kids gave Allan a pin from our local hockey team and he wore it all week. The kids were very pleased. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
Paradise has the best beach!!!!! We visited the Barcelo beach when we went on our fishing trip and got eaten alive by sand fleas. None on Paradise beach. We swam in the ocean only with the exception of the first day when we got there and got in to go to the swim up bar. The pool was too cool and the ocean was warm. We have loved the hot tub in the past but they are having problems with it and it was not hot. Hopefully they get this fixed.
The grounds as always are beautiful and they work very hard keeping them tidy. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
The activities staff were all very friendly and get you involved if you are willing. We did some of the crazy games and played volleyball. Thanks to Beauty, Rambo, Bon Bon, Ronaldino, Lucas and others for all of their energy and friendship. We also enjoyed the boys at the water activities shack. "Johnny Bravo" I'll never forget ya.....you are a great dancer. We loved the banana boat ride that we did on Saturday. A total blast !!!! We loved the magician that visited on Tuesday night and the beach party on the Saturday evening. In the past, the staff have done the majority of the shows and we really enjoyed them. The entertainment is being hired out at present....bands etc. Would love to see the staff get back to doing some of the shows again. They were always very entertaining.
We called this our adrenaline holiday. On Tuesday we went fishing with "Gone Fishing." and had a blast. The weather was not good, very high seas and no fish but hey. We chartered the boat before we left for 13 of us and had a blast. We had wild dolphins come rig
ht up to our boat which was a thrill and my nephew saw a whale. Thanks to Chappa, Alex and Herman for a great day. Then on Thursday we went on a country tour that I had prebooked with Linda at Mels Tours out of Sousa. She was great. We did the Tropical Sun Jeep Safari. Linda came right to our hotel for the deposit on Monday morning. She promised us a great tour and that it was. Our tour guides name was Elvis and he was outstanding. The highlight of this tour was jumping off the Damajaua Waterfall. We were only allowed to go up 2 of the levels due to the recent heavy rainfall. Still had a blast though. The guides here were also wonderful and looked after us all very well. What a great day.
Then on Friday, my brother took his family to Ocean World where they did the dolphin encounter and snorkelled with the fish. They enjoyed this and had a great day.
Meanwhile, my kids and I went zip lining. It was an amazing experience. Zip Lining was with Yasika Adventures. Thanks to Cesar for a great day. It ended up that he is the manager and picked us up at the resort because the bus was running late d/t a flat tire. He was very informative and friendly. Yasika Adventures is very new, only just over a year. The staff area all excellent and our instructor Franklin was very good. The safety precautions were always taken and there was no fear of falling at all. The line is out the tourist road to Santiago and the scenery is just beautiful. The drive out there was just amazing. You look back over the city and the Atlantic Ocean. I am definatley recommending this adventure to all !!!!!!
We booked the zip lining and Ocean World from CARLOS off the beach and had no problem at all......just buyer beware when you buy off the beach. We loved Carlos. |
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| Other Comments |
We were hoping that they had not changed the atmosphere of Paradise with all the renos and we were glad to find that it still feels like home. Will make many return trips to Paradise!!!! We had rain for the first 3 days but hey....didn't let us stop our fun. By mid week it was typical beautiful weather.
The only complaint I have was that we were constantly being bugged by the time share guys. Felt like having a t-shirt made that said "NO to time share....leave me alone!!" They are all over the resort...did not like being bugged constantly.
Did some souvenir shopping at the plaza, the orange market and off the beach. The girls got their hair braided from Nancy on the beach. (#8) She is wonderful. She even changed my nieces beads at the end of the week and fixed up their braids that needed it. Thanks Nancy !!!
k.srydall@bmts.com |
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| It rained all week but we really made the best of it. |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
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Linda >
14 contribution(s) Canada |
| Feb, 2009
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Arrival: February 2- 10
When we arrived the staff was excellant . They Welcomed us with a tropical drink waited a few minutes for check in. We arrived at around 5 Pm. We had reserved a 2 bedroom suite. Our friends room was ready but Ours ajoining was not going to be ready till about 7. We were not happy due to flying all day and wanting to change our clothes but we put our suitcases in our friends room to proceed to check out the property.
Rooms:
This was our night mare for three days. The rooms operate off of your room key for electricity to your room. We put our key in and it blew a few fuses. When we went to reset we were zap by the electricity. No power could not reset called the front desk at 9 they stated that they would send someone to our room. Midnight went to sleep with noone coming to our room. We sat in the dark with no aircondioning for 2 hours.
This situation happened again the next day when they claimed they fixed it in the morning. Once again waited for it ot be fixed. On Wednesday we went on Our excursion after this happened again called the front desk was told that it would be fixed. Come back to the room nothing was fixed. Went to the Front desk asked for manager not there. Directed us to Guest Service and this woman had me sit there for 30 minutes. Missed lunch. Went she went to the room when she got Zapped then it was important. At this time very frustrated with the whole thing of getting zapped not feeling safe in the room (just thinking electrical fire) so we even went to the RCI rep on property . No concerns. I called RCI directly then things stared to happen. On Thursday they finally put us in two very nice rooms. Mind you the decor was beautiful in the other room looked out at the Ocean but just was frustrated about the whole electrical thing.
Restaurants and Bars:
Buffet was wonderful at each meal. Did not know about hte hamburger & Pizza that is at the Edens resturaunt until Friday.
Do not reccomend Michangelo. The sauce is nothing like you get here in Chicago. Edens was wonderful everything that we tried but the service was poor.
If you go here look for Allen. He is the funniest Bartender. They switch bars everyday. But he will remember your drinks and make you laugh. Swim up bar was cold but I had to try it. |
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds: |
We could only lay out for two days due to rain most of our trip.
They really take care of their beach and of the grounds and pool.
Just beware you will be bugged by every beach vendor just Say no if you do not want to be bother. The funniest thing we saw when we were asking about the bartering they started with a price say it was $10 we would say $7 then they would come back and say $15. Never ever saw this before . We all had a great laugh about this all week. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel: |
Activities were never posted until Saturday at the front desk and the towel desk. So we never knew what was going on. Just watched the crowd.
We took a private tour from a Taxi driver who introduced himself at the hotel on our second day in the morning at the entrance. Felix was wonderful. Showed us the best places to shop. Took us in the mountains and was very reasonable. If you ask anyone of the Taxi or people at stores or airpoert they know him.
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| Other Comments: |
All in all in rained all week but we really made the best of it. The hotel really needs to get people skills and managers need to stop hiding. We had no idea about tours because the RCI rep was not there at the hotel until Wednesday so we would ask questions and poeple would look at us stupid.
We met two gentleman from Austria on the first day who had their winter parka's and hats on who jumped into the pool were these coats on. They helped to make our trip wonderful and enjoyed talking to them each day. |
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| I would recommend this resort to almost anyone |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Margaret >
4 contribution(s) Canada |
| Feb, 2009
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Arrival: Feb 9 - 16
Booked last minute so was very happy with the price and definitely got my money's worth. Flew with Skyservice and I will not fly with them again. I'm 5'4" and had no legroom at all; I don't know how anyone taller coped. I've flown many times and have never had this little room.
Check in was very smooth, probably helped by the fact that only a dozen people from the flight were at this hotel. I was very happy to get the key to the safe and the TV remote at check in; usually you have to go back to the desk later for these. Also pleased to be given 2 room keys [again unusual in my experience].
Rooms
Had a superior garden view room, 3rd floor in building 2. I had asked for a quiet building and this is what I got. The ocean view would have been very nice. The pool view rooms would have been nosy until after 11pm as evening activities are right at the pool.The view wasn't the best, looking out onto the roof of the lobby/reception building, but it was still very pleasant to sit out on the balcony. The 3rd floor room had a vaulted ceiling which made the room look even bigger. Very nice room, very clean and obviously new. Didn't have any problems with hot water at any time.
Our phone wasn't connected but we didn't realize this for the first few days. Hadn't been fixed by the time we left. There was a phone in the lobby that we were able to use.
Had a chance to visit one of the junior suites on the 4th floor. A much larger room with 2 rooms. Very nice but none of these rooms have a balcony
Restaurants and Bars
The buffet was very good at each meal. We didn't visit any of the A-la-carte restaurants, but that was out choice. The pizza and snacks at Edens were nice as well. The bars close at midnight. This was one of the reasons we booked here, as it usually makes for a quieter resort. There were a fair number of people who were annoyed by this though, obviously expecting more nightlife; they were quite vocal about this affecting their alcohol consumption. The drinks were not watered down and service was excellent at all of the bars.
Beach/Pools/Grounds
Rained for the first 3 days, but sometimes that happens. Spent the rest of the time at both the pool and the beach. More shade available at the pool though. The beach and grounds were well taken care of. If you are particular about where you sit, you may have to get out earlier and 'save' chairs with a towel. I was able to get the chairs I wanted at 8am. There wasn't too much abuse of this, which was good. I've been to other eresorts where it was a real problem. Nothing is more annoying than people who save chairs and then don't actually sit in them.
No problem at all with the beach vendors, if you said no thank you, they left you alone. |
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| Other Comments |
| I would recommend this resort to almost anyone [maybe not if it's important that you drink your body weight in alcohol]. Please please remember that this is not Canada/US. Don't hold them to your usual standards. Everything is not going to be like it is at home so you're just setting yourself up to be disappointed.
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| Will not hesitate to return to the Grand Paradise |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Margaret >
4 contribution(s) Canada |
| Feb, 2009
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Arrival: Feb. 5 to Feb 19
Our flight was really smooth - Air Transat - customs went fast and out to our resort 45 min from time of arrival. I say a record. Although it was raining when we arrived we were hopeful that the sun would be out the next day. Was I dreaming in techni-color. It rained for the next 7 days straight. That is why I never take a one week holiday. Check-in was also smooth. Reception was ready with a cool drink, we were given our room and towel cards and tv remote. The fastest check-in ever.
Rooms
We were located in block 13 on the 4th floor- which I think they call it the attic rooms. We were really impressed with the rooms 2 closed bedrooms a kitchen and fridge and a bathroom bigger than mine, everything was perfect except we had no balcony. My husband could live with this and wanted to stay but I needed my balcony so I requested a room change and the next day we were given second floor in building 11 overlooking the kiddy pool. The room was really nice but the bathroom very small. But I had my balcony that I never used. The other 2 couples with us stayed in the attic rooms as they loved the idea of 2 closed bedrooms which was fine for snoring husbands.
Restaurants and Bars
There are 3 restaurants - the Italian - Michel Angelo- we ate there twice and celebrated my girlfriends birthday with Champagne and cake and singing waiters. The food was good but being Italian not what we are used to, but it was still good. The EDEN- grill restaurant doubles us for a la carte at night- ate there once- and during the day is grill where you can have hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, pork chops or just make your own grilled sandwich and salads. We ate there evey second day. There is also pizza which was good but again not what we are used to. The food at the main buffet was good and we always found something good to eat. Although service was slow due that they were understaffed, and not quite professional yet- you must understand that they are all new and just learning so a bit of patience was needed. We just got up and set our own tables,no big deal. But if you signaled to them they came over. We did get great service the last 2 days we were there, so it is always improving. There are several bars throughout the resorts and the drinks were flowing and everyday there was a special of the day. Allan as always - a professional.
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| Beach/Pools/Grounds |
| The beach is the best in the Playa Dorada, very wide and clean any seaweeds that washed up during the night was promptly removed. Which I cannot say for the neighbouring resorts - 4 Star Blue Bay, Barcelo and Allegro. There was only one day that the sea was bringing in seaweeds during the day. The other days the water was clean on one side. On the windy side, as we referred to it,which was a bit breezier, the water was crystal clear. The pools were a bit cool but nevertheless clean and big. They really did a nice job in renovating this resort. I was impressed. |
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| Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel |
| The animators- all of them new - did a good job, and were fun and entertaining. There were beach games, step classes, water aerobics, stretch classes, pool and beach volleyball, pool tables and fooze ball. When it rained they played BINGO. and had pool an fooze ball tournaments. The shows are a bit lacking. We saw three - The Dominican Folklore dancing, another dance review which was good and a The Magician - really really good. Other night it was audience participation. But my favourite thing was that they always had live music from 7 to 9:30 every night by the pool bar where you danced under the stars. We did not take any excursions but one couple whent to Samana to see the whales and they said that it was worth it. |
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| Other Comments |
| From reading the reviews before we left, I was a bit scared but once again one can stay at the same resort and it will be a place from hell for some and paradise for others. I think it all depends on your attitude. I go on vacation to relax and de-stress so even if things go wrong, which in this case did not, I do not let it bother me. In our case it was deffinetly paradise and will not hesitate to return to the Grand Paradise. P.S. the Gym, Spa and Casino are not open yet and there are still no hairdryer in the rooms so bring your own. |
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| It is a terrific place to visit |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Ann >
8 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jan, 2009
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Arrival: Past 7 years recently Dec 18
Dec 18 and going again Feb 3 We have been to 3 other hotels in Puerto Plata and this one is by far one of the best especially in the food department. What is a vacation without good food.
Rooms:
The rooms are beautiful and comfortable, very clean and relaxing with the new furniture. It is nice to have balconies in every room as it's nice to sit out at night or in the morning, watching the sunset or sunrise if this is the side your on of the resort.
Restaurants and Bars:
The food is acceptional, the variety is endless if you don't like something there is something else to chose from. If you want it simple they have that also. They have it so your eating right on the beach you can just look around and see the beautiful surroundings. The servers are very friendly and efficient.The food is kept hot and fresh along with good presentation.
Beach/Pools/Grounds:
This resort the beach is one of the nicest beaches I have seen in Puerto Plata very clean and well kept. Very close to everything so if your there to just relax then you can do that without having to go very far for snacks, drinks or if wanting to take part in the daily activities they are right there as well along with the water sports again not having to go far it's all right there. Everything is very convienently right at hand.
Activities on and off the Resort/Hotel:
The daily activities are great fun there are activities for all ages. If you want something simple as darts or very physical they have it. The staff presenting these games are a hoot, they make is so fun having so much laughter. The shows at night were very good a variety of shows with having the audience involved. Again laugh and laugh at what they come up with. At that time they were just getting some acts together so there were many nights of the dancing got to be a bit much but was told new shows were to come.
Pool tables, Ping pong tables to many things to mention. Can't wait until the gym is open, don't know when that will be.
We always go on the tour Jeep Safari this is the best for your money. Climbing the falls in the mountain is an experience of a life time. No need to worry about purchasing your tours on the beach it is safe we always do as it is cheaper.
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| Other Comments: |
This resort is very close to the plaza and not far from Puerto Plata it is safe even to walk to the local highway and hop on a local bus for 20 peso's and go to Puerto Plata. Just down the beach a nice walk there is a mini flea market. When you shop always go at least half of what they are asking as they bargain and will try to get as much as you will give. Half of what they are asking is plenty and sometimes still to much. When you shop at any of the markets it will be a pain in the butt as each one will say come to see mine (when you go you will understand what I mean). Just make it clear when shopping that you will let them know if you want something not to bug you.
The resort has been recently renovated so as was mentiioned still some little gliches but they are right there to fix anything your not happy with. It is a terrific place to visit and meet great people or just stay to yourself. There is not just one word that can discribe the feeling you get while vacationing at this resort. Hope to see you there some time.
6647anita@rogers.com |
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| The whole hotel has really been improved appearance |
| Grand Paradise Playa Dorada |
| User Rating:
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Bob >
10 contribution(s) Canada |
| Jan, 2009
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The whole hotel has really been improved appearance wise and the rooms have all been gutted and redone and really look nice with all new furniture and a brand new wide screen TV in each room.
Buildings 1 through 11 on the west half as well as 12, 13 & 15 on the east half are open for occupancy and they expect to have Buildings 14 & 16 facing on the east beach open next week with Buildings 17 through 20 being opened as they are completed.
Staff wise there a many new faces, but also some of the old staff has returned with more returning as they open more rooms and need more staff.
They have added features the will make it better for children especially teenagers, like pool tables, game tables and such, which are located in the building where the old casino was located.
Also in the building where the old casino was located is the disco, a new gym/spa and a large room for the shows so that they can be preformed no matter what the weather.
The casino is now located off the lobby where the Crazy Moon Disco was but at present it is not open as they are waiting for new slot machines, also the gym is not open as the equipment for it has not been delivered yet.
Like any resort that has been re-opened after major renovations, there are a few minor teething pains which are being quickly resolved.
They have added many new features and you can see some of them on a Facebook web page my son created and you do not have to be a Facebook member to view them as he made it open to the public. At this time there are 173 pictures with more being added from time to time. The Facebook URL is:
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=37745&id=599977804&l=c80ad0dc3c
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=75489&id=599977804&l=6ce504820e
The food as always is as good if not better than has always been.
And the staff old and new are as pleasant and helpful as possible. |
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