Dominican Republic

[sophie_1003]

Possibility of going to the Dominican Republic (not sure what area) on holiday next August; had a look at some tourist websites but any information, thoughts or opinions on what it's like, stuff to do and how much things cost would be much appreciated, thank you!

[237SJ]

Oh dear, you are not going to like me. If you can get a better deal in the Caribbean do so.

[AlBags]

Hi again Soph ..
Be aware that a lot of hotels are only partially occupied (even tho they may tell you otherwise) so many advertised events (even when sold with the package) are not held, or non-existant. Also many of the trips out or other special add-ons are poor value.
Al.

[sophie_1003]

Why's that 237SJ?
Thanks AlBags; will have a proper look into it when we know which hotels are being considered!

[237SJ]

Sophie, when you go to the Caribbean it will be off season but that doesn`t mean much. It means it rains for a little time every day before the sun comes out again. They call the Dominican Republic the "poor man`s Caribbean`. I don`t wish to judge the Dominican Republic as I am sure it is nice, but if you want a really good holiday in the West Indies, stick to Barbados, Antigua or St Lucia.. I go to Barbados twice a year so if there is anything you want to know about that part of the world, let me know x

[AlBags]

... which reminds me about being invited to a party at Eddy Grant's when I was there in the 80's.
I had a good mate who had family there we stayed with.
: )

[sophie_1003]

Well to be honest, could probably only afford the poor-mans version next year! Also, only able to travel in school holiday times! It's actually someone else arranging it so will have to see what area and hotel it is!

[237SJ]

That`s the problem with holiday deals. They really screw people with kids and put the prices up 3 fold.

[anniesummers]

We went there 2 years ago sophie and it was.. it was, well it was OK

[society]

The island itself is very nice. But it's very poor island and every footstep you make someone approaches you and begs. Barbados, Antigua, St. Lucia are all lovely places and the people are quite nice and friendly. Jamaica, I'm scared of there - it's frightening, too much crimes.

[sophie_1003]

Ohh, it sounded really idyllic and now I'm not so sure! Should add that I am used to Spanish holiday resorts so don't go thinking I'm expecting pure luxury!

[sddsddean]

Was there last December for one day on a cruise. Roads were terrible, not helped by everywhere being dug up to have a new water main put in. Personally I thought it was a hole and wouldn't go there again, but just my opinion!!

[237SJ]

sophie - if you want to go somewhere else other than Spain, I will say again, Barbados. You can`t beat it. A beautiful place with great laid back people, fantastic beaches/turtles/flying fish/ There is nowhere else in the world like Barbados

[NoMercy]

It's rainy season from June til November.

And be aware that the DR is still a very developing country.

[sophie_1003]

Thanks 237SJ, unfortunately we're going with another couple and they are very keen on this particular holiday they've found so think I'll have to look at it before trying to convince them of somewhere else but will keep Barbados in mind as an alternative!

[AlBags]

Barbados is pretty cool .. I'll admit .. Well it was in the late 80's.

[NoMercy]

The Bahamas is beautiful and all inclusive is probably the best way to go if you limited on the spends.

[micmak]

I went to DR and loved it. We stayed in Bavaro. Food excellent. Hotel excellent. Entertainment excellent. Trips out excellent. Would go back tomorrow.

[sophie_1003]

Yay! There's hope for the holiday yet! Thanks micmack; as I say think I'm a bit premature asking when I don't know the hotel so may pop back in a couple of days with more details!

[pinkcowprint]

hi sophie,i beg to differ with all them who are putting you off dominican,we went for my boyfs 30th about 6 year ago and loved it!!we too could only afford this part of carribean and went 20th aug for a fortnight,i think we were just entering rainy season,we had a storm for one daythat was it.we stayed in playa dorado,north in a village where you could freely walk to shops,bars,pizza hut,golf courses,restaurants etc with nobody bothering you and felt completely safe.i think we stayed in hotel playa dorada,something like that anyway.food,cleanliness everything was top notch,absolutely brilliant,went on many trips and had a lovely time.we got treat like royalty and never once felt we were in poor mans country.hope this makes you feel bit more positive!

[sara3]

I got married there.. don't do it!