Punta Cana Journals

Post hurricane Punta Cana

A December 2004 trip to Punta Cana by ideaguy

Breezes Punta Cana from the helicopter Photo - Breezes Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic More Photos
Quote: Punta Cana blew me away with its tropical beauty. Arriving only a couple months after the 2004 hurricanes that flattened a good portion of the resorts in Punta Cana, I have to say that the local people were working miracles to return this place to its former beauty.

Post hurricane Punta Cana

Overview

resort aerial - distant Photo - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Quote:
I really have only one truly outstanding memory from a long list of great memories of Punta Cana. The sand is the softest sand I have ever stepped in. Oh, and the helicopter ride was pretty cool, too. Punta Cana is best if you are wanting to unwind and relax. The pace is slow and serene. Quick Tips: As Breezes is an all-inclusive resort, my suggestion would be to get up as early as you can for breakfast, as it is over by 10am. The large dining buffet serves hundreds of items for breakfast--so much so that anyone could find something they like. Booking your dinner can only be done same-day and is recommended if you need to eat by a certain time.Best Way To Get Around: Breezes Punta ...Read More
Breezes Punta Cana from the helicopter Photo - Breezes Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Quote:
Due to the hurricanes of fall '04, the Breezes resort is almost brand-new again. The resort had only reopened two weeks prior to our arrival and was about 80% finished with the reconstruction. You could see what was new and ask most staff about the damage, and they could tell you what happened. Otherwise, the resort was working hard to return to normal and had a few more weeks ahead of them to finish. By now, the resort would be completely rebuilt. The resort is very clean and very picturesque.

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on January 21, 2005

Breezes Punta Cana
Playa Arena Gorda
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
(877) 467-8737

Breezes Punta Cana

Hotel | "Breezes Punta Cana Resort Spa and Casino"

Courtyard Pool Photo - Breezes Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Quote:
Best Things Nearby:The beach was the best.Best Things About the Resort:There probably wasn't one single thing, but the whole experience at this resort was great. They had a great staff (pretty girls).Resort Experience:For my first all-inclusive experience, I would rate this resort a close 8 out of 10. The hurricanes in fall '04 kicked the crap out of all the resorts, and considering the level of damage they experienced, the resort has done a great job making the place livable again. Malaria is reported to be a growing problem, and many countries are encouraging their citizens to make sure they are properly vaccinated and bring in DEET-based repellants. ...Read More

Member Rating 4 out of 5 on January 21, 2005

Breezes Punta Cana
Playa Arena Gorda
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
(877) 467-8737

Resort Restaurants

Restaurant | "Resort restaurants x 5"

Quote:
Overall, the food in the Breezes resort finishes a little bland but probably needs to be, so that the majority of people will eat. When I say bland, I mean that there is little added spice, heat, or seasoning, but it was available to add yourself. The Japanese restaurant was my least favourite, only because there are better in Calgary. The Italian restaurant and the French restaurants were my personal fave for an evening meal, comparable to many others I have eaten at. The breakfast buffet was outstanding. I didn't have a chance to eat at the Mexican restaurant during an evening meal, but it was open 24 hours a day, with fast-food that helped soak up the Cuervo. Mmmmmmm Cuervo... Tipping isn't requi...Read More

Member Rating 3 out of 5 on January 21, 2005

Resort Restaurants
Bavaro Barcelo Beach Resort
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
(809) 686-5797

Quote:
I will go back to Punta Cana because of the natural beauty of the area and the people. This first trip was to an all-inclusive resort where all you had to bring was yourself. Normally I buy the cheapest flight, arrive, and then find a place to stay. The all-inclusive experience at this resort was great. I have heard of other experiences, none as comfortable as the stay I experienced in this resort. Normally, I would become stir-crazy and want to tramp around, but the size of Breezes kept me busy enough that I was fine just hanging out fairly close to home. The gaming area had not been rebuilt when I was there (December '04), and the gym had just been rebuilt. There is sea kayaking an...Read More