Punta Cana

We just got back from our Honeymoon in Punta Cana. We stayed at the Paradisus Palma Real, a newer resort.

The airport is a sight. It's all open air. You are rushed from the plane into the airport where you find your baggage claim. There are dozens of workers standing around to carry your bags the 20 feet to the customs check. My advice is to take them yourself if you can and fend the guys off.

After a bus ride on unpaved/unmarked roads we arrived at the resort. Walking in it looked just like the pictures we saw online. Check in was very smooth and they even brought us a welcome drink.

The rooms were clean and the whole place was amazing. The only downside was the Resort begging somewhat pushy trying to get you to join their vacation club. We managed to avoid going to the 60 minute meeting much to their dismay. They even went as far as to put a party boat in the list of included activities which is a sly way to pitch the Vacation Club to you again.

We had an Ocean View Jacuzzi Suite with a stocked (and included) mini bar. The restaurants are a little confusing. You have four to choose from. Passion is the adults only restaurant. I had a nice fillet, my wife had a less than desirable whitefish. Our Favorite was Bana Tepanyaki. It's the kind of place where the cook is in front of you at a group table. It had the best food. There was also Vento. It was also good for seafood. Market Grill is a buffet for lunch and a steak house at night. All the restaurants require reservations. Try and make them a day in advance.

The pools were great. They have a swim up bar that has great service. The beach was very clean and most of the activities are included. We parasailed for an extra charge.

If you are a golfer, bring your clubs, the course is very nice. They say golf is included, however, there is a $35 cart fee. And my wife doesn't golf so there was a $10 rider fee.

Avoid the horse back riding!

I would go back to this resort. If I were to go back to the Dominican Republic. But there are many more place I would like to visit first!

Overall we had an amazing honeymoon, and I wish it wasn't over!