Sandal's Dunns River Resort: A Travel Agent's Review

7/14/2023

Introducing Sandals Dunns River Resort, a picturesque resort nestled in the heart of Jamaica. While our journey had a few hiccups along the way, the overall experience was delightful and left us contemplating a return visit. Join us as we recount the highlights and the overall ambiance of this tropical paradise.

Arrival and Transportation: Upon landing at Montego Bay Airport, we embarked on a scenic journey of approximately one hour and 45 minutes to reach Sandals Dunns River. It's worth noting that the resort is similarly located in proximity to the Kingston airport. We exited the airport, and were directed to a standard bus/van. The extended travel time would have been more enjoyable with more comfortable transportation. We recommend considering the Luxury private transportation upgrade for future visits.

Check-in and Accommodations: Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the resort staff. Our luggage had already been arranged in advance. The friendly staff serenaded us with a lively song before guiding us to the Club Sandals office, where we enjoyed snacks, drinks, and a personalized check-in process. Our dedicated Butlers handled the administrative check-in while providing us with a comprehensive tour of the resort. Our room, although not the rooftop Rondoval, was still beautiful and provided a comfortable stay. The Rondovals are situated in three rows, and the end units offer additional privacy and slightly larger swimming areas. However, they are located on the opposite side of the main tower from the beach, which may be a consideration for beach enthusiasts.

Dining and Culinary Experience:  Sandals Dunns River boasts a variety of dining options, including Italian, Latin, Asian, French, and Greek cuisine. While we didn't have the chance to try all the restaurants, we found the resort buffet, Saltaire, to be the most enjoyable. Our Butler managed to secure a reservation at the French Restaurant, La Alamande, where I savored a delicious lamb dish, while my companion wasn't as pleased with his duck. The Jerk Shack offered jerk chicken, sausage, pork, and fish, accompanied by flavorful sides. Our favorite dining experience was at the Greek Restaurant, where we relished whole red snapper and succulent lamb chops.

Recreational Activities and Entertainment:  Sandals Dunns River offers an array of recreational activities, including scuba diving, sailing, and various water sports, all included in the resort stay. However, we found the entertainment options to be somewhat limited, with a few evening shows, a pottery class, and occasional live musicians by the pool. If you seek a vibrant nightlife or constant daytime entertainment, this resort may not fully meet your expectations.

Excursions and Nearby Attractions:  During our stay, we embarked on an excursion to Dunns River Falls and Catamaran, which pleasantly surprised us by including snorkeling. The resort is in the process of expanding its excursion offerings, although for our trip, we had to travel to Sandals Ochii for departure.

Service and Overall Experience:  One aspect that stood out throughout our visit was the exceptional service provided by the staff. From the attentive Butlers and front desk personnel to the restaurant and beach staff, the service was truly top-notch. Sandals Dunns River offers a peaceful retreat with stunning beaches, beautiful rooms, and access to various water sports. It is an ideal destination for couples seeking tranquility and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, our time at Sandals Dunns River was a memorable experience, despite a few initial setbacks. The resort offers an idyllic setting for couples to unwind, with its pristine beaches, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional service. While the culinary options left something to be desired and the entertainment was relatively subdued, the overall ambiance and attentive staff made our stay truly enjoyable. We recommend Sandals Dunns River to those seeking a serene escape in a romantic tropical paradise.

Know Before You Go:  Sandals is a no-tipping resort and all tips are included in your package price, unless you have a butler room. You are encouraged to tip your butler(s) for service received during your stay.

(Note: The information provided is based on the author's personal experience and preferences.)

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Coral Level at Iberostar Bavaro: A Travel Agent's Honest Review

6/30/2023

We would like to introduce you to the Coral Level at Iberostar Bavaro Selection Punta Cana Resort, an excellent option for travelers seeking an affordable yet delightful resort experience in the Dominican Republic. Nestled within the larger Iberostar Bavaro Complex, this particular section offers a range of amenities and services that cater to both couples and families. Join us as we explore the highlights and insider tips about this budget-friendly gem.

Coral Level Experience: Enhanced Comfort and Exclusivity Coral Level is a collection of villas located closer to the beach within the Iberostar Bavaro Complex. Choosing the Coral Level provides guests with a range of privileges, including access to nightly a la carte restaurants (with reservations), a specialty restaurant, a private beach area with cabanas and comfortable lounge chairs, two small pools, a pool bar, and a dedicated check-in area.

Accommodations: Clean and Comfortable The rooms at Coral Level are clean and offer the basic amenities needed for a pleasant stay. Housekeeping services are provided twice a day, and each room is equipped with a mini-fridge. However, it's worth noting that the air conditioning throughout the resort may not be as cold as expected. Additionally, some rooms offer convenient pool access, which is particularly advantageous for families traveling with children.

Tranquil Pools and Pristine Beaches: One of the highlights of Coral Level is the serenity and tranquility it offers. The pool areas designated for Coral Level guests are often sparsely populated, ensuring a peaceful and relaxing experience. Additionally, the resort's beautiful beach boasts wide stretches of powdery sand, regularly cleaned to maintain its pristine appearance. The beach area in front of Coral, Bavaro, and Grand sections tends to be less crowded compared to Punta Cana and Dominicana, offering a more peaceful ambiance for beach lovers.

Dining: Abundance but Varied Quality At Iberostar Bavaro Selection Punta Cana, you'll find a wide array of dining options. Exploring the various on-site restaurants will uncover some delightful culinary experiences, but it may require a bit of exploration to find the best offerings.

Attentive Staff and Language Considerations: The resort prides itself on its exceptional staff members who provide great customer service. From bartenders to entertainment staff, the employees go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. However, it's important to bear in mind that English may not be widely spoken on the island, and occasional language barriers may arise. Utilizing tools like Google Translate can be helpful in overcoming any communication challenges.

Overall Impression: The Coral Level at Iberostar Bavaro Selection Punta Cana offers a solid budget option for couples and families seeking a relaxing and enjoyable vacation. With its picturesque pools, beautiful beach, attentive staff, and affordable rates, it's worth considering as a top choice for families who would like a balance of comfort, variety, and budget. Despite some minor drawbacks, the resort's loyal following and ample facilities make it a compelling choice for travelers. Don't forget to take advantage of the resort's convenient golf cart service, where friendly drivers can transport you around the expansive property.

Know Before You Go: The Iberostar Brand is committed to eco-conscious practices, which means plastic bottles and cans are not used at the resort. Instead, there are water refill stations available throughout the property, allowing guests to access filtered water using the provided glass bottles in their rooms.

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Sandal's Dunns River Resort: A Travel Agent's Review

Coral Level at Iberostar Bavaro: A Travel Agent's Honest Review

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