SANTO DOMINGO.- The Iberostar Dominicana, BlueBay Villas Doradas, Bahía Príncipe Grand El Portillo and Caribe Deluxe Princess hotels, located in the Dominican Republic, were selected in the list of the “9 best budget all-inclusive Caribbean resorts for 2024”, according to the US News & World Report portal.
The publication indicates that all-inclusive hotels are a popular choice for a relaxing Caribbean vacation. They offer accommodations, meals, and some activities for a single price, in resorts that eliminate much of the hassle of planning a relaxing trip to a warm, tropical destination.
They point out that destinations like Mexico and the Dominican Republic have more affordable options without needing to spend a lot of money.
Iberostar Dominicana is located in Punta Cana, in the eastern region of the country. The publication states that it has been rated as an affordable five-star property. It explains that rooms for two people are priced at only US$200 per night, although prices may vary during peak season. It highlights that even at these prices, the hotel offers free Wi-Fi and a private balcony. Guests can also relax by lagoon-style pools or on beach chairs in the shade of a palapa.
It highlights the 18-hole golf course, the spa, and the coral lab, which teaches about local ecosystems. Tourists who have visited the hotel praise its entertainment, especially those who enjoy dancing and music. It also notes that the resort is excellent for accommodating dietary restrictions.
The publication highlights the hotel's sustainability program, which includes the elimination of single-use plastics, a commitment to responsible fishing, and a promise that its resorts will be waste-free by 2025.
BlueBay Villas Doradas, in Puerto Plata. It stands out as an adults-only hotel, an affordable option for a romantic getaway without children.
It highlights that with advance reservations, it's possible to stay for as little as US$200 per night for two people. It indicates that the standard rooms are air-conditioned and measure approximately 260 square feet. It also mentions that guests can enjoy Playa Dorada or relax by the three outdoor pools.
The publication also indicates that the hotel has four restaurants offering everything from Chinese cuisine to seafood. It also offers water sports, tennis, a gym, and a golf course.
Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo, in Las Terrenas, Samaná, offers a variety of activities such as free scuba diving lessons in the pool, tennis facilities, kayak rentals, kids' and teens' clubs, and a children's water park.
They point out that prices can drop as low as US$160 per couple per night during off-peak months, with some affordable dates available during the shoulder seasons (early December and April). Rooms feature king-size beds and whirlpool tubs to help guests unwind after a long day.
It says previous guests praised the beautiful palm-fringed beach with coral and crystal-clear waters, and also mentioned a combination of pools on the resort's premises.
It highlights that the restaurants offer French, Mediterranean, Italian, and Brazilian cuisine. There's also a wide variety of bars by the pool and on the beach, as well as a sports bar for those who can't miss a game of their favorite sport.
Caribe Deluxe Princess, located in Punta Cana. The resort features rooms with modern tropical décor, balconies, king or queen beds, and complimentary minibars.
It says the dining and drinking options include seven restaurants with cuisine ranging from Tex-Mex to Dominican to teppanyaki, plus two additional upscale restaurants not covered by the all-inclusive rates. The resort also boasts nine all-inclusive bars, including beach, pool, and rooftop options.
The publication also notes that previous visitors have admired the resort's stunning tropical gardens and beach. Children and teenagers have their own activities, and adults can enjoy non-motorized water sports, a sports area with archery, other activities, and evening entertainment.
Prices at this resort can drop to US$225 or less per night for two people, mainly during the off-season.
Full list:
- Occidental Costa Cancun
- Iberostar Dominicana
- BlueBay Golden Villas
- The Cozumeleño Beach Resort
- Bahia Principe Grand El Portillo
- Best Western Jacó Beach Resort
- Barceló Tambor
- Princess Caribbean Deluxe
- Barceló Ixtapa
Cover photo: Iberostar Dominicana (official website).
