Riu Bambu ClubHotel, Playa Bavaro, Dominican Republic
Hotel Information
Recent Price: £191
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
The hotel is a fantastic All Inclusive resort set right on the fabulous beach of Arena Gorda and only 600 metres from Caribbean Street. Although a great choice, there are a number of steps around the complex making it an unsuitable choice for the less mobile. loading...
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Riu Bambu ClubHotel Reviews
" Best value hotel in Bavaro "
Submitted By: mwaterfall
Just arrived back from a week here. Reading some of the previous reviews, I nearly didnt book this hotel as it sounded like Butlins.
THat was so far from the truth.
The food, fantastic, loads of choice 24 hours a day.
The drink, plentyful 24 hours a day.
The staff, very friendly and helpful, everyday!
Beach - Best I have been on.
Value for money 10/10!
There is loads going on, but if you are like us, you just want to chill out enjoy so great food and drink in a quiet spot, then fine, the entertainment is there is you want it and out th eway if you dont! There is something for everyone, regardless of age and taste!
Try it we will be back and soon!
THat was so far from the truth.
The food, fantastic, loads of choice 24 hours a day.
The drink, plentyful 24 hours a day.
The staff, very friendly and helpful, everyday!
Beach - Best I have been on.
Value for money 10/10!
There is loads going on, but if you are like us, you just want to chill out enjoy so great food and drink in a quiet spot, then fine, the entertainment is there is you want it and out th eway if you dont! There is something for everyone, regardless of age and taste!
Try it we will be back and soon!
Advice: Try it best value all inclusive
Activities:
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Apr 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Lovely Riu Bambu "
Submitted By: Beulah
Have recently returned from a two week stay at Riu Bambu and have a wonderful time. All staff was polite and welcoming, mostly speaking decent English, although our attempts at some basic Spanish were welcomed.
The staff was always cheerful and greeted us whenever we met them. I was impressed with the management as it seemed as if all the staff was valued no matter what their job and I am sure that this reflected in the courteous way we were treated. I also found the customer relations to be excellent, both the manager and a customer relations lady were regularly in the restaurant and came to talk to us and ensure we had everything we required. We only had one problem during our stay which was a fusty smell in the room. We went to reception and they moved us the following morning to another room which was fine with no problem. They also left us a bottle of local rum and telephoned later to check we were satisfied with the new room.
The All Inclusive package was 24 hours and it was nice to have drinks in the room, although these were limited. However there were several places where other drinks could be obtained easily. We found the food to be good with plenty of choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are other restaurants we could use at other hotels in the resort although we did not use them as we had plenty of choice at the Bambu. We did try the Steak House al la carte which was very enjoyable.
The animacion team were amazing. They worked hard and very long hours, yet were always cheerful and energetic. They provided quite a variety of activities during the day and put on show in the evening. The shows were good and the people taking part were very professional in their attitude. Many thanks to Alex, who was pretty amazing, in addition to being part of the team providing daytime activities, he also sometimes worked in the kids club (they all seemed to love him) as well as being a dancer in the shows and dancing with the guests before/ after the ShowTime. I don’t know where he got his energy from! They also did a beach party with a BBQ during our stay which was fun.
The beach was gorgeous; although we did not spend a lot of time there as it was quite often windy during our stay. I preferred the pool as I do not like swimming in the sea. This had a Jacuzzi which I enjoyed and the pool was large enough to have a space to swim unlike some hotels I have visited. There were plenty of beds around the poolside as well as on the beach, with pool towels which could be changed daily. The only small criticism I have is that some of the mattresses need replacing. We only had difficulty on one occasion. I noticed that guests from the other hotels in the resort used the Bambu facilities and I think that this was because there was more going off there. We did look at some of the other hotels but preferred the Bambu.
Would I return – you bet, although I do tend to like to see new places each time. I thought the holiday was excellent value for money. Riu Bambu es muy bien!
The staff was always cheerful and greeted us whenever we met them. I was impressed with the management as it seemed as if all the staff was valued no matter what their job and I am sure that this reflected in the courteous way we were treated. I also found the customer relations to be excellent, both the manager and a customer relations lady were regularly in the restaurant and came to talk to us and ensure we had everything we required. We only had one problem during our stay which was a fusty smell in the room. We went to reception and they moved us the following morning to another room which was fine with no problem. They also left us a bottle of local rum and telephoned later to check we were satisfied with the new room.
The All Inclusive package was 24 hours and it was nice to have drinks in the room, although these were limited. However there were several places where other drinks could be obtained easily. We found the food to be good with plenty of choice for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are other restaurants we could use at other hotels in the resort although we did not use them as we had plenty of choice at the Bambu. We did try the Steak House al la carte which was very enjoyable.
The animacion team were amazing. They worked hard and very long hours, yet were always cheerful and energetic. They provided quite a variety of activities during the day and put on show in the evening. The shows were good and the people taking part were very professional in their attitude. Many thanks to Alex, who was pretty amazing, in addition to being part of the team providing daytime activities, he also sometimes worked in the kids club (they all seemed to love him) as well as being a dancer in the shows and dancing with the guests before/ after the ShowTime. I don’t know where he got his energy from! They also did a beach party with a BBQ during our stay which was fun.
The beach was gorgeous; although we did not spend a lot of time there as it was quite often windy during our stay. I preferred the pool as I do not like swimming in the sea. This had a Jacuzzi which I enjoyed and the pool was large enough to have a space to swim unlike some hotels I have visited. There were plenty of beds around the poolside as well as on the beach, with pool towels which could be changed daily. The only small criticism I have is that some of the mattresses need replacing. We only had difficulty on one occasion. I noticed that guests from the other hotels in the resort used the Bambu facilities and I think that this was because there was more going off there. We did look at some of the other hotels but preferred the Bambu.
Would I return – you bet, although I do tend to like to see new places each time. I thought the holiday was excellent value for money. Riu Bambu es muy bien!
Advice: Well worth a visit.
Activities: Spent our time in the resort, which was very enjoyable.
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Jan 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Portland Direct
" Riu Bambu "
Submitted By: traveller24
Selected the Riu Bambu after reading positive reviews on a number of websites for a week away in guaranteed sunshine and we were not disappointed. Arrived at the hotel mid afternoon and as soon as the bus pulled up, you ccould see the clear blue ocean.
The hotel itself forms part of a much larger area, comprimising of 3 other Riu resorts. The Bambu is set in stunning grounds, of palm trees and well maintained gardens. The reception area, available 24 hours is of typical caribbean design, with 2 small shops as part of the facilities. The rooms of the hotel are of a 2 storey design, each painted in pastel shades. Each room has its own private balcony and is complete with 2 double beds, a bathroom with a decent shower/bath and a fridge & optics for drinks, which are restocked every 48 hours. Rooms are air conditioned and are fitted with mosquito nets. The cleaning staff take great pride in their work and rooms are cleaned daily and left immaculate. Keys for the safety deposit box are issued free on arrival.
All inclusive drinks are available all day from the pool and Mamajuana snack bar. Food is typical of all inclusive resorts, but to be honest there is a wide selection available with 2 theme nights each week. You can prebook the steak house, if you fancy a change but we were more than happy with the selection available in the main dining area. Travelling with 2 children, we were a little concerned, however pizza, salad and ice cream all available among the extensive range offered. You can truely pig out during breakfast, lunch and dinner. The mamjuana area was very handy, located right next to the pool area for lunch and offered an equally good choice after a morning in the sun.
We tended to lounge around the pool area or at the beach, which is stunning. I can see now why they call it the coconut coast! Sunbeds around both pool areas are plentiful, with some in the shade and the larger pool has a swim up bar. Daily activities form part of the Bambu offering, anything from dancing, pool games and aerobics to bowls and volleyball. On a thursday night it is worth taking a stroll along to caribbean street, where displays of dancing etc take place in typical traditional styles.
Evening entertainment, you'll either love it or hate it. We loved it. While not to the standard of a west end show, the entertainment staff did a brilliant job. The halloween show was fantastic and if you have a good sense of humour you'll be more than satisfied. Congratulations must go to the animation staff, who do a fantastic job of speaking 4 languages and keeping guests entertained 14 hours a day. They are a friendly bunch and great with the kids.
Elsewhere, I found the staff to be very polite and helpful. The hotel certainly deserves a high rating, with good food, superb staff and facilities and fantastic location.
Would recommend to all, in fact we are booking to return.
The hotel itself forms part of a much larger area, comprimising of 3 other Riu resorts. The Bambu is set in stunning grounds, of palm trees and well maintained gardens. The reception area, available 24 hours is of typical caribbean design, with 2 small shops as part of the facilities. The rooms of the hotel are of a 2 storey design, each painted in pastel shades. Each room has its own private balcony and is complete with 2 double beds, a bathroom with a decent shower/bath and a fridge & optics for drinks, which are restocked every 48 hours. Rooms are air conditioned and are fitted with mosquito nets. The cleaning staff take great pride in their work and rooms are cleaned daily and left immaculate. Keys for the safety deposit box are issued free on arrival.
All inclusive drinks are available all day from the pool and Mamajuana snack bar. Food is typical of all inclusive resorts, but to be honest there is a wide selection available with 2 theme nights each week. You can prebook the steak house, if you fancy a change but we were more than happy with the selection available in the main dining area. Travelling with 2 children, we were a little concerned, however pizza, salad and ice cream all available among the extensive range offered. You can truely pig out during breakfast, lunch and dinner. The mamjuana area was very handy, located right next to the pool area for lunch and offered an equally good choice after a morning in the sun.
We tended to lounge around the pool area or at the beach, which is stunning. I can see now why they call it the coconut coast! Sunbeds around both pool areas are plentiful, with some in the shade and the larger pool has a swim up bar. Daily activities form part of the Bambu offering, anything from dancing, pool games and aerobics to bowls and volleyball. On a thursday night it is worth taking a stroll along to caribbean street, where displays of dancing etc take place in typical traditional styles.
Evening entertainment, you'll either love it or hate it. We loved it. While not to the standard of a west end show, the entertainment staff did a brilliant job. The halloween show was fantastic and if you have a good sense of humour you'll be more than satisfied. Congratulations must go to the animation staff, who do a fantastic job of speaking 4 languages and keeping guests entertained 14 hours a day. They are a friendly bunch and great with the kids.
Elsewhere, I found the staff to be very polite and helpful. The hotel certainly deserves a high rating, with good food, superb staff and facilities and fantastic location.
Would recommend to all, in fact we are booking to return.
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- Date of Holiday:Oct 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" This was the best holiday ever i... "
Submitted By: Miss Kl Lyson
This was the best holiday ever i couldnt complain about anythink. the swim up pool bar and jaquzi was brilliant. the beach is out of this world and there is every watersport u could want there some of them are free. we swam with the dolphins which was amazing. the animation team were really gud they worked non stop they were always there entertaining u especially Ronny who was so funny.The food therewas brilliant they had everything u wanted 24 hours a day. u could notfault this holiday i really wantto go back. overall an excellant holiday.
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" the RIU bambu - needs a refurb and... "
Submitted By: Mr P Thompson
the RIU bambu - needs a refurb and staff to be trained!
we have stayed at many RIU hotels without a problem and 5 star service hence booking into the RIU bambu.
The hotel is rated a 5 star, rated a 4 star with our tour operator but iin reality its a maximum 3 star!! If you are english or american i would not reccomend there are loads of very rude french & italinans guests "never heard of a waiting line"
The rooms - on arrival we were givena room which was damaged - lampshades, floor tiles, tv, you name it as well as bein very damp. We were then moved to another which had similar faults but not to the extent of the previous and then were told that it was the best room available bearing in mind the hotel was only half full! 4/10
The staff - Staff are very rude, well thats unless you are older and can be taken of advantage easier. Restaurant staff were a mostly a joke - very sleezy with the women and constantly taking advantage of older guests. they have one thing on there mind and thats TIPS! which is the reason they favour the older guests. Along with them being very rude and you have probaly half chance of them ever getting you a drink at dinner (they are the worst staff i have ever had to put up with). 2/10
Bar staff - many are rude and can hardly understand english expect to recieve the wrong drink a few times on your stay 6/10
cleaning staff- great FAULTLESS! 10/10
garden staff - lazy, sleezy and all round rude. they go around swinging there machettis which is a bit of a joke. trying to impress. If they were just using to cut the bushes all would be fine but acting the joker! NO! Also were generally asleep under the stairway on many occasions. but did keep the place tidyish!
entertainment - very rude, very sleezy and walked around like they owned the place!
shows were similar to a episode of benidorm! talentless!!!! lalso there is a transvestite entertainer which is not goodd for the kids or anyone for that matter, caught the freak in the toilets puting his lippy on what a joke!
My advice pay extyra to go next door to The RIU PALACE PUNTA CANA! Really nice hotel and good staff, except christmas day (the waiters dont wanna be there)
hope this helps!!! - im going to write up a few reviews for the other RIU's i have stayed in which are all positive
we have stayed at many RIU hotels without a problem and 5 star service hence booking into the RIU bambu.
The hotel is rated a 5 star, rated a 4 star with our tour operator but iin reality its a maximum 3 star!! If you are english or american i would not reccomend there are loads of very rude french & italinans guests "never heard of a waiting line"
The rooms - on arrival we were givena room which was damaged - lampshades, floor tiles, tv, you name it as well as bein very damp. We were then moved to another which had similar faults but not to the extent of the previous and then were told that it was the best room available bearing in mind the hotel was only half full! 4/10
The staff - Staff are very rude, well thats unless you are older and can be taken of advantage easier. Restaurant staff were a mostly a joke - very sleezy with the women and constantly taking advantage of older guests. they have one thing on there mind and thats TIPS! which is the reason they favour the older guests. Along with them being very rude and you have probaly half chance of them ever getting you a drink at dinner (they are the worst staff i have ever had to put up with). 2/10
Bar staff - many are rude and can hardly understand english expect to recieve the wrong drink a few times on your stay 6/10
cleaning staff- great FAULTLESS! 10/10
garden staff - lazy, sleezy and all round rude. they go around swinging there machettis which is a bit of a joke. trying to impress. If they were just using to cut the bushes all would be fine but acting the joker! NO! Also were generally asleep under the stairway on many occasions. but did keep the place tidyish!
entertainment - very rude, very sleezy and walked around like they owned the place!
shows were similar to a episode of benidorm! talentless!!!! lalso there is a transvestite entertainer which is not goodd for the kids or anyone for that matter, caught the freak in the toilets puting his lippy on what a joke!
My advice pay extyra to go next door to The RIU PALACE PUNTA CANA! Really nice hotel and good staff, except christmas day (the waiters dont wanna be there)
hope this helps!!! - im going to write up a few reviews for the other RIU's i have stayed in which are all positive
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Our first trip to the dominican... "
Submitted By: Mrs J Coombes
Our first trip to the dominican republic was well worth the long journey. The rooms were absoloutely spotless and the staff were always friendly people. They couldn't do enough for you. The food was average cant complain but cant exactly say it was the tastiest food ive ever ate, although most of it was ok.
Weather wise we were very lucky, only one day of a good tropical storm and even then it was still nice and warm. There were several places to choose from to eat and drink, they were all good. There was also a casino, disco and a carnival in caribbean street on the thursday night.
We went on a couple of trips; one being the monster truck (a real eye opener) and the other was an animal adventure for the day. We got to swim with the sea lions, snorkle with the fish and oh my god, snorkling with the sharks (scary stuff).
The pools were lovely, but we chose to chill by the sea as you get a nice breeze. The animation team was great, always working hard day and night and keeping everyone entertained. The sunbeds provided were free and plentyful. The beach was very beautiful as was the sea. Nice and blue. :) We met some lovely people, all in all we both had a great holiday and hope to return in the near future.
Weather wise we were very lucky, only one day of a good tropical storm and even then it was still nice and warm. There were several places to choose from to eat and drink, they were all good. There was also a casino, disco and a carnival in caribbean street on the thursday night.
We went on a couple of trips; one being the monster truck (a real eye opener) and the other was an animal adventure for the day. We got to swim with the sea lions, snorkle with the fish and oh my god, snorkling with the sharks (scary stuff).
The pools were lovely, but we chose to chill by the sea as you get a nice breeze. The animation team was great, always working hard day and night and keeping everyone entertained. The sunbeds provided were free and plentyful. The beach was very beautiful as was the sea. Nice and blue. :) We met some lovely people, all in all we both had a great holiday and hope to return in the near future.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We went for two weeks, myself husband... "
Submitted By: Mrs S Walker
We went for two weeks, myself husband and son who is 21 months. Had a great time, weather was beautiful only one day of warm rain the rest of the time was sunshine. We spent most of the time either in the pool or on the beach. The rooms were cleaned every day but we did have lots of tiny ants and some rather big cockroaches which was a bit of a pain. We complained at reception and was told it would be fumigated, we ended up with a can of spay to keep in the room which we sprayed before we went out. If travelling with young children make sure you bring enough wipes and nappies as a pack of wipes cost us approx £5 and the nappies were a lot too. You cannot get swimming nappies out in the resort so make sure you pack plenty of those too. The table tops in the room are covered with glass so be aware although we didn't have any accidents its easy to see how they could happen. The childrens pool is not with the other pools so we spent most the time in the smaller of the two pools, the activities took place in the big pool so our son was quite happy here. There is a range of food and they also have themed nights as well with differert foods. The mini bar is refilled every two days. I would recommend for people to go here although if travelling with other children there didn't seem to be that much for them to do.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Fantastic holiday for all age groups.... "
Submitted By: Mrs G Nesbitt
Fantastic holiday for all age groups. We were very weary about mixed reviews on the websites and started to panick a little bit before we left but,once there we couldnt have been happier. All of the staff are very friendly and genuine people who work extremely hard all day long. The hotel is spotlessly clean and well maintained. The swimming pool could do with a lick of paint but is by no means shoddy. You never have to fight for a sun lounger on the beach or by the pool and the hotel provide clean towels every day. The hotel is on the beach and as soon as you arrive at the hotel you can see the sea. The maids work very hard and one day we even had a maid knock on the door at 9.30pm to see if we needed our room cleaning because we were asleep when she came in the afternoon. The food is very good in the main buffet area but we never ate the speciality areas as we never felt the need to. In a nut shell, if you want a really relaxing or fun holiday where you can just watch or join in all the activities, this is the hotel for you. If you want sheer luxury, visit the palace hotels in the resort. But in my opinion they are not worth twice the price of the Bambu. The only negative thing that i can think of is that the night time entertainment is not upto much, but the day time activities more than make up for this. Go Riu Bambu
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" OK the actual facts are these. This... "
Submitted By: Mrs T M Grant
OK the actual facts are these. This hotel will either be the place that you cry when you leave or will leave you a bit cold.
We were the former. It sounds dramatic, but we are all actually depressed about leaving the Bambu. A week later and we are not getting any happier.... I have been to salsa classes and made cocktails at home - which helped a bit, but not enough.
My Review in Context: I am fussy. A bit of a nightmare actually. When I get to a resort I pretty much always want to change rooms. Sometimes I turn around and come home.
Not this time.
You see on tripadvisor etc. people say - the animation staff are great. This is the most ridiculous understatement. They are almost superhuman.
You cannot imagine the hard work these people put into their roles. They care about whether you are having a great time. The shows they stage range from seat wettingly hilarious, to west end standard tear jerkingly amazing. They entertain your children all day. They try to persuade you to join in their games (they succeed). They teach you to dance. Brilliantly. They are rehearsing at 7am working all day - and still finding time to dance at the disco into the night - well, morning to be accurate.
By the end of the holiday you feel like you are in their family.
Let me give you a rundown of a few of these remarkable people:
Kuchi: Beautiful, multilingual, kind and charismatic - watch out for Kuchi's starring role in the breathtaking Africa show - the highlight of the entertainment calendar. She is a truly amazing woman.
Cappuccino (Jimmy): Superb MC, again fluent in every language you can think of, cheeky, hilarious - attractive if you like the large handsome muscular type.....
Wasa Wasa: Go to his Aerobics, Dance Classes and Stretching under the palms on the beach. You will never forget it. I am an aerobics and dance teacher and was blown away.
Alex: Oh My God - Alex. He is 18 and the MOST talented dancer and mature young man I have ever met. If he came to England he would be a superstar.
Daisy: Miniature Princess. Delicate, sexy, raucous, hilarious. She declared that my 12 year old son was her husband on the first night, and kept that up for 2 weeks. Made a young boy VERY happy......
Eveline: The original Sexy Momma. Buxom, outrageous, sultry - set many man's heart a-flutter!
Richard: Another great MC and dance teacher. Generous and sweet. Saucy. You won't mind.....
Daniel: Another energetic young one - lock up your daughters (only joking). Complete sweetheart.
This is the reason you go on holiday. Not to examine the cotton content of sheets. It is to meet amazing people from different places, laugh, have fun, forget.
The rooms are absolutely fine. Not amazing - but spotless.
You are only there to sleep and they are more than luxurious enough for that.
The food (unless you like to eat Cheez'ums and KFC on a regular basis) was actually terrific. Don't bother booking into the restaurants - the buffet is excellent - truly.
5 of us (aged 45, 34, 16, 12, 2) ate and drank everything with no ill-effects, and I actually went home trimmer and full of vitality thanks to Wasa and co's classes.
You could use this holiday as a fitness break if you wanted to. I did. Well having said that - I was always at least one rum punch to the wind.
It is NOT like Butlins (I read that and nearly cancelled) - the fun is not contrived - it is from the heart, and genuine. And actual fun. Mr Bambu is just priceless.
This is a truly special place on a spectacular beach.
There are posher hotels on the complex (Palaces) - known as the cemeteries! It is telling that they all congregate on the Bambu in the evening for the shows and come to the Bambu's beach in the daytime.
In summary. I left England tired, feeling old, fat, clapped out and weary - and returned feeling bronzed, trim, energized and gorgeous.
You just can't argue with that!
We were the former. It sounds dramatic, but we are all actually depressed about leaving the Bambu. A week later and we are not getting any happier.... I have been to salsa classes and made cocktails at home - which helped a bit, but not enough.
My Review in Context: I am fussy. A bit of a nightmare actually. When I get to a resort I pretty much always want to change rooms. Sometimes I turn around and come home.
Not this time.
You see on tripadvisor etc. people say - the animation staff are great. This is the most ridiculous understatement. They are almost superhuman.
You cannot imagine the hard work these people put into their roles. They care about whether you are having a great time. The shows they stage range from seat wettingly hilarious, to west end standard tear jerkingly amazing. They entertain your children all day. They try to persuade you to join in their games (they succeed). They teach you to dance. Brilliantly. They are rehearsing at 7am working all day - and still finding time to dance at the disco into the night - well, morning to be accurate.
By the end of the holiday you feel like you are in their family.
Let me give you a rundown of a few of these remarkable people:
Kuchi: Beautiful, multilingual, kind and charismatic - watch out for Kuchi's starring role in the breathtaking Africa show - the highlight of the entertainment calendar. She is a truly amazing woman.
Cappuccino (Jimmy): Superb MC, again fluent in every language you can think of, cheeky, hilarious - attractive if you like the large handsome muscular type.....
Wasa Wasa: Go to his Aerobics, Dance Classes and Stretching under the palms on the beach. You will never forget it. I am an aerobics and dance teacher and was blown away.
Alex: Oh My God - Alex. He is 18 and the MOST talented dancer and mature young man I have ever met. If he came to England he would be a superstar.
Daisy: Miniature Princess. Delicate, sexy, raucous, hilarious. She declared that my 12 year old son was her husband on the first night, and kept that up for 2 weeks. Made a young boy VERY happy......
Eveline: The original Sexy Momma. Buxom, outrageous, sultry - set many man's heart a-flutter!
Richard: Another great MC and dance teacher. Generous and sweet. Saucy. You won't mind.....
Daniel: Another energetic young one - lock up your daughters (only joking). Complete sweetheart.
This is the reason you go on holiday. Not to examine the cotton content of sheets. It is to meet amazing people from different places, laugh, have fun, forget.
The rooms are absolutely fine. Not amazing - but spotless.
You are only there to sleep and they are more than luxurious enough for that.
The food (unless you like to eat Cheez'ums and KFC on a regular basis) was actually terrific. Don't bother booking into the restaurants - the buffet is excellent - truly.
5 of us (aged 45, 34, 16, 12, 2) ate and drank everything with no ill-effects, and I actually went home trimmer and full of vitality thanks to Wasa and co's classes.
You could use this holiday as a fitness break if you wanted to. I did. Well having said that - I was always at least one rum punch to the wind.
It is NOT like Butlins (I read that and nearly cancelled) - the fun is not contrived - it is from the heart, and genuine. And actual fun. Mr Bambu is just priceless.
This is a truly special place on a spectacular beach.
There are posher hotels on the complex (Palaces) - known as the cemeteries! It is telling that they all congregate on the Bambu in the evening for the shows and come to the Bambu's beach in the daytime.
In summary. I left England tired, feeling old, fat, clapped out and weary - and returned feeling bronzed, trim, energized and gorgeous.
You just can't argue with that!
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- Date of Holiday:Jan 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Having booked to spend Christmas and... "
Submitted By: Mrs H Lowe
Having booked to spend Christmas and New Year at the Grand Palladium Bavaro Resort & Spa (our third visit) we were informed that the hotel had been overbooked and the alternative offered was the Riu Bambu.
This hotel just did not compare and we would rate it no better than a 3*. The rooms were basic, although clean. The 'double' beds are only 4ft wide, the sheets are 'bobbly’, and the pillows are lumpy and uncomfortable. The bathroom is tiny; the shower over the bath is far from powerful and the temperature is erratic.
The food was a major disappointment compared with the Palladium - same old thing turned out at every meal (garlic soup for breakfast!) with the occasional 'show' station. Our children (12 & 9) lived on pizza for 2 weeks. We even saw a cockroach crawl across the table in the main buffet restaurant.
To get a decent meal you have to queue up at 06.45 to book the Caribbean grill a al carte restaurant of the neighbouring palace hotel - we had the same menu there 4 times, but at least it was nice. We appreciate the chefs put in extra effort for the Gala dinners, but having been to the Palladium for Christmas 2005, this wasn't anywhere near the same standard.
Praise where praise due - the staff were more friendly. However there is no waiter service at the poolside or on the terraces and the drinks in the restaurant are largely self-service. The occasional waiter would offer to bring wine to the meal table - even tipping didn't guarantee service! Waiter service is the 'norm' at the Palladium.
If this had been our first experience in the Dominican Republic I'm sure we would have come back with glowing reports - the first time you see the beach it takes your breath away. However having been to a far superior hotel in the same resort, for not much more money, we would not recommend this hotel.
This hotel just did not compare and we would rate it no better than a 3*. The rooms were basic, although clean. The 'double' beds are only 4ft wide, the sheets are 'bobbly’, and the pillows are lumpy and uncomfortable. The bathroom is tiny; the shower over the bath is far from powerful and the temperature is erratic.
The food was a major disappointment compared with the Palladium - same old thing turned out at every meal (garlic soup for breakfast!) with the occasional 'show' station. Our children (12 & 9) lived on pizza for 2 weeks. We even saw a cockroach crawl across the table in the main buffet restaurant.
To get a decent meal you have to queue up at 06.45 to book the Caribbean grill a al carte restaurant of the neighbouring palace hotel - we had the same menu there 4 times, but at least it was nice. We appreciate the chefs put in extra effort for the Gala dinners, but having been to the Palladium for Christmas 2005, this wasn't anywhere near the same standard.
Praise where praise due - the staff were more friendly. However there is no waiter service at the poolside or on the terraces and the drinks in the restaurant are largely self-service. The occasional waiter would offer to bring wine to the meal table - even tipping didn't guarantee service! Waiter service is the 'norm' at the Palladium.
If this had been our first experience in the Dominican Republic I'm sure we would have come back with glowing reports - the first time you see the beach it takes your breath away. However having been to a far superior hotel in the same resort, for not much more money, we would not recommend this hotel.
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- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" When you first land, the airport is... "
Submitted By: Mr J Cook
When you first land, the airport is tiny and thatched but as it was so small it ran like clockwork and we was out before you knew it.
Travelling to the hotel and hits home; you don’t know how well you are off until you see how other people live and some of the Dominicans live in really poor shacks with tin roofs, which only get electricity on an evening, but really nice people.
15 mins later and you arrive into the RIU complex; it is huge with 3 other hotels on the same stretch of beach.
The beach is to die for, the sand is so soft and the sea so clean and warm, and there are palm trees all along the beach also which was a nice touch. All the water sports also available on the all-inclusive option.
The room was good with cable TV and a free mini bar and optics to help yourself, when the crazy entertainment was too much.
There are 24 hour food/drinks available, so whenever you get hungry help yourself.
The Caribbean street is also a good idea, as there are shops selling souvenirs etc.
The monster truck is a must, it takes you right into the heart of Dominican, and you get to see the schools the kids go to, a typical farmer’s home, the sugar cane fields and a witch doctor in his home - definitely recommend this one. We also had other trips but were cancelled due to the heavy rain for 3 of our 7 days, but still one of the best holidays I have ever been on.
I would recommend the RIU to anybody and I will go back, might try one of the other hotels next time for a change.
Travelling to the hotel and hits home; you don’t know how well you are off until you see how other people live and some of the Dominicans live in really poor shacks with tin roofs, which only get electricity on an evening, but really nice people.
15 mins later and you arrive into the RIU complex; it is huge with 3 other hotels on the same stretch of beach.
The beach is to die for, the sand is so soft and the sea so clean and warm, and there are palm trees all along the beach also which was a nice touch. All the water sports also available on the all-inclusive option.
The room was good with cable TV and a free mini bar and optics to help yourself, when the crazy entertainment was too much.
There are 24 hour food/drinks available, so whenever you get hungry help yourself.
The Caribbean street is also a good idea, as there are shops selling souvenirs etc.
The monster truck is a must, it takes you right into the heart of Dominican, and you get to see the schools the kids go to, a typical farmer’s home, the sugar cane fields and a witch doctor in his home - definitely recommend this one. We also had other trips but were cancelled due to the heavy rain for 3 of our 7 days, but still one of the best holidays I have ever been on.
I would recommend the RIU to anybody and I will go back, might try one of the other hotels next time for a change.
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- Date of Holiday:Oct 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Myself, my husband, my daughter and... "
Submitted By: Mrs S Clarke
Myself, my husband, my daughter and my granddaughter stayed at the RUI Bambu for 2 weeks in June 2006. What can I say? The hotel was amazing.
The staff were brilliant, extremely helpful. The rooms were lovely and spacious.
The food was brilliant, always something different on the menu.
All in all the holiday was amazing, would defo return to this hotel again.
The staff were brilliant, extremely helpful. The rooms were lovely and spacious.
The food was brilliant, always something different on the menu.
All in all the holiday was amazing, would defo return to this hotel again.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Visit the Riu Bambu in February for a... "
Submitted By: Mr K Lynam
Visit the Riu Bambu in February for a post Christmas mid winter break. Myself and my wife traveled with our 2 boys aged 7 and 10. The whole experience was perfect for the whole family. The entertainment staff could not do enough to make everybody feel at home. The service at the bars and restaurants could not have been better. The quality of all of the food and drink on offer was A1.
The rooms are spacious well equipped and spotless, as is the whole of the complex.
Everybody has a smile, staff and guests.
If you do visit, keep a look out for Oliver, Javier and Estaban, great people. I cannot praise everybody enough, both the Thompson staff and the Riu hotel staff from maids to management, our hotel and bar staff in the UK have got a lot to learn.
Enjoy your trip. We have booked for a return trip next Feb.
The rooms are spacious well equipped and spotless, as is the whole of the complex.
Everybody has a smile, staff and guests.
If you do visit, keep a look out for Oliver, Javier and Estaban, great people. I cannot praise everybody enough, both the Thompson staff and the Riu hotel staff from maids to management, our hotel and bar staff in the UK have got a lot to learn.
Enjoy your trip. We have booked for a return trip next Feb.
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- Date of Holiday:Feb 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" After an 8 hour flight to the... "
Submitted By: Mr M Abercrombie
After an 8 hour flight to the Dominican we were all lined up in a queue to get our photos taken? Had no idea what this was for but smiled anyway standing next to a complete stranger, wasn’t too bothered though as I had no want to buy it when coming back to the airport!
Waited for 45 minutes in the hottest airport in the world to find that one of our suitcases didn’t make it to the Dominican! Dad spoke to the rep and she was honestly one of the cheekiest people around! Very unhelpful and had no idea when our suitcase would come! Dad eventually had to go to the resort manager and have a word with him because after spending something in the region of £200 in clothes for my sister and I before going on holiday, there was no decent shops around. We ventured into Bavaro in a taxi to try and buy clothes! We bought 8 items of clothing and it cost us approx. £140!
Other than that, the hotel was absolutely beautiful, all staff very helpful and extremely friendly, shouting good evening to you as you go to dinner! Favourite meal had to be the Mexican night! Coming from Scotland, Mexican food is not part of my diet and it was fun to try different things that literally burnt the roof of your mouth off!
Swimming pool was great, not much wind however making you feel like you are being fried! Went to the beach for 12 days because of the chance of a nice cool breeze, which really made you feel great!
Staff coming around with glasses of cola, beer, cocktails you name it they had, I felt like a king! Rooms were top notch, oh that bed! I still dream about it to this day! The maids were rather amusing, not being able to speak a word of English apart from the words "Hello, Maid, and Thank you"
Overall a really good holiday apart from the start but I would love to go back to the Caribbean, maybe to a different island!
Waited for 45 minutes in the hottest airport in the world to find that one of our suitcases didn’t make it to the Dominican! Dad spoke to the rep and she was honestly one of the cheekiest people around! Very unhelpful and had no idea when our suitcase would come! Dad eventually had to go to the resort manager and have a word with him because after spending something in the region of £200 in clothes for my sister and I before going on holiday, there was no decent shops around. We ventured into Bavaro in a taxi to try and buy clothes! We bought 8 items of clothing and it cost us approx. £140!
Other than that, the hotel was absolutely beautiful, all staff very helpful and extremely friendly, shouting good evening to you as you go to dinner! Favourite meal had to be the Mexican night! Coming from Scotland, Mexican food is not part of my diet and it was fun to try different things that literally burnt the roof of your mouth off!
Swimming pool was great, not much wind however making you feel like you are being fried! Went to the beach for 12 days because of the chance of a nice cool breeze, which really made you feel great!
Staff coming around with glasses of cola, beer, cocktails you name it they had, I felt like a king! Rooms were top notch, oh that bed! I still dream about it to this day! The maids were rather amusing, not being able to speak a word of English apart from the words "Hello, Maid, and Thank you"
Overall a really good holiday apart from the start but I would love to go back to the Caribbean, maybe to a different island!
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
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We were sold the holiday by Thompsons as a 5* equivalent. It wasn't. At best we thought it was 3*. The rooms were tired and in need of redecoration. We were lucky in that our air conditioner worked. All other guests we spoke to their air conditioning didn't work and in that humidity you need it. They had complained to the Thompson reps and the hotel reception but nothing had been done apparently.
I have stayed in Travel Lodges which were in better condition that the rooms. Ours smelt mouldy when we first got there but that seemed to go once we had the iar conditioning on for a while (or we just got used to it).
The food was OK. There was lots of choice but after two weeks of the same stuff we started getting a bit fed up of it. Everything seemed to be really salty to me but that may have been personal taste (I don't salt my food and I did see some Greman guests adding more salt!) There was always fresh fruit avilable and the breakfasts were nice with lots of variety - I had pancakes with mapel syrup a few time. We found the service good on the whole. The staff were helpful and happy to serve. We weren't very impressed with the enterainment. I have read reviews where people have praised the entertainment staff for how hard they worked. The never seemed to get any time off. All the time we were there the sames staff were there. The shoes on the evening reminded me of a cross between britains got talent and celebrity come dance with me! fine if you like that sort of thing. We stayed up to watch the whole thing once and decided it wasn't worth doing it again.
On the plus side the beach was beautiful - just as you would imagine it with white sand and palm trees. The weather was beautiful also. We had a few heavy rain showers but the cleared really quickly.
We went and did some trips also but I wouldn't go through the Thompson rep. They 'advised' people not to use companies other than those they recommend as it could be 'unsafe' but there was a company based on the beach called ScudaCaribe through the Rui Hotel that were lass than half the price than the Thompson version and seemed to be just as good. ScubaCaribe provided all of the free watersports Thompson endorsed such as catamaran sailing, kayaking, pedalos, windsurfing etc. We booked horse riding through them and really enjoyed it.
Advice: Go to the Dominican but don't go to the Bambu and don't trust Thompsons description.
Activities: Horse riding