Iberostar Costa Dorada Hotel, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Hotel Information
Recent Price: £156
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
Located directly opposite the beach of Puerto Plata, Playa Dorada, at the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, only 15 min. from the international airport of Puerto Plata along Luperon highway and just a few minutes away from the town of Puerto Plata. loading...
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Iberostar Costa Dorada Hotel Reviews
" best ever holiday "
Submitted By: tracyjane26
i just returned from this hotel ,which 26 of us visited for my daughters wedding,i cannot give enough credits to the hotel and staff they made it a truely magical holiday and wedding day for my daughter and her new husband,there is so much going on at this hotel always some kind of entertainment from morning till night,the shows at night are fabulous and the entertainment staff are great every single last one of them.they put so much in to making your holiday so perfect and enjoyable.we love grace,spiderman,and cheeky monkey they are great,food is beautiful here,rooms are kept sparkling clean what more can i say there was not one tiny thing i could pick fault with,and if anyone does find fault they have nothing better to do.110% perfect we are hoping to go back next year .thankyou so much tracy hadwin
Advice: everything to do in one place excellent
Activities:
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Bliss in Iberostar "
Submitted By: The Kemps
My husband and I stayed in the Iberostar, Puerto Plata last year May on our honey moon. The staff were helpful and friendly as soon as we entered the gates. Though I am sure everyone gets the same treatment we were made to feel special. My husband and I have travelled quite a bit before, prefering to stay away from "lazy" all inclusives. Well call me lazy as we are heading back there with our children this year. The flamingo's, Turtles and roaming Peacocks, Orchids growing from the trees, the planters punch,food, cocktails and bear on tap, warm sea almost at our bedroom door, various wonderful massages, jacuzzi, hard working but always smiling staff are just a few of the things that made our stay truely wonderful. We met some really nice people from various parts of the world also enjoying their stay. A must is Monster Truck, try and bring small gifts for the children you will meet on this excursion, such as hair bands, pencils, rubbers etc. They will really appreciate it. Seeing how the people of DR live should make us all humble about consumerism and waste. Beautiful people, Beautiful country.
Wonderful & Bliss.
Wonderful & Bliss.
Advice: Try everything. Try and leave the hotel for a walk.
Activities: Monster Truck. Try the golf course but be aware of extras.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Fab Honeymoon!! "
Submitted By: Julesc
We have been back from Doninican for a few weeks now and have been meaning to write a review for a while!! My husband and I spent our 2 week honeymoon at the Iberostar....and loved it!!!
Below I have tried to comment on everything....the trip section may be of interest for anywhere you are staying in Dominican!!!
We met some lovely people, the staff were friendly, the food was fab....drinks were great (especially the milkshakes when you have had enough of drinking alcohol!). The room was nice...bed amazingly comfortable!! The hotel itself was clean, with everything that you need!!
We arrived on 05th Jan...all the xmas lights were still up and we really felt the wow factor that we had been hoping for!! Sadly the lights came down the next day....but the hotel was still lovely!!
The beach was great (and clean) (spent most of our time there as the pool was too hot without the breeze!). Be warned the sea is Atlantic...so not crystal blue...which a lot of people expected...and moaned about?!!!! Pool was lovely....we just prefered the sea breeze!
The Mexican restaurant was great (we would recommend the chicken!), the Brazillian was nice (very filling!). We did not try the fish restaurant as neither of us like sea food! The buffet restaurant was excellent....different food everyday.....massive choice, we didn't eat the same thing once in the 2 weeks we were there and we are both fussy eaters!!!
The entertainment was hit and miss...but I have never been to any hotel were the entertainment was excellent every night!! The entertainment team do their best and most of the shows (Lion King was excellent) were good fun!!
The only thing that slightly annoyed us was the fact that everything is priced in US $.....we were not told this before we went and only had Dominican currency with us....but this only caused a problem when entering the country as you HAVE to pay in $....no problem paying in Domincan on way out!! Take $ for tips...as this gets expensive when using Dominican currency!!
We loved all of the trips we did....but be warned...they are VERY expensive! We went to
* Paradis Island.....loved it....snorkling in crystal blue sea with tropical fish was fab....not long enough though and a LONG day with a lot of travelling (speed boats were fun!)....we thought it was worth it though...be warned...EARLY start (not quite sure why!)!!
*Mega Trucks.....great day out....loved everything....and my husband got over his fear of horses!! Visiting the village was nice....and make you realise how lucky we are with all the comforts we have!!
*Ocean world - READ CAREFULLY!! If you have booked to swim with Dolphins then this is an expensive but amazing experience. If you are not doing the dolphin swim....I wouldn't bother with this trip!! Ocean World is expensive (entry) and is very small...the best bit apart from dolphins is the snorkle pool!! If you do go DO NOT GO ON THE FREE VIP TOUR!!! This VIP tour is basically TIMESHARE!!!!
*Deep Sea Fishing.....fab trip....wish we had booked the full day....but only had a half day!! Captin and crew were brilliant. A couple of people were sea sick....but got over it and we all had a great laugh!! Only caught one fish....which was lost as it was about to be brought on board...but was still brilliant!!
All in all we had the best 2 week holiday that either of us had every had....made even more special as it was our honeymoon!!
Personally we could not fault the hotel, staff, accommodation, food, drinks, entertainment....anything!! Also...hotel is close to airport...so no long transfers. Yes there is not much around....we walked to Playa Dorada (about 15 mins)....which is a big complex...with bars that show the football!! There is a Casino that you can use in the hotel next door...this also has a cashpoint!! But taxi's are not too expensive if you do want to go to the town (be careful of "TOUR GUIDES" just jumping in your taxi!!
We will be going back in years to come......if you want a nice clean hotel, good food and a relaxing time...this hotel is perfect!!
Below I have tried to comment on everything....the trip section may be of interest for anywhere you are staying in Dominican!!!
We met some lovely people, the staff were friendly, the food was fab....drinks were great (especially the milkshakes when you have had enough of drinking alcohol!). The room was nice...bed amazingly comfortable!! The hotel itself was clean, with everything that you need!!
We arrived on 05th Jan...all the xmas lights were still up and we really felt the wow factor that we had been hoping for!! Sadly the lights came down the next day....but the hotel was still lovely!!
The beach was great (and clean) (spent most of our time there as the pool was too hot without the breeze!). Be warned the sea is Atlantic...so not crystal blue...which a lot of people expected...and moaned about?!!!! Pool was lovely....we just prefered the sea breeze!
The Mexican restaurant was great (we would recommend the chicken!), the Brazillian was nice (very filling!). We did not try the fish restaurant as neither of us like sea food! The buffet restaurant was excellent....different food everyday.....massive choice, we didn't eat the same thing once in the 2 weeks we were there and we are both fussy eaters!!!
The entertainment was hit and miss...but I have never been to any hotel were the entertainment was excellent every night!! The entertainment team do their best and most of the shows (Lion King was excellent) were good fun!!
The only thing that slightly annoyed us was the fact that everything is priced in US $.....we were not told this before we went and only had Dominican currency with us....but this only caused a problem when entering the country as you HAVE to pay in $....no problem paying in Domincan on way out!! Take $ for tips...as this gets expensive when using Dominican currency!!
We loved all of the trips we did....but be warned...they are VERY expensive! We went to
* Paradis Island.....loved it....snorkling in crystal blue sea with tropical fish was fab....not long enough though and a LONG day with a lot of travelling (speed boats were fun!)....we thought it was worth it though...be warned...EARLY start (not quite sure why!)!!
*Mega Trucks.....great day out....loved everything....and my husband got over his fear of horses!! Visiting the village was nice....and make you realise how lucky we are with all the comforts we have!!
*Ocean world - READ CAREFULLY!! If you have booked to swim with Dolphins then this is an expensive but amazing experience. If you are not doing the dolphin swim....I wouldn't bother with this trip!! Ocean World is expensive (entry) and is very small...the best bit apart from dolphins is the snorkle pool!! If you do go DO NOT GO ON THE FREE VIP TOUR!!! This VIP tour is basically TIMESHARE!!!!
*Deep Sea Fishing.....fab trip....wish we had booked the full day....but only had a half day!! Captin and crew were brilliant. A couple of people were sea sick....but got over it and we all had a great laugh!! Only caught one fish....which was lost as it was about to be brought on board...but was still brilliant!!
All in all we had the best 2 week holiday that either of us had every had....made even more special as it was our honeymoon!!
Personally we could not fault the hotel, staff, accommodation, food, drinks, entertainment....anything!! Also...hotel is close to airport...so no long transfers. Yes there is not much around....we walked to Playa Dorada (about 15 mins)....which is a big complex...with bars that show the football!! There is a Casino that you can use in the hotel next door...this also has a cashpoint!! But taxi's are not too expensive if you do want to go to the town (be careful of "TOUR GUIDES" just jumping in your taxi!!
We will be going back in years to come......if you want a nice clean hotel, good food and a relaxing time...this hotel is perfect!!
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Jan 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" We stayed at the Iberostar from the... "
Submitted By: Miss L Martin
We stayed at the Iberostar from the 10th - 24th September and loved it. We flew with Thomas Cook-ok flight but my TV & headset didn't work for the outgoing or return flight very frustrating and the airhostess was as much help as a chocolate tea pot and just shrugged.
We were in room 5119 2nd floor beach view room and did not have a single issue with the room. It has an interconnecting door so if you are slightly unlucky like us and have noisy neighbours it maybe favourable to pack some ear plugs, as no one really wants to hear Robbie Williams being crucified at 2.30am.
The room was fumigated once per week and we had no signs of any wildlife! They also re sealed our sink while we were they and i have to say they put all the toiletries back in the exact same place and there was no lingering smell. The buffet restaurant was vast and always had plenty of choice-our favourite being breakfast time, the smoothies are delicious! Robert was our waiter and he was lovely! Lunchtime you have a choice of the main restaurant, pool restaurant or there could be a beach BBQ. All delicious food. We loved the Brazilian restaurant with a choice of 7 meats (we even tried the sweetbreads), the Mexican restaurant is great too, we had beef medallions wrapped in Parma ham-yum! Reyna is great and always smiling!
We did find the pool water did turn anything white, yellow but i have since washed all the clothes back home with Glo Bright and they are as good as new. It must just be the chemicals they use in the pool.
The beach was wonderful and clean. Yes there was sea weed but the staff do a good job clearing it everyday. Go snorkelling and kayaking as the wildlife and views you see are breathtaking!
We saw most of the shows and the Lion king was fantastic-black light show, you could give a miss.
Luckily i brought European & US adapters with me and used the European ones with my strengtheners & mosquito plug in and they worked like a dream in the socket for the lamp, so bring 2 lots if you can.
We went to Ocean World and it was a great day. Did the dolphin, stingray & shark swim and it was great. Expensive £120 per person and you still have to buy lunch but worth it-got some great photos!
Recommended!
We were in room 5119 2nd floor beach view room and did not have a single issue with the room. It has an interconnecting door so if you are slightly unlucky like us and have noisy neighbours it maybe favourable to pack some ear plugs, as no one really wants to hear Robbie Williams being crucified at 2.30am.
The room was fumigated once per week and we had no signs of any wildlife! They also re sealed our sink while we were they and i have to say they put all the toiletries back in the exact same place and there was no lingering smell. The buffet restaurant was vast and always had plenty of choice-our favourite being breakfast time, the smoothies are delicious! Robert was our waiter and he was lovely! Lunchtime you have a choice of the main restaurant, pool restaurant or there could be a beach BBQ. All delicious food. We loved the Brazilian restaurant with a choice of 7 meats (we even tried the sweetbreads), the Mexican restaurant is great too, we had beef medallions wrapped in Parma ham-yum! Reyna is great and always smiling!
We did find the pool water did turn anything white, yellow but i have since washed all the clothes back home with Glo Bright and they are as good as new. It must just be the chemicals they use in the pool.
The beach was wonderful and clean. Yes there was sea weed but the staff do a good job clearing it everyday. Go snorkelling and kayaking as the wildlife and views you see are breathtaking!
We saw most of the shows and the Lion king was fantastic-black light show, you could give a miss.
Luckily i brought European & US adapters with me and used the European ones with my strengtheners & mosquito plug in and they worked like a dream in the socket for the lamp, so bring 2 lots if you can.
We went to Ocean World and it was a great day. Did the dolphin, stingray & shark swim and it was great. Expensive £120 per person and you still have to buy lunch but worth it-got some great photos!
Recommended!
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Stayed at Iberostar for 2 weeks... "
Submitted By: Mrs P Gogarty
Stayed at Iberostar for 2 weeks August. 08 A/I. What a wonderful hotel and what wonderful staff. Hotel spotless with great attention to detail. Food faultless with a great variety and chefs on hand to cater to your every need. Plenty of activities and the nightly shows a treat to look forward to particularly the Lion King and Movie show. The beach was a great escape from the heat with a cool breeze blowing, and if you like you could join the dancing or language lessons that were on offer. All in all a good choice for a dream holiday. Will defintely return.
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Holiday Place
" we had heard great things from people... "
Submitted By: Mr G Watson
we had heard great things from people who had been here before and having been at the iberostar in cyprus last year, which was supurb,were expecting great things.
the hotel looked supurb,gardens,flowers and a great pool.
the food was very dissapointing,average at best. apparently speaking to a member of staff the head chef walked out 6 months previous and the standard had really dropped.
the rooms were clean but basic,certainly not 5* as advertised. the maid never cleaned the coffee perculator for 3 days and never replenished the coffee or tea once in the two weeks. the fridge was broken when we arrived and it took two complaints and ten days to get a new one. the staff, in the main ,were very good. the entertainment staff,about 25 of them, made a lot of noise in the day but did little. volleyball and football apart there were no activities despite a board saying others would be played. this led to some, frankly, boring days.
like an old school report of mine, did well, should do better springs to mind. we enjoyed our holiday but it should have been a lot,lot better
the hotel looked supurb,gardens,flowers and a great pool.
the food was very dissapointing,average at best. apparently speaking to a member of staff the head chef walked out 6 months previous and the standard had really dropped.
the rooms were clean but basic,certainly not 5* as advertised. the maid never cleaned the coffee perculator for 3 days and never replenished the coffee or tea once in the two weeks. the fridge was broken when we arrived and it took two complaints and ten days to get a new one. the staff, in the main ,were very good. the entertainment staff,about 25 of them, made a lot of noise in the day but did little. volleyball and football apart there were no activities despite a board saying others would be played. this led to some, frankly, boring days.
like an old school report of mine, did well, should do better springs to mind. we enjoyed our holiday but it should have been a lot,lot better
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" My holiday there was the best and the... "
Submitted By: Miss Rol O''leary
My holiday there was the best and the hotel and its staff were amazing. Id love to go back thanks for the great time iberostar :)
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2005
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Me and my partner (Julie and Terry)... "
Submitted By: Miss J Hudson
Me and my partner (Julie and Terry) had only been together for 8 months and this was our first holiday together aged in our 30's and we think we are just reaching our prime in life, lol not to old to do the merengue and soak in life. Well lets tell you our story from our eyes so here goes .... arrived at manchester the day before booked in a hotel Julie got the days wrong ended up in a box room, the next day flight was delayed, were'nt bothered as we had upgraded to first class snobby we know he he but its our first holiday. Arrived at hotel which was which we were greeted by a lovely alcohlic drink, and plenty of friendly looking faces, baggage we were made to feel at ease instansy, could of been the drink lol. Our baggage was taken to our rooms, no stress we can see why its 5 Star, exellant. The was'nt any fault on inspection of our room as we all know we are all keen to see our home for the next 2 weeks. So much fun and atmosphere within the complex in every department going from ie, the work staff, the bar staff, the entertainment crew, we had our favourites as we got to know then, Starting with the bar staff, always willing to have a laugh and have make you feel welcome without no falseness, Elvis was out first person we meet as we tortured him asking him for La Quinta (the bill) as we thought it was funny as it was all inclusive hotel and it was one of the few words we knew in there language which always got us a funny look and reaction. From then on in we made friends with all the bar staff our favourites been elvis, Juan (beach bar) Hilario, who made it memorable been at the bar what more can i say but exellant bar staff, definelaty recommend Kris Royale drink.
Moving on The entertainment crew and what can i say apart from they were'nt in your face but really knew how to got the best out of you when you were ready to join in the activites and generally making you feel you have been at the hotel for ages, superman, Scobby, CoCo, Cassandra really making our holiday by always putting a smile on our face from morning till night cant fault them, still think superman is gay lol, if do meet him ask him if he remembers Mr Lesbian man as he called me this as i like pink, we found out his real name is Richard so call him that if you go, he does;nt like it but we thought it was funny and he took it well.At this point i would like say we found all the dominican people have a great attitude towards life and a great sense of humour, which they never once made you feel that anything was to much to ask for bending over backwards to help. The restaurant staff and other hotel staff were also very good in there on rights on how they ran and made you feel in there ow rights, Santo was our main one who always made us smile and was always happy to see you.
The complex itself from entrance right to the beach was faultless in every department it was beautiful, had character and most of all a lovely ambience. The pool was clean, large and the jaquzzi in the middle made it and looked wicked lite up on a night. I would also like to say i have done a lot of travelling and one thing i did notice there is hardly any irritating pests ie, flys, ants, cochroaches which only adds to the pleasure and our memories of visiting the dominican.
We did 2 excursions which we choose 1 each the dolphin swin was an experience of a lifetime to swin with them amazing well worth the money and the memories. the other excusion was paradise island which was the one that started the day at the crack of dawn from been on a 20 seater plane and visiting a beautiful castle, and no we are not to old to experience a castle, as it was a good start to the day,to been on a beautiful canal boat, where the rum starting flowing which is f.o.c of course then getting on a speed boat James Bond style which was no way could you not enjoy this as it was absolutely one of them Yeee Haaaaaaaaaa's in life to been in the middle of the sea drinking more rum stood on a sandbank holding star fish and giving you chance to befriend the people who are on the trip, which i thought was just the start for me as all 3 blokes includung myself were sparky's, nightmare for the women ha ha.then its on to the beach for a bbq lunch and more rum and a real chance to experience the full understanding of the caribbean.
Back at the hotel we bought engagement rings from Harrison's Jewellers (The finest caribbean jewellers as patrick swayze shops there) asked my future wife to marry me under a fountain near reception and went down on on knee (obviously 2 much rum and Kris Royale lol) only kidding. We loved the holiday that much we are going we are going back in August this year to to get married in the hotel with our close family and friends and any one that knows us this speaks for itself as it will be our 2nd holiday together and its going to be such a hard place to be beaten on our future holiday expericnes in fact were going for 3 weeks and cant wait.
Bad Points
On reading other reviews those who have moaned and complained get a life as you are obviously blind and dont know how to enjoy life as everything ticks the boxes for us as a couple and has give us so many excellant memories. If you have the pleasure of visiting this place i personally think you'll have no regrets, pure pleasure.
By the way we did make it home in one piece for those of you who know us
Moving on The entertainment crew and what can i say apart from they were'nt in your face but really knew how to got the best out of you when you were ready to join in the activites and generally making you feel you have been at the hotel for ages, superman, Scobby, CoCo, Cassandra really making our holiday by always putting a smile on our face from morning till night cant fault them, still think superman is gay lol, if do meet him ask him if he remembers Mr Lesbian man as he called me this as i like pink, we found out his real name is Richard so call him that if you go, he does;nt like it but we thought it was funny and he took it well.At this point i would like say we found all the dominican people have a great attitude towards life and a great sense of humour, which they never once made you feel that anything was to much to ask for bending over backwards to help. The restaurant staff and other hotel staff were also very good in there on rights on how they ran and made you feel in there ow rights, Santo was our main one who always made us smile and was always happy to see you.
The complex itself from entrance right to the beach was faultless in every department it was beautiful, had character and most of all a lovely ambience. The pool was clean, large and the jaquzzi in the middle made it and looked wicked lite up on a night. I would also like to say i have done a lot of travelling and one thing i did notice there is hardly any irritating pests ie, flys, ants, cochroaches which only adds to the pleasure and our memories of visiting the dominican.
We did 2 excursions which we choose 1 each the dolphin swin was an experience of a lifetime to swin with them amazing well worth the money and the memories. the other excusion was paradise island which was the one that started the day at the crack of dawn from been on a 20 seater plane and visiting a beautiful castle, and no we are not to old to experience a castle, as it was a good start to the day,to been on a beautiful canal boat, where the rum starting flowing which is f.o.c of course then getting on a speed boat James Bond style which was no way could you not enjoy this as it was absolutely one of them Yeee Haaaaaaaaaa's in life to been in the middle of the sea drinking more rum stood on a sandbank holding star fish and giving you chance to befriend the people who are on the trip, which i thought was just the start for me as all 3 blokes includung myself were sparky's, nightmare for the women ha ha.then its on to the beach for a bbq lunch and more rum and a real chance to experience the full understanding of the caribbean.
Back at the hotel we bought engagement rings from Harrison's Jewellers (The finest caribbean jewellers as patrick swayze shops there) asked my future wife to marry me under a fountain near reception and went down on on knee (obviously 2 much rum and Kris Royale lol) only kidding. We loved the holiday that much we are going we are going back in August this year to to get married in the hotel with our close family and friends and any one that knows us this speaks for itself as it will be our 2nd holiday together and its going to be such a hard place to be beaten on our future holiday expericnes in fact were going for 3 weeks and cant wait.
Bad Points
On reading other reviews those who have moaned and complained get a life as you are obviously blind and dont know how to enjoy life as everything ticks the boxes for us as a couple and has give us so many excellant memories. If you have the pleasure of visiting this place i personally think you'll have no regrets, pure pleasure.
By the way we did make it home in one piece for those of you who know us
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" this was one of the best hotels we... "
Submitted By: joannahull
this was one of the best hotels we have stayed in since we have been to the dom rep.the food and drinks were to die for.there was so much choice even my fussy eater of a husband filled his plate up every meal time.we are looking to go back to this hotel again.we dont usualy like to but it was the best.the evening shows were like what you would pay to go and see in london.
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Direct Holidays
" I stayed at this hotel with my... "
Submitted By: Mrs L Cardwell
I stayed at this hotel with my husband, son (aged 9) and daughter (aged 6) from the 22nd Mar to 5th April and was not disappointed.
I'd read all the previous reviews and found they were very helpful and full of essential information. The hotel was magnificent, you could not fault anything at all, only the weather!!! We had 2 days of rain and probably 3 days of cloud although the sun did break through at times. Apart from that it was scorching.
The reception area is beautiful with the turtles and flamingoes. There are even peacocks wandering around the grounds. It is all open plan, but don't worry you can get to your room without getting wet if it rains.
My husband thought the rooms could do with a refurbishment but I thought they were fine. Whilst we were there we could see that some rooms were being painted and updated. The maids were fantastic and our fridge was always stocked well. I didn't see any bugs in the room but they were fumigated once a week.
The food in the restaurants is to die for. The main restaurant caters for everyone and the chefs cook some of the food in front of you. You can eat mussles, sushi, a huge range of meats, salads, fish, vegetables, wraps, etc etc the list is endless. We also went to the mexican and brazillian restaurants which were excellent as well.
All of the staff are friendly. The entertainment team 'star friends' work long hours to keep everyone entertained and they do an excellent job. If you've read previous reviews some have mentioned the lion king. This was my favourite, the stage setting and the costumes were fabulous. The children from the kids club joined in. I was disappointed my daughter couldn't join in as she would have loved it but it was on on our first night there. She joined in with the mini disco, fashion show, a play where she was dressed as a ballerina, and other childrens games all at 8pm. The kids club was fine but they do let them wander out to get a drink from the bar!! The other shows in the evening were ok, we didn't stop out too late to watch them all but we watched a couple.
We went on three trips. First we went on the outback safari. It was a brilliant day out and well worth the money. The guide 'George' was so funny my kids never stopped laughing all day. You go to a typical dominican house to see how people live then stop off at the local school which was very humbling. We took books, pencils, crayons, sweets etc for them for which they are very grateful. Other stops included a swim in a ravine, a fruit plantation, a boat trip on a river and boogie boarding which was all good fun. Next we went to Ocean World - this is a trip not to be missed. We swam with the dolphins - ladies please wear a costume as my bikini bottoms came down which was embarrasing!!!! My husband did the shark and stingray encounter as well. We also went snorkelling in what was like a giant fishtank made to look like a coral reef. You can also see sealions, tigers, birds etc and there are shows going on throughout the day. Lastly we went on a half day horse riding trip. This is not for the fainthearted!! We had never ridden before and had no idea what to expect. You get to see typical dominican life as you are riding. I didn't see much as I was hanging on for dear life. By the end of the morning we were galloping!!!. The kids really enjoyed it, they had guides with them and thought it was funny that I looked scared! My back was killing me but looking back I did enjoy the experience.
There were plenty of sunbeds so you do not need to get up at the crack of dawn. Even if they have all been taken around the pool (which they are not always) there are plenty on the way to the beach and on the beach. The hotel provides the towels as well. My husband went diving and had a brilliant time. I had a massage on the beach which was really relaxing.
Everyone we spoke to could not fault the place, my only problem was my hair straighteners. I knew they wouldn't work so I took gas straighteners which did nothing for me. I'd resigned myself to having bad hair styles at night but discovered you can hire straightners for £15 for 2 weeks, these were well worth it!!! Just look for the leaflet near the travel reps desk.
If you are going you will not be disappointed. I would definitely recommend this hotel and hope you have a great time!
I'd read all the previous reviews and found they were very helpful and full of essential information. The hotel was magnificent, you could not fault anything at all, only the weather!!! We had 2 days of rain and probably 3 days of cloud although the sun did break through at times. Apart from that it was scorching.
The reception area is beautiful with the turtles and flamingoes. There are even peacocks wandering around the grounds. It is all open plan, but don't worry you can get to your room without getting wet if it rains.
My husband thought the rooms could do with a refurbishment but I thought they were fine. Whilst we were there we could see that some rooms were being painted and updated. The maids were fantastic and our fridge was always stocked well. I didn't see any bugs in the room but they were fumigated once a week.
The food in the restaurants is to die for. The main restaurant caters for everyone and the chefs cook some of the food in front of you. You can eat mussles, sushi, a huge range of meats, salads, fish, vegetables, wraps, etc etc the list is endless. We also went to the mexican and brazillian restaurants which were excellent as well.
All of the staff are friendly. The entertainment team 'star friends' work long hours to keep everyone entertained and they do an excellent job. If you've read previous reviews some have mentioned the lion king. This was my favourite, the stage setting and the costumes were fabulous. The children from the kids club joined in. I was disappointed my daughter couldn't join in as she would have loved it but it was on on our first night there. She joined in with the mini disco, fashion show, a play where she was dressed as a ballerina, and other childrens games all at 8pm. The kids club was fine but they do let them wander out to get a drink from the bar!! The other shows in the evening were ok, we didn't stop out too late to watch them all but we watched a couple.
We went on three trips. First we went on the outback safari. It was a brilliant day out and well worth the money. The guide 'George' was so funny my kids never stopped laughing all day. You go to a typical dominican house to see how people live then stop off at the local school which was very humbling. We took books, pencils, crayons, sweets etc for them for which they are very grateful. Other stops included a swim in a ravine, a fruit plantation, a boat trip on a river and boogie boarding which was all good fun. Next we went to Ocean World - this is a trip not to be missed. We swam with the dolphins - ladies please wear a costume as my bikini bottoms came down which was embarrasing!!!! My husband did the shark and stingray encounter as well. We also went snorkelling in what was like a giant fishtank made to look like a coral reef. You can also see sealions, tigers, birds etc and there are shows going on throughout the day. Lastly we went on a half day horse riding trip. This is not for the fainthearted!! We had never ridden before and had no idea what to expect. You get to see typical dominican life as you are riding. I didn't see much as I was hanging on for dear life. By the end of the morning we were galloping!!!. The kids really enjoyed it, they had guides with them and thought it was funny that I looked scared! My back was killing me but looking back I did enjoy the experience.
There were plenty of sunbeds so you do not need to get up at the crack of dawn. Even if they have all been taken around the pool (which they are not always) there are plenty on the way to the beach and on the beach. The hotel provides the towels as well. My husband went diving and had a brilliant time. I had a massage on the beach which was really relaxing.
Everyone we spoke to could not fault the place, my only problem was my hair straighteners. I knew they wouldn't work so I took gas straighteners which did nothing for me. I'd resigned myself to having bad hair styles at night but discovered you can hire straightners for £15 for 2 weeks, these were well worth it!!! Just look for the leaflet near the travel reps desk.
If you are going you will not be disappointed. I would definitely recommend this hotel and hope you have a great time!
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- Date of Holiday:Mar 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" Went there in 2005 2004 going back... "
Submitted By: Mrs G MASON
Went there in 2005 2004 going back this year. I absolutely love the place it is faultless and the most relaxing holiday I have ever had.
Staff are wonderful they really look after you. Hotel is clean well maintained and overall the best hotel I have ever stayed in. Restaurants are wonderful.
We go end of april with friends who have never been before, I can not wait...
Staff are wonderful they really look after you. Hotel is clean well maintained and overall the best hotel I have ever stayed in. Restaurants are wonderful.
We go end of april with friends who have never been before, I can not wait...
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- Date of Holiday:Apr 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" I stayed at the iberostar, with my... "
Submitted By: rani
I stayed at the iberostar, with my husband and 2 children aged 4 year and 22 months, we stayed for 7 nights from 21 - 29th Jan 2008.
What can i say, the holiday and hotel was absolutely amazing. We all stayed well, food was great, entertainment was good, there was pure shunshine and we did not see one drop of rain apart from the day we were leaving.
Staff was friendly and adore children and were always very helpful.
Room was excellent, very clean, we had a beach/sea view a quiet room as requested.
Hotel had a lot of security so we always felt safe.
Overall had a great time, definately recommend this place and the kids loved it.
What can i say, the holiday and hotel was absolutely amazing. We all stayed well, food was great, entertainment was good, there was pure shunshine and we did not see one drop of rain apart from the day we were leaving.
Staff was friendly and adore children and were always very helpful.
Room was excellent, very clean, we had a beach/sea view a quiet room as requested.
Hotel had a lot of security so we always felt safe.
Overall had a great time, definately recommend this place and the kids loved it.
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- Date of Holiday:Jan 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" What can I say this hotel is out of... "
Submitted By: Miss T Wheeler
What can I say this hotel is out of this world. When you first approache it you feel like you are walking in to a palace to be greeted by a glass of fruit punch and then the turtles. This hotel is the best I have stayed in.
The staff from cleaners to management are so helpful and friendly, they always try and do everything for you. The grounds are looked after and you always see gardeners tidying up. Even though it was fairly busy at Xmas the pool was always empty and there are loads of sunbeds so no need to put your towels on them.
The beach was nice apart from some locals trying to get you to get your hair braided and visit their market which was just up the beach (don’t go there). If you just say no they leave you alone.
The rooms are cleaned every day and towels left on the bed in the shape of swans or elephants and flower petals and chocolates left on the bed. The food - where shall I start? It was on tap all the time, the main buffet restaurant where breakfast was served was where we ate all the time. There is a la carte but the food was so nice in the buffet one we stayed and ate there; there was all kinds of food and lots for children which was my main concern. Plenty of seating as well.
The Xmas eve gala meal was okay if you liked seafood. The entertainment staff called star friends - I have never met such friendly and lively people before they start at 10.00 in the morning till 4.00 and then again in the evening for the shows and brilliant shows they do.
Even the drinks in the mini bar in the room are free which I was shocked at, and English channels which was a bonus.
Overall this holiday was fab and we are going back Dec’08 without a doubt. There is so much to say I would be here all night. Xmas is a great time to go, you even have Santa arrive on Xmas day in a helicopter on the beach and give kids their presents if the parents have brought any out for them and the hotel also give a little goodie bag to all the kids.
Have a great time if you go here.
The staff from cleaners to management are so helpful and friendly, they always try and do everything for you. The grounds are looked after and you always see gardeners tidying up. Even though it was fairly busy at Xmas the pool was always empty and there are loads of sunbeds so no need to put your towels on them.
The beach was nice apart from some locals trying to get you to get your hair braided and visit their market which was just up the beach (don’t go there). If you just say no they leave you alone.
The rooms are cleaned every day and towels left on the bed in the shape of swans or elephants and flower petals and chocolates left on the bed. The food - where shall I start? It was on tap all the time, the main buffet restaurant where breakfast was served was where we ate all the time. There is a la carte but the food was so nice in the buffet one we stayed and ate there; there was all kinds of food and lots for children which was my main concern. Plenty of seating as well.
The Xmas eve gala meal was okay if you liked seafood. The entertainment staff called star friends - I have never met such friendly and lively people before they start at 10.00 in the morning till 4.00 and then again in the evening for the shows and brilliant shows they do.
Even the drinks in the mini bar in the room are free which I was shocked at, and English channels which was a bonus.
Overall this holiday was fab and we are going back Dec’08 without a doubt. There is so much to say I would be here all night. Xmas is a great time to go, you even have Santa arrive on Xmas day in a helicopter on the beach and give kids their presents if the parents have brought any out for them and the hotel also give a little goodie bag to all the kids.
Have a great time if you go here.
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- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" My family and I visited the Iberostar... "
Submitted By: Mr Jonathan Quinn
My family and I visited the Iberostar Costa Dorada for the second time last year. Overall the holiday was brilliant.
Special mention (and a popular one among the fellow reviews) must be awarded to the staff which have a massive positive effect on the holiday as a whole. Their approachable and friendly nature is such that I have not seen on any other holiday before and since.
Due to the relative isolation of the resort and lack of economic development outside of the resort I wouldn't recommend the holiday to those who feel the need to explore or soak up local culture (unfortunately) still a unique and lasting impression has been made by the resort that is hard to top.
Special mention (and a popular one among the fellow reviews) must be awarded to the staff which have a massive positive effect on the holiday as a whole. Their approachable and friendly nature is such that I have not seen on any other holiday before and since.
Due to the relative isolation of the resort and lack of economic development outside of the resort I wouldn't recommend the holiday to those who feel the need to explore or soak up local culture (unfortunately) still a unique and lasting impression has been made by the resort that is hard to top.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
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Advice: peace and quiet if you want it,,, entertainment again if you want,,, first class hotel
Activities: the visit to ocean world is a must
Good for: Beach