Gran Ventana Hotel, Playa Dorada, Dominican Republic
Hotel Information
Recent Price: £153
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
The elegant Hotel Gran Ventana has an enviable location on the golden sands of Playa Dorada Beach. The accommodation blocks house spacious bedrooms decorated with cool pastel colours. An inviting, oval-shaped pool and terrace beckon sun-worshippers, while active guests will revel in a wide range of facilities, including a great selection of watersports on Playa Dorada Beach. loading...
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Gran Ventana Hotel Reviews
" Great Holiday - Shame about the hurricane "
Submitted By: charlotte&chris
This was a great holiday - the hotel is beautiful and didnt get nagged once to book or buy anything - a no thanks and they never asked again.
The hotel was clean and the staff very friendly - the pool was always clean and this hotel was right on the beach and it was perfect apart from i didnt wear flipflops and i trod on a bee which hurt like anything!!
We were unfortunately involved in hurricane Noel so didnt have great weather - the two weeks before we went apparently were absolutely great. SO the weather wasnt great but it also wasnt meant to be hurricane season it was just a freak one so dont let the month of October put you off going.
Excursions we went on: Swimming with dolphins - Around £40 each with an hour in pool playing with them. sea lion, sharks and dolphine Shows, love birds.
DOminican discovery - horseback through country, cigar factory, visited a small town where they made us fresh coffee and chocolate.
Paradise Island - SNokelling around a small island - perfectly clear - recommend you do this.
The hotel was clean and the staff very friendly - the pool was always clean and this hotel was right on the beach and it was perfect apart from i didnt wear flipflops and i trod on a bee which hurt like anything!!
We were unfortunately involved in hurricane Noel so didnt have great weather - the two weeks before we went apparently were absolutely great. SO the weather wasnt great but it also wasnt meant to be hurricane season it was just a freak one so dont let the month of October put you off going.
Excursions we went on: Swimming with dolphins - Around £40 each with an hour in pool playing with them. sea lion, sharks and dolphine Shows, love birds.
DOminican discovery - horseback through country, cigar factory, visited a small town where they made us fresh coffee and chocolate.
Paradise Island - SNokelling around a small island - perfectly clear - recommend you do this.
Advice: loved dominican republic - really want to go back - would def stay at this hotel again.
Activities: swimming with dolphins, dominican discovery, paradise island
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Oct 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Going back soon!!! "
Submitted By: l1lmeesh
This hotel is fabulous, i went there in 2005, 2006 and 2007 in september for my birthday for two weeks and cannot wait to go back. It is supposed to be hurricane season but ive always had lovely weather, the worst being 1 full day of rain.
The staff couldnt be more helpful, Thankyou to the ladies who came and cleaned the room everyday and made such beautiful displays with towels and flowers. I once tried to help clean up when some glass had been smashed and they wouldnt let me. The waiters and waitresses cannot be faulted, glasses are filled up the minute you have taken a sip and nothing is too much trouble. Do take advantage of dining at the restaurants, when i last went you could dine at each 1 per week and had to book, i especially enjoyed the Octopus caribbean restaurant. The main dining areas offer a nice choice also. I liked the waffles made for you for breakfast. Lunch is good too with the main dining area open and also one near the beach, you can be as healthy or not as you like.
The beach is lovely and i got some mahogany figurines off the beach vendors for a fraction of the price they were being sold for in the shops, also i got to go on trips through them aswell which i found cheaper than buying them from tour operators, (you have to haggle though!!!) definately do Paradise island, it is beautiful and you get to sample the culture as you get taken to a fishing village beforehand and afterwards and local people cook for you, traditional dominican food and theres also a small market where you can buy shells and jewellery, you are out all day though. I just bougt some goggles as soon as i got there as the sea where he hotel is situated is full of fish if you go out far enough (do buy sea shoes as i stood on a urchin which was quite painfull!!!).
If you do get the chance and want to, hire a jeep, leaving the complex isnt highly recommended but i wanted to see the real life and its good!! me and my partner at the time hired a jeep one week and a motorbike the next, we found a burger king and a lovely shopping mall, went through villages and different towns (the roads arnt the best to drive on though, check out the insurance). We found the people to be really friendly as our spanish was limited, we was advised to come back before dark though.
The entertainment crew are hilarious, they did moulin rouge 1 night which was good, theyre about in the daytime aswell doing activities, sports etc (i like to rest though). The swim up bar is superb, go through the cocktail list, we did it with a few other holiday makers and had a good laugh, made some friends. The complex has all you need really, i recommend you take enough sunscreen and toiletries as these i found were quite expensive at the mall on the complex, the souvenier shops are good, you can haggle there also and there is a pizza hut, ciggarettes and alcohol especially rum are very cheap, i got mine at the airport on the way home, there are limitations though.
The staff couldnt be more helpful, Thankyou to the ladies who came and cleaned the room everyday and made such beautiful displays with towels and flowers. I once tried to help clean up when some glass had been smashed and they wouldnt let me. The waiters and waitresses cannot be faulted, glasses are filled up the minute you have taken a sip and nothing is too much trouble. Do take advantage of dining at the restaurants, when i last went you could dine at each 1 per week and had to book, i especially enjoyed the Octopus caribbean restaurant. The main dining areas offer a nice choice also. I liked the waffles made for you for breakfast. Lunch is good too with the main dining area open and also one near the beach, you can be as healthy or not as you like.
The beach is lovely and i got some mahogany figurines off the beach vendors for a fraction of the price they were being sold for in the shops, also i got to go on trips through them aswell which i found cheaper than buying them from tour operators, (you have to haggle though!!!) definately do Paradise island, it is beautiful and you get to sample the culture as you get taken to a fishing village beforehand and afterwards and local people cook for you, traditional dominican food and theres also a small market where you can buy shells and jewellery, you are out all day though. I just bougt some goggles as soon as i got there as the sea where he hotel is situated is full of fish if you go out far enough (do buy sea shoes as i stood on a urchin which was quite painfull!!!).
If you do get the chance and want to, hire a jeep, leaving the complex isnt highly recommended but i wanted to see the real life and its good!! me and my partner at the time hired a jeep one week and a motorbike the next, we found a burger king and a lovely shopping mall, went through villages and different towns (the roads arnt the best to drive on though, check out the insurance). We found the people to be really friendly as our spanish was limited, we was advised to come back before dark though.
The entertainment crew are hilarious, they did moulin rouge 1 night which was good, theyre about in the daytime aswell doing activities, sports etc (i like to rest though). The swim up bar is superb, go through the cocktail list, we did it with a few other holiday makers and had a good laugh, made some friends. The complex has all you need really, i recommend you take enough sunscreen and toiletries as these i found were quite expensive at the mall on the complex, the souvenier shops are good, you can haggle there also and there is a pizza hut, ciggarettes and alcohol especially rum are very cheap, i got mine at the airport on the way home, there are limitations though.
Advice: Get there !!!
Activities: Octopus and go to paradise island
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Honeymoon "
Submitted By: Mckenzsa
Went on honeymoon, truely and excellent place to stay. Everything from hospitality to the food. All was supberb.
ALthough Thomson was a bit of a night mare. They cancelled out holiday from Gatwick to Dominican Republic, we had to re-book via manchester. This resulted in us loosing out flights from belfast to london which cost us about £120. Also we booked early so we could get the honeymoon suite and because of the cancellation we ended up loosing this. Hence we definitedly couldnt complain, and we would recomend it for both honeymoons and a family break.
Just beware of a guy at the hotel gate called Hector. Hes a tour guide rep, he ripped us off big style.
Beware you have been told!!!!!!!!
ALthough Thomson was a bit of a night mare. They cancelled out holiday from Gatwick to Dominican Republic, we had to re-book via manchester. This resulted in us loosing out flights from belfast to london which cost us about £120. Also we booked early so we could get the honeymoon suite and because of the cancellation we ended up loosing this. Hence we definitedly couldnt complain, and we would recomend it for both honeymoons and a family break.
Just beware of a guy at the hotel gate called Hector. Hes a tour guide rep, he ripped us off big style.
Beware you have been told!!!!!!!!
Advice: very 3rd world outside resort
Activities: italiano restraunt - excellent steak
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- Date of Holiday:May 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" mchughs on tour "
Submitted By: kazzamac@blueyonder.com
we went to the gran ventana for the second time this year,and it was as good as it was the first time we went.Hotel spotless, food great,pool spotless,people polite and friendly very helpful.fab with the kids especially JULIO,MOSQUITO,RAFEAL they were all great,the nightlife might not be the best but they work hard at what they do and try to make it as entertaining as possible.we as a family love the gran ventana and will definately be making it a hat-trick...oh any problems with the cockroaches just report it dealt with asap,i think people forget they are in the carribbean.
Advice: great
Activities: monster truck safari
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Carribean being the "Love Family"... "
Submitted By: Mrs M Love
Carribean being the "Love Family" favourite holidays. We thought we would give the Domincan Republic a try, having been recommended by Candian friends we met in Barbados. We flew from Glasgow with a very pleasant flight, plenty of leg room on the flight. Arrival at the airport/collect luggage/transfer to the Hotel was less than an hour. On arrival at the hotel we were met with very pleasant hotel staff from the Bell Boys to the Reception staff. We also received a cocktail while checking in. Our luggage was taken to our room and everything was attended to superbly. Our rooms were spotless and we were assigned to the main complex which was really good. (Only thing I would mention is to take a few extra towels as the the towels provided could have been doing with being a bit bigger). All the staff were so friendly, from the cleaners to the bar/restaurant staff to the entertainment guys/girls - couldn't complain about any of them. The food was excellent and they had something to suit absolutely everyone. We tried the Italian Restaurant twice - don't think I have ever had a lovelier meal in an Italian Restaurant back home in Scotland. We tried the Octupus Restaurant twice - Caribbean Cuisine and this was also really nice. We had our lunch in the dining room as we preferred that to the Grill Restaurant on the beach. We spent our time during the day on the beach - hubby was up at 6.30 a.m. to secure beds/parasols - but we were entertained daily by the guys/girls selling their wares, but don't be fooled with their prices you get them less than half price up at the little Shopping Centre 5 minutes walk from the hotel. If I said to previous guests "I have A monkey - Monkey See/Monkey Do - they will know what I am talking about. Gabriel who sold the monkey toys became our friend - even to the point of giving us photographs of his family. Very relaxing holiday. Swim up bar is fantastic. My son and his girl-friend being 18, I have to admit I was quite worried about what to expect for them - I can honestly say they had a ball - they joined in every moment of the day with the entertainment guys - special mention to "Johnny Bravo", "Eulio", "Mosquito" - they made their holiday - THANK YOU. Evening entertainment in the hotel was average, the guys tried hard to include everyone but as the entertainment for the adults didn't start until 9.30/10.00 it could have been doing with starting earlier. Also a big thank you to the Scottish/English/Irish/Welsh/Canadian friends we all met - everyone was so friendly. This hotel had a lot of British people staying there and everyone just seemed to gel. Only one complaint and that was the Mosquito bites that my son and I acquired - husband and son's girlfriend got off lightly, trust me when I said I had every lotion, every spray - been home a week and still trying to get rid of them - but that is the joy of going to the sunnier climates. A lot of tears on departure and a must for a return holiday in 2009. Few tips I would give - take some Dominican Republic Pesos - we took American Dollars and felt we were getting ripped off. Don't buy anything out of hotel shop - it cost me $20 (£10) for a Dominican Republic plug. Dress code for the hotel was smart/casual - you werent allowed shorts in the specialised restaurants. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" Just got back from this hotel sept... "
Submitted By: Miss K O''rorke
Just got back from this hotel sept 24th 2008, with my partner and 14 month baby.
this hotel classed as a 4 star plus which it probably was in 2004 which they have certificates to prove this. now to this day is should be a 3 star. i have stayed in playa dorada 2 years ago at the fun tropical and i was expecting better going higher rating.
the rooms clean enough maids work hard and the staff freindly, but the food very repeted lunch and tea nothing went together to make a meal, while we was there 2 people within a week was broken into and money and personal belongings gone there was no doors open said the woman we spoke to an insisted someone who had a key had broken in. inside job! and it was her second time to this hotel! she and other people had said it had gone very down hill since the last time they had visited.the pool water had gone green over a week of being there, the only good point about this hotel is its on the beach. people with babies take your own baby food, it was too hot for my baby and we spent most of time in the room to keep her cool, the heat very over powering. be prepard to take pleanty of money as they expect tips no matter where you go. and the on site shops rip you off so watch them. the night entertainment terrible no professional shows it just local people trying to entertain you. the fun tropical was a 3 star and had a lot more choice in food very good entertainment wish we had gone back to fun tropical!!!!!!!!
this hotel classed as a 4 star plus which it probably was in 2004 which they have certificates to prove this. now to this day is should be a 3 star. i have stayed in playa dorada 2 years ago at the fun tropical and i was expecting better going higher rating.
the rooms clean enough maids work hard and the staff freindly, but the food very repeted lunch and tea nothing went together to make a meal, while we was there 2 people within a week was broken into and money and personal belongings gone there was no doors open said the woman we spoke to an insisted someone who had a key had broken in. inside job! and it was her second time to this hotel! she and other people had said it had gone very down hill since the last time they had visited.the pool water had gone green over a week of being there, the only good point about this hotel is its on the beach. people with babies take your own baby food, it was too hot for my baby and we spent most of time in the room to keep her cool, the heat very over powering. be prepard to take pleanty of money as they expect tips no matter where you go. and the on site shops rip you off so watch them. the night entertainment terrible no professional shows it just local people trying to entertain you. the fun tropical was a 3 star and had a lot more choice in food very good entertainment wish we had gone back to fun tropical!!!!!!!!
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- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" We (me-15, brother- 14, mum-40,... "
Submitted By: Miss G Brooker
We (me-15, brother- 14, mum-40, dad-43) have just come back from our holiday in Dom Rep, Gran Ventana. It was probably one of the best holidays we have been on.
The flights were better than I expected. We had a 1 hours delay but it wasn't to bad and didn;t have alot of effect on us. We booked to be in the premier seats and they were very good. Two of the family sat at the very front and 2 or us sat behind them. I would recomend to try and get the front seats as you get a massve amount of leg room. The others on the premier are good too. The entertainment was excellent. There 2 main films (4 if you booked a gold premier seat), various other entertainment, comedy ect channels, music channels and radio. The food was better than I expected. Even me being a veggie, the food was good for flight meals. Also, you get free drinks from the bar - you have to pay for extra food (crisps ect) . The staff were very friendly but the rosé champagne went you get on the plane is horrible!
When we got off the plane the poter took our bags, the tip is roughly about 100 pe per bag (around about £1.40). The coach that took us to the hotel was fully air conditioned and you got a free bottle of water when on the coach. The rep gave us alot of information that was very useful.
The check in at the hotel was very quick and easy. The rooms were wonderful, newly decorated. A bonus was that we were the only ones in our end of the block so, apart from the entertainment at night, it was at all noisy. When we were up at our rooms, on of the balcony doors broke but it was not a problem as we reported it and within 1 hour or so, it was fixed. The maids done an outstanding job. Everyday they throughly cleaned and tidyed the room. The were also very helpful if you needed to get into your room and your brother had your key when he was inside the room!!! This happened many a time! Towels and bedding was fresh everyday and the room always smelt clean. The rooms underneath us were being re-decorated and we were warned that they may be alot of dust, noise and workmen around but they were no problem, if anything there were very friendly and always saying 'hello' and 'how are you' ect and there wasn't alot of dust or noise.
The cleanliness was amazing. They always have people going round cleaning up after you. The pool area was scrubbed everyday and it was genreally looked after very well. They were also very happy, smiling, singing, talking to you ect.
The beach was amazing but watch out because there is a cool brezze and you might not reaslie that your burning. The day time entertainment was, well entertaining. Darts, mini golf, pool/snooker competitions, dance lessons, pool and beach vollyball offered throughout the day, water aerobics and bike rides. The entertainment were very friendly and tried to get everyone who wanted to involved. At night, the entertainment was okay. It ended too eary though. Whcih was good for when you had jet lag for the firt 2 days and had to get sleep, but after that it could have gone on for longer. My faves were the playback show, the african dancers and the kareoke. But after the entertainment was over, it was up to one of the bars. The pool bar (the one not in the water) was our fave. The barman, BIG WILLY, was incredible funny and he even made the bar counter go on fire (intentinally). The lights went out at 12 and the bartenders went home. But then the midnight snacks were brought out. The drinks there were okay but I wasn't overly keen on the food there. Being a veggie, I was only offfered cheese sanwiches whislt everyone else had hamburgers and hotdogs. The only thing I did expect would be icecream during the day time but they didn't have any, only in the restraunt.
We brought an internet ticket (we were desprate to find out who got evicted from big brtoher!) but never used it as there was always a long que to use them.
Whislt we were out there, my brother and I done the PADI scuba diving corse which was advertised in the hotel with a 'sea pro divers' candidate there who was english and able to explain to us probably what we would do ect as it was sometimes hard to understand some peopels english. It was very good, the people were friendly and it was a very good experience. We also booked Ocean World which was amazing, we done the Dolphin Swim and the Sea Lion Encounter. I recommend seeing the Sea Lion Show to, it was excellent. But don't be fooled by the VIP lesuire hotle around the corner. We think it was a timeshare where you would have to sit ofr hours ect and it probably was. We also went to Paridise Island. It was an amazingly amazing experience but there wasn't any shade so take your sun hats! We also done the Santiago and Ja...(not sure how it's spelt.). That was very good. First it was the cigar factory, the cemnt factory and the coffee factory. Then we went to waterfall which we were able to swim in. It was a good trip and I recommend any of the above.
Overall, the holiday was amazing and there is not alot I can fault.
The flights were better than I expected. We had a 1 hours delay but it wasn't to bad and didn;t have alot of effect on us. We booked to be in the premier seats and they were very good. Two of the family sat at the very front and 2 or us sat behind them. I would recomend to try and get the front seats as you get a massve amount of leg room. The others on the premier are good too. The entertainment was excellent. There 2 main films (4 if you booked a gold premier seat), various other entertainment, comedy ect channels, music channels and radio. The food was better than I expected. Even me being a veggie, the food was good for flight meals. Also, you get free drinks from the bar - you have to pay for extra food (crisps ect) . The staff were very friendly but the rosé champagne went you get on the plane is horrible!
When we got off the plane the poter took our bags, the tip is roughly about 100 pe per bag (around about £1.40). The coach that took us to the hotel was fully air conditioned and you got a free bottle of water when on the coach. The rep gave us alot of information that was very useful.
The check in at the hotel was very quick and easy. The rooms were wonderful, newly decorated. A bonus was that we were the only ones in our end of the block so, apart from the entertainment at night, it was at all noisy. When we were up at our rooms, on of the balcony doors broke but it was not a problem as we reported it and within 1 hour or so, it was fixed. The maids done an outstanding job. Everyday they throughly cleaned and tidyed the room. The were also very helpful if you needed to get into your room and your brother had your key when he was inside the room!!! This happened many a time! Towels and bedding was fresh everyday and the room always smelt clean. The rooms underneath us were being re-decorated and we were warned that they may be alot of dust, noise and workmen around but they were no problem, if anything there were very friendly and always saying 'hello' and 'how are you' ect and there wasn't alot of dust or noise.
The cleanliness was amazing. They always have people going round cleaning up after you. The pool area was scrubbed everyday and it was genreally looked after very well. They were also very happy, smiling, singing, talking to you ect.
The beach was amazing but watch out because there is a cool brezze and you might not reaslie that your burning. The day time entertainment was, well entertaining. Darts, mini golf, pool/snooker competitions, dance lessons, pool and beach vollyball offered throughout the day, water aerobics and bike rides. The entertainment were very friendly and tried to get everyone who wanted to involved. At night, the entertainment was okay. It ended too eary though. Whcih was good for when you had jet lag for the firt 2 days and had to get sleep, but after that it could have gone on for longer. My faves were the playback show, the african dancers and the kareoke. But after the entertainment was over, it was up to one of the bars. The pool bar (the one not in the water) was our fave. The barman, BIG WILLY, was incredible funny and he even made the bar counter go on fire (intentinally). The lights went out at 12 and the bartenders went home. But then the midnight snacks were brought out. The drinks there were okay but I wasn't overly keen on the food there. Being a veggie, I was only offfered cheese sanwiches whislt everyone else had hamburgers and hotdogs. The only thing I did expect would be icecream during the day time but they didn't have any, only in the restraunt.
We brought an internet ticket (we were desprate to find out who got evicted from big brtoher!) but never used it as there was always a long que to use them.
Whislt we were out there, my brother and I done the PADI scuba diving corse which was advertised in the hotel with a 'sea pro divers' candidate there who was english and able to explain to us probably what we would do ect as it was sometimes hard to understand some peopels english. It was very good, the people were friendly and it was a very good experience. We also booked Ocean World which was amazing, we done the Dolphin Swim and the Sea Lion Encounter. I recommend seeing the Sea Lion Show to, it was excellent. But don't be fooled by the VIP lesuire hotle around the corner. We think it was a timeshare where you would have to sit ofr hours ect and it probably was. We also went to Paridise Island. It was an amazingly amazing experience but there wasn't any shade so take your sun hats! We also done the Santiago and Ja...(not sure how it's spelt.). That was very good. First it was the cigar factory, the cemnt factory and the coffee factory. Then we went to waterfall which we were able to swim in. It was a good trip and I recommend any of the above.
Overall, the holiday was amazing and there is not alot I can fault.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Having not done a package holiday... "
Submitted By: Mrs L Rice
Having not done a package holiday before we made sure we did our homework when seeking a holiday in the Dominican Republic. Having read positive reviews we plumped for the Gran Ventana in Playa Dorada.
We contacted Reception prior to our arrival to request a particular block as advised but were given a block which we had been warned against due to the noise from the nearby night clubs. We were then put into the newly refurbished Catalina block only to find that the workmen were still in the room which was clearly not ready, no wall lights, holes in the ceilings, brick dust and grouting dust everywhere! We were eventually put into the main block. Although this is a four star hotel it doesn't come close - no tea/coffee making facilities, no iron/ironing board, no laundry room to wash small items (only full laundry service which is expensive). We had to request several times during our stay to have our fridge re-stocked and then were only given 1 coke, 1 7up and a beer!
On the second day of our stay both my husband and I fell ill - this wasn't your normal holiday tummy - it continued until we were home. We spent the entire stay taking daily doses of immodium just to keep it at bay and keep us on our feet. We were not alone with this trouble - many people we spoke to were having similar symptoms. We were not sure if our problems came from the pool which wasn't clean at all, getting cloudier during our stay, or the food which was massed produced and left lying around 'keeping hot' or 'cold'. We took the decision to eat at Hemmingway's a good local restaurant which served good food and decent branded alcohol, in the second week as we couldn't trust the food - would you if you saw starlings eating regularly from the scrambled eggs in the morning?
The brochure states that you could use all the water sports for 1 hour per day during your stay. Please bear this in mind - there are over 500 rooms at the Gran Ventana and the water sports are as follows: 12 snorkels (only 6 were in use as rest were broken), 4 Kayaks, 1 small sailing boat (this was shared between 3 hotels) and 2 wind surfers (which we never saw sight of). Yes there were activities on offer around the main pool: darts, bowling with coke/lemonade bottles(!), table tennis and pool, and you were invited to take part in water/beach volleyball, and water aerobics.
The clientele at the hotel was not what we expected either. When we arrived it was calm and peaceful, somewhere to relax and unwind. Unfortunately over a period of days there seemed to be an influx of loud, foul mouthed people hell bent on drinking as much as possible and not giving a thought to those around them - something we found distressing as there were small children around. There is supposed to be a dress code in the hotel in the buffet and a la carte restaurants but again this deteriorated throughout the holiday.
Yes the weather was great, the beach and sea were lovely, but this didn't unfortunately make up for the rest of our stay and we couldn't wait to come back home.
We came back from the Gran Ventana very despondent, and with a decision not to book a 'package' holiday again.
We contacted Reception prior to our arrival to request a particular block as advised but were given a block which we had been warned against due to the noise from the nearby night clubs. We were then put into the newly refurbished Catalina block only to find that the workmen were still in the room which was clearly not ready, no wall lights, holes in the ceilings, brick dust and grouting dust everywhere! We were eventually put into the main block. Although this is a four star hotel it doesn't come close - no tea/coffee making facilities, no iron/ironing board, no laundry room to wash small items (only full laundry service which is expensive). We had to request several times during our stay to have our fridge re-stocked and then were only given 1 coke, 1 7up and a beer!
On the second day of our stay both my husband and I fell ill - this wasn't your normal holiday tummy - it continued until we were home. We spent the entire stay taking daily doses of immodium just to keep it at bay and keep us on our feet. We were not alone with this trouble - many people we spoke to were having similar symptoms. We were not sure if our problems came from the pool which wasn't clean at all, getting cloudier during our stay, or the food which was massed produced and left lying around 'keeping hot' or 'cold'. We took the decision to eat at Hemmingway's a good local restaurant which served good food and decent branded alcohol, in the second week as we couldn't trust the food - would you if you saw starlings eating regularly from the scrambled eggs in the morning?
The brochure states that you could use all the water sports for 1 hour per day during your stay. Please bear this in mind - there are over 500 rooms at the Gran Ventana and the water sports are as follows: 12 snorkels (only 6 were in use as rest were broken), 4 Kayaks, 1 small sailing boat (this was shared between 3 hotels) and 2 wind surfers (which we never saw sight of). Yes there were activities on offer around the main pool: darts, bowling with coke/lemonade bottles(!), table tennis and pool, and you were invited to take part in water/beach volleyball, and water aerobics.
The clientele at the hotel was not what we expected either. When we arrived it was calm and peaceful, somewhere to relax and unwind. Unfortunately over a period of days there seemed to be an influx of loud, foul mouthed people hell bent on drinking as much as possible and not giving a thought to those around them - something we found distressing as there were small children around. There is supposed to be a dress code in the hotel in the buffet and a la carte restaurants but again this deteriorated throughout the holiday.
Yes the weather was great, the beach and sea were lovely, but this didn't unfortunately make up for the rest of our stay and we couldn't wait to come back home.
We came back from the Gran Ventana very despondent, and with a decision not to book a 'package' holiday again.
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We have not long returned from the... "
Submitted By: Mr M Sudner
We have not long returned from the Dominican and can't wait to go back. We have been 6 times in all and can't get enough of the place, the people are so friendly and will always go out of their way to help you and make your stay more enjoyable.
We have never been to the same hotel twice we like to try different places and different hotels. The Gran Ventana is just like every other hotel I have stayed in in the Dominican and are always over rated by 1 star, so if you are looking for a 4 star you will need to book a 5 star. Saying that out of all the hotels I found the food in the Gran Ventana the best of the lot. They are currently redecorating the hotel and I think it will be even better and I will definately have to break my rule and go back.
The rooms in the Gran Ventana where very clean and spacious and very much the same as everywhere else queen size bed or 2 doubles, air con, mini bar and American TV.. My brother was also with us this time, he was in a room on his own and the cleaner must of taken a liking to him and was putting his wet clothes out to dry, folding them up and putting them away.
The 1 negative about this hotel is that the night life could be improved.
We have never been to the same hotel twice we like to try different places and different hotels. The Gran Ventana is just like every other hotel I have stayed in in the Dominican and are always over rated by 1 star, so if you are looking for a 4 star you will need to book a 5 star. Saying that out of all the hotels I found the food in the Gran Ventana the best of the lot. They are currently redecorating the hotel and I think it will be even better and I will definately have to break my rule and go back.
The rooms in the Gran Ventana where very clean and spacious and very much the same as everywhere else queen size bed or 2 doubles, air con, mini bar and American TV.. My brother was also with us this time, he was in a room on his own and the cleaner must of taken a liking to him and was putting his wet clothes out to dry, folding them up and putting them away.
The 1 negative about this hotel is that the night life could be improved.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" This is the most luxurious, romantic... "
Submitted By: Miss A Swift/Newton
This is the most luxurious, romantic and enjoyable time of our lives, we've only been once and are DYING to go back, (my parents are there AS im writing this, its thier 4th time!!!!)
The staff really make the whole holiday-they are fab! they are just so friendly and easy to get on with, look out for: Jacky and Rimaro who run the Tiki bar, Jacky is totally crazy, pls dont get offended if she pretends she loves your boyfriend,or if u ask for a drink she'll say "NO!" just laugh or play back,haha if u ask for a soft drink she will call you a bambino haha she loves every1! she is only kidding and is so hillarious, Rimaro takes over after Jacky , he is a total Gent! always knows what u want to drink, if u dont like it, he'll simply throw it away and get u as many as u want til u find the drink that for you! The the swim up bar if Evangelista or "Eva" very very sweet and pretty woman, a heart of gold with the most friendliest smile ever! please please tip well, they work bloody hard they have large families.
We experienced Tropical storm olga, but after a flood in our standard room, they moved us immidietly to a junior suite, i could not believe the nerve of some guests complaining and being rude during the storm because of the weather, as most of the staffs houses were ruined! and 19 dominicans died!!!!
the kitchen staff are brill, sample the ommelets and eggs, their cooked fresh and the food is always being changed, and is to a lush standard, A'la carte's were pure luxury. We dont understand people who complain about this holiday, we loved it!!!!! defo be going back! and met a lovely couple who have invited us to their wedding!
We went on a few exursions
THE CATAMARAN "THE BANANA REPUBLIC" (booze cruise)- Was the best out of them all. After a short speedboat ride to the catamaran, You are greeted by a man dressed as a cross between a pineapple and a banana singing some daft songs to get ppl going even before they've boarded fully. The staff are all hilarious and only take about 10 mins to get fully loaded with all guests (only about 20, usually 2 / 3 speedboat trips max) and set sail. Give you your dinner and then you can start drinking and sunbathing as they cruise to snorkelling spot where you feed the tropical fish bread. Then drink and carry on with games and karaoke, the boat has a slide on one side and a diving platform on other. When the other catamaran's pass by all staff on our boat moony them (bare arses). Excellent time and a full days trip! (Don't forget sun cream and towel) approx $70 pp
OCEAN WORLD marina:
We booked up to do the dolphin swim, it was an emotional experience and one i never forget, take plenty money with ya, as you'll wanna buy pictures and souvineers. we also done the sea lion encounter, that was really fun! we swam and snorkled with tropical fish, watched shark shows and dolphon shows...its a full day out, dont forget towel, and u may aswell go in bikini and Shorts as there are swimming pools! great day our for the whole family! approx $50 to enter for those who dont wish to buy any encounters or swims, $120 to swim wit dolphins -(this included entry also) approx $40 for sea lion encounter, the shows are free to watch and so is swimming and snorkelling. a bit of an expensive day out, but you CANNOT come here and not go to ocean world!
THE JET SKIIS:
what can i say? sooo much fun!!!!! around $40 for 20 mins.
BUGGIES EXURSION:
Expect to get mucky! their lil buggies made for two people, you follow the guys round the sugar cane fields, dominican roads and ride through massive muddy puddles, we had two stops, a local cafe where the children hounded you a little so take sweeties for them, the second stop was a beautifil secluded beach where we swam in the sea and took in the breathtakin sites, u can buy beer here too! my boyfriend loved "drifting" the buggie which scared me a little lol we were out approx the whole afternoon, got back scruffy! but quite fun, definetly one for the boys and adrenaline junkies! take sun glasses or you'll get muck in your eyes and a bandana (though these can be bought at the farm where we were taken to collect our buggies)
we made our holiday both exciting and relaxing, it was AWESOME!!!! approx $50 pp
our friends whome we met over there did not take much spending money so did not do many excursions, but still had a blast! so dont worry if u cant afford what we done, we just saved like bloody mad, we took £800 between us3 (around $1600)
the lucky lucky men on beach are such a laugh, if u dont want anything, just be polite and say no thanks, maybe manyana!(tomorrow) we had a blast with some of them.
we cant wait to come back!!!!!!
Holiday overall was brill, both fun and relaxing. everything u could possibly want is here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE IT
The staff really make the whole holiday-they are fab! they are just so friendly and easy to get on with, look out for: Jacky and Rimaro who run the Tiki bar, Jacky is totally crazy, pls dont get offended if she pretends she loves your boyfriend,or if u ask for a drink she'll say "NO!" just laugh or play back,haha if u ask for a soft drink she will call you a bambino haha she loves every1! she is only kidding and is so hillarious, Rimaro takes over after Jacky , he is a total Gent! always knows what u want to drink, if u dont like it, he'll simply throw it away and get u as many as u want til u find the drink that for you! The the swim up bar if Evangelista or "Eva" very very sweet and pretty woman, a heart of gold with the most friendliest smile ever! please please tip well, they work bloody hard they have large families.
We experienced Tropical storm olga, but after a flood in our standard room, they moved us immidietly to a junior suite, i could not believe the nerve of some guests complaining and being rude during the storm because of the weather, as most of the staffs houses were ruined! and 19 dominicans died!!!!
the kitchen staff are brill, sample the ommelets and eggs, their cooked fresh and the food is always being changed, and is to a lush standard, A'la carte's were pure luxury. We dont understand people who complain about this holiday, we loved it!!!!! defo be going back! and met a lovely couple who have invited us to their wedding!
We went on a few exursions
THE CATAMARAN "THE BANANA REPUBLIC" (booze cruise)- Was the best out of them all. After a short speedboat ride to the catamaran, You are greeted by a man dressed as a cross between a pineapple and a banana singing some daft songs to get ppl going even before they've boarded fully. The staff are all hilarious and only take about 10 mins to get fully loaded with all guests (only about 20, usually 2 / 3 speedboat trips max) and set sail. Give you your dinner and then you can start drinking and sunbathing as they cruise to snorkelling spot where you feed the tropical fish bread. Then drink and carry on with games and karaoke, the boat has a slide on one side and a diving platform on other. When the other catamaran's pass by all staff on our boat moony them (bare arses). Excellent time and a full days trip! (Don't forget sun cream and towel) approx $70 pp
OCEAN WORLD marina:
We booked up to do the dolphin swim, it was an emotional experience and one i never forget, take plenty money with ya, as you'll wanna buy pictures and souvineers. we also done the sea lion encounter, that was really fun! we swam and snorkled with tropical fish, watched shark shows and dolphon shows...its a full day out, dont forget towel, and u may aswell go in bikini and Shorts as there are swimming pools! great day our for the whole family! approx $50 to enter for those who dont wish to buy any encounters or swims, $120 to swim wit dolphins -(this included entry also) approx $40 for sea lion encounter, the shows are free to watch and so is swimming and snorkelling. a bit of an expensive day out, but you CANNOT come here and not go to ocean world!
THE JET SKIIS:
what can i say? sooo much fun!!!!! around $40 for 20 mins.
BUGGIES EXURSION:
Expect to get mucky! their lil buggies made for two people, you follow the guys round the sugar cane fields, dominican roads and ride through massive muddy puddles, we had two stops, a local cafe where the children hounded you a little so take sweeties for them, the second stop was a beautifil secluded beach where we swam in the sea and took in the breathtakin sites, u can buy beer here too! my boyfriend loved "drifting" the buggie which scared me a little lol we were out approx the whole afternoon, got back scruffy! but quite fun, definetly one for the boys and adrenaline junkies! take sun glasses or you'll get muck in your eyes and a bandana (though these can be bought at the farm where we were taken to collect our buggies)
we made our holiday both exciting and relaxing, it was AWESOME!!!! approx $50 pp
our friends whome we met over there did not take much spending money so did not do many excursions, but still had a blast! so dont worry if u cant afford what we done, we just saved like bloody mad, we took £800 between us3 (around $1600)
the lucky lucky men on beach are such a laugh, if u dont want anything, just be polite and say no thanks, maybe manyana!(tomorrow) we had a blast with some of them.
we cant wait to come back!!!!!!
Holiday overall was brill, both fun and relaxing. everything u could possibly want is here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE IT
-
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" i have 2 say with out a shadow of a... "
Submitted By: Miss Mollie Fearnon
i have 2 say with out a shadow of a thought the best holiday of my life
i was in antuiga the year before and tat was great but this was just amazing .im 16 now and i just a brilliant holidays i went with just my dad and my little brother and i came home with loads of friends !!
the only thing was the night time entertainment wasn the may west!!
tats all but the food was great drinks were great
and weater was fantastic
even though we were there while der was a hurricane but didn stop us from gettin buckled !!
from the only rirsh girl tat was there at the time !!
mollie x x
i was in antuiga the year before and tat was great but this was just amazing .im 16 now and i just a brilliant holidays i went with just my dad and my little brother and i came home with loads of friends !!
the only thing was the night time entertainment wasn the may west!!
tats all but the food was great drinks were great
and weater was fantastic
even though we were there while der was a hurricane but didn stop us from gettin buckled !!
from the only rirsh girl tat was there at the time !!
mollie x x
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" We arrived at the Gran Ventana on... "
Submitted By: Miss C Bowden
We arrived at the Gran Ventana on 30th May 2008, Staying here for 2 weeks. First impressions were brilliant, bell boys helped you with your cases to your room, cool refreshing fruit juice while checking in at reception. Everyone was very welcoming and very friendly. The pool area was immaculate, so was the pool. The beach was beautiful and also very clean. The rooms were very nice to, towels and sheets were changed everyday also you could change your beach towel everyday as many times as you wanted. The meals were fab and also the drinks. There was always something to do through the day as the entertainers would do pool, darts and mini golf competitions, bike rides and also aerobics. Entertainment on the night time was good, even better when the entertainers done it together rather than just bringing dancers in. We went on an organised trip to ocean world and swam with the dolphins, if you go all that way a would take the opportunity to swim with them, it was a once in a life time opportunity and we loved it.
Everyone was very friendly here and we wish to go back later this year. This is the best holiday weve ever been on.
Everyone was very friendly here and we wish to go back later this year. This is the best holiday weve ever been on.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" i dont get the part where everyone... "
Submitted By: Mrs M.c Caffrey
i dont get the part where everyone gave bad comments,
its an amazing place
my favouirte holiday was cuba or america then i came here and it was just the best place you cant beat it,
the food it nice
the people are so friendly its unbeliveable
u make friends so easy
i loved it
my mum and dad keep talking about goin back there and i hope we do,
xxxxxxx
its an amazing place
my favouirte holiday was cuba or america then i came here and it was just the best place you cant beat it,
the food it nice
the people are so friendly its unbeliveable
u make friends so easy
i loved it
my mum and dad keep talking about goin back there and i hope we do,
xxxxxxx
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" The holiday was fantastic, hotel was... "
Submitted By: Mr MJ Acton
The holiday was fantastic, hotel was good for the price we paid, same goes for the food as well. We stayed in the quiter part which is advisable if you don't want screaming kids every where which had its own pool and bar. The hotel staff on a whole were really friendly, especially the bar staff at our pool. Jackie, William and romero were ace.
Basically for the price we paid we couldnt have asked for a better holiday.
Only thing to look out for is that if you manage to get a room in the quiter part, be aware that there are bars just outside the hotel which are noisy at night so get a room on the opposite side if this is a problem.
Basically for the price we paid we couldnt have asked for a better holiday.
Only thing to look out for is that if you manage to get a room in the quiter part, be aware that there are bars just outside the hotel which are noisy at night so get a room on the opposite side if this is a problem.
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
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Advice: a must to visit
Activities: kids loved Bongos night club
Good for: Beach