Riu Merengue ClubHotel, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Hotel Information
Recent Price: £124
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
Exquisitely set on the beach of Maimon Bay, Riu Merengue provides panoramic views of surrounding green mountains and lush tropical gardens. It is the perfect place to enjoy an unforgettable vacation. loading...
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Riu Merengue ClubHotel Reviews
" Can't wait to go back! "
Submitted By: NA
My husband and I got married here in nov 2008. It was sheer bliss from the moment we arrived. It wasn't 5 star but it was a near as you would get for the reasonable price we paid. The wedding co-ordinators were amazing, in fact all the staff were. The place was so clean. The food was really lovely and tasty. in fact I lost weight whilst there because I was eating so much delicious fresh fruit and vegetables. We went on the paradise island trip which was worth every penny. Also the safari, we were asked to tell people likely to be visiting that it would be a lovely gesture to take presents for the children. You will encounter them on the safari whilst visiting a local school - books and pencils etc, but not sweets. The drinks were a litle bit weak, but that suited us because we could drink nice cocktails and be tipsy rather than drunk!!!! But a small tip goes a long way if you do want to get plastered!! Take some water shoes for the sea, as the seabed is a bit rocky. The rooms were spotless and the mini bar stocked every day. We are going back as soon as we can afford.
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Nov 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" AMAZING!! "
Submitted By: vicky1234
Just returned from the best holiday ever!! This hotel is truely amazing cudnt ask for anything more..the animation team were brilliant especially chocolate,romeo and baby face..the rest are fab too including donald duck, mickey mousse and cheeky face.. The rooms were great and the food to die for with a different theme every night..the drinks were great and the waiter round the pool and beach was very handy for a refreshing cocktail..will be returning in the next couple of weeks.
Visiting oceanworld is a must and only 10 mins max from the hotel. Cudnt ask for anything more just truely amazing!!!
Visiting oceanworld is a must and only 10 mins max from the hotel. Cudnt ask for anything more just truely amazing!!!
Advice: exellent
Activities: oceanworld and coco bongo
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" I REALLY WANT TO GO TO RIU!!!!!!!!! "
Submitted By: CHOCOLATE1
This hotel is the best! There is everything one could wish for in a holiday, we loved every minute of it and are gutted to be back home. The animation team made the holiday complete, the best was Romeo he is brilliant.....the best ever, Chocolate is amazing...., and there was also Baby Face, Lankey, Mickey Mouse. All of them are outstanding and they never stop from morning to night making us laugh etc...... I am defoe going back, booking it in the next few weeks, I can't wait any longer!!!!!
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Mar 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Portland Direct
" Beautiful Hotel "
Submitted By: Perry
Beautiful hotel with wonderful staff, very clean surroundings and an overall very enjoyable holiday.
The staff work tirelessly to ensure that you have the best holiday possible. The hotel is tremendously clean with alcohol gel outside every toilet and on entry into the eating areas.
The food in the buffet was so good we never bothered to go to the Italian or steak restaurant. Lots of choice to cater for all tastes. We have 5 & 7 year old children and they always found things to eat - especially the gorgeous chocolate cakes and cookies. Lots of fresh fruit in all sorts of formats - smoothies, fruit salads or just as it comes.
You have to accept that in the Dominican Republic you are likely to get some rain so take an umbrella - my girls stayed in the pool!
Went to Oceanworld and would recommend the sealion encounter - fabulous and the kids have great memories. Barter with the rep re the price, got nearly a $200 reduction!
On the complex are the 3 Riu hotels and you have access to all of them. The only stipulation is that you eat your evening meal in the hotel that you sleep in.
The beach is again very clean but if it's clear green seas your after then you will be disappointed. It is the Atlantic Ocean - it is warm but quite rocky so take beach shoes.
Highly recommend the place and would go back tomorrow.
The staff work tirelessly to ensure that you have the best holiday possible. The hotel is tremendously clean with alcohol gel outside every toilet and on entry into the eating areas.
The food in the buffet was so good we never bothered to go to the Italian or steak restaurant. Lots of choice to cater for all tastes. We have 5 & 7 year old children and they always found things to eat - especially the gorgeous chocolate cakes and cookies. Lots of fresh fruit in all sorts of formats - smoothies, fruit salads or just as it comes.
You have to accept that in the Dominican Republic you are likely to get some rain so take an umbrella - my girls stayed in the pool!
Went to Oceanworld and would recommend the sealion encounter - fabulous and the kids have great memories. Barter with the rep re the price, got nearly a $200 reduction!
On the complex are the 3 Riu hotels and you have access to all of them. The only stipulation is that you eat your evening meal in the hotel that you sleep in.
The beach is again very clean but if it's clear green seas your after then you will be disappointed. It is the Atlantic Ocean - it is warm but quite rocky so take beach shoes.
Highly recommend the place and would go back tomorrow.
Advice: Take a mosquito repellent with Deet in it - first time I
Activities:
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Feb 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Booked Independently
" Brilliant holiday "
Submitted By: simplybecky81
Just returned from 2 weeks staying at the riu merengue, and i can quite honestly say it was one of the best holidays i have had. The entertainment team are fantastic and give everyone the opportunity to join in a range of activities throughout the day and the majority of the entertainment in the evening is of a decent standard. I agree with several other people's comments about the pool area....it is too small and in need of a little tlc, but there are 2 other pools in the mambo and bachata if you wish to spend time around the pool....i personally spent most of my time on the beach. If you want 5* luxury this hotel isn't for you, but if you want relaxation, nice food and good entertainment on a lovely stretch of beach then this hotel is for you.
Good for: Beach
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- Date of Holiday:Feb 2009
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Portland Direct
" I WANT, I WANT TO GO TO RIU (8) "
Submitted By: akc
I went to Riu merengue and it was the best holiday that i have been on! we absolutely HEARTED it! i cried so much when i was coming home and i wanted to stay there forever.. the entertainers wer sooooooo funny and they sure did keep me humoured :)
anyone want to ask any questions i sure will be delighted to answer
LATERS PEEPS -1- X
anyone want to ask any questions i sure will be delighted to answer
LATERS PEEPS -1- X
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- Date of Holiday:Aug 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Ware should i start ive been home... "
Submitted By: Mr D Collins
Ware should i start ive been home now since the 8th off august ok the first few days were ok then friday comes round and the hotel lets all local people in on all incluesive deals these people are wild there come on there 100s in fact on saturday rgere were 500 off them the things there get up to are ridculas pissing in the pool . fighting in the pool with other holiday makers one guy even threatend a friend off mine that he would cut him with his machette
ok its late ill post my full report tomorrow
ok its late ill post my full report tomorrow
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- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" Have just returned from a 2 week... "
Submitted By: Mrs C Heslam
Have just returned from a 2 week holiday to the Dom Rep, staying at the Clubhotel Riu Merengue. We had heard rave reviews about the Riu chain and this hotel certainly came up to the standard. We were in a party of 40 people, attending the wedding of my nephew. When we got to the airport we were a little concerned that we were being picked up by a stranger, not a holiday rep, but the transfer to the hotel was no problem at all. Upon our arrival we were greeted by friendly reception staff (oh and a cocktail too!), who ran through the procedure of getting room keys etc very quickly and efficiently. We even had stickers with our room no on in the arrival pack, which we just placed on our cases and let the bell boys deliver them (we gave them a tip of $1 which is a lot of money to these people).
The rooms were more than adequate for our stay: 2 large double beds with enough room to put in a cot should the need have arisen. Maids came in every day to make beds etc and different towel art was left every couple of days or so. The mini bar was also replenished every couple of days (we have never been to a hotel where you could use the mini bar and not be charged for what you have used).
The food was out of this world and you could help yourself to as much or as little as you liked (there was somethng for even the fussiest of eaters), it was your own fault if you went hungry - ok so it was repetitive but what do you expect when you are there for 2 weeks? We had a Mexican night and also a Dominican night which gave you the chance to taste food from different cultures.
The animation team were fantastic - Mickey Mouse, Cheeky Monkey, Bad Boy, Minnie Mouse to name but a few, they always came up once or twice a day to see if everything was ok or generally to have a chat and a laugh.
We went on a couple of excursions: Jewel of the North and Monster Truck Safari. The Jewel of the North took us into a tiny fruit plantation and we also saw a typical Dominican house. We were able to buy souvenirs of carvings and also smaller items. One tip - take some small denominations of money with you as the children will give you a flower and then ask for a $1 for it. We were also taken down a mangrove (where we saw vultures and other wildlife) to a small beach where we spent an hour before going for lunch. It was then on to a larger beach where you could surf if you wanted to or just top up the tan. The Monster Truck safari was just what it says - a safari through the sugar plantations. Again we claled at a fruit plantation before going on to a typical primary school and again a typical Dominican house - be warned that for this trip you may need to take some sweets or pencils and books with you - and watch out for the children on the sides of the road - do not throw sweets to them - only give sweets to the children when you stop at the school. Anyway from the school we moved onto a typical Dominican lunch at a ranch. Here, after lunch you could swim in the freshwater river or just sit and watch the world go by or listen to the band playing for your entertainment. On the wayback in the afternoon we stopped off at a . Here you could buy rum (you got a taste of a drink called Mama Juana (a very potent drink) or 151 (which could be likened to paint stripper it was 75% proof)) or tee shirts or just small nick nacks for souvenirs.
The only down side was that the hotel let the locals in on the weekends. This is supposedly so that the hotel can be seen to be giving something back to the community. The locals can be very rude; we had an instance where children were seen urinating round the swimming pool, and after the fourth time of this act being performed, a guest directed the parents to take the children to the toilet, even pointing them towards it. The parents just laughed in their faces. They also pushed into the queues in the restaurant.
All in all the holiday was just out of this world and we are cetainly thinking of going back, maybe in 3 years time for my 50th birthday.
The rooms were more than adequate for our stay: 2 large double beds with enough room to put in a cot should the need have arisen. Maids came in every day to make beds etc and different towel art was left every couple of days or so. The mini bar was also replenished every couple of days (we have never been to a hotel where you could use the mini bar and not be charged for what you have used).
The food was out of this world and you could help yourself to as much or as little as you liked (there was somethng for even the fussiest of eaters), it was your own fault if you went hungry - ok so it was repetitive but what do you expect when you are there for 2 weeks? We had a Mexican night and also a Dominican night which gave you the chance to taste food from different cultures.
The animation team were fantastic - Mickey Mouse, Cheeky Monkey, Bad Boy, Minnie Mouse to name but a few, they always came up once or twice a day to see if everything was ok or generally to have a chat and a laugh.
We went on a couple of excursions: Jewel of the North and Monster Truck Safari. The Jewel of the North took us into a tiny fruit plantation and we also saw a typical Dominican house. We were able to buy souvenirs of carvings and also smaller items. One tip - take some small denominations of money with you as the children will give you a flower and then ask for a $1 for it. We were also taken down a mangrove (where we saw vultures and other wildlife) to a small beach where we spent an hour before going for lunch. It was then on to a larger beach where you could surf if you wanted to or just top up the tan. The Monster Truck safari was just what it says - a safari through the sugar plantations. Again we claled at a fruit plantation before going on to a typical primary school and again a typical Dominican house - be warned that for this trip you may need to take some sweets or pencils and books with you - and watch out for the children on the sides of the road - do not throw sweets to them - only give sweets to the children when you stop at the school. Anyway from the school we moved onto a typical Dominican lunch at a ranch. Here, after lunch you could swim in the freshwater river or just sit and watch the world go by or listen to the band playing for your entertainment. On the wayback in the afternoon we stopped off at a . Here you could buy rum (you got a taste of a drink called Mama Juana (a very potent drink) or 151 (which could be likened to paint stripper it was 75% proof)) or tee shirts or just small nick nacks for souvenirs.
The only down side was that the hotel let the locals in on the weekends. This is supposedly so that the hotel can be seen to be giving something back to the community. The locals can be very rude; we had an instance where children were seen urinating round the swimming pool, and after the fourth time of this act being performed, a guest directed the parents to take the children to the toilet, even pointing them towards it. The parents just laughed in their faces. They also pushed into the queues in the restaurant.
All in all the holiday was just out of this world and we are cetainly thinking of going back, maybe in 3 years time for my 50th birthday.
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- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" This is the first time we have been... "
Submitted By: Mrs C BEXON
This is the first time we have been to the Dominican Republic, we will definately be returning.
The hotel was excellant, the food fantastic, so are the staff. The maid service was also excellant, every member of staff could not do enough for you. It has been the best holiday we have been on, and believe me we have been on many. We usually go with Thompsons so this was the first time with Thomas Cook, we will definately be using them again.
If you are thinking of going take my advise and book you will not be disappointed.
The hotel was excellant, the food fantastic, so are the staff. The maid service was also excellant, every member of staff could not do enough for you. It has been the best holiday we have been on, and believe me we have been on many. We usually go with Thompsons so this was the first time with Thomas Cook, we will definately be using them again.
If you are thinking of going take my advise and book you will not be disappointed.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" I cannot praise Riu Merengue too... "
Submitted By: Mr D Holden
I cannot praise Riu Merengue too highly. Absolutely everything is done to make your holiday as enjoyable as possible. The staff are so friendly, you almost want to invite them home with you. The food was excellent, the rooms clean and welcoming, and the setting just sublime. I would happily recommend this hotel to anyone.
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- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomas Cook
" This is by far the best place I have... "
Submitted By: Ms Kelly, L Patterson
This is by far the best place I have ever been to. I just returned home yesturday and I miss everyone already. The staff are far beyond words that could explain just how well they are at their jobs. The animation team is incredible and I would pay even just to go and see them all over again. Blacky Blacky, Peakacho, Elvis, Franchesca, Chiki Monkey you guys are amazing people and the resort would be nothing without you. The room was nice and kept clean all the time, the food was endless and with lots of variety, all the activities kept me busy all day long. From laying in the sun to aqua fit in the pool, the beach party, cocnut party, the stage peformances at night, the disco, salsa dancing, the animation teams high energy all day long, the song on the bridge "I want to go to riu", playing bingo for rum and coffee...lol, archery, banana boat rides, endless drinks and gorgeous weather I could not ask for anything else and I will be back in 2 months. I WANT TO GO TO RIU!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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- Date of Holiday:Apr 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Sunquest
" This holiday, is a holiday of a life... "
Submitted By: Miss P Saunders
This holiday, is a holiday of a life time, all the people there are really friendly the cleanliness of the hotel was emaculate, it was fantstic, we have even booked to go back in august, the animation team were the best part of the holiday all so friendly, they made you feel happy, i really like Franchesca, Blaky Blaky, Mickey mouse, Elvis 69, Pikachu out of the animation team. The people in the resturant are all nice i like, lilo, Nicholas, Oscar the omlette man and finally to sum the holiday up i give it 10/10 amazing !!!!
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- Date of Holiday:Feb 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" leaving a comment to say i really... "
Submitted By: Mr Josh Kirkham
leaving a comment to say i really enjoyed this holiday i did not want to come home it was that good i am defently going back to this hotel becuase its a place to have fun. the animation team are brilliant and very funny and do brilliant entertainment i rli like pikachu , micky mouse , dee dee, franchesca, elivis 69 and blacky blacky. the food was brilliant i really liked the food and how it was set out its the best all inclusive i have ever been on. the are very helpfull and respectfull. every body tou just have to go its a brilliant holiday.
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- Date of Holiday:Feb 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:First Choice
" This was by far the best holiday we... "
Submitted By: Mr S Scott
This was by far the best holiday we have ever had.
The flights were very good from the excellent leg room to the food and the £5 entertainment upgrade being a brilliant and must have addition.
Transfers were prompt and well organised.(watch out for the porters expecting heavy tips for carrying your bags 20 feet)
The hotel.... well, words don't do it justice! perfect for all age groups. Food was fantastic with such a large choice. Staff were amazing, always happy to help and so polite. The room was once again brilliant, spacious, clean, (free mini bar!). The entertainment was very good, interactive, and hilarious.
The hotels location was very good, excellent clean beaches and not too far from the local town and the airport.
I recommend booking the organised excursions, ocean world is great (swimming with sharks is amazing), paradise island another must do day trip.
Overall, the hotel is amazing, I would recommend it to anyone travelling to the Dominican Republic.
The flights were very good from the excellent leg room to the food and the £5 entertainment upgrade being a brilliant and must have addition.
Transfers were prompt and well organised.(watch out for the porters expecting heavy tips for carrying your bags 20 feet)
The hotel.... well, words don't do it justice! perfect for all age groups. Food was fantastic with such a large choice. Staff were amazing, always happy to help and so polite. The room was once again brilliant, spacious, clean, (free mini bar!). The entertainment was very good, interactive, and hilarious.
The hotels location was very good, excellent clean beaches and not too far from the local town and the airport.
I recommend booking the organised excursions, ocean world is great (swimming with sharks is amazing), paradise island another must do day trip.
Overall, the hotel is amazing, I would recommend it to anyone travelling to the Dominican Republic.
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- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
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Initial thoughts on arrival was the pool area was disappointing - it was very cramped and a little dated. However, the pools at the neighbouring hotels on the complex are much nicer and very close to hand. I found that, when the temperature climbed, it was more comfortable on the absolutely stunning beach, where there was always a pleasant breeze and very warm sea. You do need to take beach shoes if you like to snorkel and explore around the beach, as there are a lot of rocks coming quite far in where the water is shallow.
The staff are fabulous, helpful, willing and always with a smile! Food was lovely - lots of variety and high quality. The complex is well laid out and always immaculately clean.
Evening entertainment was generally better than I've seen at other all inclusive resorts - the animation team work tirelessly and with seemingly boundless energy - they were always on hand to cajole you onto the dancefloor where they really give their all in getting you try out the merengue, etc - and my goodness can these guys move! The shows were pretty good overall.
It's a beautiful location, with lovely staff, great food and spotlessly clean. You just couldn't buy this type of quality and service in Europe for anywhere near the price. Definitely one to go back to for me.
Good for: Beach