Casa Marina Beach Hotel, Sosua
Hotel Information
Hotel Class:
Hotel Description:
Casa Marina Beach is located directly on the beach, in a quite area of El Batey, Sosua, on the North coast, only 10 minutes from the Puerto Plata International Airport and 20 minutes from the picturesque Puerto Plata town. loading...
Nearby Hotels Viewed by Other Travellers
Casa Marina Beach Hotel Reviews
" i loved it here ive been bk to dominican this yr 4 star plus "
Submitted By: mitchy_mitch_1
hi everyone well i truly enjoyed our family holiday to CASA MARINA BEACH it was amazing the staff where fab and the animation team where amazing the shows where something else very professional. Also loved the vibe we could sit and have dinner al fresco watching the sunset going down wot a lovely place the staff where so nice and the jacuzzis on the beach front sipping our cocktails children welcome we had the time of our life i would go bk in an instant we went to bahia this year in san juan and it was lovely but the only thing missing at CASA MARINA is the drinks end at 11 where as bahia was 24 hr. the food at casa marina was lovely and the rooms where very hygenic id go bk in a min definetly xxxxx
1 out of
2 readers found this review helpful
-
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:
" We are just back from 1 week all... "
Submitted By: Mrs M M White
We are just back from 1 week all inclusive at Casa Marina Beach. Our first impression as we got out of the coach was a tired looking resort. Our room was on the first floor (726) the bathroom tiles were very cracked and there were lots of tiny ant like creatures all around the basin area, including around the glasses and 2 bottles of water. The shower curtain pole and fittings were rusty and the shower curtain shabby. The room was clean and basic. The door onto the balcony didn't lock, we found that the catch was broken and this was repaired (on second time of asking).
I can honestly say the only meal we enjoyed was breakfast, we had omlette most days and as they were cooked in front of us we knew that they were cooked completely.
Most of the dining staff were miserable (except for one guy who kept making sqawking noises and talking in a very high pitched voice for the childrens entertainment I would imagine, or he had some weird affliction!) We ate at the mexican restaurant one night and the turn around was so fast we ate 3 courses and were out the door in 45 minutes. The waiting staff couldn't raise a smile between them. We left a small tip and we did go back the next night simply because we were tired of the buffet restaurant and what a difference a $10 tip makes, they were falling over themselves to serve us, were smiley and didn't make us feel like a nuisance. Even offered a second serving of desert and coffee.
We have been to Kenya and Mauritius and the people there cannot do enough for you, the people (except for the reception staff) at Casa Marina Beach, including the shop staff were miserable.
The evening entertainment was ok, have seen better at all inclusive.
The weather was fantastic - very hot. Most annoying to have to pay for a parasol when paying for all inclusive, never had that before so most surprised, but there are loads of palm trees when a shady moment was needed.
Overall, I guess you get what you pay for and this was a cheap holiday. If you intend to spend a lot of time in the apartment, this is not the place to be.
Casa Marina Beach was rated as 4 star, this may have been 4 star to the local people but would not be classed as 4 star by a Brit, more like 2 star.
We wouldn't recommend to friends and we wouldn't go back to Casa Marina Beach.
I can honestly say the only meal we enjoyed was breakfast, we had omlette most days and as they were cooked in front of us we knew that they were cooked completely.
Most of the dining staff were miserable (except for one guy who kept making sqawking noises and talking in a very high pitched voice for the childrens entertainment I would imagine, or he had some weird affliction!) We ate at the mexican restaurant one night and the turn around was so fast we ate 3 courses and were out the door in 45 minutes. The waiting staff couldn't raise a smile between them. We left a small tip and we did go back the next night simply because we were tired of the buffet restaurant and what a difference a $10 tip makes, they were falling over themselves to serve us, were smiley and didn't make us feel like a nuisance. Even offered a second serving of desert and coffee.
We have been to Kenya and Mauritius and the people there cannot do enough for you, the people (except for the reception staff) at Casa Marina Beach, including the shop staff were miserable.
The evening entertainment was ok, have seen better at all inclusive.
The weather was fantastic - very hot. Most annoying to have to pay for a parasol when paying for all inclusive, never had that before so most surprised, but there are loads of palm trees when a shady moment was needed.
Overall, I guess you get what you pay for and this was a cheap holiday. If you intend to spend a lot of time in the apartment, this is not the place to be.
Casa Marina Beach was rated as 4 star, this may have been 4 star to the local people but would not be classed as 4 star by a Brit, more like 2 star.
We wouldn't recommend to friends and we wouldn't go back to Casa Marina Beach.
2 out of
4 readers found this review helpful
-
- Date of Holiday:Sep 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" This was the best holiday we have... "
Submitted By: Miss G Benn
This was the best holiday we have had! The accomodation was basic but very clean. The hotel staff were polite, friendly and very helpful. The animation team were absolutely fantastic, they made our holiday. You can be as involved as you want with all the activities that are on offer day and night. The food was plentiful and more than adequate. I have never returned to the same holiday destination twice! But am just in the process of re-booking for next year and staying for 3 weeks. Go with an open mind don't expect the UK if you do you'll be disappointed (stay in the UK and holiday here!) This is a superb holiday and everyone involved did their utmost to ensure it was the best ever!!!
-
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Cosmos
" Absolutely amazing! we are two 21... "
Submitted By: Miss K Fenton
Absolutely amazing! we are two 21 year old girls and this was our first time in the caribbean. We were expecting to just sunbathe in the sun and read a few books but the hotel and beautiful country offers so much more. Peurta plata itself its a beutiful place, even just the trip from the airport to the hotel took my breathe away. After a trip on th monster truck safari i was almost near tears. the people, the mountains, the culture everything about this place is truly beautiful. (and 50 % of the profits of monster trucks go to funding public schools for the poorer comunities)
the hotel itself was absolutely wonderful, no matter your age or whether you a family, a couple or friends they catered for everyone. The staff in every part were helpful happy and friendly. theres nothing like eating an evening meal watching the sunset and hearing the waiters happily singing along to the latino music. theres a pool and bar for everyone, quiet, entertaining, whatever your need. We felt as two young girls that we wouldnt meet that many people, but we met people aged from 8 to 80 from all over the world, all happy to chat, mostly because the hotel and staff put you in an amazing mood for your entire stay.
The highlight of the hotel has to be the ampitheatre, and the animation team. The animation team play games at the main pool by the day and dance and put on shows with proffessional dancers in th evening. The shows are world class, hilariously funny and somethin that all ages would enjoy (and ladies make sure you check out the "hollywood night" the full monty show is not to be missed)
we loved this place so much that we are returning in september and are also lookin into buying a bussiness and property out there. between the 2 of us we have travelled all over europe austrailia africa and america and I have honestly never been anywhere so beautiful.
The dominican republic was until recently a dictatorship and is still a 3rd world developing country, but to look at the people you would not know it, they are the happiest people i have ever met. We were reminded by the staff that we were lucky to come from such a rich country as england, and when we sed "but you are happier here" they all agreed.
I would highly recomend this place as a trip of a lifetime, and if you do want to help the local comuninities the monster truck safari is a brilliant way (make sure you take crayons pens books and sweets for the children)
the hotel itself was absolutely wonderful, no matter your age or whether you a family, a couple or friends they catered for everyone. The staff in every part were helpful happy and friendly. theres nothing like eating an evening meal watching the sunset and hearing the waiters happily singing along to the latino music. theres a pool and bar for everyone, quiet, entertaining, whatever your need. We felt as two young girls that we wouldnt meet that many people, but we met people aged from 8 to 80 from all over the world, all happy to chat, mostly because the hotel and staff put you in an amazing mood for your entire stay.
The highlight of the hotel has to be the ampitheatre, and the animation team. The animation team play games at the main pool by the day and dance and put on shows with proffessional dancers in th evening. The shows are world class, hilariously funny and somethin that all ages would enjoy (and ladies make sure you check out the "hollywood night" the full monty show is not to be missed)
we loved this place so much that we are returning in september and are also lookin into buying a bussiness and property out there. between the 2 of us we have travelled all over europe austrailia africa and america and I have honestly never been anywhere so beautiful.
The dominican republic was until recently a dictatorship and is still a 3rd world developing country, but to look at the people you would not know it, they are the happiest people i have ever met. We were reminded by the staff that we were lucky to come from such a rich country as england, and when we sed "but you are happier here" they all agreed.
I would highly recomend this place as a trip of a lifetime, and if you do want to help the local comuninities the monster truck safari is a brilliant way (make sure you take crayons pens books and sweets for the children)
-
- Date of Holiday:Jun 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Just returned from Casa Marina Beach.... "
Submitted By: Mr G Fayers
Just returned from Casa Marina Beach. And we thoroughly enjoyed our stay there (two adults, two children, 9 and 11).
Good points: Speed of check in, the Dominican people, the hotel’s food (don’t believe bad reports (based on the quality of the food), you CAN’T fault this!), the beaches - very clean, the sea - very clear, snorkelling, the trips (we did Paradise Island and Ocean World - both a must!) - there were loads of people pushing the tours and i guess all are pretty much the same but we went with Thomson’s ones as they weren’t actually too badly priced in comparison.
Kerry, the rep. very good, JJ (our Ocean World Guide) very funny! Rooms basic, a bit rough but clean enough. Pools cleaned daily and there are three to choose from. Weather was hot (although rained sometimes in the late afternoons) - on the whole, an excellent holiday.
Bad points: Over-pushy Dominican people, I know they’re poor and rely on souvenir sales and tips but it would just be nice to look around a stall without constantly being hassled. To be honest, I’d just walk to the Supermarket and buy your Rum from there! But that’s about it really! Oh, there are the usual idiots that drink too much plus the unruly, un-supervised kids who broke the pool cues and table football - and WHY do people pile their plates with every single thing at the buffet, leave three quarters of it and leave it for hungry waiters to scrape in the bin.
Entertainment & Shows: Didn’t bother so can’t comment!
Bad reviewers for The Casa Marina Beach (& Reef) - you’re in the Caribbean for God’s sake, you’re rich beyond the regular Dominican’s wildest dreams! Stop moaning about the lack of chips and weak beer and enjoy the experience!
Good points: Speed of check in, the Dominican people, the hotel’s food (don’t believe bad reports (based on the quality of the food), you CAN’T fault this!), the beaches - very clean, the sea - very clear, snorkelling, the trips (we did Paradise Island and Ocean World - both a must!) - there were loads of people pushing the tours and i guess all are pretty much the same but we went with Thomson’s ones as they weren’t actually too badly priced in comparison.
Kerry, the rep. very good, JJ (our Ocean World Guide) very funny! Rooms basic, a bit rough but clean enough. Pools cleaned daily and there are three to choose from. Weather was hot (although rained sometimes in the late afternoons) - on the whole, an excellent holiday.
Bad points: Over-pushy Dominican people, I know they’re poor and rely on souvenir sales and tips but it would just be nice to look around a stall without constantly being hassled. To be honest, I’d just walk to the Supermarket and buy your Rum from there! But that’s about it really! Oh, there are the usual idiots that drink too much plus the unruly, un-supervised kids who broke the pool cues and table football - and WHY do people pile their plates with every single thing at the buffet, leave three quarters of it and leave it for hungry waiters to scrape in the bin.
Entertainment & Shows: Didn’t bother so can’t comment!
Bad reviewers for The Casa Marina Beach (& Reef) - you’re in the Caribbean for God’s sake, you’re rich beyond the regular Dominican’s wildest dreams! Stop moaning about the lack of chips and weak beer and enjoy the experience!
-
- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Just back from a fortnight at the... "
Submitted By: Mr C Whiting
Just back from a fortnight at the fantastic Casa Marina Beach. Not sure what else you could want from a holiday. Weather fantastic, hotel great, people friendly, food spot on, 5 restuarants, 3 pools, 3 jaccuzi pools and so much more. Only let down was the evening entertainment. Beware the shops in Sosua, having been used to haggling in Tunisia & Egypt I found the shopping experience fun but it could be overwhelming for some. Maximum price to pay is one quarter of the shop keepers opening offer. Must also recommend the Monster Truck excursion. I won't spoil it, just do it.
-
- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We have just got back from two weeks... "
Submitted By: Miss E Wilkes
We have just got back from two weeks at Casa Marina Beach and the best holiday ever. We could not fault the place! 5 different places to eat, 3 pools, 2 beaches what more could you ask for?! Every body at the hotel was very friendly and always willing to put them selves out to help you. There are loads of trips to do - We did the dolphins swim (which i would recommed to any one) and we also went on the magical night evening which was really good! I can honestly say this is the best holiday i have ever been on and worth every penny!!
-
- Date of Holiday:May 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" I must say that I was very... "
Submitted By: Miss L M Nels
I must say that I was very disappointed with this hotel and what Thomson sold it as. Where should I start? Well............
We were sold this hotel, as a 24 - all inclusive 5* resort and told we would not have to pay for anything, which is very untrue to say the least!
When we arrived we were greeted by the hotel staff and given a non alcoholic cocktail after a nine hour flight and 2 hours of delays it would have been nice to have something a little stronger! We were then told we had to pay $20 (USD) for a safety deposit box. We went up to our room and discovered the t.v was not working, we called the reception who told us someone would be up to fix it soon, about half an hour later a guy came and fixed it. Our room was very basic with a t.v with what they claimed was satellite but only had 6 channels 1 of which as the hotels very own channel and another which was in English, we did get BBC America but that was in Spanish.
We went down to breakfast the next morning and found that the hotel staff are very happy to help but only if you are the opposite sex, I was never served by the women and my boyfriend was hardly ever spoken to by the men!!! After our reps meeting we went out to explore and found that there is a really lovely bar outside (NOT the one on the corner the one a few doors down with the railings and Dominican Republic flag outside) where we ended up spending most of our time!!! Everybody is trying to make a living and as soon as they know you are British the price goes up by 50% I would recommend learning the exchange rate throughly and some basic Spanish, there did seem to be quite a few prostitutes around although not loads and they didn't really bother us when we were out and about! The shop keepers all try and get you in the shops and try to sell you something that is seriously over priced so haggle with them and always use Dominican pesos as they do not know the exchange rate for dollars and if you use dollars the price will double again!
The hotel its self was ok nothing much to write home about, we got 2 bottles of water (1 each,) and were expected to fill these up daily but we did not find this out until 5 days into the holiday. The excursions through the reps are over priced and the only trip we went one was horse riding through the Caribbean which was the best part of the holiday but later discovered he had over paid by $20 each.
Our all inclusive ended at 10pm and it was nearly impossible to get food after about 9:15pm. We ended up spending a lot of money on drinks (even soft drinks) in the first few days as after 10pm you have to pay for everything (except water which you can get from a shared water fountain (like the ones they had at school) or they do have large bottles in the main dinning area where you can get a cup of water if you can get a clean cup or glass to put it in! When we woke up on the first morning our room was crawling with little antsy like things and mosquito's, we had to buy insect killer spray every couple of days because when we did not spray the room it was crawling with insects again!
After 5 days of paying for over priced drinks in th evening we went to the bar just outside of the hotel (the one I mentioned before) who would mix up a tasty and very strong cocktail at a low price, which we really enjoyed and a special hello to Miguel at the pool bar who also mixed a really nice cocktail that was very strong!
There is nothing to do at the hotel except eat sunbath and sleep, the entertainment is rubbish and very butlins style mostly aimed at young children and teenagers. The beach was always packed and you could hardly ever find somewhere to relax as it seemed to be overrun by children who were very hyperactive even at 9pm! the casa marina reef's private beach is nice and private, you do get a lot of locals trying to sell you banana boat trips etc but they are quite friendly and can take no for an answer. The worst things about this beach are the mosquito's which love to bite everyone, no life guard and strong currents around the rocks which are not very safe for children!
We found that every night all the electrics would cut out for varying periods of time although the only time we minded was when we were in the room! The hotel thankfully had a generator so it was not too much of a problem!
The main restaurants are o.k and serve a varied menu, and they have 3 a la carte restaurants a Mexican, Italian and a sea food. Every time I ate in the sea food restaurant I was ill with a very bad stomach upset the next day. The Italian was nice but our favorite was the Mexican which we ate in twice and was the only place in the whole hotel where the female staff treat you with a little respect but again are a lot more friendly towards men!!! When I spoke to a manager and tour reps about the fact I was ill and had had to pay out for a lot of extra things I was told that was not their problem and if I needed money I should ask a family member to send me some, I explained that my only living relative was my elderly nan who is on a pension they replied that again that was not their problem. I requested a hotel change or flight home (as Thomson say if your holiday was mis-sold or you are unhappy in anyway they will send you home or change you accommodation,) they told me I would have to pay $600 p/p for a flight or $200 p/p to change our hotel. I again spoke to the hotels manager who's reply was if you do not like our hotel go to another one, we explained to him the problems we have had he then told us to go away and shouted at me whilst walking away from us!
I could go on and on about this hotel and Thomson's conduct but frankly I do not have 6 years to list everything. I would only recommend this hotel to those who wish to do absolutely nothing and pay too much for the privilege of doing it.
I have rated this hotel/holiday a 3 for the below reasons and no others.
1, Miguel and the bar outside the hotel who made our holiday bare-able as well as making the nicest cocktails on the island
2, 151 rum and mammajuana, 151 rum 151% alcohol and we enjoyed the hotels serving of it! Mammajuana is a drink used by the Dominican people as medicine, the hotel serve it after 11am and it is a great cure for a hangover or upset stomach, BEWARE if you do find the bar that serves it be prepared to pay or buy your own from the hotel shop, it will work out cheaper!
And finally...
3, The horse riding through the Caribbean is a once in a lifetime experience and we really enjoyed it the best part of the holiday by far!! (book it through the hotel people if you really must stay here it is a lot cheaper!)
We were sold this hotel, as a 24 - all inclusive 5* resort and told we would not have to pay for anything, which is very untrue to say the least!
When we arrived we were greeted by the hotel staff and given a non alcoholic cocktail after a nine hour flight and 2 hours of delays it would have been nice to have something a little stronger! We were then told we had to pay $20 (USD) for a safety deposit box. We went up to our room and discovered the t.v was not working, we called the reception who told us someone would be up to fix it soon, about half an hour later a guy came and fixed it. Our room was very basic with a t.v with what they claimed was satellite but only had 6 channels 1 of which as the hotels very own channel and another which was in English, we did get BBC America but that was in Spanish.
We went down to breakfast the next morning and found that the hotel staff are very happy to help but only if you are the opposite sex, I was never served by the women and my boyfriend was hardly ever spoken to by the men!!! After our reps meeting we went out to explore and found that there is a really lovely bar outside (NOT the one on the corner the one a few doors down with the railings and Dominican Republic flag outside) where we ended up spending most of our time!!! Everybody is trying to make a living and as soon as they know you are British the price goes up by 50% I would recommend learning the exchange rate throughly and some basic Spanish, there did seem to be quite a few prostitutes around although not loads and they didn't really bother us when we were out and about! The shop keepers all try and get you in the shops and try to sell you something that is seriously over priced so haggle with them and always use Dominican pesos as they do not know the exchange rate for dollars and if you use dollars the price will double again!
The hotel its self was ok nothing much to write home about, we got 2 bottles of water (1 each,) and were expected to fill these up daily but we did not find this out until 5 days into the holiday. The excursions through the reps are over priced and the only trip we went one was horse riding through the Caribbean which was the best part of the holiday but later discovered he had over paid by $20 each.
Our all inclusive ended at 10pm and it was nearly impossible to get food after about 9:15pm. We ended up spending a lot of money on drinks (even soft drinks) in the first few days as after 10pm you have to pay for everything (except water which you can get from a shared water fountain (like the ones they had at school) or they do have large bottles in the main dinning area where you can get a cup of water if you can get a clean cup or glass to put it in! When we woke up on the first morning our room was crawling with little antsy like things and mosquito's, we had to buy insect killer spray every couple of days because when we did not spray the room it was crawling with insects again!
After 5 days of paying for over priced drinks in th evening we went to the bar just outside of the hotel (the one I mentioned before) who would mix up a tasty and very strong cocktail at a low price, which we really enjoyed and a special hello to Miguel at the pool bar who also mixed a really nice cocktail that was very strong!
There is nothing to do at the hotel except eat sunbath and sleep, the entertainment is rubbish and very butlins style mostly aimed at young children and teenagers. The beach was always packed and you could hardly ever find somewhere to relax as it seemed to be overrun by children who were very hyperactive even at 9pm! the casa marina reef's private beach is nice and private, you do get a lot of locals trying to sell you banana boat trips etc but they are quite friendly and can take no for an answer. The worst things about this beach are the mosquito's which love to bite everyone, no life guard and strong currents around the rocks which are not very safe for children!
We found that every night all the electrics would cut out for varying periods of time although the only time we minded was when we were in the room! The hotel thankfully had a generator so it was not too much of a problem!
The main restaurants are o.k and serve a varied menu, and they have 3 a la carte restaurants a Mexican, Italian and a sea food. Every time I ate in the sea food restaurant I was ill with a very bad stomach upset the next day. The Italian was nice but our favorite was the Mexican which we ate in twice and was the only place in the whole hotel where the female staff treat you with a little respect but again are a lot more friendly towards men!!! When I spoke to a manager and tour reps about the fact I was ill and had had to pay out for a lot of extra things I was told that was not their problem and if I needed money I should ask a family member to send me some, I explained that my only living relative was my elderly nan who is on a pension they replied that again that was not their problem. I requested a hotel change or flight home (as Thomson say if your holiday was mis-sold or you are unhappy in anyway they will send you home or change you accommodation,) they told me I would have to pay $600 p/p for a flight or $200 p/p to change our hotel. I again spoke to the hotels manager who's reply was if you do not like our hotel go to another one, we explained to him the problems we have had he then told us to go away and shouted at me whilst walking away from us!
I could go on and on about this hotel and Thomson's conduct but frankly I do not have 6 years to list everything. I would only recommend this hotel to those who wish to do absolutely nothing and pay too much for the privilege of doing it.
I have rated this hotel/holiday a 3 for the below reasons and no others.
1, Miguel and the bar outside the hotel who made our holiday bare-able as well as making the nicest cocktails on the island
2, 151 rum and mammajuana, 151 rum 151% alcohol and we enjoyed the hotels serving of it! Mammajuana is a drink used by the Dominican people as medicine, the hotel serve it after 11am and it is a great cure for a hangover or upset stomach, BEWARE if you do find the bar that serves it be prepared to pay or buy your own from the hotel shop, it will work out cheaper!
And finally...
3, The horse riding through the Caribbean is a once in a lifetime experience and we really enjoyed it the best part of the holiday by far!! (book it through the hotel people if you really must stay here it is a lot cheaper!)
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2006
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Enjoyable fortnight at Casa Marina... "
Submitted By: Mrs A Lewis
Enjoyable fortnight at Casa Marina Beach, next to the sister Hotel, Casa Marina Reef.
The Hotel, complex & pools were good & kept very clean. Bathroom dated but when we had a problem with the light it was fixed in no time. The aircon in 1147 was rubbish. We reported it, it was checked, but not improved. ‘Reef’ rooms more uptodate. Likewise pool was better, 4.5ft depth all over. Jacuzzis cool, but lovely. Towel service brilliant, replaced as many times in the day as you like! don’t loose or have yours taken as 15$ to replace each towel. Bar service was excellent, Cocktails were fab, Banana Mama’s, fruit punch & pina coladas (with or without rum) were delicious. Tiny yellow birds were drinking the cocktails at outside bars! We had ice in our drinks, despite often asking for no ice, but we were all fine. The food was good, snack bars great. Limited for my boy at night, but plenty of variety for us.
Make use of 3 themed restaurants in the evening. Most of the shows were good, great dancers. Check entertainment board to see whats on, the Mr & Mrs wasn’t suitable for small children & not much variety once you’d seen a couple of shows but The Dominican Night was nice. Bars close at 11pm, but we’d had enough by then. Pay bar available after that if you want more.
Reps at Welcome meeting only keen to sign you up for trips, so you don’t book with Mels tours, (who the reps say aren't inusred but they are - just outside the entrance to Hotel). Supposed to be just as good & cheaper. They asked if anyone had a Birthday & I told them about my Sons 11th Birthday, but they did not do anything, so I’m not sure why they asked! They did not mention of free water sports; the kayaking, the loan of snorkelling gear etc, ask at the Marina Beach.
Monster truck safari worth doing. Not keen on kids begging, but they have very little so take the soap & bits from your room, plane, sweets, old tshirts etc they are glad of anything,. ‘Arny’ was a brilliant guide for the day. Boys had a good time on half-day fishing trip, but did not catch anything! Saona Island trip, although expensive, was a good day out. If you get Rambo as guide you will have a great day.
Altogether a good holiday. Hotel good (apart from aircon), close to airport, beach, bars. Very hot. Most enjoyable.
We enjoyed our holiday & would probably not go back only because there are too many other places we haven’t been yet.
The Hotel, complex & pools were good & kept very clean. Bathroom dated but when we had a problem with the light it was fixed in no time. The aircon in 1147 was rubbish. We reported it, it was checked, but not improved. ‘Reef’ rooms more uptodate. Likewise pool was better, 4.5ft depth all over. Jacuzzis cool, but lovely. Towel service brilliant, replaced as many times in the day as you like! don’t loose or have yours taken as 15$ to replace each towel. Bar service was excellent, Cocktails were fab, Banana Mama’s, fruit punch & pina coladas (with or without rum) were delicious. Tiny yellow birds were drinking the cocktails at outside bars! We had ice in our drinks, despite often asking for no ice, but we were all fine. The food was good, snack bars great. Limited for my boy at night, but plenty of variety for us.
Make use of 3 themed restaurants in the evening. Most of the shows were good, great dancers. Check entertainment board to see whats on, the Mr & Mrs wasn’t suitable for small children & not much variety once you’d seen a couple of shows but The Dominican Night was nice. Bars close at 11pm, but we’d had enough by then. Pay bar available after that if you want more.
Reps at Welcome meeting only keen to sign you up for trips, so you don’t book with Mels tours, (who the reps say aren't inusred but they are - just outside the entrance to Hotel). Supposed to be just as good & cheaper. They asked if anyone had a Birthday & I told them about my Sons 11th Birthday, but they did not do anything, so I’m not sure why they asked! They did not mention of free water sports; the kayaking, the loan of snorkelling gear etc, ask at the Marina Beach.
Monster truck safari worth doing. Not keen on kids begging, but they have very little so take the soap & bits from your room, plane, sweets, old tshirts etc they are glad of anything,. ‘Arny’ was a brilliant guide for the day. Boys had a good time on half-day fishing trip, but did not catch anything! Saona Island trip, although expensive, was a good day out. If you get Rambo as guide you will have a great day.
Altogether a good holiday. Hotel good (apart from aircon), close to airport, beach, bars. Very hot. Most enjoyable.
We enjoyed our holiday & would probably not go back only because there are too many other places we haven’t been yet.
-
- Date of Holiday:Aug 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We stayed at the the Casa Marina... "
Submitted By: Mrs K Hunt
We stayed at the the Casa Marina Beach early December 2007. Our room was on the ground floor right next to the pool, about 10 feet from the main restaurant. I was expecting a right dump after reading some of the reviews before we went.
However, I was pleasantly surprised. The room was clean and comfortable, the food was good, hot and varied. I never had any trouble with any of the staff, they all had a smile for you as long as you can smile for them as well, show a little appreciation for their hard work they work long hours for little pay.
The weather started ok but by the third day we had lots of rain, it appeared we had the tail end of some hurricane that lasted about 3 days. This is when things went down hill a bit, there is nowhere to go as everything is open. We also had the monster truck trip booked during this time, and to my surprise it went ahead despite the weather. Even though it had a tarpulin type cover over the top we all got very, very wet. The saving grace of this tour was the people on our truck and the free bar which we made sure was flowing well all day.
My partner also booked the (fishing trip) . This was a joke, there were 30 foot waves and all of the passengers had the entire time with their head stuck in a bucket, no one was given a life jacket to put on and my partner had to hold on to the rails on the boat for his life. We spoke to the rep and sadly I felt let down by her attitude. I told her in my opinion she missold the trips, during the welcome meeting she pleaded with us not to book with anyone but the reps as the other tours around the hotel are not insured or safe. This turned out to be an out and out lie as we booked an evening out and ended up on the same trip as fellow Thomson guests who paid a lot more than we did.
We went out of the complex quite a few times and it did annoy me being pestered all the time, but it is no different than going to places like Turkey or Tunisia. We even hired a car at the end of the 2nd week, which the rep tried to discourage (maybe that would have been different if we booked it with her).
Once the weather changed back to sun, sun and more sun it was like being in paradise. Lazing around the pool , dipping in the calm sea. It was like having a warm bath, bliss.
Evening entertainment was very good, and if that was not to your taste make your own by mixing with new friends and enjoying each others company. I could not have asked for more after only paying £500 each, well worth every penny.
However, I was pleasantly surprised. The room was clean and comfortable, the food was good, hot and varied. I never had any trouble with any of the staff, they all had a smile for you as long as you can smile for them as well, show a little appreciation for their hard work they work long hours for little pay.
The weather started ok but by the third day we had lots of rain, it appeared we had the tail end of some hurricane that lasted about 3 days. This is when things went down hill a bit, there is nowhere to go as everything is open. We also had the monster truck trip booked during this time, and to my surprise it went ahead despite the weather. Even though it had a tarpulin type cover over the top we all got very, very wet. The saving grace of this tour was the people on our truck and the free bar which we made sure was flowing well all day.
My partner also booked the (fishing trip) . This was a joke, there were 30 foot waves and all of the passengers had the entire time with their head stuck in a bucket, no one was given a life jacket to put on and my partner had to hold on to the rails on the boat for his life. We spoke to the rep and sadly I felt let down by her attitude. I told her in my opinion she missold the trips, during the welcome meeting she pleaded with us not to book with anyone but the reps as the other tours around the hotel are not insured or safe. This turned out to be an out and out lie as we booked an evening out and ended up on the same trip as fellow Thomson guests who paid a lot more than we did.
We went out of the complex quite a few times and it did annoy me being pestered all the time, but it is no different than going to places like Turkey or Tunisia. We even hired a car at the end of the 2nd week, which the rep tried to discourage (maybe that would have been different if we booked it with her).
Once the weather changed back to sun, sun and more sun it was like being in paradise. Lazing around the pool , dipping in the calm sea. It was like having a warm bath, bliss.
Evening entertainment was very good, and if that was not to your taste make your own by mixing with new friends and enjoying each others company. I could not have asked for more after only paying £500 each, well worth every penny.
-
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Well, what can I say... What an... "
Submitted By: Mr M Eland
Well, what can I say... What an amazing holiday.
Went there for my 20th birthday and what a great time I had. Arrived at the Hotel by bus to be greeted by the Hotel staff giving out cocktails straight away to get you in the mood. The check-in was swift and we were told all we needed to know.
The porter then carried 8 bags upto several rooms making sure to get them in the right order so that you werent walking up and down stairs before getting to your own. We were on the second floor 3 doors away from the people we went with, which isn't a problem.
We had a fantastic view from our balcony of the main pool area, and the beach area which was literally a stone throw away. We noticed in the mornings we were up at 6/7am the first couple mornings with the time difference, but the staff were out cleaning the pool every morning and every night as well as washing down all the loungers.
Rooms were very nice, slightly dated bathroom but that wasn't a problem for all the time you spent in the room. Everything worked fine and was all clean and well maintained. We had a problem once with the toilet flooding but we phoned down to reception and they were up fixing it more or less whilst we were still on the phone to them.
Hotel is right on the beach so you have everything there, no need to leave the resort really. It shares its resources with its sister hotel right next door, the Casa Marina Reef, so you can use their pools, bars, buffets and entertainment.
There is the kids club so you can send you kid off in the morning and not have to worry about them, there is stuff to keep them amused all day long.
Bar is open 10am - 11pm which is perfect times we found... if it gets later on and the bar is closing, just order a couple drinks to keep you going. Best part of all inc!
The trips are well worth doing, we done the Monster Truck Safari, which is good if you like countryside and seeing how they live over there. Magical nights, which is a night in a casino with a very nice sit down meal. and the best trip was Siona Island. Full day out with so much to do and going on, well worth the price! Memories you won't forget!
All staff friendly and willing to help, will do anything, as all Dominican's, but given their lifestyle over there, dont expect it done there and then, they are very laid back and enjoy life, they don't take it too seriously, we could all learn something from them :).
Fantastic holiday, and we've booked to go back again this April ! Can't wait!
Went there for my 20th birthday and what a great time I had. Arrived at the Hotel by bus to be greeted by the Hotel staff giving out cocktails straight away to get you in the mood. The check-in was swift and we were told all we needed to know.
The porter then carried 8 bags upto several rooms making sure to get them in the right order so that you werent walking up and down stairs before getting to your own. We were on the second floor 3 doors away from the people we went with, which isn't a problem.
We had a fantastic view from our balcony of the main pool area, and the beach area which was literally a stone throw away. We noticed in the mornings we were up at 6/7am the first couple mornings with the time difference, but the staff were out cleaning the pool every morning and every night as well as washing down all the loungers.
Rooms were very nice, slightly dated bathroom but that wasn't a problem for all the time you spent in the room. Everything worked fine and was all clean and well maintained. We had a problem once with the toilet flooding but we phoned down to reception and they were up fixing it more or less whilst we were still on the phone to them.
Hotel is right on the beach so you have everything there, no need to leave the resort really. It shares its resources with its sister hotel right next door, the Casa Marina Reef, so you can use their pools, bars, buffets and entertainment.
There is the kids club so you can send you kid off in the morning and not have to worry about them, there is stuff to keep them amused all day long.
Bar is open 10am - 11pm which is perfect times we found... if it gets later on and the bar is closing, just order a couple drinks to keep you going. Best part of all inc!
The trips are well worth doing, we done the Monster Truck Safari, which is good if you like countryside and seeing how they live over there. Magical nights, which is a night in a casino with a very nice sit down meal. and the best trip was Siona Island. Full day out with so much to do and going on, well worth the price! Memories you won't forget!
All staff friendly and willing to help, will do anything, as all Dominican's, but given their lifestyle over there, dont expect it done there and then, they are very laid back and enjoy life, they don't take it too seriously, we could all learn something from them :).
Fantastic holiday, and we've booked to go back again this April ! Can't wait!
-
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2008
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Me and my partner and little girl had... "
Submitted By: Miss M Cooper
Me and my partner and little girl had a lovely time here the staff were amazing and very helpful although i thought there could have been more for kids to do the rooms where fairly clean and we did not have any problems with ants or mosquitos. The food was nice but the mexican was never a mexican it was bland and mild.The grounds of the hotel where lovely with jacuzzis on the beach front and the family entertainment at night was good fun the all inc only lasts upto 11pm at ngt so grab a tray from the bar and get friendly with the bar staff and they will give you loads of drinks to take to your room give them a tip mabe 3 or 4 dollars this is like a months wage to them. We also went outside into the town of sosua very primitive it was like being in the barras (market) but found we got everything at a third of the price so haggel coz they will bring it down. We found a bar up the road from hotelthat we could get a full english fry up it was lovely. I WOULD ALSO RECOMMEND THE TRIP TO PARADISE ISLAND TO ANYONE WHO HAS NOT BEEN BEFORE although a long bus journey from casa marina well worth it was a trip of a life time we are going bk this year and tried to go back to casa marina beach but thomson have dropd their Glasgow flight so we are going to the 4 star plus Bahie in San juan for £350 more that wot we paid for casa marina.
-
- Date of Holiday:Jul 2007
- Board Basis:Select
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We have visited this resort several... "
Submitted By: Mr N Burden
We have visited this resort several times now, and we really enjoy our holidays here. We are returning in may 2008.
We have always had a great holiday, and always look forward to returning. Having read some of the comments I do feel that some people do expect the world. We first visited this resort in 2001, and have paid the same amount to go this year as we did in 2001, which for a trip to the Dominican republic, is not expensive.
The staff are always excellent, friendly, and efficient, we have always found that they are always happy to assist and help.
The food in our opinion has always been good, we especially like the Italian. The buffets are always varied, with plenty of choice, and they cater for every taste at breakfast. All of the restaurants are outside, which we think is nice, some people don't like the fact that birds can fly in, personally it doesn't bother us. Try the omelettes at breakfast, you pick your own ingredients, and it's made for you as you wait.
My only negative point, and it is a small one, is most of the rooms that we have stayed in, could do with 'modernising', but to be fair they are always clean and tidy, and the beds are comfortable, and it's air conditioned, at the end of the day you don't go on holiday to stay in your room all day.
The bars are always well stocked, we have never had any problems getting drinks, yes they are generally locally produced, but are fine. The soft drinks are all branded, and are always available.
Wine is not one of the drinks that is widely available all inclusive, so we like a glass of wine in the evening, so we buy a bottle from one of the pay bars.
We tried several trips on our first visit, and can highly recommend the trip to sauna island, it does seem expensive, but well worth it.
The sea can be a bit rough sometimes, but it always amazes me how many people ignore flag warnings!, other than that the beaches are great!.
Everyone is different, we love it at Casa Marina, not everyone will, but it depends what you want from a holiday.
We have always had a great holiday, and always look forward to returning. Having read some of the comments I do feel that some people do expect the world. We first visited this resort in 2001, and have paid the same amount to go this year as we did in 2001, which for a trip to the Dominican republic, is not expensive.
The staff are always excellent, friendly, and efficient, we have always found that they are always happy to assist and help.
The food in our opinion has always been good, we especially like the Italian. The buffets are always varied, with plenty of choice, and they cater for every taste at breakfast. All of the restaurants are outside, which we think is nice, some people don't like the fact that birds can fly in, personally it doesn't bother us. Try the omelettes at breakfast, you pick your own ingredients, and it's made for you as you wait.
My only negative point, and it is a small one, is most of the rooms that we have stayed in, could do with 'modernising', but to be fair they are always clean and tidy, and the beds are comfortable, and it's air conditioned, at the end of the day you don't go on holiday to stay in your room all day.
The bars are always well stocked, we have never had any problems getting drinks, yes they are generally locally produced, but are fine. The soft drinks are all branded, and are always available.
Wine is not one of the drinks that is widely available all inclusive, so we like a glass of wine in the evening, so we buy a bottle from one of the pay bars.
We tried several trips on our first visit, and can highly recommend the trip to sauna island, it does seem expensive, but well worth it.
The sea can be a bit rough sometimes, but it always amazes me how many people ignore flag warnings!, other than that the beaches are great!.
Everyone is different, we love it at Casa Marina, not everyone will, but it depends what you want from a holiday.
-
- Date of Holiday:Jan 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" Wow! what a place! All inclusive... "
Submitted By: Mr M Spedding
Wow! what a place! All inclusive hotel in the Caribbean!
This was a truly fantastic holiday; Sun Sea and Rum.
Hotel is a 3 star hotel which is ideal for kids and families.
Bars are all open 10am - 11pm and are of course all inclusive in the holiday price providing a wide range of local drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Food is out of this world, they have 3 restaurants, a seafood, Mexican and an Italian and also a buffet restaurant which has a large selection of food for you to help yourself to; they theme the buffet restaurant each night so you won’t get bored! Again, all included in the price.
Three pools, and cold water Jacuzzis overlooking the sea! magical at sunset! Get a drink and get there first!
The hotel is literally minutes from the beach where you can sunbath all day and fight the waves which is great fun! Get snorkelling kit and have a look at all the fish there!
Staff are friendly and will do anything to help, although as typical Dominicans - this can take some time as life is so relaxed out there!
The facilities are shared with the Casa Marina Reef hotel next door, but this gives you access to their pools and bars too!
Thomson trips are well worth doing, especially Saona! FANTASTIC!
This is a great hotel for people wanting to experience the Caribbean without spending loads of cash, it is great for the kids as they can pretty much entertain themselves all day long.
We thought it was that good, we are going back a year later!
This was a truly fantastic holiday; Sun Sea and Rum.
Hotel is a 3 star hotel which is ideal for kids and families.
Bars are all open 10am - 11pm and are of course all inclusive in the holiday price providing a wide range of local drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.
Food is out of this world, they have 3 restaurants, a seafood, Mexican and an Italian and also a buffet restaurant which has a large selection of food for you to help yourself to; they theme the buffet restaurant each night so you won’t get bored! Again, all included in the price.
Three pools, and cold water Jacuzzis overlooking the sea! magical at sunset! Get a drink and get there first!
The hotel is literally minutes from the beach where you can sunbath all day and fight the waves which is great fun! Get snorkelling kit and have a look at all the fish there!
Staff are friendly and will do anything to help, although as typical Dominicans - this can take some time as life is so relaxed out there!
The facilities are shared with the Casa Marina Reef hotel next door, but this gives you access to their pools and bars too!
Thomson trips are well worth doing, especially Saona! FANTASTIC!
This is a great hotel for people wanting to experience the Caribbean without spending loads of cash, it is great for the kids as they can pretty much entertain themselves all day long.
We thought it was that good, we are going back a year later!
-
- Date of Holiday:Apr 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
" We are just back after a fortnight's... "
Submitted By: Mrs P Kelly
We are just back after a fortnight's honeymoon at this resort and we wouldn't be rushing to recommend it. It was ok in some respects, the rooms were cleaned every day, not sure how often the beds were changed but they seemed fine. Neither of us smokes and every morning I could smell cigarette smoke in the room, I think it must have been coming through the air con.
Every morning at breakfast there was a bird sitting on top of the squeezy bottle of maple syrup merrily drinking away at it undisturbed. It was always something to watch while the toaster took about 10mins to brown your toast. I had an omelette a few mornings and I wasn't convinced they were cooked properly.
The evening meal was supposed to be from 6.30pm - 10.00pm but really after 9.15pm you can forget about it, most of the decent stuff has long gone. They only serve wine at tea time in the restaurants, it's not available in the free bars and it kept running out.
We tried a couple of their speciality restaurants - waste of time, not to mention money. We went to the Seafood one and my husband has a real passion for seafood so he splashed out and ordered lobster. They just brought one over, we expected to be given a choice, they never told us what weight it was. At the end of the meal we got the bill $34 and apparently it was like rubber!
I had the runs for the full fortnight and after the first few days I noticed that there were quite a few flies around the food, that's the drawback with any buffet I suppose.
The actual "town" itself is quite a dump really and quite scary, there are a lot of security guards about which was quite reassuring (in a way).
I couldn't stand the way there were some many local lads hanging about the beach, they were very forward and cocky (another word for very cheeky!).
Every morning at breakfast there was a bird sitting on top of the squeezy bottle of maple syrup merrily drinking away at it undisturbed. It was always something to watch while the toaster took about 10mins to brown your toast. I had an omelette a few mornings and I wasn't convinced they were cooked properly.
The evening meal was supposed to be from 6.30pm - 10.00pm but really after 9.15pm you can forget about it, most of the decent stuff has long gone. They only serve wine at tea time in the restaurants, it's not available in the free bars and it kept running out.
We tried a couple of their speciality restaurants - waste of time, not to mention money. We went to the Seafood one and my husband has a real passion for seafood so he splashed out and ordered lobster. They just brought one over, we expected to be given a choice, they never told us what weight it was. At the end of the meal we got the bill $34 and apparently it was like rubber!
I had the runs for the full fortnight and after the first few days I noticed that there were quite a few flies around the food, that's the drawback with any buffet I suppose.
The actual "town" itself is quite a dump really and quite scary, there are a lot of security guards about which was quite reassuring (in a way).
I couldn't stand the way there were some many local lads hanging about the beach, they were very forward and cocky (another word for very cheeky!).
-
- Date of Holiday:Dec 2007
- Board Basis:All Inclusive
- Tour Operator:Thomson
loading...