Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana
Bávaro, La Altagracia, Dominican Republic
By night this megaresort decorated with Arabian-style domes looks like a fairy-tale palace, and its generally older clientele is a departure from the other Riu resorts. It is favored by German, English, and Canadians. The long-and-wide junior suites are simple but attractive; with dark wood against sunny yellow walls, it's shades of Old Havana. Each has a jetted bath and a terrace (but not necessarily a sea view), flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and full liquor bottles in dispensers. The buffet options are wide-ranging but still best when you arrive early. There are several à la carte restaurants but no real standout, and food in general is not a high point. Four pools, a lively swim-up bar, and semi-submerged lounge chairs add panache. There's also a pool for children. The long stretch of beach and the pool complex are breathtaking.
PROS
- gilded, grand hotel elements in lobby
- nightly music entertainment in the Spanish-style gazebo/plaza
- moderately priced
CONS
- food is middle-of-the-road
- initial glance is far better than actuality
- some maintenance issues, particularly with a/c units
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Rate Includes: All-Inclusive