I have stayed in Puerto Plata, Sosua and Bavaro. I dont know about the Melia, but if Jim says its better than the palace, I want to try it out in September.

Bavaro Palace is located on a much nicer beach than on the north coast; it is part of a huge complex with everything you need right there, though it is away from any development, so you cant just leave the grounds and go party elswere too easily.

I found the service and accomodations far and away better at Bavaro than the north coast, though if you fly into Bavaro and stay there, you will never really see the Dominican Republic. In Puerto Plata, you can be out in a city around regular people, if you choose.

The service at Bavaro gets an A- or B+. Esplanada Sosua gets a C. Bavaro Palace cost me $178 per night for 2 people, Esplanada cost me $110 for two. Both all inclusive.

If you want to see the Dominican Republic, go to Puerto Plata, Sosua. If you want a luxury resort, go to Bavaro / Punta Cana.