PUNTA CANA BOUND

I WILL BE STAYING AT THE RIU MELAO FEB12-19, WHICH IS ALL-INCLUSIVE AND FROM WHAT I HAVE READ THE HOTEL SOUNDS AND LOOKS FABULOUS. HOWEVER, THERE REALLY SEEMS TO BE ONLY ONE RESTAURANT AT THE HOTEL THAT SERVES ALL 3 MEALS(COULD GET VERY BORING)... I WAS HOPING SOMEONE COULD PROVIDE ME WITH SUGGESTIONS FOR ANY GOOD SEAFOOD RESTAURANTS NEARBY, POSSIBLY AT OTHER HOTELS TO GO AND EAT AT EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT STAYING THERE? ALSO ANY PREDICTION ON HOW THE WEATHER MAY BE? AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST.. DOES PUJ HAVE ANY DEALS ON GOLD? THANKS MUCH!!!!

Bayahibe is a very short taxi ride away, or walk along the shore. It's on the beach, and very laid back. The local cuisine was excellent.

I too will be in Punta Cana from Feb 9 - 17 staying next door to the Riu Melao at the new Riu Bambu. From what I understand you can dine at any of the Riu Hotels restaurants (Naiboa, Melao Bambu, Palace) as part of the all inculsive which should give you more variety. I am certain that you will have a wonderful time and you find the food very good. Have Fun!

These restaurants, outside of hotels, were recommended:

Capitan Cook 552-0646 Cortesito 552-0640 White Sands 1-223-0228

They are all along the beach, and we understand you can reach them walking, although it is a long walk. The closest is the White Sands.

Hi Rick you better check about the use of restaurants. Melao and Naibo do share restaurants but not the Palace or Bambu! The Palace is NOT all-inclusive and the new Bambu is a 5 star property while the other 2 are 3.5 and 4 at best. When you get back let us know. Gary

Thanks for the info Gary. I believe that you are correct about the Palace not being part of the all inclusive but I am almost sure the Naiboa and Melao are part of the all inclusive. As far as the rating of these two I think it really depends on which tour operator's brochure you look at. ( i.e Sunquest has Naiboa at 4* and Melao at 4 1/2 *, whereas Signature has them rated at 3 1/2* and 4* respectively) I will let you know when I return.

I've just stayed at Riu Melao at the end of January and it was fabulous. It is a definitely 4 stars resort. You can eat at Naiboa too but not the supper. For the supper you have a reserved table at the restaurant of your hotel. Have a great time

A friend and I are staying at the RIU Bamboo 2/15 thru 2/22. Does anyone have info on the hotel and things to do. Anyone there at that time that would like to get together for a drink.

we are staying at the Riu Bambu also beginning of March. Let us know what you think.

Help....Re: Punta Cana Bound...does anyone have any information on Barcelo Bavaro Palace resort or Barcel Bavaro Beach resort and any additional information on the area would be greatly appreciated.....