iberostar or melia bavaro?

we are choosing between the iberostar bavaro and the melia bavaro, any thoughts? we have 2 children -- 12 yr boy who loves basketball and 9 yr girl who loves to swim. we want good food, good service, nice beach! going in march. orig thought of catalonia bavaro but have heard too many negs. help!

Stayed at the Iberostar Bavaro last year with 12 yr old son . He loved it . Very nice, clean beautiful landscaping. Good pool. Lots of kids but were almost all German. Some spoke English and my son had no problem making friends. Food was good and plentiful. Don't think there was any basketball. It was very windy when we were there so stayed near the pool, not beach. Lots of activities if you want them - bingo aerobics etc. I'd be happy to answer any question you have.

can't tell you how great it is to hear from someone who has a 12-yr son who enjoyed the iberostar bavaro! if the kids have fun and don't get sick, i'll have a great vacation. when were you there? did your son participate in the kids' club or just find friends at the pool? i've read some negs about the food (and about people getting sick) - was it fresh, well-prepared, good variety? did any of you get sick? any problems with service? i'm not expecting the ritz, but i do want a nice place. thank you, thank you! you can also e-mail me at kmccleery@newshour.org (which i can pick up at work). really, really appreciate your answer.