choice of hotels

[Field]

OK, who has an opinion about the following hotels in the area west of Barahona: Casa Bonita, Casablanca, Coral Sol Resort, Hotel Paraiso, Gran Marquiz. Or, in Las Salinas, the Salinas High Wind Resort.

We are first time visitors to the DR andwant to snorkel, and be in a good place to swim in the sea. It helps if the hotel is a nice decent place with at least not UNfriendly people working in it. Thanks.

[PGerace]

Hi. I can highly recommend Hotel Casa Bonita. I stayed there last July and had a great time. You can read my review here at DR1 at http://www.dr1.com/reviews/details.php?hotel_id=761
For snorkeling, the only beach in that area that I can think of that is tranquil enough is Playa Quemaito, but it may have strong currents. Most of the ocean in that area is very rought. Playa Bahia de Las Auilas had crystalline water so snorkeling should be great, although I just saw a few fish and starfish from my spot on the beach.
You can see my images of the area, including the hotel at http://www.dr1.com/media/showgallery.php/cat/505 or at my own website at www.geraceimages.com

[Chirimoya]

Originally Posted by Field

OK, who has an opinion about the following hotels in the area west of Barahona: Casa Bonita, Casablanca, Coral Sol Resort, Hotel Paraiso, Gran Marquiz. Or, in Las Salinas, the Salinas High Wind Resort.

Casa Bonita is supposed to be the best, but we had no vacancies so we opted for Casa Blanca which had also been recommended. It is in a beautiful setting, clean, and with good food. It's Swiss-owned and run, and the owner and her employees were welcoming and pleasant. Low points - no hot water, the ceiling fan didn't work but they did provide a pedestal fan instead. They have a planta (generator) but don't switch it on if the power goes during the night.

Here are some photos and information.

[Field]

Thank you Chiri and thank you Paul. Great photos both of you!