which resort Punt Cana?

[lab]

Hi guys; What is a good resort in Punta Cana?
Here is what we are looking for;

Beach views; (dont' want a resort set way back from the beach.)

Outdoor dining; and nightly entertaiment. (don't like those auditoriums for shows.)

Good beach; pool, rooms (the norm).

We are in our mid 30's and don't want a real quiet type place but also not a place for teens. We want a place where there is something to do and see; some outdoor bars.

Thanks
Lab

[CaribbeanGeorge]

Well, Paradisus is just a walk from night life, restaurants & bars, behind Plaza bavaro.
5 star, good choice.
Occidental as well.

[cmelo]

Lab,
i just got back last week from both resorts Caribbean George recommended. I strongly disagree with staying @ the Occidental Allegro. (read my thread on that)

The Paradisus was wonderful. I'm also in my 30's but I went with kids so I can't share any info on nightlife but I hear it's available if you want it. They have a casino albeit small. And it seemed everyone gravitated to the lobby bar in the evening. Clientele was our age and up. Definitely not the college kid crowd.

Beach views will be an issue (limited pretty much to imeshare owners) considering the layout of the resort which is very large. The grounds are lush, beautiful and immaculate so those views shouldn't be bad. Nice room with all the amenities. Even an umbrella for the rain.

Beach-large stretch, nice distance from the chaise so your not in the water or overcrowded. Plenty of places to lounge in the sun or shade. No need to reserve. crystal clear water. waves a bit rough when we were there.

Pool- the pictures don't do it justice. You can't see the beginning or end from any spot. Lush vegetation all around. Again no need to reserve chaise. Plenty of places in shade (under palapas) and sun. Ramon @ the swim up bar is THE BEST. Very animated.

They have 8 restaurants: Japanese/French need reserv and both indoors, 2 buffet-open air, Italian-outside/inside, Brazilian-inside, Mexican-outside/inside & Seafood-outside/inside & by beach. No complaints on the food except 1 time when my omellete was under cooked. Loved the mexican and seafood.

[Musicqueen]

In Punta Cana I've stayed at the Barcelo Beach, the Palace is wonderful but a little expensive, also the Riu Bambu, and the Melia Caribe Tropical...any one of those is exactly what you're looking for!!!

[Hlywud]

Occidental Allegro was great when I was there in November, good service, food and outdoor dining and close to a nice beach.
It apparently changed for someone else in January, also the Fiest resorts are very good.
I heard horrid stories about the Carabela on our return flight so I would not recommend it.

[mkohn]

There's a large group from a radio station in Milwaukee going to the Iberostar at Punta Cana on the 8th or 9th. They have 4 couples who are either getting married, or renewing their vows on the 14th (to be broadcast here). We tried to win the contest, but alas...
If anybody is there during that week, say hey for us. And have a Presidente for us.
mk