It has been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. That old acronym can be thrown right out of the picture window upon arriving at the luxurious Barcelo Punta Cana resort in the Dominican Republic. Picture perfect, it is bound to leave you speechless. Its tropical beauty seems to welcome you like an old friend, and your relaxing Caribbean experience begins immediately upon arrival. From the moment your tour bus turns on to the resorts considerable property, one’s senses are overcome with excitement and much sought after relaxation all at once. You’ll find yourself reaching for the digital camera, before even reaching the lobby. But, there will be plenty of time for that later.



Just 30 minutes from the airport, this underrated 4-star property has it all. From the moment you arrive, you feel more than welcome. The speedy check-in process ensures that you will get your luggage delivered within minutes to your ultra clean, well-appointed, air conditioned and modern room, enabling you to quickly unpack and head d off to check out the rest of the property. After having undergone considerable renovations in the past year or so, the resort is nothing short of spectacular, with upgraded rooms, an additional restaurant, plus an impressive 3rd pool area designed with the kids in mind.

The tropical destination sounds as though it is a world away, but in fact it is only about a four or five hour plane ride that jets you a world away from the frozen surroundings of Canada, and deposits you in paradise.

Another convenience is finding yourself within walking distance to the next-door market, where all of your souvenir shopping can be done. Be sure to bring American money with you. With the Canadian dollar hovering close to the American in value, doing the math is as easy as walking there. A 15-minute stroll along the scenic entry road will take you to the craft market, with shops run by local artisans, proudly displaying their wares. You will find all the souvenirs you need -- rum, cigars, wooden artwork, amber jewelry, Larimar (a local stone), and bright colorful paintings, which enable you to bring back more than just wonderful memories.

Parched from shopping? No problemo, the solution is right in front of you, when you get back. Wade up to the pool bar, where a refreshing Mudslide—or whatever whets your whistle-- awaits. The eager bartenders will have you slurping on a concoction of their making within moments, and those are the moments you will take home with you, along with your souvenirs. Those who have worked up an appetite can head off to the centrally located buffet; Alcazar Restaurant for their fill of whatever the mood calls for. Come sundown, the a la carte’s include the Paris Restaurant, Tokio Restaurant, Roma Restaurant, and the Marlin Restaurant, and Conuco Restaurant, in addition to the newly constructed El Mirador Restaurant.



Tennis anyone?

Jetting away from the winter climate, means participating in non winter activities, and the Barcelo Punta Cana resort does not disappoint! You’ll find yourself being able to partake in such fun activities as trying your skills on the trapeze-complete with instructors and a safety net, or rock climbing right on the property, facing the lapping ocean. Travelers young and experienced can also check out such amenities as the Jacuzzi’s, huge impressive theatre, hurricane disco, casino, in addition to the many on-site stores. Those wishing to do so, can visit the Internet café, to check their e-mail, or even perhaps the weather network, to check on that at-home temperature! From the world class Spa, to the gym, games room, mini club, tennis, basketball, and even ice skating, boredom is certainly not on this all-inclusive menu! Highly recommended is Sandy’s coffee, found off of the main lobby, where any type of coffee is available. Try an afternoon espresso, for a jolt of energy you’ll need to make those days as long as possible!



Hands on approach



Barcelo Punta Cana Resort Manager Sandy Pfeil, employs a hands-on approach to running this resplendent home away from home. Always smiling, and easily approachable, she is often seen conversing with guests anywhere from the front entrance to poolside. Her warm smile welcomes you to this paradise that does not know of snow, or shoveling, though the white sands may fool you momentarily. She will make you feel like a welcomed guest in her home. Escaping the clutches of Old-Man Winter never felt so good!



When the sun dips into the ocean as if for its nighttime swim, the resort is alive with holidayers enjoying the resort atmosphere. After dinner, the impressive local talent will make you forget what time – and for that matter what day -- it is. This cycle is repeated starting early the next morning, with made-to-order omelet’s, and side dishes of delicacies far too numerous to mention. Making your stay even more enjoyable are the people, who rank among the friendliest and most accommodating in the world.



Gazing up at the clear night sky, the stars seem to wink ‘goodnight’. Rest assured, 5 of those stars can be used to describe this Oceanside pearl, the Barcelo Punta Cana. Having been there more than a couple of times, we can assure you that everything your vacation menu has on it, will be met. Everything, that is-except disappointment.



Palm trees dot the beach, which is almost too long to walk. It is like strolling through a postcard, complete with windsurfers, catamarans, scuba divers and fellow sun seekers with smiles on their faces that are almost as wide as the beach itself. White washed buildings blanketed by red-tiled roofs exude Spanish charm at this resort on Playa Arena Gorda, offering 792 elegantly-appointed guestrooms.

You’ll find yourself asking; How many February mornings has that alarm clock gone off, and you wished you were somewhere about 30 or 40 degrees warmer? Don’t wait any longer. Experience the vacation you’ve always dreamed of.



Barcelo Punta Cana fast facts

- Average temperature from January through March; 25-30 C.

- Local currency: Dominican peso.

- Local language: Spanish, but mostly English in the resorts.

- Number of rooms: 792 .

- Included activities: Sailing, snorkelling, windsurfing, kayaking, cycling, and tennis.

Looking for that once in a lifetime vacation spot?

The Barcelo Punta Cana awaits.



Looking for more pictures of this resort?

E-mail us anytime; ishanley@mts.net



Ian and Deena Shanley visited—for a second fabulous time—the Barcelo Punta Cana resort in February 2008.