Help Rivier Maya or Dominican Republic

[imdeskman]

Looks like my booking at the Quetzal is a bust.  I have to go nov 12th.  Been to this area last two years.  I've never been to the Dominican Republic area.  Can anyone tell the main difference?  Is it as laid back?  Do you get the same service?  What do you think the main differences are?  Thanks

[CoralReef]

Our experience was that the DR was more laid back, the people even more friendly, the service just as good, the beaches even more beautiful, and you get even more for your money than the Riviera Maya! We also liked the lush tropical feel of the island and the mountain views.

The cons were: roads less developed (takes longer to get anywhere), water not drinkable (I drink the water in Mexican resort areas, but not in the DR), fewer people speak English, less to do off-resort. It's just a less developed area in general, but it has a unique tropical flavor and the people are great. 

[ftnljulie]

I hvae been to both, and preferred the Mayan Riviera by far.  The DR was very beautiful, but didn't find the people as friendly, the service as good, and the food was very bland.  I believe that Mexico is the better value.  However, if you decide to go to DR, I recommend the day long Safari (sugar cane field, cigar factory, ranch with horse back riding, and snorkelling on a private beach) out of Punta Cana. Excellent!  Also, DR has the best rum I've ever tasted!  Hmmm, maybe I should go back!

[Lisaonthebeach]

I found DR people even more friendly than MR. Agree with julie that food was bland (but not bad). I've not been to Quetzal, so I don't know what that resort was like, but Bavaro in DR is not as new as Lindo in MR. It's also smaller, but I found it to be very nice. Beach was calm and clean...could snorkel right there. I also liked that the pool at the Bavaro was right by the beach. You could bounce back and forth between the two without a long walk. DR has a casino (small). As far as I know, there really isn't anything to do off the grounds at night. Bottom line...I enjoyed both places and would go back to either.