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RIU Bachata, Puerto Plata,
Dominican Republic


By:
Simon J. Swain

All inclusive adventure on the Island of Hispaniola!
All inclusive, the terms brings to mind plastic wear breaking against a chunk of inedible mystery meat in
some worn and shabby so-called resort!  Well forget about that and discover the impeccable world of
the RIU Hotels and Resorts, where taste and luxury abound and the value is simply astonishing.  For
some fifty years this Spanish company has been honing their craft, and they just keep getting better and
better!  Couple the RIU Bachata's five star resort with the intriguing and beautiful Dominican Republic
and you have the perfect combination for affordable family fun.

Click pictures to enlarge

The RIU Bachata has everything you need for a memorable family experience, and the all-inclusive
package will not disappoint even the most discriminating traveler.  Food and beverages, yes even
adult beverages are available 23 and a half hours a day, and the variety is fantastic.  Travelers from
around the globe patronize the RIU resorts and the buffet style meals reflect local cuisine as well
selections from Europe and the Americas.  Pour yourself fresh juices, or a glass of wine or beer
if you prefer.  The problem here is there is so much to choose from that is presents quite a challenge
to sample it all.  Smoothies, fresh fruit salads and entrées abound, and I enjoyed everything I
tried.   If you prefer a more intimate setting the resorts has a Steakhouse and a Mediterranean
restaurant, both are part of the all inclusive package but do require reservations.  Oh, did I mention
that you have the run of two other RIU resorts, the RIU Merengue and the RIU Mamboo
directly adjoin the property, and there is a walking path along the beach to all.  You are free to
experience the different resorts and all of their facilities at your own leisure.

All-Inclusive Activities

On Land-

  • Table tennis

  • aerobic workouts

  • gym

  • beach volleyball

  • billiards

  • 2 floodlit hard surface tennis courts

  • multipurpose sports field

  •  dance lessons.
     

Water-
  • Windsurfing
  • sailing
  • kayaking
  • peddle boats
  • body boards
  • snorkeling equipment
  • 1 introductory scuba diving
    lesson in the pool.
  • PADI Dive center located in
    the resort for additional fees. 
    SCUBA and jet skis

     
Island Excursions

The Dominican Republic is a fascinating
place full of history and natural beauty. 
The island is very mountainous and is
located between the Atlantic Ocean to
the north, and the Caribbean to the
south.  The interior region known as the
Dominican Alps is of particular beauty,
and makes for a good excursion when
you need to cool down.  The area is some
fifteen to twenty degrees cooler with
significantly less humidity.  The town of
Jarabacoa is a good place to start
your mountain explorations, including waterfalls,
ranches and alpine vistas.  Below are
the two IANetwork recommended
excursions offered through the resort.

                        Paradise Island-

This a great excursion!  Speed boats
take you out to a tiny island surrounded
by crystalline waters. Feed tropical fish by hand
and
snorkel around.  Cruise back
through the mangroves and enjoy a
tropical lunch beachside.

Monster Trucks-

A total blast!  Crash through the jungle and
rivers while enjoying a Cuba libre.  The trip
takes you past a sugar plantation, a local
school, and a working farm as you make your
way to a ranch deep in the rainforest.  Once
there relax in the cool river waters and feast on a Dominican lunch in the shade.  This is not to
be missed, but bring along a hat and your
sunscreen.

The Experience-

If you don't enjoy this resort and the DR, we'll need to check your pulse.  This place really does have
something for everyone, relaxation, excitement, excellent food, did I mention the frozen drinks?  Well
you get the idea, so what are you waiting for?

 

For more photography please visit the IAN gallery

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