My husband and I returned from the Dominican Republic where we stayed at Secrets Excellent Resort (Nov 2005). This is my review of the resort. I have rated everything from 1 to 5. The 1 rating will mean “poor” and the 5 rating is “excellent”. Please feel free to e-mail me if you should have any additional questions about the resort. Thester88@yahoo.com

Airline travel “4” rating

We flew USA 3000. This was my first time on this airline. This ride was no different that several other airlines I have traveled in the past. They do serve food on this flight. On the trip to the island, we were given breakfast. On the return flight home, we were given lunch. These portions were very small, but what can you expect from airlines today?

Punta Cana Airport “4.5” rating

I was very pleased with my arrival to Punta Cana. For anyone who has never traveled to the Caribbean, the plane lets you off on the tar mat and you walk to the building. Upon entering into the building, there are several individuals there to greet you. A group of men are playing instruments with local music. Then you encounter 2 women dressed in native custom to take your photo. Just like on a cruise ship. You leave that area and go into customs. This takes less than a minute. I liked that. You go to get your bags and you are off to your transportation. When you depart he country, you can purchase the photo. We did. It was only $7.00. Upon departure, make sure you get a snack before getting to the airport. I thought I would get a bag of chips (the large bag). When I went the register, and the women told me $5.00, I put it right back on the shelf.

Transportation “5” rating

Most people opt to take the transportation that comes with your package deal. Yes, it is true; the travel time is 1 hour from the airport to the resort. I did not think I wanted to sit through all of that. So I signed up for the helicopter transfer. It was worth every penny of the money. This ride was about 20-30 minutes long, and you were able to have a beautiful view of a small part of the island. This was a great decision on my part, and I would do it again. The helicopter is very small (if you get the four passenger one). I felt safe, and the view was breathtaking. They will have to transport your luggage on the bus. And there is a helicopter pad on the resort.

Check IN “3.9” rating

Because I took a helicopter transfer, I was very early to the resort. Our room was not ready. Make sure you bring a change of clothes in a small bag if you take the helicopter transfer. You can change clothes, go on the beach and relax until your room is ready. Everyone else that arrived on the bus appeared to have an easy check in. When you are checking in, they will bring you champagne if you choose. Believe me, that is when the romance begins.

Room “5” rating

When I picked this hotel, I read a lot about the rooms. Nothing prepared me for what I walked into. First, the rooms are huge. Well worth every penny. You walk in and wonder if they made a mistake and gave you a suite. But no, that is the room. The 2-person Jacuzzi tub is to die for. The poster bed was extremely comfortable. We ordered a garden view room, and I am so glad we did. I wasted something away from the beach and to be able to wake up and see beautiful landscape, I was very pleased. The 2 person marble shower was wonderful. I liked having the refrigerator in the room so that I can have my water, soda (beer for those who indulge). Because it was our anniversary, we had a bottle of champagne in the room waiting for up upon or arrival. House keeping came in the room twice a day; in the morning to clean the room, in the evening to turn the bed over.

Food “4.8” rating

They have a wonderful verity of food. I loved it. I believe there are 10 restaurants to choose from, and we tried to hit each of them. The BEST dining experience I have ever had (in my life) was located at this resort. We had dinner on the beach on our anniversary night. For this meal, you get appetizers, salad and desert. Lobster, your choice of steak, 1 bottle of red wine, 1 bottle of white wine AND one bottle of champagne. You are on the beach alone with you and your server and candlelight. As well as the beautiful ocean and the moon. This too is well worth the cost. I loved all the restraints we attended. It was great.

Pools “5” rating

Well maintained. I loved it. Not a leaf to be found in the pool. Not a speck of dirt. Very clean and comfortable. The pool is so big, you never feel on top of anyone. Hint, if you are really looking for privacy, go to the pool by building 5. Very private. Not too many people found that pool.

Activities. “3.9” rating

I did not do too many activities. I was too busy being romanced by my husband. But, the only problem I had with most of the activities, you had to travel an hour to get to them. This resort is far from everything. There were something’s located on the resort (4 wheeling, horseback riding and sailing), but must activities took a long commute.


Spa “4.8” rating

I lived at the spa. Great location, and loved the employees. I could get any service I wanted except the SPA pedicure. It was always booked. Book when you get the resort if you want a pedicure.

Over all 4.55 rating

I loved it. My husband and I travel every year for our anniversary (we celebrated 9 years this year). This by far is the most romantic resort I have ever experienced. I have visited several resorts, and this is the first time I can say, “I AM GOING BACK”