I Stayed at 20 of the BEST RESORTS in Punta Cana: Ranking them Worst to 1st

#puntacana #allinclusive #besthotels
WARNING: DO NOT BOOK A PUNTA CANA RESORT BEFORE WATCHING THIS VIDEO.
I ACTUALLY stayed at all of these resorts! Recently! IGNORE the other TOP/BEST Punta Cana Hotels lists - they are made by people that have never travelled to the Dominican Republic or stayed at these resorts!
Over the last 18 months, I stayed at 20 of the best Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resorts. Each stay was for a minimum of 4 nights at each property - so I experienced everything, everywhere, at all of these hotels!
I deeply explored every aspect of these all-inclusive hotels to discover which had the best the rooms, restaurants, activities, entertainment, nightlife, food, drinks, bars, pools. beaches, landscapes, experience, wow-factor. and more!
In this video, I reveal my super-secret insider rankings of the top 20 all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana. If you are researching Punta Cana hotels, about to book your Caribbean vacation, or have already booked a property in Punta Cana and want to know if you made the right choice, then you absolutely need to watch this video.
🏝️ ALL OF MY COMPLETE PUNTA CANA HOTEL REVIEWS🏝️
• Punta Cana Hotels
TRS Turquesa
Secrets Royal Beach
Hard Rock Punta Cana
Riu Republica
Bahia Principe Luxury Ambar
Royalton Punta Cana
Majestic Mirage
Majestic Elegance
Royalton Bavaro
Breathless Punta Cana
Roytalton Chic Punta Cana
Dreams Punta Cana / Jewel Punta Cana
Excellence Punta Cana
Margaritaville
Barcelo Bavaro Palace
Riu Palace Punta Cana
Lopesan Costa Bavaro
Live Aqua Punta Cana
Finest Punta Cana
Excellence El Carmen
My Super Secret Inside Tips To Having The Best Time Ever in Punta Cana
• Travel Diaries: Punta ...
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Check-out The Coolist
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Instagram - @james.coolist
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#allinclusiveresorts #bestresorts #hotelreviews
#hotelreview #resorts #hotels

[@spinedoc893]

James.....These kinds of videos are so helpful for those of us that don't travel all the time and only go somewhere for a week or 2 every year or so. Thank you so much for letting us all benefit from the time, effort and $$$ you put into doing this!!! I'm wondering if you have another region in mind to do this sort of resort tour in the future?? I'd love to see a similar video series for Jamaica or perhaps the pacific coast of Mexico

[@dmorris4727]

I'd love you see a new/ updated list once you vist Secrets cap Cana, Hyatt zilara CC, Iberostar grand bavaro and Sanctuary Cap cana

[@debbiemartell8100]

Amazing video! Can’t believe how much info you packed into this in under 20 minutes. So helpful for us. Love your tone of voice, your pace, your enthusiasm. You are definitely one of my fave travel channels ❤

[@Naiatelu]

Tell me about it.

[@sarakeeling3916]

These videos have made me and my family switch from our die hard Mexico yearly trip to DR. Thanks for this great content, exactly what we need to make a selection that fits the entire family from 75-12 years! Much appreciated.

[@jacobbyrd8737]

We decided to visit Punta Cana. This video helped us to decide on Excellence Punta Cana, and we are not disappointed at all. Thank you!

[@thomass6772]

James, I cant begin to explain how grateful I am for your videos. You made my vacation a dream come true instead of nightmare shot in the dark. The way you evaluate hotels on multiple categories and do it with a smile is very much appreciated. I owe you a drink if we ever run into you. Cheers

[@iveacosta7711]

Where did you go?

[@carats1976]

Currently planning our Punta Cana trip & this video helped me tremendously. I would have never thought beaches would be an issue in the Caribbean.

[@ATLbench]

I’m going back to TRS Turquesa for the third time! Sounds like there are some “better” properties in Punta Cana but TRS has been so amazing! The staff is incredible, the rooms are luxurious, the food exceeds my standards, the beach is lovely, there are so many options at the Grand Paladium Resort that we keep going with what we know will be great. If this trip delivers like the previous ones have, I’ll likely continue to visit TRS.

[@MamaEv0618]

FYI Breathless is currently undergoing a huge (and much needed) renovation to be completed in December 2023. Includes main lobby, new casino, new xhale club, and room updates. Excited to see! Also Dreams Punta Cana is now the Jewel Punta Cana.

[@alexb2873]

We just stayed in a beachfront suite and we are honestly not going back

[@ikegh6334]

@@alexb2873 what didn't you like about breathless?

[@alexb2873]

@@ikegh6334 rooms were run down, resort wasn’t exactly the cleanest place I’ve been to either. The food was okay. I didn’t have a bad time, but I expected/hoped for something a lot cleaner.

[@XloMotion]

James I think that you should start rating these hotels by categories. Party hotel is very different from a relax hotel or a family hotel. Have them rated in their categories so we can get a better idea and make a better decisions when booking a vacation. There's no way that Riu República is above Secret. But you rated Riu for it's value and party atmosphere. Can't wait for your next trip to Cap Cana!

[@jgates594]

I was just about to ask the same thing👏. When you group them together it's hard to discern a true ranking and make comparable decisions. You should rank also by resort category/vibe. Thank you for all the work you put into these reviews.

[@markrussell3428]

@@jgates594 I can see your point but it would be a challenge given several resorts are very much "cross-catagory". Some certainly target different demographics. There are pure adult (21+) resorts (Breathless, Republica, Chic) while there are some that are massive properties that are hybrids with exclusive and adult sections. It's tricky but if anyone is going to solve this I would leave it to James.

[@jgates594]

@@markrussell3428 True, I see your point, but we're not actually suggesting separating family friendly from adult only. More like party, relax, a good time categories. For example, luxury resorts like Excellence, Finest, Secrets Cap Cana, Sanctuary Cap Cana are not party resorts. Then there may be locations family friendly or not that could be considered 'a good time' because it's not a party vibe nor relaxing🤷 but you can still have a 🎉 time. A section like Hideaway @ Royalton, if you classify it separately would be relaxing. It seems the adult only sections of family resorts are geared to be quiet relaxation sections. IJS🤷 but yes, your point.. some resorts may cross categories, but I don't think by much truthfully. Thanks for that thought process.

[@markrussell3428]

@@jgates594 I like your thinking! You have offered up a good start to the categories. Maybe I can add to this and leave the rest to James. I think some resorts can fall into the multiple categories: 1. Party (high energy vibe) 2. Luxury/High end exclusive 3. Casual/Multi-purpose good time property Getting the categories defined is the tricky part. The resorts are getting so specialized with the exclusive areas, adults only sections/facilities. Even the typical true luxury resorts have family sections. You can stay at RUI Palace, which is a family property which is RUI's idea of up-scale luxury (which it isnt); however, you can walk from the property to the party zone and be part of the mind-numbing adults only party events. The Republic has a party vibe throughout most of the property, including adults only waterslides, and makes use of the same RUI party facility. Which I think people should experience at least once.

[@jgates594]

@@markrussell3428 👏👏👏🤗 Exactly!! You nailed it . Especially your view of the Riu palace🤭. A good start. James... this is what would be useful my dear sir ......🤔 🙏

[@betty9201]

Thank you James. I found you recently and really like your videos. They are really informative and really make you do more research. Let’s face it, it costs a lot to go on holiday these days so to do research and watching your videos means I hopefully won’t chose a really bad place that doesn’t meet expectations. Thank you, thank you, thank you 😊

[@sandrab6468]

I watched a ton of videos before deciding which resort to choose. Of all the videos I watched I trusted your reviews the most. Having said that, I am in love with Live Aqua! Loved the pools, the landscaping, the lobby, the fantastic room! We got a free upgrade to the vento suite.... amazing.I just got back a week ago and I want to go back.Thank you for the recommendation...

[@juliocastro5418]

Punta cana top resorts 1. Live aqua beach resort 2. Excellence punta Cana 3. .riu republica adults only 4. Lopesan costa Bavaro resort 5. Chic by royalton luxury resorts 6. Excellence el Carmen 7. Finest punta Cana 8. Margarita ville 9. Majestic elegance 10. Secrets royal beach punta cana 11. Hard rock punta cana 12. Majestic mirage punta cana 13. Riu palace Punta Cana 14. Breathless punta Cana 15. Royalton bavaro resort & spa 16. Royalton punta cana 17. Trs turquesa hotel 18. Barcelo bavaro palace 19. Dreams punta cana 20. Bahia principe luxury ambar

[@VirtousStoic]

God tier❤ tysm his description unfortunately doesn't have them ranked it's alphabetical there

[@valsquyres]

I'm glad you picked Live Aqua as number one. That is my favorite! Great presentation, thanks.

[@1coolcontractor]

You are such a gift! Booked Secrets for 11 days in December but now thinking I want to split my vacation between 2 resorts. Nobody reviews a resort like you. 🙏🙏

[@TravelwithNJSteveandSue]

Great review! One additional point about the Majestic Elegance is that they are closing for 3 months from august 2023 to November 2023 to remodel all their guest rooms! We have stayed at all 3 Majestic resort and agree that the Elegance is the best of the 3.

[@egpipkin]

Great vid, thanks for all the hard work. I always go to Hyatt Ziva\Zilara. Love ur content and energy.

[@MirandaSuess]

I've stayed at Lopesan, Dreams Macao, and Majestic Elegance. Among the three, Lopesan was the worst due to its lacking customer service. Also, the rough quality of the bath towels, the additional cost for more than two towels per room, no selection of pillows 9they were extra stuffed and hurt my neck), and the biggest reason for making it the worst was the non-private bathroom with stall-like partitions. However, it could be a great choice for solo travelers. The resort had great food, especially the hibachi, a delicious coffee shop, fun shows, and friendly cats wandering around. During our stay, we found that the beach had limited space, with only 10 feet to walk out before reaching the blockage of buoys and many boats. These were house & fishing boats that people slept in as they didn't leave during our 3 night stay. Thank you for the video that helped me decide to stay at Lopesan. Unfortunately, my experience wasn't great for me and my family, but it's not your fault. I need to do more research and consider my likes and dislikes in resorts. I enjoy watching your videos, so please keep them coming.

[@davidpoo66]

I love how the sun is in your hotel room towards the end of your video.

[@mqemphatic38]

James, GREAT videos!!! I'm a solo traveler myself. Live in the Twin Cities (yes, the MPLS airport is of one of the best!). Please make a video of the PROS and CONS of solo travel and what it's like eating alone and what you do during your 'down time' when you aren't vlogging at these amazing resorts. Do you purchase any spa treatments? Any solo travel tips would be wonderful to know. THANKS!

[@cjjohnson4231]

Great video and summary! Have you stayed at the Hyatt all-inclusive hotels in DR?

[@valerieburgos3459]

Hyatt Zilara is the best -or al least in the top 3- hotels in DR. I would suggest you to go 100%

[@Kellie-du6uy]

Thank you! I felt completely overwhelmed by trying to choose an all inclusive adults only! I do not subscribe to channels until you! We are empty nesters and traveling, is big in our future now… If you keep turning out the videos, I will keep watching! I am super confident in the choice. We made thanks to your videos and content, you are authentic and straight to the point without blowing smoke! Much appreciated!

[@tizifit]

You’re so detailed and straight to the point! Thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@markrussell3428]

Been waiting for this! Thanks James. It just keeps getting better and you out did yourself. I followed your suggestion and have done Majestic Elegance (actually twice) and loved it. You nailed República perfectly - the value and vibe over the food and luxury. Did two weeks there and I barely survived, one can only eat so much jerk chicken (even if it is great). Did you find a big gaps in food between Chic and the other Royalton properties? By the way, IF you do Melia ensure you stay beachside in the "The Level" otherwise its not very good. You have me leaning towards Lopesan and Live Aqua, but I will be looking at the price point for value (this is what keeps me out of Excellence they are $$$),

[@vibranthang13]

I stated at Breathless at the end of August 30..through September 5. I loved the swim out rooms with the Lazy River. It was everything, my first All inclusive ❤❤❤❤

[@leggz4dayz]

We just returned from a week at Live Aqua in June and definitely concur! I suggest booking the Honeymoon package if possible. We booked it for my birthday and the dinner on the beach, couples massage, and Bali Bed were well worth it! If on a budget book it for the weekend. Don't miss the foam party Saturday!

[@beefykong1]

Do you still get all of the honeymoon suite perks if only booking for the weekend? How amazing is it? I am deciding between honeymoon and Fuego suites.

[@ryany6776]

Booked Finest Punta Cana, "Ghost Town" sounds exactly what I want lol

[@youtubber51]

so happy JAMES, I saw your "countdown of the best 5 star resorts in Punta Cana...this summer is our 1st time going to Punta Cana.(usually it's been Cancun & surrounding area) I was a bit nervous hoping I selected a great place to celebrate our 38 year anniversary this summer...since I already booked arrangements, I was pleasantly shocked that LIVE AQUA was your number 1 pick!!!! NOW WE CAN GO & ENJOY WITH NO APPREHENSION...thank you!

[@robertteti2253]

I’m a exllance Punta Cana, and it’s one of the finest ever. Thanks for your video. That’s why we are here

[@ritaandrews4962]

I loved my stay at Live Aqua. The staff was so nice. The mexican restaurant was so good and they made me an authentic Dominican dinner my last night.

[@jovannijosephmortgages]

Watching Coolist’s videos gives me the travel bug everytime 😅 - thanks for the extremely informative content boss!

[@vilmazappulla3600]

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! Thank you for the time, effort and expense you put in to take us on a tour of all these Punta Cana resorts to help us choose our next all-inclusive vacation. I appreciate how thorough you are covering all the categories we are interested in like room, food (restaurants and room service), drinks, pools, beach, entertainment, and vibe. I look forward to hear your 3 likes and dislikes at the end of your videos. You have visited so many great resorts in Punta Cana that its hard to pick one for the next vacation. I have been anxiously waiting for this video before booking my 20th wedding anniversary vacation. As soon as my husband and I finished watching your video we made the decision and booked our 2024 anniversary vacation and we can't wait to get there. If you are wondering, the decision was between Lopesan Costa Bavaro and Excellence Punta Cana. However, I chose Excellence Punta Cana and my husband chose Lopesan. Since marriage is all about compromises we decided to book Lopesan for our anniversary and book Excellence Punta Cana for our next vacation UNLESS you find a better resort :) Thanks again and I can't wait to see where you go next.

[@kimcoles1318]

Thank you this was so helpful. My husband and I are planning our first trip to Punta Cana and couldn't decide which resort to choose. We were looking for all inclusive, adults only and your videos really helped. We went back and forth on Excellence Punta Cana and El Carmen. We decided on Excellence Punta Cana and are looking forward to our trip later this year.

[@valerieburgos3459]

I would suggest you to go to Hyatt Zilara or Live Aqua

[@nancyarmisto5377]

We LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Excellence Punta Cana. Been twice, would go back in a heartbeat. Been to Excellence El Carmen, and it was a one and done for us. Most of the trip was a disappointment. Haven't been to Live Aqua, and from your video, we just don't get that same warm tropical feel we get at Excellence Punta Cana. So, who knows? Perhaps someday. But right now, for us it's Excellence Punta Cana all the way.

[@vaboywnder]

Thanks for the reviews! I'm curious why Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana was not on the list. I've read so many good reviews about that property.

[@heathermckinnon1865]

He didn't go there.

[@AdamvsMaximvs]

Another fantastic video James. You're the best travel reviewer I've ever watched.

[@amankang7868]

I stayed at live aqua Punta Cana I agree also! Just came back from live aqua loved it!

[@njprocks]

Been waiting for this video to drop all year 😂

[@karengranados280]

I don't even know you, but I trust your judgement. You are well traveled and it shows. I felt the same way about Breathless P.C. I think my friends and I want a better food experience, so I don't know about Riu Republica but I can definitely check a few properties off my list after hearing your views about these resorts! Thank you so much.

[@houamua]

We went to Iberostar Grand Bávaro 2 years ago had such a wonderful experience with the food, pool, and service. It's not even listed in your top 20...yikes! Looks like we're missing out according to your list

[@brianwillis2392]

I didn’t think bahia was nearly as bad as you said, even with one pool the property is very nice, the entertainment and food is great . Maybe this should be omitted off your list since you didn’t show a tour of it. Ijs enjoy your videos though

[@jmiths]

Spent my honeymoon there last year, after the hurricane hit DR and PR, and both me and my wife were pretty happy with our choice. The food was really nice in my opinion, even the buffet, and we had not only all the pools close to the beach to choose but also in our room (recommend highly)

[@niceguy8305]

I like the bahia ambar as you have other bahia to go too plus the nice nature walk thru out

[@NurseViv]

Regarding Margaritaville…“ The beach is an ABOMINATION…” I think I laughed for 2 minutes straight when you went in on their beach 😂😂😭😭 (I’m still laughing btw) GREAT TOP 20 thank you so much ! Chefs Kiss 🤌🏽💋

[@NurseViv]

Edited to add I just came back from LIVE AQUA yesterday and toasted you because yup that place is my number 1 also IDC what anyone says…In my line of work getting away to CHILL is the main box needed to check off and LA does that as well as checks off all my other boxes..(Food is not the best but my expectations are realistic w/ ANY all inclusive)

[@Mdz1208]

James when you get a chance visit Hyatt Zilara/ ziva Cap Cana. That should’ve been in top 5.

[@30redpillsaday71]

bro, please do an Ibiza trip then pit stop in Mykonos then head back to Vegas for epic 31 day stay for F1

[@margareto8551]

I love lopesan, went before you reviewed it, but I love and trust your reviews - so will try one from your list next year! Thanks for the time you put into each hotel. department UK viewer x 😊

[@bhatchett13]

Did Lopesan casino have a poker room?? Just curious

[@kristiriding8688]

Thank you for this! They all start to look the same when researching. What about Catalonia Barvaro Beach & Golf resort? Everything is so expensive

[@theElrin]

12:56 I bloody love Royalton Chic! We “last minuted” this location in January and we would go back in a heart beat.

[@jasonwight7726]

Great video James! I stayed at Margaritaville in April and agree with your review. Incredible food but the beach was a disaster. I will try Lopeson though after watching this video. Keep up the great videos!

[@susanmoss7938]

I really appreciate your videos. They are amazingly helpful and I really appreciate you.

[@MariaDeBBY1]

Loved live aqua! Went for my husbands 30th and had an amazing time. Honrstly i want to go back within a few months but my husbands wants to try out a different resort.! Thanks for sharing.

[@unclebrokendownbeamer9645]

You should revisit Breathless in 6 to 9 months... they started a complete renovation last week... plus I think maybe when you stayed the crowd that week was a dud... it's worth a 2nd try

[@wiktormalec7160]

LOVE your videos! Really excited to watch them when they come out. This list is informative. Crazy to see (in a positive way, of course) that Live Aqua is number 1. Who would have thought? 🌴

[@harmonizegaming]

Did you go to Secrets Cap Cana or Sanctuary Cap Cana? Surprised neither are on this list. Great video

[@therealnys]

I loveeeeed sanctuary

[@Lisa-fn9ur]

I booked majestic mirage based on your recommendation. Hope it’s a great vacay 🤞🏼

[@evilqtip7098]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ Best reviews I have ever seen put together.

[@dotlee]

I absolutely love your videos. Thank you so much for making them and sharing your time with us. I have only been to two resorts on your list and the is the Majestic Mirage and the Majestic Elegance and I agree 💯. My husband and I went there to celebrate bout 24th wedding anniversary that year and we thought it was absolutely beautiful but it was boring. Last December we took a chance and stayed at the Elegance and couldn’t believe the difference. The vibe was much better. I am returning this December again and I plan on staying at the Lopesan resort. Thanks again

[@quinnminnesota3852]

Hey James, it was so great to meet you in Minneapolis/MSP. Looking forward to your future content!

[@Coolist]

Was a Pleasure 🙌💫

[@Lin-Lin2559]

I wanna stay at 20 all inclusives😭😭😭😂😂😂. Love your videos. You are real and tell it like it is... you didnt mention the amazing food at Hard Rock.. at least it was in 2017. It was awesome. I hope the quality is still good. But yes, huge massive property and beach

[@loisirene]

Fabulous video. I hope people like Lopesan without a great price as it is as high as the others now. Thanks for your resorts reviews. I watch ALL of your posts.

[@ratapaga5963]

We loved Trs turquesa during the Xmas holiday!

[@drenlacasa]

Stayed at the finest a couple weeks ago. This definitely reassured me that riu is more my vibe. Thanks for the great reviews!

[@luc4887]

Go to Bavaro Princess one day, you will put it in the top 10 at least. Amazing beach, pools, natural areas, great for families.

[@lucasstames5940]

Thanks James I'm going to DR in January because of you. I have 3 places in mind. Live aqua,Hard rock or a bargain hotel.

[@hefd]

We stayed at Ambar maybe oh 8 years or so ago now. And we enjoyed it. They were building another little resort at the time and ambar was in the back so you had to take a tram to get to the main building. I also believe there is 2 Ambars now due to that. I suppose things could have changed. Love the reviews though. Thanks!

[@gsxr-fr7fc]

To each there own. Went with a group of 10, and we loved the Ambar!

[@RobertSmith-ij6vy]

Unless I missed it, I don’t think you mentioned Hyatt Zilara/Ziva -- this would DEFINITELY be in your top 5

[@karenglaicar5486]

Nice video, great info. Thanks for this review.

[@Sach152]

We need a new video on dominican republic on which resorts to stay in 2024 for adults these are now 8 months old please 🙏

[@michaelpulikunnel5661]

Thanks James these videos are invaluable. really fantastic content from a super down to earth dude.

[@lynnsmith8963]

Agree that Excellence Punta Cana is better than Excellence El Carmen. They were close but I thought EEC was just too modern. I prefer the more Caribbean feel of EPC. Have you reviewed Hyatt Zilara and Hilton La Romana?

[@ctrgsr97]

I really wish you would have stayed at the Princess Grand Bavaro. Would have loved to have seen your opinion for that resort. My wife and myself stayed there in july and had an amazing time. Everything was perfect.

[@alalaimo5085]

You can't be serious....the only good thing is the pizza restaurant....and the beach...the pool water was disgusting totally bacteria filled... absolutely no entertainment I could go on and on....the place is more like a 4 star.. .not a 5

[@luc4887]

I’m just back from it and all the pools were perfect 👌🏼 And very nice for families, a lot for kids. Plus the beach is amazing, and all the place hug and beautiful. Only rooms were not that amazing but definitely in the top 10 compare to this 20 top list

[@KristiHess-z4t]

Thank you for these videos!! It has been so helpful in planning-so thorough!!! 😊

[@jbrewster6175]

We just got back from a week at Excellence Punta Cana. We had a wonderful time, the longer we were there the more we liked it. For us the best way to describe EPC is it's not the best in any one category, but it's very good in every category. There are newer nicer resorts, better beaches, better food, better pools, etc....but I don't think as a whole there is a better place than EPC. When you factor in price, I feel EPC is unbeatable.

[@chrissanders6819]

How are the rooms?

[@jbrewster6175]

@@chrissanders6819 The rooms are updated, and are nice and clean, the bed was super comfortable. The rooms aren't modern like a new high rise type thing, but they are very fitting for a resort of this style. If there is one thing I don't care for about the rooms is the shower/toilet area, there is no door that separates the shower area from the rest of the room, and the only thing that separates the toilet from the shower area is a frosted glass sliding door. Not a deal breaker, but not my favorite design. The resort itself is super clean, the grounds immaculate, the landscape beautiful and perfectly maintained. You'll be hard pressed to find a single shred of trash anywhere, or a blade of grass out of place. On an all inclusive scale the food was good to excellent, I had a Tomahawk steak the first night that may be the best steak I've ever eaten, I had one our last night that was just okay. We didn't have any bad food here, or have any digestive issues whatsoever. If you're looking for a smooth lake type ocean, this isn't the place for you, the ocean is beautiful , but rugged. We went into the ocean every day, the water is clean , clear, and warm, but a bit rough. IMO the ocean is part of the charm here, sitting on the beach watching and listening to all the waves break gives you a primal peace other places don't have. The resort is out by itself, there are no other resorts in sight, once you arrive at the gate you feel as though you're at the only resort in the DR. You won't see Jet Ski's, parasailing, planes, boats, or cruise ships, you see nothing but a beautiful ocean at its natural best. The staff are the most helpful, nicest, hard working people I've ever met. These people are out at daylight cleaning pools, cleaning the beach, and setting up chairs and umbrellas, they don't stop all day long. I honestly believe this place is unbeatable at its price point, and is nicer than many other resorts that are 2x-3x the price.

[@luckislonggone9941]

Our first Punta Cana trip on September 19th, staying at your # 2 Excellence, hope your right!

[@ActionJacklyn]

Just watched 5 of your videos. You have a new fan.❤🎉

[@listen2itagain]

Excellent! Just make so simple for people to see the difference

[@matthewmcdaniel875]

I like your videos, even though what we value at a resort is not the same. (You obviously love a lively crowd, I value luxury and tranquility). Riu Republica, for example, sounds like hell to me. But your video footage and amenity descriptions are solid. I wish you'd visit and report on the spas. Anyway, You need to go to Hyatt Zilara Punta Cana, Iberostar Grand and Sanctuary Cap Cana. All 3 blow away anything on this list other than Live Aqua and Excellence.

[@AkashPatel-lo7vg]

Why haven't you guys been to India yet? There's so much to see and do! Imagine trekking through the stunning Himalayas, relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Goa and Gujarat, or exploring the vibrant desert of Rajasthan. You can marvel at the world's biggest statue in Gujarat and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kerala. And, of course, you can't miss the iconic Taj Mahal. On top of all this, each region offers a variety of delicious food, unique cultures, and rich traditions. Don't forget to visit the huge Temple of Rama, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti in Haridwar, and go rafting in Rishikesh. India is full of incredible experiences just waiting for you! #IncredibleIndia #TravelIndia #ExploreIndia #Himalayas #GoaBeaches #RajasthanDesert #TajMahal #IndianCuisine #CulturalHeritage #GangaAarti #RishikeshRafting #KeralaBackwaters #WorldsLargestStatue

[@sineadiloveyou]

Great! Im gping to Live Aqua today ❤

[@Myaarc]

@James. Vids are exactly what I was looking for. Do you have a separate vid ranking room ocean views? Looking to do Punta Cana but kids (8,7) in tow so no Riu parties. Thanks!!

[@michaellopez2584]

In past May I went to Margarita Ville and the Beach was spectacular

[@gabrielwilamowskiprzewodni1532]

I left Riu Republica after 1 day..loud, cheap drinks, basic room. It was motel expirience eith loud music. Live Aqua Punta Cana is my favorite too

[@luisf4077]

Love your reviews brother. Would you be able to review of Paradisus, Melia Punta Cana including their Level service, Dreams Flora, and Bavaria Princess please. I’m really seeking help in possibly staying at one of these locations later this year.

[@TheVeronicacsd]

I have been looking for a resort to stay with both party scene and luxury… I wish Riu was more luxurious. Although I considered Live Aqua, I am going to go for Lopesan.

[@marcusdondorff9452]

went to Riu after seeing your original video and it did not disappoint

[@lithuaniansoxfan]

You made the call for us, we're going to Live Aqua Punta Cana, at least partially on your recommendation. Looking forward to it!

[@ashfsas]

How was your experience?

[@LutherBuilds]

Thanks James for this video. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the resorts within the top 7 or 8. I really hope you enjoy Secrets Cap Cana. But I know in the end, each resort gives a different experience and vibe. And what a person's expectations are when they enter the resort is going to highly impact their take on it. I enjoyed the food at Secrets Cap Cana, but it's probably above average. Definitely try the fish tacos at Seaside grill for lunch. My pallette probably isn't refined enough to enjoy the French restaurant but you'll probably enjoy it. El Patio was definitely our favorite restaurant there. If you stay Preferred, then Rosewater will be your best bet for breakfast. Try a burger at the Barefoot Grill for lunch. which is easy to pass by. It's not a huge resort so it's much more intimate. It has that tropical feeling to it. There are plenty of places for shade with all fhe cabanas and umbrellas on the beach and around the pools. Secrets Cap Cana felt very private and secluded. It was such a relaxing resort and the staff goes above and beyond to make sure you are relaxing and enjoying yourself. If you really take the time to get to know the staff, they will make your time there the best. Every room gets a concierge or butler if you're on the preferred side. We didn't feel like we needed to do preferred when we were there. Our Concierge, Peniel took care of us and checked on us every day. He booked our two dinner reservations at the Tepanyaki restaurant and the Havana night themed dinner on the beach. The food and experience at Havana night dinner was amazing!

[@williamhiland4378]

I think some pricing information would be very helpful. Similar to what you do in Vegas. Thanks!

[@HugoSantos-hz8yq]

When u start checkin the prices of resorts u realize this is 99% paid promotions lmao. Most resorts he reviews are just overpriced or mostly directed for drinks since it’s what this KZbinr likes the most. This is just my opinion

[@kierraplustwo]

Yesss I went to Riu republica in June solo and I definitely loved it! It was definitely an experience

[@Christianogandog]

Great video, I’m actually visiting Punta Cana on March.

[@mikewagner8748]

Hey James, appreciate ya, lots of good stuff, Majestic Elegance has doubled in price

[@michaeldean5409]

@coolist Excellent content and review. I subscribed! One request: include reviews of fitness facilities on site. This is so important to me (and likely to the many travelers who are fitness pros or are committed to fitness. I have to search for content other than yours to assess the gyms.

[@carlosss5707]

Thanks for your comment. I am just waiting for the Riu Palace Macao reopening in September. Hope you make a review on it.

[@charlesgreen6815]

Looking forward to your review of riu reggae My wife and I just ran into you. Keep up the great work. Your buying the dri is Tomorrow. Lol

[@dawnacarabajal9817]

Thank you James! I've been planning a trip to Punta Cana and Live Aqua was at the top of my list. You have solidified my choice! Can't wait!

[@markrussell3428]

Really interested in Live Aqua. It is a pretty boring look configuration but I am interested in the whole package

[@MACMAMI]

If it wasn't for the show-stopping service that you described in your experience video that truly blew me away, Live Aqua probably wouldn't have even seemed like a Top Five resort because it just feels and looks................underdeveloped? Yet I'm one who prizes customer service experience and value immensely and...............where they may lack in the aesthetics, they absolutely more than make up for in going over the moon to make you feel right at home and ensure timeless memory-making, and it is for THAT reason why I wholeheartedly agree they look like a top resort alongside RIU Republica. 😍 Glad you discovered new gems there this trip, yaaaaaaaaaayyy! And can't wait for your next Vegas content. I'll actually be there in two weeks so for all I know we may be simultaneously there, hahahahaha! Who knows: maybe I'll bump into you by happenstance, yaaaaaaaayyy! 🙂

[@Rachel-yj1qx]

Best reviews! Thanks James!

[@ChronicCraftsman]

Rui Republica is a absolutely amazing resort, especially if you like to party, i was there for two weeks in August and it was lit 🔥🔥 the beach on the night is also good if you like to party hard 😜

[@markrussell3428]

Epic resort ONLY if you like a non-stop party. It's best thought of as spring break 52 weeks a year.

[@ChronicCraftsman]

@@markrussell3428 exactly bro, who doesn't want to non stop party when they are away in a beautiful hot country? Because I know I do, its that good there that I've just booked another 2 week holiday in the same hotel!!

[@markrussell3428]

@@ChronicCraftsman I totally get it - and the Rui Party is a blast. Thank goodness they space them out. Cant imagine doing it every day. You just give up in a few areas (food quality, towels??) BUT the jerk chicken on the beach is also the best.

[@ChronicCraftsman]

@@markrussell3428 yeah the jerk chicken is amazing, and to be honest the drinks quite decent too, i know what you mean about the food but to be fair there is enough different restaurants to keep it interesting, the thing I was disappointed the most with was the rooms, and the size of the queue to get on the bus to go to the jungle party etc in the other tui hotel! Other than that it was a blast, it took me about a week to recover from all the partying 😂 next time im going to be ready 😜

[@markrussell3428]

@@ChronicCraftsman lol..yes. you nailed it. One could consider staying at the main Rui complex/campus so you can stagger back to your room but Republica has a unique adult campus unto itself - a party focus. This just doesn't exist in their other properties. I have not heard great things about Riu Palace - Macau (adults only resort), too bad given it is so close

[@staceykelleyrealestate]

Great video! Was hoping Hyatt Zilara would be on your list. Any reason it wasn't?

[@pheengaming9240]

If you care a lot about the beach, Barcelo Bavaro Palace has the best beach by far. Calm crystal clear water unlike all the other hotels that have a lot of waves.