My wife and I recently returned from Zoetry Punta Cana, and we had a wonderful and relaxing vacation. The grounds are beautifully manicured, lush, and picturesque. All staff are wonderfully polite and they work very hard to ensure guests are pleased and enjoying their stay. Two prominent personnel we encountered everyday were Carmen and Frances. They are the entertainment coordinators responsible for ensuring guests have opportunities to participate in some cultural-related fun and amusement. We spent time with Carmen taking Spanish lessons; learning about local Dominican culture; participating in yoga, stretching, and water aerobics; learning basic Dominican dance moves in the evening; and playing late afternoon games such as “Pass the Pigs” and “LCR.” Carmen is a delightful and helpful person. She is an intuitive leader demonstrating professional candor. I highly recommend guests make time to meet her and get to know her. Also, do not hesitate to ask the staff for assistance to make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
The last few days of our stay I was able to enjoy the spa e.g., the steam room, sauna, and whirlpools were wonderful. However, these resources were not functional the first few days of our stay but the property manager, Monsieur Alain Berthelot, worked closely with engineers to restore the spa to its full operation. It is important to remember that logistic support such as “Home Depot” or “Loews” does not readily exist. Nevertheless, during that time I found other ways to relax and enjoy the resort while repairs were in progress. Of note, the gym is excellent for a resort and it far surpasses what I’ve seen, and used, in other national and international hotel chains. The equipment is a quality commercial brand (Cybex) and it is well maintained. A diverse workout is achievable, i.e., cardio, weights, and isometric.
One of the hallmarks of the resort is food. The quality, variety, presentation, and taste far surpassed my expectations for any all-inclusive resort. I really enjoyed the three restaurants’ menu options. There are no buffets and I found that very intriguing. Food is not wasted, portions are generously-controlled, and all meals and meal courses are supervised by master chefs that take exceptional pride in their tradecraft. If I had to choose one word to describe the dining experience it would be “delightful.” During our stay, the chefs and staff provided special dining opportunities. The first was a beach barbeque (chicken and burgers) and cooking demonstration - making seafood paella over an open fire. I avoided the barbeque and chose the paella. While the paella was cooking I was introduced to “Mama Juana,” which I call Dominican Republic’s version of German Glühwein. The following evening, the executive chef Señor Rafael Puello, prepared a five course “Author’s Cuisine Dinner.” Like an author conceptualizing and writing simile and metaphor, the chef “authored” succulent and pleasurable food. Each course served to more than 35 patrons was a work of flawless art and taste. A few days later, Señors Rafael Puello, Alejandro Torito, and Juan Regado prepared an amazing five course “Wine Pairing” dinner. During each food-course the resort manager Monsieur Alain Berthelot shared his global knowledge of wines and the wines being paired with the food. Most impressive was Monsieur Berthelot’s ability to address the group in French, Spanish, and English. It was a wonderful evening. Our final group dinner was a “Caribbean Dinner” on the beach; however, rain moved us inside. This meal was a huge, freshly prepared feast – lobster, shrimp, fish, a roasted pig, stewed goat, chicken, vegetables and salads, pastries, and fruits. It was “Wow”! I like to eat, I like to cook as well, and I have cooked for and served upwards of 25 guests in our home; therefore, I can appreciate the level of effort and the perfection espoused by the chefs.
Another nice little treat was the nightly music provided by the “Anibal Mercedes Band.” These musicians are talented and a joy to listen too during dinner and in the lobby for after dinner drinks. I wish the “CD” I bought after horseback riding was a sample of their music and not the other music provided. If they sold CD’s I would have bought one.
Another hardworking team that augments the culinary excellence at the resort is the alcohol, food, and beverage staff led by Señor Ambioris Zorrilla. While sunning on the beach, splashing in the pool, enjoying the spa, reading my book, or chatting with fellow guests, there was always a wonderful selection of healthy snacks and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The spa has fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, and flavored waters. The coffee shop has fresh fruit and mini pastries prepared by Chef Juan Regado. The bars have a fine selection of wines, beers, and liquors. While at the beach bar, take a few moments to strike up a conversation with Francesco at the Indigo bar. He runs a clean and efficient bar, and he is a very creative mixologist. I left him with a tequila menu I gleaned from a U.S. restaurant and he is experimenting to perfect the chemistry. Nevertheless, if you don’t know what to drink just say to him “Francesco, surprise me”! And he will.
Another hidden gem not widely publicized is a well-educated holistic team – Kale and Antonia. Keep an open mind and get to know these to fine individuals. Yoga, feng shui, a discussion about Mayan predictions, native drum playing, and dance were some of the interesting activities that contributed to our daily relaxation-routine.
Since the resort is small, which I found very appealing, it was easy to meet other guests and engage in meaningful conversations. The age span varies from 20-somthings to retired and it is also an international mix. Some folks keep to themselves but most people are affable.
Much more can be said about this resort but I’ll close by saying if and when you visit be prepared for some discomfort from bugs. This is certainly not the resort’s fault. My wife and I suffered from “chiggers,” the nasty little critters living in grass and sand. Be sure to pack “nail polish remover and cotton balls.” If bitten you’ll itch like mad and it will leave a track of red dots. A couple of wipes with nail polish remover will kill the bugs and stop the itch. Mosquitoes are a nuisance, but the resort provided bug spray and they treat the perimeter every evening. So pack some Deet, ointments, and eat some garlic too!
One more comment about security. It is a very safe resort that is monitored by observant security personnel. Likewise, key staff carries radios. Of note, when we checked into the resort we were told to lock possessions in the safe otherwise the maid will not enter. This is a good policy which protects both guest and staff. In addition, staff and management have good ethical standards and conduct when it comes to guest relations and interactions – this is something one does not see at some of the more flamboyant resorts.
We look forward to a future visit.
Room Tip: Book a ground floor unit with a garden view halfway between the front area and the beach.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
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