Catalonia Gran Dominicus

Dominicus Beach attracts a predominantly Italian market so guests can expect to practice speaking Spanish and Italian while here. With only 415 rooms (not as many as at some of the Punta Cana megaresorts) the property doesn't get too crowded, except for the front desk area, which typically has a line of people waiting for service.The attractive pool area has easy access to the main bar (though it's not swim-up) and has different areas for scuba training and children's wading. There are lounge chairs available most of the time, because the beach, next door, is more popular; guests there can be found sleeping, reading, partaking in aquatic activities, snorkeling off-shore, or enjoying a hand-made crepe from the snack stand. Shade can be found under palapas or one of the many palms dotting the sand. A private area for Privilege guests has nicer lounge chairs and closer proximity to the beach bar.At night, many guests enjoy pre-dinner drinks at the main bar before meandering to a la carte options in a few different areas of the resort. The most special option for romance is The Terrace, which overlooks the sea and has spectacular sunset views. The buffet is always a popular choice, and guests can help themselves to the beer tap, or have wine poured freely. After dinner, the theater and disco provide opportunities to mix and mingle.

The resort is the last stop on Dominicus Beach and the fishing village of Bayahibe, an Italian-influenced area of Dominican Republic, about 20 minutes away from La Romana airport. Expect to run into guests from Italy, Spain, and Canada (Russia and South America are burgeoning markets, as well). If La Romana proves to be a more expensive flight, guests can arrive at the next closest international airport in Punta Cana, about 80 minutes away. If the reservation is not a part of a group booking, this can become an expensive cab ride.

Signs designating the "Privilege" areas can seen all over the resort, from the private patch of beach to the private dining area of the buffet. And there's an air-conditioned office that offers Privileged guests a private concierge service and business center.Guests can expect to receive an upgrade pitch for the Privilege package either before they arrive or when checking in. Non-Privilege rooms fall under the Garden View category and come with one king or two double beds. They are basic rooms, but spacious, with outdated furnishings and bathrooms showing some wear and tear. They're suitable for couples and families who want to use the room mostly for sleeping and bathing.Privilege suites are more modern, with canopy beds (one king or two double beds), iPod docks, bathrobes, slippers, minibars stocked with beer and soda, flat-screen TVs and walk-in showers. Privilege Honeymoon Suites have all of the above, as well as outdoor jacuzzi tubs. Upon arrival, a fruit plate and bottle of sparkling wine will be waiting (make sure to bring a marriage license within three months of the wedding date for the free upgrade).

The resort's two best attributes, arguably, are the beach and the food and beverage program. The aforementioned is the only "Blue Flag Beach" in the area -- this is a French-based award given out to the best beaches in the world based on a number of factors. It delivers -- there are plenty of palapas, lounge chairs, and great snorkeling spots close to shore. Free non-motorized water sports are available to all guests, and the animation team keeps activities going on at both the beach and pool. At the pool, guests can take advantage of a free scuba diving lesson.Restaurants can be found in a few areas of the property, and guests can make reservations for Asian, Italian, Mexican, and American (at the Rodeo Steakhouse). The main buffet, El Taino, is always available for a well-run and international breakfast, lunch, and dinner spread. There's even a real Italian cooking pasta on demand. Children here have their own separate buffet and seating area.The most romantic option is The Terrace restaurant for dinner al fresco facing the sunset; guests can splurge on lobster and filet.Land activities include tennis, archery, soccer, and a fitness center. Excursions to Isle Saona and Santo Domingo can be arranged for an additional fee.