Punta Palmera Cap Cana by Essenza Retreats

From the outside, the first impression is one of sophistication and relaxed splendor. The modern entryway opens to a bright, ring-shaped foyer awash in locally sourced wood, marble and limestone, and upscale wicker resin seating. While the lobby, the rooms, and the pool area maintain this feel, there are obvious maintenance issues throughout. Some unfinished condos are boarded up and abandoned; there are few cushions or decorations anywhere in the restaurant; and electrical wiring is exposed or broken in some common areas. For a hotel that bills itself as upscale, these points are impossible to overlook. The lack of entertainment or dining options also means guests will need to venture off-site for anything apart from beach visits, dining, and sleeping. Families and couples seeking a straightforward, self-catered stay might find what they're looking for. But, anyone expecting a full-featured resort experience will want to look elsewhere.

The surrounding resort compound is pristine (bordering on sterile), perfectly landscaped, and kept secure behind a series of staffed gates. There is little within walking distance, so the hotel offers free shuttle service to Cap Cana’s modest downtown area. To reach many of Punta Cana's most popular attractions, guests will need to arrange for a cab. Numerous world-class golf clubs and several modern shopping centers are within a 10-mile radius. Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) is less than 15 minutes away by car. Taxi service is the best way to travel between the hotel and airport with rates that are zone-based and reasonable. Paid shuttle service can also be booked directly with the hotel, although it is more expensive.

Room decor is bright, sophisticated, and offers excellent fit and finish. However, some elements -- white pleather seating, flat-box furniture, and minor maintenance issues -- feel cheap and out of character. Entry-level Studios offer spacious, one-room layouts with 750 square feet (70 square meters) of floor space. Apartments upgrade to substantially larger layouts of between 1,840 and 4,000 square feet (171-372 square meters) with enough space for a full kitchen, plus living and dining areas. Standard amenities include flat-screen cable TVs, kitchenettes, and furnished balconies with optional ocean views. Wi-Fi is free, and every room features a dedicated connection ensuring it's fast and reliable. Only two small bottles of water are provided per room daily which feels stingy in a country without potable tap water.Bathrooms are reasonably sized with upscale materials including limestone tile flooring and glass shower and toilet stalls. All feature dual sinks, rain showerheads, and large soaking tubs with a pass-thru window that opens to the sleeping area. Generic shower amenities are provided, and some guests complain about the lack of hot water.

At the heart of the hotel is a pristine, freeform, zero-entry pool. It's location a few feet from the beach brings lovely sea views. A small nearby bar offers a full cocktail menu, plus poolside drink and snack service. A dozen lounge chairs and umbrellas ring the space.The hotel’s private beach is small but well-maintained. Numerous lounge chairs and large palapas provide plenty of shaded seating. The surrounding area of Cap Cana is known for having some of the area’s calmest waters, perfect for swimming or snorkeling.The restaurant is only open for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is included in room rates and features American and Dominican items. The “snack shack”-style lunch menu includes less than a dozen basic options like club sandwiches, burgers, and French fries. Room service is available for a fee. There is no spa, and the gym is cramped and dated. Wi-Fi is fast and free throughout the property including by the pool. Free self-parking is provided in a covered garage with 24-hour surveillance. Pets are allowed to stay for free.