whala!bocachica

This isn't your average all-inclusive resort. Rather, it’s a quaint leafy enclave that unfurls between the road (where the lobby entrance resides), and Boca Chica Beach -- a narrow stretch of calm aqua water shared with tourists, locals, hordes of roaming vendors, and a bevy of bars and eateries. The open-air lobby greats guests with colorful Caribbean flair that has a tropical warmth to it, blending bolds and pastels along with lush pot plants, and a choice of wicker lounges and rocking chairs. Rooms are set in a series of low-rise buildings in bright hues like coral or cerulean with teal and yellow trim, unfolding amongst lush tropical gardens, lofty coconut palms, and meandering stone pathways that make their way through the property. It’s a charming and rustic scene inspired by Boca Chica’s former life as a fishing village. This is all an upgrade from when the resort was previously known as the seedy Don Juan Beach Resort. The adult-only and all ages sections are direct neighbors, and each area surrounds its own pool with its own restaurant and outdoor bar. Both sections open right onto the beachfront, where deck chairs on offer, along with a full-time security guard keeping an eye on things. Travelers should keep in mind, this is a straightforward resort with no luxuries to speak of -- the buffet restaurant is populated with green plastic chairs; liquor is bottom shelf and served in annoyingly small cups; and beach vendors can get annoying -- fast. During our stay, whala!bocachica was a tranquil little oasis, however some guests have complained the place can fill up with a boisterous weekend crowd making it hard to relax and enjoy. 

The property sits right on a stretch of public beachfront in seaside Boca Chica. This area was once a sleepy fishing village, but has evolved to a popular beach resort destination thanks to its convenient location near the airport and city. It also happens to be a fairly seedy town full of hustling locals and legal sex workers. The public beach on which the hotel sits can make for some interesting people watching -- and vendors can get annoying. Numerous beachfront restaurants and bars unfold either side of the resort. It's 15 minutes from Las Americas International Airport, and about a half-hour from the capital, Santo Domingo -- where the Colonial Zone resides. Free parking for self-drivers is available on-site, and taxis can be arranged by reception staff. 

Rooms are available in categories ascending in perks from Standard; to Villa Superior; to Captain Garden or Pool View; to Captain Sea View. Like the in-room features, attention to decor detail evolves with each category. All rooms are well presented with a homey feel blending vibrant wall colors with patterned fabrics, and natural artwork with wood furniture in various tones. All rooms have safes, telephones, cable TVs, and air-conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and can extend to some rooms, though it can be hard to connect at times. Standards Rooms are the most simple, with two queen beds. Villa Superiors come with singular king beds or two queen beds, and add private terraces with garden or pool views. Captain categories are equipped with two queen beds, balconies with a choice of pretty views, refrigerated minibars (refilled daily with water, beer, and soda), and open-plan lounge areas. Plus they have additional features like bathrobes, hairdryers, and ceiling fans. White-tiled bathrooms come with either frameless glass walk-in showers or shower/ tub combos, with big vanities and mirrors. Toiletries are not provided. Rooms are accessed via stairs which can become laborious, especially with luggage, so those with mobility issues (or an aversion to stairs) should request a ground floor room. 

There are lots of features, but they're not all free with the all-inclusive plan and quality varies. Located in the all-ages area of the resort, Coral Buffet Restaurant serves buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a good variety of options, though reviews are mixed. Lunchtime snacks are available at the Ya Lola Snack Bar, pizza is on offer throughout the afternoon, and midnight snacks can be enjoyed at La Caleta Restaurant and Bar in the adult-only section. Los Almendros serves drinks beside the adult-only pool, while Ya Lola Bar does the same at the all-ages pool. Gri Gri (Italian) serves as the gourmet a la carte option, though reservations are required. Children Club de Tortuguitas offers a colorful playground and clubhouse with supervised activities for the kids, and babysitting can be arranged with a day’s notice for an added fee. The business center and some business services are available in the lobby. Wedding services and packages are available. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby and can extend to some rooms, though it can be hard to connect at times according to some guests. Free parking is available.