Casa de Campo - Dominican Republic

Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic hotel review Visited: April 2008

Posted by basilpallisdds

After the disgruntled views, I feel compelled to state how absolutely wonderful our stay was in Casa de Campo.

First, let me say that if you're looking for the typical Caribbean resort (long white sand beaches, huge pools, waterslides, and dance contests), this is not for you.

Casa is what I call a resort for adults. It's more than a resort, it's something like a small principality with an enormous staff of kind people willing to serve your every need.

We dined on lobster, filet mignon and sushi, and sipped endless Margaritas. We rode horses, kayaked, tried skeet shooting, saw a polo match, hit golf balls and yes, lounged on the beach.

As for honesty, one day I left my room safe open with cash for the taking! I returned to the room and the maid had notified security who safely locked it up for me. Not a dime was missing.

As for the bill, we had the all-inclusive plan, and left extra cash tips (10% was already included) as we went when we felt it was appropriate.

Check out took one minute, and we were not charged anything more. In fact, they even forgave (didn't charge us!) a couple of mini-bar items. They were gracious people.

I don't understand the confusion on the part of the other travelers in this regard. It might help to actually read the information they provide or ask a question!

We had been here twice before as guests when we did some volunteer work in the country. But this was the first time we stayed as vacationers. I now have trouble thinking about going anywhere else.

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Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic hotel review Visited: December 2007

Posted by drtraveler

I spent one week at Casa De Campo. I don't even know where to begin to describe this surreal experience. The bottom line is that nothing works the way it should at this overpriced US$ vacuum cleaner.

I would give one star for the staff who really try hard to make things work. Particular kudos to Racio Alba at the concierge desk.

The restaurants are mediocre and overpriced, and the beach is tiny. The place is huge, so you get a golf cart (it's gasoline, not electric so the whole place stinks of exhaust fumes). You can use it until your cart vanishes, and you have to get a replacement (it happened to me twice in seven days).

And, think you have a cab reserved? Think again. Double and triple check, because each time it's like starting over. We'll have to dispute a $250 fee for transportation services we never received with our credit card company.

Basically, this was an inept, overpriced, smelly exercise in frustration. If you're unfortunate enough to end up here, bring plenty of US dollars. The resort bank will give you pesos for dollars, but not the other way around.

Also, you can't get a reservation for dinner (a common problem even though the restaurants were 70% empty)? No problem, just show up and act like you have one, because they can't tell if you do or not.

With so many great resorts in the Caribbean, I see no reason to come here (unless you wait until the last minute like we did and can't get in anywhere else).

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Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic hotel review Visited: December 2007

Posted by jjjjj

I've traveled the globe and stayed at mediocre hotels before, but this place took the cake.

Casa de Crappo was basically a glorified motel. The rooms were disgusting - it truly felt like I was roughing it.

As for the service: The staff didn't replace towels, soap and shampoo. Also, the gym smelled and had limited A/C. In addition, there were no towels when I was there, and the spa shower had no soap - and none could be provided when asked. Maybe 20% spoke or seemed to understand English.

Do yourself a favor and avoid this "resort". Friends did stay in villa. It was better, but not much. They still had a bad beach and bad services.

The food was below par at all the restaurants on premises. It was overpriced, also. I would never return to this property.

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Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic hotel review Visited: June 2006

Posted by pinkfly79

I just got back from Casa de Campo three days ago, and I must say, it was a beautiful place. The people were nice. Unlike reviews I've read, I did not get anything stolen from my room. Also, I thought the food was fantastic! Altos de Chavon was amazing. You have to see it in person in order to appreciate its beauty.

What went wrong? Although I had the all-inclusive (which was optional), the tipping was "supposed" to be included...that is, if you like to tip only 10%.

Also, when using the all-inclusive restaurants, we got a bill at the end of the meal (we averaged about $140/meal for two people) that it was charged to our room. They were supposed to credit the amount at the end of our stay because it was part of our all-inclusive deal.

When we checked out of the resort, we spent so much time reviewing the bill and making sure that we were not overcharged (which they did by $30).

The great thing about Casa de Campo was that room service was part of the all-inclusive deal, but beware that they charge $5 per person for each meal delivered. I only had my meal delivered once, and they got my order wrong. But please don't get me wrong, it was still very good.

If you are young and looking for a place to party, this is not the place for you. Casa de Campo means "Country Home", and it is supposed to be a relaxing place where rich people rent or own villas. During our stay, the "disco" was being repaired and I was stuck on the sports bar every late night with three other old folks...not so fun.

The beach was not that great. Yes, it was man made, but the water was very nice and warm. I stayed during the off season, so the resort was completely dead. Worst of all, it rained four of the five days of my stay. If you are looking for a better beaches, you should go to Punta Cana (way cheaper) and not here.

Would I again? Yes! I loved the place. The food was great, the people were friendly, and the golf carts were great to get around the resort (they were included in the all-inclusive deal).

I am planning on going back next year with all of my 30-year-old friends and create our own scene. You must go horseback riding, and if you are a golfter, spend the $200 and go play!

Also take advantage of the free sport shooting. It was fun! Last but not least, if you have a large enough family or group of friends, go for the villas. I had a chance to view two, and my mouth dropped! They were beautiful!

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