Be Live Experience Hamaca Garden

The extra charges were frustrating: after paying a lot for the stay, we still had to pay each day for towels and keys to the safe. We also had a hotel issue that nobody seemed able to resolve. I traveled with friends for a vacation, and it turned into a nightmare. We explained the problem to the manager the next day, both in person and in writing, but the note we left wasn’t signed. The front desk staff were rude and unprofessional, and didn’t seem to know how to treat guests. They need much more customer service and hospitality training. This was our first and last stay here. I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone traveling to DR. I felt they took advantage of tourists in several ways, and I was very dissatisfied with the service.

The staff made my stay memorable. They were friendly and professional, and mostly spoke English, which made things easier. I also liked having a private beach away from the crowds, plus a pool and a beach bar/restaurant that made spot-on cocktails. The rooms and facilities could use some work, but for the affordable price this felt like great value. It’s a good option if you want a couple of nights by the beach without spending too much. Don’t be put off by the negative reviews, some people seem to expect more than the price suggests. Give it a try and you won’t be disappointed.

The lobby experience was another example of how poorly the staff handled guests. At reception, the employees kept talking among themselves and left you standing there without even acknowledging you. When they finally helped, they were rough and badly mannered. The restaurant was just as bad: we asked if it was open, and the host replied that if we couldn’t see it was open, were we blind? Then he turned away and left us at the entrance. There were other smaller incidents too. The hotel should train its staff better. Good service wouldn’t cost the hotel extra, but it would make a difference. The rooms were dirty all over, not just recently or in one spot, and the food was mediocre. I don’t expect miracles at this price, but those basics were disappointing. If someone from the hotel wants to hear more about my experience, write to me at almartin24@hotmail.com.

The rooms were damp and smelled strongly of bleach and mold. Mold was on the walls, couch, and elsewhere, and it made me sick and really sad. I changed rooms about three times, but there were still broken showers and a broken couch, and some lights didn’t work. The walk to the room was about 15 minutes. The hotel was hot, with air conditioning only in the rooms. It was a terrible experience, and I’d never want to visit again. I switched to Embassy Suites Santo Domingo and had an amazing experience there, 10/10.