Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For resorts in the area, walk-in-guests are about as common as snowstorms; if you can
convince the suspicious security guards that your intentions are innocent and make it to
the front desk, you'll be quoted rates that absolutely nobody staying at the resort is pay-
ing. Book all-inclusive vacations online or through a travel agent, as they can offer dis-
counts of up to 50% off rack rates. Bear in mind that most resorts cater to a particular
niche, whether it's families, honeymooners, golfers or the Spring Break crowd.
There is finally a blossoming hostel scene in Bávaro, a refreshing alternative for inde-
pendent travelers.
Bávaro
Bávaro Hostel
MAP
HOSTEL
$
GOOGLE MAP
( 809-931-6767;
www.bavarohostel.com
; Av Alemania, Edificio Carimar 4A, Bávaro; dm US$22, r
US$40-45; )
This new hostel, mere meters from the beach, occupies several rooms in a
four-story building in the heart of Los Corales and is run by an immensely friendly half-
Dominican, half-English brother-sister team. Given the dearth of independent lodgings in
Punta Cana, it has quickly positioned itself as the much-needed traveler hub in the area.
Choose between four- and six-bed mixed dorms and eight private rooms divided within
various apartments that each share a common kitchen. Everything can be arranged here,
including a gaggle of new friends to hit the bars with.
Hostel Punta Cana
MAP
HOSTEL
$
GOOGLE MAP
( 809-505-8090;
www.hostalpuntacana.com
; Calle Italia, Residencial Nautilus, Bávaro; dm US$20-25, r
US$50; )
A pretty remarkable deal for a hostel, this newcomer occupies three
buildings inside a residential condominium complex, complete with a pool, gym, restaur-
ant and spa. Air-conditioned dorms come in four- and six-bed versions, but its the private
rooms - basically luxury apartments with marble floors, large kitchens and terraces, that
are the true steal.
The only bummer about staying here is you are a bit isolated from the action, but it's a
10-minute walk to White Sands beach or hop on a free bike. If you arrange with the
hostel, they'll fetch you from the bus station (US$5) or airport (US$25).
