non AI's?

[debbie421]

I have to apologize ahead of time, I seem to be in that stage where I just can't decide where to get married. I think I have it down, then I get distracted by a nice, shiny, new location. That being said, it's time to make the standard Debbie post on yet another location thread.

 

My finance and I aren't really AI people. Are there any non-AI, boutique resorts in the Dominican Republic people have checked out? I did see the post for the Bavaro Jellyfish restaurant, so I'll definitely check that out. But any others?

 

Also, why did all you DR brides pick the Dominican Republic over other destinations? Not sure if it makes a difference, but right now I'm looking at Ana Y Jose in Tulum Mexico. Just can't seem to settle on it.

[sandinmytoes]

I picked DR because I have never been there and I have been to pretty much all of the rest of the Carribbean Islands. I was looking for something a little less "Touristy". TA all say the DR is the new Hot Spot and I also have found the pricing is very reasonable!

[foxytv]

There are some boutique resorts in the DR that are not AI. There are at least 2 in Punta Cana, although the namesescape me right now, and many in Cabarete, Puerta Plata, etc.

 

If you Google search - they will all show up.

[laycj18]

We chose DR b/c we visited there as a part of the cruise that FI proposed to me on AND we fell in love with the country! It is so beautiful and really has something to offer everyone. Obviously there are plenty of AIs but there are non-AI resorts as well...like Tami said I'm not connecting with any of their names at the moment but they are out there!

 

Good luck with your search. I'm one of those people who keeps changing their minds too...but I do know some thing for sure I'm a DB bride-to-be all the way!

[jennierin]

Have you looked into the Cap Cana area?? Donald Trump is building a resort there. There are a few boutique hotels there (I forget their names). There are a couple of golf courses there as well. Loved the area but it's way beyond our price range! Good luck!

[jennierin]

Ah ha! The one that I was referring to is called Sanctuary Cap Cana Golf and Spa. Sanctuary Cap Cana Golf & Spa (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) - Resort Reviews - TripAdvisor

 

There is also Tortuga Bay but there are only 15 rooms there. However, the pictures of it are amazing... check it out!

Tortuga Bay (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) - Hotel Reviews - TripAdvisor

[sunsetbride1]

We chose DR because neither of us have ever been there and it just looked beautiful. To top that off, the prices are great down there as it is the 'up and coming' hotspot.. so it has not yet been subject to the higher pricing of the more 'of the moment' island retreats.

 

As far as a Non-AI .. I would just do a google search or contact a TA. The ones on here are amazing and everyone that has used them has raved about them. They can probably help you narrow down your search and come up with some options.

 

Personally, we chose an AI for price and convenience. It's nice not to have to carry around $$ and ends up costing less when all is said and done; which is great for our guests who are spending so much $$ to celebrate with us.

[Mishi]

I'm not sure how many people you are taking but if it is a small group (18 or less) or if you don't mind having your main group at the main destination and others staying nearby, Sunrise Villa in Cabrera is wonderful.

We only had 12 people total and we couldn't have chosen a better place. It is a private villa that has a main house for the couple and then five other separate villas (7 bedroom suites/two pullouts) that surround amazing grounds and the best pool/hot tub you have ever seen.

This place was amazing. You can view my pics at mishiwinks - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting

I would be glad to answer anyones questions or help in any way!

Good luck!

[jennierin]

Beautiful! What a gorgeous spot for an intimate wedding. Thanks for sharing your pics!

[hmcgraw]

My fiance and I are not into the AI's either. There are three places we would recommend. None of them are in Punta Cana. I'm not a big fan of the area because it is mostly AI's and is flat topography. The north and Samana Peninsula are gorgeous...tall mountains and beautiful beaches. We found an amazing 50-room hotel called Casa Colonial in Puerto Plata, but it is very pricey. The place is stunning though. Another place we like is actually an all-inclusive - Bahia Principe Cayo Levantado. It is on its own island off the Samana Peninsula and is amazing. The resort is not your typical AI because it is more intimate. You should check it out. Another place is called Natura Cabana on the north shore. It is relaxed, hippie-esque, but nice. I'm actually flying down to the DR next weekend to check these places out in person, so I could let you know how it goes!