Aruba vs. DR

[carolynfahey]

I have not narrowed down a date however I know it will be between May and August 2014. The hard part is choosing between Aruba and Punta Cana, DR. I have gotten an initial quote from the Auba Marriott. My fiancé and I LOVE Aruba. We will travel on vacation to Punta Cana this summer. While we are there we plan on visiting the Hard Rock Hotel and the Reserve at the Paradisus. The main difference between the two choices is Aruba would be pay as you go while Punta Cana would be all inclusive. What are your thoughts?

[lgerry]

I have not been to Aruba myself, but I have been to DR a couple of times. The beaches are beautiful and the people are wonderful, however... both times I stayed there (at different resorts) I found the food pretty bland and actually pretty terrible. I think that maybe they just don't cook with a lot of herb and spices, but who knows... it was pretty bad. Also, there are a few types of excursions you can go on but really there isn't a lot to see and do for your guests in DR, IMO. So I guess it depends on whether you want your guests to hang out at the resort most of the time with you or if you want to go somewhere where they will have a lot of options for site-seeing, etc. But again, this is just my (and friends that have been there also) opinion of DR. Good luck choosing!!

[carolynfahey]

Thank you for your input. I have heard the same thing about the food from coworkers! I will put this on my pro/con list!

[Lyman]

Yes, you guys are right about the DR food being more bland. I was surprised too - to see that they don't use a lot of spice, and their main local dishes are usually centered around white rice and beans.....with a bit of meat added - ie chicken, pork or beef.

Ahh well......each place has its' balances with good points in different areas......which is part of why traveling is so educational

 

Wishing everyone happy research, easy decisions + planning processes and that you all have the wonderful weddings you wish for!!! Enjoy

[Jessica4LUXE]

Hi Carolyn,

 

Two great locations!! Aruba is simply beautiful for weddings and everything is so close - if you want to go into town, visit some local restaurants etc. it is within walking distance of the resorts. If you are looking for an all inclusive option in Aruba, you should check out the Riu Palace Aruba. We have planned many weddings there and they are simply beautiful!

 

Good luck at your site inspections in the Dominican! Make sure you bring a list of your questions, and book meetings with the onsite coordinators in advance.

 

Happy Planning!