Going to Riu Bachata

Our stay at the Riu Bachata, in Puerto Plata was well researched.  We had key points that absolutely had to be met:

• Family Friendly
• All-inclusive
• On the Beach
• Close to the airport
• Budget Friendly

The Bachata had it all.  Our room was comfortable and quiet.  Two double beds were perfect for our family of 4.  The Bachata provided a large complimentary container of distilled water in our fridge which came in handy for drinking and tooth paste spitting.

The breakfast buffet had cereal, pancakes, crepes (kids’ favourite) and more.  The kids could eat hamburgers and hot dogs at the lunch buffet while we parents ate paella and chicken.  There were also 2 sit-down restaurant choices (a pasta restaurant and a steakhouse) for dinner options. 

We had the option of the daily activities at the Bachata or visiting the sister hotels Riu Merengue and Riu Mambo (a short walk). 

Daily activities included formal events like: ping pong tournament, darts, water aerobics, kids club activities, water volleyball and more.  The entertainment team was inviting to both grown ups and kids.  Informal activities included; swimming, beach fun and the swim up bar (kids loved asking for orange juice!).

Unfortunately, there was a jagged piece of ceramic tile, submerged on the bottom step of the pool, and my daughter gashed her foot.  She was rushed to the on-site medical office where a doctor promptly attended to her wounds (stitches required).

We informed front desk immediately of the issue with the pool. 

The next day, when we asked front desk about borrowing a wheelchair for our child, we were told we could rent one from the pharmacy.   We noted her injury was because of negligence and as such a wheelchair should be provided.  It was. 

We informed our on-site Sunquest representative of the injury. He inspected the spot where the injury had occurred, at which time a Bachata employee was quick inform us that the jagged tile had been removed. It had.
However, our vacation was fairly ruined by this injury as said child was in pain and unable to go in the water and sand. We were disappointed that the Riu Bachata did not follow up with us regarding the injury nor did they take any steps to make amends.

Really too bad…because we were having a lot of fun at the hotel…