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Post by doncunning on Jun 5, 2022 20:56:13 GMT -5
The place is in disrepair all over. Very shabby. Free drinks if you make it yourself. They have a few liquor bottles in a very dark dingy bar area and literally no mixers to make anything. Mamajuana as plentiful but that's about it. A great many items on their "menu" were not available. Ended up eating out a lot ... better food and better drinks. The power frequently goes out so have a battery charger for your phone. Overall disappointing.
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Post by lookingforparadise on Jun 7, 2022 19:15:22 GMT -5
I'm getting ready to book & go in the next 2 weeks. I've been talking with them regularly and they have been very straightforward. What facility of there's did you stay at? Did you have any other issues besides food & drink & power. They did make it clear to me there's no lunch or dinner but breakfast only. I have read on other posts about power outages but that's nothing a power bank won't fix. Did you have any other issues. I would like to confirm my trip in the next day or two. Thank you
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Post by bandit on Jun 9, 2022 10:34:48 GMT -5
I was there last week. It is what it is. Yes the original place needs to be updated and repaired. It’s Dominican time table so it’s never gonna be quick fix. I actually got more hot water this time than any other time in my previous stays. Food is good. They did get me what I asked for to drink. They don’t have professional bartenders there and never will. If you want exotic drinks made for you than your at the wrong place. I got my gin and tonics with lime without a problem. Yes I made them myself but that’s not an issue for me. The pandemic has killed a lot of the business that use to come here so the hotel has other guests coming around at times. But they are offering other options that are more updated but without all 3 meals included. They did rent the old corner area out again as a tiki bar to keep money coming in for the hotel. Just have to do what’s necessary to keep paying bills. But I doubt you’ll be able to find something else this reasonable in price with service that’s promised and without upselling being pushed on you.
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peterd
Junior Member
Posts: 64
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Post by peterd on Jun 9, 2022 21:24:43 GMT -5
I was there about 2 months ago, I think my 9th or 10th visit, since 2013. I didn't notice anything out of the ordinary. Of course it needs a lot of touching up, I guess being closed for a year from covid took it's toll, I'm just glad they stayed in business. So many places there had to close for good. I'm surprised you said you were told things that weren't true, I have read every post on the forum ( the funny ones a few times :-) and this is the first time I have ever heard anyone make that statement ) BD has always been very straight forward with me and my friends, and I have had an enjoyable experience every time, if there was ever a problem, all I had to do was mention it and it was taken care of in short order. One thing to remember, DON'T SWEAT THE PETTY STUFF, you have to realize where you are, the DR is a third world country, it's nothing like any other place I've been, they are on Dominican time, I've seen BD get frustrated more than once, trying to get something done. And now I suppose it's even worse trying to get supplies in. What confuses me though, is if you were unhappy there, I am wondering why he didn't move you to the other location? I assume you did speak up with your concerns? Otherwise, how could they fix it. I spent 6 days at each place, I wouldn't visit without staying at the old location, but I wanted to check out the new beach place as well. It was outstanding, the room, balcony, view, pool, beach, all exceptional. I think I am bringing a couple friends there this year yet. I suppose I should also mention my girl. I have had the same one the last 3 or 4 visits, if it works, no need to fix it. At this point we know each other, our likes and dislikes and we are very comfortable with one another. Anyway, that's my 2 bits worth. See ya on the Veranda or on the beach !!!
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Can't figure it out.
Guest
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Post by Can't figure it out. on Jun 9, 2022 23:20:27 GMT -5
Didn't know what else to call my self, but I can't figure out how to register in this thing. Be that as it may, I was a recent guest at CFI, I also was not pleased because I thought it was located on the beach. I looked at the website later and it said nothing about being on the beach, it did show some beach pictures with the Emerald property and I think that is where I got confused, my bad. So my first night, I talked to the BULLDOG and of course he asked how everything was going and I had to tell him I was disappointed because there was no beach and it was really one of my big concerns. He apologized for the misunderstanding and I thought that was the end of it. Well, the next morning at breakfast, Fior came by and asked how long it would take me to pack. I said why, are you throwing me out, she laughed and said, no, we are moving you to the beach and the taxi is waiting. 45 minutes later, I'm at the beach resort with my feet in the water. My girl had never been there before and was really pleased with it all. I didn't even worry of any price difference because it was so new and impressive, but when I asked the difference, she said don't worry same price. The only condition was they offered only breakfast, but I was fine with that, as I wanted to try out different restaurants and there was a great one right next door that was very, very reasonable with great food and we also ordered in a couple of times. I was there a total of 4 nights, but knowing what I know now, I would have stayed a week. well, there is always next time. BULLDOG, if you read this, get a hold of me and help me get registered. Thanks Simon
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Post by November Rayne on Jun 10, 2022 6:43:19 GMT -5
Well, truth to be told, the photos on the website are not only pre-Covid, but the same since I first found the website in 2016. And I also agree with the statement "there are no comfortable chairs". Also no quality toilet paper, for that matter. But as I learned when I mentioned the toilet paper (and like Simon stated in his example), talking to Bulldog or Fior is the fastest way to make everything better. Well, probably not the chairs, but I would not be surprised if Fior had brought in a new lounger if you had mentioned it.
And of course, the main attraction at the Boca Chica location are Bulldog's other guests, usually. :-)
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Post by Admin on Jun 10, 2022 22:06:33 GMT -5
Well, well, well, I am off line for a few days and look what I miss. I am somewhat curious after reading all of your complaints, why neither you or doncunting couldn't take 5 minutes to call me and tell me you were unhappy. The girls all have a direct line to me and are told to call anytime if there is a problem, but neither I or Fior were told anything, by anyone, you were even given my do's and don't list when you checked in and if you recall, at the bottom it says, if you have any problems let us know immediately, we can't fix it if we don't know. It definitely took some time to write 3 lengthy posts, but you couldn't spare two minutes to call me and let me resolve it, while you were there? If you go to a restaurant and get a bad piece of meat, do you force yourself to eat it and then complain afterward? Probably not. If I had known you were not happy, I would have made arrangements immediately to have you moved to the newly built property that is a whopping 5 minutes away. It's an easy switch for me as they are priced the same. I am sorry you left not happy, as I like everyone to leave with a good feeling. But, not letting me know so I could get it resolved, that part is on you.
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Post by ginman on Jun 10, 2022 23:14:47 GMT -5
Hey bulldog, can you post some pictures of the new beach property?
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zackr
Full Member
Posts: 188
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Post by zackr on Jun 13, 2022 10:13:18 GMT -5
Hey BD,
Haven't posted in a long, long time, never really felt the need to keep posting, that and the fact that I see you every year just about. In fact, I think I was one of your first guests, what, about 12 years ago? But I read the posts from time to time and I just recently read the ones above. Knowing you as I do, I can just imagine the look on your face, especially when someone who knows nothing, tries to tell you how to run your business. This isn't the black and white world like back home, it is gray, barely and if you want perfection, this isn't the right country for you. Things we take for granted, you don't see here, at any price. Sometimes food is scarce, yes sometimes electricity goes out, but not just on the property, on the entire island, no skilled labor ( Government included ), hardly nothing is ever repaired, just patched. Many people still live without refrigerators, no one has air conditioning or hot water, except for the ones with money and that's not many and you learn to do with what you have.
It's the fucking Dominican Republic ! It is not New York or Las Vegas people.
I go for the experience ( and the company of course ) and can have fun in any situation, if the power goes out, I make a game out of it with my girl, kind of an adult version of hide and seek but usually ends up in a game of hide the salami!!!!.
I was actually there when you had some locals make the veranda chairs, I watched them tear apart pallets that were delivered by donkey cart from the shipyards, and fashion them into usable items. I never once thought about them being uncomfortable ( but a cushion help ) I thought about all the time and effort they put into making something from nothing and have to do it every day of their life, just to survive. We have watched employees, paint the stairs. Only Dominicans paint top to bottom, and they sit on the newly painted step they just did to reach the one below it, or belly roll when the waiter brings you french fries for breakfast when you order fried potatoes. Entertainment at it's best, at least for the people that see a glass half full. And that's the attitude you have to have to visit the Dominican, don't sweat the petty shit and enjoy the experience. Not a care in the world, live for today, don't worry about tomorrow and play your music so loud you ca't understand it. But, I wouldn't trade my visits and experiences for anything.
As far as your website, let mister know it all visit a couple of other places, that charge 3 or 4 times what you do, where they lie to you every time they open their mouth, where there are no actual pictures of the real place you stay at, not one girl shown is actually there, when you wind up paying an extra grand in surprise extras before you get out of there, or just charge a big deposit and never show up to pick you up at the airport. At least that was my experience at a few before I found you. Let him stay at a couple of those places and lets see if he backtracks. But as well as I know you, he has burned his bridges.
I also don't understand the privacy thing, you are completely enclosed on all four sides, with front and side gates, that are locked at night. If he wanted to get away from people all together he should have stayed at your villa, if he wanted to do weird shit.
And just out of curiosity, aren't you giving newbies a free night to make up for any deficiencies until you are back to normal? Just asking, and if so, I don't understand any of this. But, maybe I'm missing something. All I know is, I would not deal with anyone else on the island but you. Keep doin what your doin brother, don't change a thing.
Zack
BTW, the new property looks great, I might be taking a stab at that one for a few days. See ya soon.
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Post by bandit on Jun 13, 2022 10:59:01 GMT -5
As Bulldog said and anyone with common sense knows a problem can’t be fixed if it isn’t addressed. Sorry but I have yet to a meet a mind reader anywhere in the world. My issue was dealt within a few hours on my last visit. Under 2 hours if I’m not mistaken. So open communication will have gotten you a lot farther and a more enjoyable stay.
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Post by phoenix on Jun 13, 2022 19:59:44 GMT -5
I have deleted all my posts. After going through this thread again, I realized they did not convey the message I wanted and were misunderstood.
I will just say that I was just trying to indicate that some things were not as advertised, and that could have been better communicated beforehand. But that does not mean this isn't a good place to visit.
Bulldog is probably the most honest guy out there when it comes to this type of service. He won't rip you off, like some others do.
I would recommend this place. I would just say to anyone new that they should spend some time talking to Bulldog about the different places and services he offers, so that you get the most of your vacation.
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Post by Admin on Jun 13, 2022 22:56:51 GMT -5
OK, I have been quiet for a spell as I have started using the 3 day rule, so before I do or say anything rash, I take 3 days to think about it first. Sometimes it helps, some times it doesn't.
So lets get started shall we,
First off, the rooms haven't changed, they look the same as when I took the pictures. Nobody moved the pool, it's still there. The mermaid statue however did go from gold to white. Note to self. take new picture of mermaid. Check.
Lower bar is still there, only it is used as a retail bar at the moment, however it is on a trial basis and I expect it to be gone by July, as the last time they tried it it only lasted 2 months. So when it does go, we can be back down there playing music till god knows when.
I guess there are different definitions for privacy, We are fenced with security gates, I would call that private. Not totally private, that would mean only my guests would be there and that is against the law here. The law says that if a place is used strictly for hokey pokey, it is considered a bordello, which is illegal here. I like you all, but not enough to get fined or worse.
Yes the bar is not well lit, it has never been well lit and will probably never be well lit, it does no good to keep it stocked, because the shit grows legs and walks off. And besides, everyone has a difference preference as to what they drink. That's why we take you to the liquor store and buy you what you want.
I above anyone, knows the place needs to be spruced back up, no question, that is why I am giving a free night to newbies, to offset any inconvenience during your stay. I have also discounted Boca 3 on the beach as well.
Bottom line as always, I can't fix something if I don't know about it. Never feel bad about speaking up.
Now on to a more serious business, the matter of doncunning and his post: We'll do it piece by piece.
The place is in disrepair all over. Very shabby.
Yes we have established that. WHICH IS WHY YOU GOT THE DISCOUNT ! YOU ALSO HAD THE OPTION TO GO TO BOCA 3 BUT DIDN"T TAKE IT.
Free drinks if you make it yourself. They have a few liquor bottles in a very dark dingy bar area and literally no mixers to make anything.
Yes, I talked about that, I can teach an old dog new tricks, but I can't teach a monkey how to mix drinks and Fior took you to the liquor store, where you picked out the most expensive bottle you could find.
A great many items on their "menu" were not available. True, some things are impossible to get since covid, but had you asked Fior for something important to you, she would have tried her best to find it for you. I know you were upset there was no American food to speak of but you were in the Dominican and most people use that opportunity to sample the local food.
The power frequently goes out so have a battery charger for your phone. HELLO, it's the Dominican Republic didn't you see the WELCOME sign when you were landing? Rolling blackouts are pretty normal, we can go days without power outage or sometime it can happen every day.
OK, now is when I will probably lose my cool:
You are probably not aware that I get weekly reports of what my guests order, partly because when someone orders more than one entree per meal I get charged extra for it. And that's fine.
Now here is where it gets interesting, you wrote: Ended up eating out a lot ... better food and better drinks.
You see this is where I get confused, not only was I informed of all of your meals every day, one particular posting showed 3 entrees for you for 1 meal. I talked with your girl to confirm that and that YOU WENT OUT ONLY 1 TIME TO EAT, pizza I believe, but you made your girl stay at the hotel and eat there, probably so you didn't have to buy her food. Then Fior tells me tonight, that you even wanted to take food with you to the airport, when you left.
Now when you booked,
You nickel and dimed me to death and I never thought twice about it. You picked out the most expensive alcohol at the liquor store. I can deal with that, totally inconsiderate but ok. Even 3 entrees for one meal, I can handle that. Food to go for the airport, sure why not.
But after all that, you write in your post " Ended up eating out a lot ... better food and better drinks."
Why would you even write that, you lying piece of garbage. And to top it off, you had a really sweet girl that you treated like shit and that is never tolerated.
OK, got that out of my system and I think I stayed pretty calm.
Tomorrow I will work on posting pictures of Boca 3
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Post by bandit on Jun 15, 2022 0:50:16 GMT -5
You mean I can order 3 meals for 1 meal. Lol. I barely finish one and I’m a big guy. I only order what I normally drink and won’t go to liquor store to pick the most expensive stuff out. I also bring my own bottle to make sure I have something that I will also enjoy while I’m there. Yes I go through a few bottles on my stay but I also bring my own just to make it easier for myself. And if you go out to eat have some respect and take your chica with you. I bought my chicas stuff and didn’t got anything for myself. And 1 chica said it was bullshit when I got the bill and paid it. So dude if you’re that unhappy go somewhere else because this isn’t the place for you. Trust me no other place will give you this much for your money in the DR. Please go somewhere else for the future. Sorry Bulldog and Fior but you know where I’m coming from. Don’t want you to lose business but this one ain’t worth the headaches or phony reviews after his own faults.
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Post by Admin on Jun 15, 2022 23:59:25 GMT -5
I probably know why he would do that. I would bet he didn't have much of a GFE with his girl, if he treated her like crap, he probably got the same in return. He most likely does that back home as well, women in the U.S. wouldn't stand for it and the girls here are no different. And what we offer is a Girl Friend Experience not Girl Slave experience. It's all about treating them with respect.
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Post by Admin on Jun 16, 2022 0:05:04 GMT -5
BTW, Here are some Boca 3 photos. Not a real professional job, but I'm a matchmaker not a photographer or web master. [attachment id="164"
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