Just got back today had a great time despite all the bad reviews. First of all i must say this place is on the older side,but our room was always very clean. We did have a few problems with our room, like plugs but they were fixed right away. Staff was always very freindly and spoke English the best they could. But remember you are in their country you should speak their langage. You would expect that in you own country. The best meal was in the Steakhouse, the medallions are great. The beach was amazing, you could walk forever. Everything runs on Dominican time, not the fast lane that we live in. Do tip, if you watch the staff works day and night seven days a week, they may serve you breakfast in the morning, and be there pouring your drinks at night, and they dont make alot. I think i could go on and on but a will stop. We will be back before long. Oh yes dont waste your money on Manti Park, they dont have half the animals they say they do.

I stayed at this place for a week just to relax and get some sun. The rooms were clean, the food was ok, nothing exceptionally bad or good.

My husband and I just returned from a 5 day stay at Barcelo Bavaro Caribe. I have to admit we were quite skepitcal and worried from the reviews we had read, but it served us well because we must of gone in with low expectations. The truth is everything was great! It took us a while to figure out how to get to the hotel when we arrived at the airport, but we simply took a cab and paid $20 (The range is $20-30). When we got to Caribe we were not disappointed. The beach is breathtaking, and the pool is exceptionally clean. Although the rooms might need a little makeover, how much time do you really spend in the room with such beautiful beaches and landscaping just steps away? There were lots of water sports included in the all-inclusive package (kayaking, peddle boats, and sailing boats), and alternating shows between the 4 hotels to watch at night. The buffets and restaurants always accomodated lots of people with immaculate service, even though we went during spring break week. Our favorites were the Steak House and the lunch cafe at Barcelo Golf. Tipping was not an issue; if you gave it was appreciated, if you didn't there was hardly any negative vibe. Like someone suggested on Trip Advisor before, take $100 in singles and $5 bills and that should be more than enough for tipping for your entire duration. Checking in and checking out were a breeze, and we were allowed a late check-out because we had a late afternoon flight. Overall, we had a wonderful experience and look forward to going again next year!

WARNING - BOOK THIS HOTEL AT YOUR OWN RISK!
I had read many reviews on this property and despite some warnings on this site, we went with our family and friends.
Upon arrival to the hotel lobby, with confirmation in hand, we were told that there was NO ROOM for us. The hotels are sold out.
Wow.....we flew 4500 miles and there is no room at the Inn....amazing since our group coordinator spoke with the hotel the day before and all was confirmed.
There was another couple from the States at the desk with us who had paid for there reservation 4 months ago and they were turned away as well....right about that time a bus pulled up from the airport only to have a clerk from the hotel desk go out and yell at the driver that he can't bring them here, there is no room.
I have NEVER seen such an unorganized hotel. The lobby was full of unhappy people ( about 50 ), yet just a few steps away towards the beach, many were enjoying the pool and all the activities. Then a honeymoon couple came up to the desk and was turned away.....I thought that guy was going to get physical......
It took over 2 hours in that hell....alot of frustration, argueing, translating....at one point it got real ugly - they wanted to see my copy of the reservation and confirmation that I had been emailed. They took it to copy and then refused to give it back. Not sure what that was about but I did get my copy back after 10 minutes of demanding.
Finally, they shipped us off to another property about 5 miles away -The Catalonia Bavaro. It was beautiful, relaxing....truely a slice of "heaven on earth".
2 days later, Barcelos called and wanted to move us back to their property.....hahaha....no way jose'!
So...in conclusion, I guess I should thank Barcelos for sending us to a better hotel....but, I will NEVER book with Barcelo again.
Hasta la vista, baby!!