This trip to Vik Arena Blanca in Punta Cana was a slight trip down memory lane as we couldn't finish our family vacation in 2017 due to a hurricane that beat up the hotel and most of the area. Nonetheless, we went back with positive vibes and couldn't wait to get back!
First and foremost I would like to say that this hotel has seen its glory days many years ago. There is so much neglected maintenance that in my opinion, should not ever be allowed in any hotel. Rotting wood, broken concrete in the pools (that ripped my toes) and overall missing it's shine which is a real shame as this hotel has something incredibly cosy. The broken concrete is a huge issue. Both pools have severe damage and also crumbling concrete at both pool edges. This is dangerous. Especially for little kids who play around. Another pool point is that there's no supervision at both pools, by the way. The rotting wood on the banisters are also a serious issue. We had to battle three stairs everyday, multiple times and having splinters in your hand isn't that much of a joy. They also are quite wobbly, so don't expect a safe support.
Safety wise - incredibly bad. The balcony doors at both of our rooms couldn't be locked. We heard serval guests complaining about this specific issue and another couple even told us that their passports got stolen. Another guest noted that all of his personal belongings and cash got stolen and mysteriously got found again (besides the cash) back by some employees. I will not share my personal opinion about that, but I do have my thoughts about this specific situation. Anyway, after serval complaints at the reception, nothin' ever happened. We never saw a handy man or anyone that tried to fix our problems. Same with the toilet that didn't properly flush and the lights in our rooms that did not work. Loads of big cracks underneath the doors and a rusty shower.
The positive - it still has that homey and cosy vibe and the overall staff is very kind. They will always ask how your day was and really try their best to give you a great experience. The food was also quite good! I did not experience any cold or tasteless food. The bar was alright, but unfortunately - alcohol abuse by many tourists. The drinks were good, but nothing special. Snacks at the pool? Check! Their stone baked pizza is amazing and so are the burgers and hotdogs. Hungry? Never ever! If you are a very picky eater, you might have some trouble, but I never encountered a day where I thought the food was low quality or bad. They try their best to keep the place as clean as possible, but unfortunately there always will be guests that simply don't care about their surroundings and those of other guests. You simply can't keep up with that.
The beach is a whole different story. The pictures you'll see on most booking sites are very outdated and don't reflect the current state of the beach. Loads of it is washed away due to erosion. People claim their beach beds early in the morning and since nearly 50% of the beach beds are not placeable due to the erosion, it is almost impossible to get a place in the shade. The beach now has sort of a "level" instead of a smooth way towards the ocean. When people claim their beds, they block these levels so it is quite an climb to actually get into the ocean. The ocean is still incredible and if you are lucky, you will see wild manatees. We were very fortunate to have a real close encounter early in the morning. Don't freak out these gentle giant on their way to some sea grass! Please also note the fact that there is no lifeguard on duty nor flags that indicate the status of the currents and ocean. You simply don't know if it is safe to swim. There can be strong currents and this is incredibly dangerous. Even if you are a very good swimmer (ocean) like me, always be careful and don't go in to the ocean too far.
Tip: don't walk on the beach early at dusk and down as you will get bitten by sandfleas that give you the most horrific itch you ever had in your entire life.
Also there was a mosquito invasion. Very tiny little sh*ts that you can barely see nor hear. Some people said they were immune to DEET. Unfortunately we will never know. The first time we went, we never ever encountered mosquitoes. Make sure you will bring good quality insect repellant!
The little store at the hotel is incredibly pricey. I know that due to inflation everything got more expensive, but charging 35$ for a bottle of insect repellant and 8$ for a bag of Cheetos is just insane. Taxi prices are also quit the charge. If you'd like to go to the Blue Mall (for some shopping and cheap groceries at Jumbo) you will be charged a minimum of 80$.
Overall, we did enjoy our stay and we still have a soft spot for this hotel but we will not return. The price quality range (we booked in euro's) is just ridiculous. If you're able to get a cheap and good deal and you don't mind the above, go! Otherwise, I would really advice to stay at another place.
It is a real shame because this hotel has such potential!
