Zel Punta Cana

The resort itself is undeniably beautiful, the grounds are gorgeous, the buggy service was extremely handy and always appreciated, and the Latin dance instructor was fantastic and made the session genuinely enjoyable. There are moments where you can really see the potential for a great guest experience. Unfortunately, that potential is let down in several key areas. The remote check-in and check-out system felt very impersonal and confusing. I strongly prefer being greeted by actual reception staff, and without a physical reception desk we were never properly informed about amenities or where things were located. This led to unnecessary confusion, for example, being repeatedly told that Fun Republic was “at reception,” without explaining it was actually in a completely different location requiring a buggy ride. The room was clearly dirty on arrival, although to be fair, this was resolved quickly once raised with the concierge. However, we left tips for housekeeping on multiple occasions and found that while the tips were taken, the room was not cleaned, meaning the person who eventually cleaned the room likely never received the tip. Tipping in general was made unnecessarily difficult by a temperamental ATM and concierge staff who were sometimes unwilling to provide change, even being told once that the “bank was closed.” The concierge experience overall felt more focused on upselling than guest care. We were encouraged to attend an “orientation” under the promise of free massages, only to eventually learn it was a pitch for Melia’s travel agency, which felt misleading and uncomfortable. After declining this, service noticeably dropped, including not even being greeted on our last day. One final disappointment was the hospitality shower service offered due to our late flight. While initially a thoughtful and convenient option, I was rushed out without being told there was a time limit. This led to me accidentally leaving my wedding ring behind. Thankfully returned by the next guest, but the situation could have been easily avoided with better communication. Despite all this, there are strong foundations here. The resort is visually stunning, the buggy service works well, and when staff engage positively, like the dance instructor, the experience really shines. With clearer communication, a proper reception presence, and a stronger focus on guest care rather than sales, this could be a truly excellent resort. Sadly, in its current state, I wouldn’t recommend it — but I do hope improvements are made, because the potential is absolutely there.

Great customer service and awesome vibes. I wanted a laid-back feel and spa experience. The spa was everything...best massage I've ever had. 👌🏿

We stayed for a few nights at the end of November. We usually stay at secrets, excellence or zilara. We like adult only resorts, but we wanted a few extra nights at somewhere less expensive, so we chose Zel. Overall, I really liked this resort. The master suite was really nice and newly renovated, the pool area wad so lush and spacious, it was an absolute stand out and the hotel was pretty chill, even with kids. I think if you are a solo traveller looking for quiet, this might be your spot. The pool is not only very lush, but the seating is ample and spaced far apart. If you are getting a swim out, shoot for buildings 1-4, it’s a way better setup and gets later day sun. They may have missed an opportunity here. If they upped their food and switched to adults only, they would have all the ingredients for a top luxury resort. Food in the restaurants was pretty good except for the buffet where everything tasted like day old leftovers. Also, they could benefit from another restaurant option at dinner. I couldn’t see staying here for a whole week with only 2 dinner restaurants and the buffet. I was surprised to see grey goose vodka and other premium liquors at the resort. The resort is located on the same property as the paradisus and melia. You can’t use their facilities, but the grounds throughout are so well done. There is a trolley to take you to the beach, which is frequent and not a problem at all The beach is nice, but the area the beach is in is a little chaotic. Lots of people and lots of boats. The only real downside of the beach is that you might not get a seat. You take the trolley ride and then, no seat. We thought the service was quite good. We didn’t try the spa or the activities. I would go back

Our trip was perfect, we were on our honeymoon and wanted to relax, which is exactly what we did. The service and facilities were perfect! Super friendly and helpful staff, clean space, spacious room, very good drinks and restaurants too, plus the hotel is beautiful! A perfect place for couples who want to relax.

Our room had a bad odor. I later figured out it was the mattress. The room has a jacuzzi in the room and one the balcony so I assume the bed gets wet alot and it's just not properly maintained. So just make sure you check out your room before you settle in. This was my first trip to DR and I would say it was a nice secure resort. Food was not great but I think that's typical for this all inclusives.