Hotel & Casino Flamboyan — Hotel in Higüey

We arrived in Punta Cana with the plan to spend a night and then leave early for our ultimate destination. We didn't want to spend a bunch of money so we looked for something reasonable and found Flamboyan with breakfast included. Reservation was for 2 adults and 1 child. Check in was easy and quick (they have a hand written book like the old days lol). We were told that our child had to pay extra for breakfast, which made no sense since our booking was for 3! Of course they gave us the third breakfast. Breakfast was basic but good (we had omelettes with onion, green peppers, cheese & tomato). You get 1 cup of coffee and have to pay extra for a second ($1)...they don't have orange juice but they offer an oatmeal/lemon juice that is very "Dominican". Service was pleasant and fast!! FYI-TV is always a disappointment, for me, in The DR...As an American, I can say that the average American will always find something to complain about in The Dominican Republic...however, they have all of the basics covered clean, decent bed, hot running water and conveniently priced. With just a little enhancement this could be a great hotel!...

If you don't want an all-inclusive resort, this is a great hotel. Nice rooms, quite clean for the country, actually overcleaning everyday (even when you ask them not to -- no green/eco awareness there). Soundproofing could be better... Basic breakfast included, nothing fancy but helps the budget. Nice staff, most not speaking English though (practice your Spanish!). A good 30 minute walk from the nearest accessible beach (El Cortecito), or 10 minutes if taking the guagua (small bus for locals, 40 pesos, passing every 10-30 minutes from 7am to 9pm). Close to many amenities within 2 to 20 minutes walk : many restaurants, bars, shops, bank with ATM, fruit stands, etc. Mostly locals in the area (quite lively, especially evenings), but you'll still get hailed every 30 seconds for visiting shops or using a motorbike ride. All this for the price of a cheap and dirty North American motel, except...

Was looking for a cheap stay on a diving trip. $54 US. No hot water, toilet did not flush. No room safe. No substantial door bolt. Far from beach. Not walking distance. Breakfast was included and basic eggs/juice. Appears to cater to local families and single guys looking for action. Red light type district if that's what you are looking for. Not many gringos around. Was intimidating walking around before my dive buddy arrived. Lots of barkers trying to get you into shops. There is a Steves corner bar a few blocks away that caters more to gringos. Rest of establishments are for locals. Lots of crazy car and moto drivers. Would never go back. Primary dive shop, Dressel, was almost impossible to get to as it is part of a upscale all inclusive resort. You need to reserve on line and have them pick you up. Pro Dive was accessible by car but no place...