August 27, 2003 -- The Viva Resorts chain, which we've touted previously as family-friendly and budget conscious, is changing its name (as a leopard would his spots) in December when the company merges with the posh Wyndham group. Acquisitions such as this would normally set off some alarms, namely that the brand is going upscale - and up market in pricing. To prove its new "ritzier" name -- Viva Wyndham Resorts -- won't necessarily mean higher prices, Viva told us recently that it will open its new Cabarete property with all-inclusive nightly rates as low as $60 per person, per night, based on double occupancy, through December 23, 2003.
The new Viva Tangerine, located in Cabarete (www.frommers.com/destinations/cabarete) on the north side of the Dominican Republic, is set to open in November. After the introductory rate period ends, the traditional high season prices will be $87 per person, from January 3 to April 10, 2004. That's still well within the price range for a true budget traveler, giving you room to spare for airfare and pocket change for that souvenir t-shirt.
As all-inclusive properties the rates give you not only your room but also all meals (including a special low-fat menu); unlimited beverages, cocktails and wine; 24-hour snacks; tea time; daily activities and fitness programs; unlimited nonmotorized watersports; use of the Kid's Club; fruit and drinks service on the beach and poolside; live nightly entertainment; dance lessons; yoga and meditation classes; cooking and cocktail preparation lessons; and all taxes, surcharges and gratuities. The resort will feature a balcony or terrace with each room, tennis courts, a discotheque, volleyball pits, soccer, kite flying, a business for Internet access, and more. For more information on the Tangerine and other Viva properties throught the Caribbean, contact the chain at 800/898-9968 or e-mail reservations@vivaresorts.com. The website is www.vivaresorts.com.
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