Hotel Viva Wyndham Playa Dorada Dominican Republic

My husband and I just got back from 2 weeks at the Viva Wyndham and enjoyed our stay immensely.
My husband is a C 6/C 7 Quadriplegic, so our comments are based on this type of disability. Specifically, our comments pertain to a manual wheelchair, as we are unable to comment on the specific needs and limitations of guests requiring power chairs. There was however a lady there at the same time who used crutches and had no trouble at all getting around.
To highlight, the areas that we found to be accessible are:
- The parking lot and entryway
- The lobby
- The corridors
- The pool deck
- The Las Palmas Restaurant
- The Bamboo Restaurant
- The Cuevo Pool Bar
- The walk-way to the beach
- The Ibiza Beach Restaurant
The areas we feel could be improved on for better access include: - The guest rooms
- The Theatre / Disco
- The spa
- The gym
- The beach
- The Viva Shop
We found the Viva Wyndham Complex quite accessibly designed. There are virtually no stairs, and the wide winding ramps are pleasant to navigate whether by wheels or on foot. The open-air concept makes for both an aesthetically-pleasing environment as well as a wheel-chair friendly one. Tables and buffets are placed at a reasonable height, with ample distance separating them. Above all, the staff endeavor to make all guests feel welcome, and are always willing to lend a hand.
Specifically, we would like to mention two groups who went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable. The bell-boys: Francisco, Santos, Emilio and Daladie were patient, understanding and strong. On several occasions, my husband expressed the desire to swim in the beautiful outdoor pool, something he has been unable to do since his accident ten years ago. This wonderful group of men took it upon themselves to lift him in and out of the pool. We will never forget this gesture of kindness. Also, several of the animation team, Aneudy, Jairo, Chayanne, Rafael and Pablo were determined that he would not miss their shows.
Despite the theatre being up two flights of stairs, these men carried him up just before the show, and brought him down afterwards. These wonderful men also lifted my husband onto the beach so he could enjoy the sand and ocean view! This type of courtesy has been unheard of elsewhere in our travels.
Of all the areas we feel need improvement, the guest room presented the greatest challenge. We were advised that there are two rooms specifically designed for the physically disabled. We called ahead to ensure we had one of these rooms, but upon arrival found that despite the room being labeled as accessible, it lacks several key elements that define a room as wheelchair accessible. If you are intending to go, I would recommend getting a junior suite on the ground floor. The ‘accessible room’ has some very narrow turning radiuses around the corner to the washroom and no rooms have a roll-in shower available.
Wyndham has committed itself to “doing everything within our power to meet the special needs and interests of each and every one of our visitors.” This was shown to us by no one more strongly than Rosangela de la Rosa, Wedding Coordinator at the Viva Wyndham. Rosangela went out of her way every day to ensure that we were welcome, comfortable, and enjoying ourselves. It was an honor to have our wedding officiated by this young woman and Wyndham is lucky to have such a committed, hard-working staff member. I would recommend a wedding here for anyone!