A Toronto woman says she was pressured to sign an NDA after her husband fell violently ill from suspected food poisoning at a Dominican Republic resort, where on-site medical staff allegedly failed to provide assistance.
Alexandra Tropea and her family were on their first vacation since the birth of their daughter, staying at the Royalton Punta Cana, a Marriott Autograph Hotel. Having booked the trip in November, Tropea ensured essentials like a crib, microwave, and medical staff were available.
On the third night, her husband became severely ill. Despite multiple calls for help, on-site medical staff failed to arrive. When she visited the concierge, she says she found the guest services manager dancing behind the desk. Eventually, medical staff called to ask if she had insurance and demanded $200 upfront before even assessing him. As her husband continued vomiting for hours, she called 911. Paramedics arrived within 30 minutes, hooked him to an IV, and rushed him to a hospital, where he was diagnosed with food poisoning due to improper food handling.
Tropea contacted Costco Travel, which reached out to the resort for a resolution. In response, the Royalton offered late checkout and free hydrotherapy for the family but required them to sign an NDA releasing all involved parties from liability. Tropea refused to sign, stating the experience left her fearful for the rest of the trip.
Marriott later apologized but said her concerns were forwarded to hotel staff. The Royalton later claimed they were “unable to verify any medical request.” Despite repeated media inquiries, Royalton Punta Cana, Marriott, and Costco Travel did not provide comments.
Tropea is calling for accountability, stating that while illness can happen anywhere, the resort’s lack of urgency and willingness to help left her traumatized. Costco Travel is reportedly working toward a resolution.
Source: Swifteradio.com.
