I stayed at this hotel in September 2011 while touring the Colonial City. It was contemporary, and clean with an elevator. There is a parking lot which you can valet if you'd like. One of the staff even washed my car! I thought there was a pool, but there isn't. If you want to be near the ocean, you'll have to go to Malecon. The price was very reasonable compared to other hotels in the area and there is free internet and continental breakfast. The restaurant and bar did not disappoint. The drinks were great, the food was prepared well, I felt like I was at a fancy restaurant. I recommend the shrimp meals. There is an outside area alongside the aprking lot if you like to eat outdoors. The staff was very friendly, everyone spoke English. The manager was attentive if you have a question or need help. The rooms were a little small, I stayed in 2 different rooms since I upgraded for a bigger room during my stay- which really wasn't much bigger at all. The difference was a space for a small table if you want to eat in the room. I never used room service. If you need a large room, this is not the hotel for you. There is a safe and you have to pay for the key. Not much but worth the peace of mind for your valuables. The bathroom was clean, it only had a stand up shower, but there were toiletries included and I had hot water whenever I showered. The bed was very comfortable, the hotel was properly air conditioned. The minibar was a bit comical, but it suits the purpose if you need a nightcap or a snack. I really liked the location. It was so close to the tourist sites, and many restaurants. There is a large square a few blocks down the street to the right when you exit the hotel. There are some very good restaurants there. I ate at Tambo twice and their ceviche is to die for! Around the corner is El Maison de Bari, a wonderful restaurant with good wine and great food! I loved the artists ambiance and sculptures. Julio, the nephew of the owner served the food and the owner of the art pieces gave his presentation. The food came out shortly after ordered. As for sightseeing, I paid a tour guide to take me to the sites I wanted to see. It cost $20 per person for the day and they will take you wheverever you want to go. I did a walking tour and he came with me in the car driving to the other popular sites which were farther away about 30 minutes. The guides have badges and they are knowledgeable about the history of the sites. I highly recommend the museum, and cultural center but it's all the way on the other side of the city and it closes around 5pm so go early. I would definitely return to this hotel. I loved the Colonial City. I felt safe walking around at night as well as the daytime.
- Hodelpa Caribe Colonial Santo Domingo
- Hodelpa Caribe Colonial Hotel
