Imagine stepping back in time to the 16th century, tracing the same cobblestone streets as Christopher Columbus, relishing the grandeur of the new world’s first church and retreating to a stunning colonial mansion.
For travelers to the Dominican Republic, this dream will soon be a reality at the brand new, boutique Casas del XVI, an eight-room luxury hotel opening in Santo Domingo’s emerging Ciudad Colonial in March 2014, with a soft opening slated for December 15, 2013.
First hotel in the Dominican with exclusive accommodations in colonial homes
Nestled in the heart of the New World’s oldest city, Casas del XVI is the first hotel in the Dominican Republic comprised of an exclusive collection of newly renovated colonial houses dating back to the 16th century.
Maintaining the integrity of the stunning, romantic architecture, the hotel preserves the beauty of the abodes that make up the old town neighborhood, offering guests accommodations in eight rooms and suites spread between three individual houses each reminiscent of the island’s earliest European settlers.
Butler service, cultural themed décor and historic luxuries mesmerize guests
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With a focus on preserving the original architecture, celebrating the vibrant Dominican culture and drawing upon the area’s international influences, the interior of each house is decorated according to a theme relating to Dominican culture and sixteenth century history.
Décor themes including maps, navigation and the pineapple, a symbol of hospitality to the indigenous people, evoke images of the Colonial City’s inception during the age of early exploration.
After all, “Pilot Alonso Perez Roldan”, who traveled with Christopher Columbus on his early expeditions to the Americas, originally inhabited one of the houses, Casa de los Barcos – now home to the hotel’s large two-bedroom suite. The other two houses, aptly named Casa del Arbol and Casa del los Mapas offer a combined seven additional guest rooms.
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Featuring an eclectic mix of ancient artifacts, local artwork and handcrafted local and international furniture, the cozy interior of each house enchants guests with its colonial charm.
The international style evokes a sense of seamless luxury and brings modern sophistication to the historic surroundings, as a butler in each home attends to guests every need. Guests can enjoy access to stunning Spanish style courtyards in each home, a cigar bar and library in Casa del Arbol, an outdoor dining area and inviting pool in Casa del los Mapas and local art exhibitions in Casa de los Barcos.
Included in the nightly rate at both Casa del los Mapas and Casa del Arbol is a daily a la carte breakfast featuring traditional Dominican and international menu options prepared each morning by the butler in each house’s fully equipped kitchen.
Private lunches and dinners can be arranged with a private chef, as well, with advanced notice through your personal butler. All meals in Casa de los Barcos must be arranged ahead of time.
Ciudad colonial enchants travelers seeking authentic bohemian experiences rooted in history
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Santo Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial is the oldest European settlement in the new world and offers travelers a plethora of historical, cultural, architectural and culinary delights.
Experiencing a vibrant revival, the Ciudad Colonial is home to the first cathedral, hospital, customs house and university in the Americas, all of which date back to Christopher Columbus’ arrival on the island of Hispaniola in 1492.
Today, the area is a mosaic of museums, recondite theaters, ancient monuments, outdoor cafes, delectable restaurants, enchanting nightlife and romantic colonial mansions.
Guests at Casas del XVI can choose from endless excursions suited to a variety of interests. Possibilities include Old City guided strolls, tours of the colonial churches, a flavors of the city tour and tasting series at the area’s finest restaurants, a rum experience at the historic Ron Barcelo distillery, a golf challenge at the Las Lagunas Country Club, a chocolate, clay and sugar tour and many more.
Casas del XVI is managed by Prohotel International based in Houston, Texas. Pre-opening rates start at $225 per night. For more information visit www.casasdelxvi.com
Images courtesy of Casas del XVI
