Holiday Inn Santo Domingo

This Holiday Inn sits in a busy, high-traffic part of the business district, so there’s always plenty of activity hustling by the modern glass-encased lobby. Past the entrance, jet-black floors paired with bold splashes of fuchsia pink and neon green establish a striking contemporary look that continues and evolves throughout the property -- which feels far more boutique and cosmopolitan than the average Holiday Inn. Rooms unfold over nine floors, where dark hues and moody lighting fit the urban setting yet feel a bit more playful than other, more conservative Santo Domingo business hotels. Overall, the property is fairly compact, and largely contained indoors. The exception is the eighth level that opens onto a terrace featuring a black mother-of-pearl-mosaic pool, curvy sunbeds, and stylish outdoor lounge seating set amongst bamboo-filled planter pots -- a sharp-looking, breezy spot to take in the panoramic city surroundings. 

The property's biggest downside could be its location, which is set away from the local beaches. For example, Guibia Public Beach is about a 26-minute drive away. But it is in the heart of Santo Domingo’s business district, a boon for business travelers or those looking to hit nearby sights. The latter includes the National Botanical Garden (a 15-minute drive), Quisqueya Stadium (a 13-minute drive), and the National Zoo (a 17-minute drive). Shopping is also in abundance here. The upscale Blue Mall is a 12-minute walk away, the Acropolis Center is 15 minutes on foot, and Agora Mall is 13 minutes' walk from the property. There's also a casino right next door, and free parking is provided for self-drivers. Reaching the Colonial Zone takes around 25 minutes by car, and it's 45 minutes to get to Las Americas International Airport.

Guest rooms continue the bold contemporary theme established in common areas. Decor is rich in color and texture, with plush velvets in pistachio and shiraz-red, plus rich wood accents -- all offset with crisp white furniture and bedding. Heavy velvet drapes create a moody ambience, but once pulled open, the windows let in loads of natural light that can make these spaces feel sunny. Elevated city views can be spotted from many rooms. Minibars are well stocked with plenty of snacks and booze, and Nespresso machines and coffeemakers are both provided. Regardless of category, all rooms feature flat-screen TVs, safes, irons, and ironing boards, and a nightly turndown service takes place. Bathrooms are large with a cool streamlined aesthetic -- finished in wide sand-colored tiles, with black granite and stainless steel vanities, full-width mirrors, rectangular sink basins, and glass walk-in showers. A good selection of toiletries plus hairdryers are also provided. Suites add more space, with apartment-like loft layouts and open-plan living areas plus extra perks like bathrobes, slippers, microwaves, and double sinks in bathrooms. 

Although it's an urban hotel, this Holiday Inn has features that could go toe-to-toe with many mid-range beach resorts. The stylish outdoor pool isn't huge, but it offers great views of the city from its eighth floor location along with sunbeds and a small bar servicing the open-air lounge area where guests can sip by the pool and take in the vista. The fitness center and sauna are also located on this level, and while the gym is smallish, it’s equipped with ample modern cardio- and weight-training equipment, for a decent workout. The on-site restaurant, Aromas, serves a daily breakfast and lunch buffet, plus an a la carte dinner menu. Guests rave about the breakfast, though it’s not necessarily included in the rate. Tiny Café Machiato located in the lobby, serves good espresso coffee and snacks, and Level 2 Bar on the second floor serves drinks and snacks in a stylish modern setting. Wine & Coffee Bar, on the top floor, provides another sleek spot to work or unwind. Kids under 11 eat free. The on-site spa offers a range of face, body, and massage treatments. A 24-hour business center and free Wi-Fi is available to guests, free self-parking is also on offer, and a casino is located right next door.