The 21-storey Catalonia Hotel rises from Santo Domingo’s Malecon, the city’s oceanfront boardwalk in front of the Caribbean Sea. Its position gives many of its 228 rooms spectacular views over the sea which makes this striking hotel unique. It is the only hotel in the city to offer 1,100 metres of meeting space yet manages to retain an elegance and character which appeals to both business guests and tourists alike. The imposing lobby with its stylish bar sets the scene. There is a stunning pool on the seventh floor with sunbeds where you can soak up the sun and enjoy a swim and there is a games area and gym for the health conscious. From the Pearl Urban Lounge guests can enjoy the view while enjoying a cocktail. There are numerous well-appointed events and meeting spaces making it ideal for weddings, functions and business events.
The panoramic views from the ocean view rooms alone make the Catalonia worth visiting. I woke up to the sound of the waves and the Caribbean sunshine, making it difficult to believe I was in the centre of a capital city which buzzes with vitality all day long. Rooms have huge beds, desks, minibar, safe, TV, bathrobe and slippers and Free Wi-Fi. Executive rooms have more space and suites have a living room and separate dining room, with the opportunity to connect to a second room. Furnishings are stylish and comfortable, and the bathrooms are spacious and elegant.
Breakfast is served in the Sea Blue restaurant which offers a huge buffet that seems to stretch on for ever. À la carte lunch and dinner is served in the Filigrana Restaurant on the fifth floor with its panoramic picture windows. Both local and international cuisine is available. The Five Hundred Snack Bar has drinks and snacks including delicious tapas and the pool bar on the seventh floor is a great place for cocktails and snacks. Room service is also available.
The staff are charming and helpful and I was particularly impressed by the attention to security in the hotel.
The Details
Catalonia Santo Domingo, Avenida George Washington, 500, 10104, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Tel: +1 809 685 00 00
Website: www.cataloniahotels.com
Email: santodomingo@cataloniahotels.com
Hotel Catalonia is located in the business area of the capital city of Santo Domingo but occupies an oceanfront location near the fashionable Malecon. It is 30 minutes away from Las Americas International airport and close to the coach station. The colonial old town is a short stroll away.
Type of Hotel: 5-Star Hotel with Caribbean Sea views, casino and spa
Number of Rooms: 228 rooms and suites
Price Band: Medium
Insider Tip: Combine city life with Caribbean vibe with a trip to the beach and then explore the capital on the Caribbean’s only metro system, found just around the corner.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9/10
Author Bio:
Judith Baker is a London-based freelance travel writer.
Photographs courtesy of Catalonia Santo Domingo
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