It’s the verdant foliage that first catches my eye as I walk up the white steps of the Casa Colonial Boutique Hotel in the Dominican Republic. Delicate orchids seem to drip from every corner of the property as though the staff ransacked a greenhouse.
Red tiles and blindingly white verandas—a nod to the Spanish colonial architecture—separate Casa Colonial from the conveyor belt of identical resorts on the island. There are no banana boats, casinos or kiddie pools in sight. No lackluster buffets serving—God, help me—hours old stale pizza to bloated resort guests.
In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for the loud, obtrusive resort chains that seem to barge into destinations like an uninvited house guest. The all-inclusive trap seems to me an over-manufactured, large-scale operation that spoon feeds guests the same “paradise experience” devoid of anything unique.
Casa Colonial breaks the mold of a Caribbean stay and has a vice grip on the waning ideals of keeping family hotels classy. It’s all about the details here. The subtle oceanic decor, the use of fresh ingredients in the made-to-order meals, the noticeable quiet and serenity.
The word that comes to mind is delicate. From the delicate mix of subtle flavors served at dinner to the care with which every manner of business—from room cleaning to towel service—is handled.
Unfortunately, the Dominican Republic has become almost synonymous with all-inclusive resorts. Most people picture the same buffets and banana boats unfolding everywhere across the Caribbean; the destination just a backdrop to a resort that looks the same on every island.
My stay at Casa Colonial was authentic (a word I feel is overused but is simply the only one that will do). From hello to goodbye, the hotel pays homage to Dominican culture through its food, scenic surroundings, history, decor and hospitality. It redefines what it means to stay in the Caribbean
Book this hotel if…
The Casa Colonial Boutique Hotel is the perfect setting for travelers looking to visit the Caribbean and steer clear of the resort chains. With spacious rooms, delectable cuisine and scenic surroundings; the Casa Colonial is a wonderful hotel option that embodies the peace and beauty one seeks when heading to the islands.
Pin it!
*Disclaimer: My stay at the Casa Colonial Boutique Hotel was complimentary and part of a larger press trip with the Dominican Republic tourism board. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own.
