Santo Domingo’s CASAS DEL XVI Offers Spanish Colonial Charm and Modern Luxuries

30 Sep 2015 by Jose Eledra in Bars, Cuisine, General, Home, Hot Spots, Hotels, Lastest news, Latest photo, Lounges, Pleasure, Restaurants

Nestled in the heart of the New World’s oldest city, Santo Domingo’s colonial district, the Ciudad Colonial, the boutique hotel, Casas del XVI is the first of its kind in the Dominican Republic – made up of an exclusive collection of newly renovated colonial houses dating back to the Spanish conquistadors.

Maintaining the integrity of the stunning, romantic architecture, the hotel preserves the beauty of the homes that make up the old town neighborhood, offering guests accommodations in ten rooms spread between three individual houses each reminiscent of the island’s earliest European settlers.

casas del xviHistorical and Cultural Themed Decor Mesmerizes Guests in Sumptuous Rooms and Suites

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 Spanish Colonial history.

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.

casas del xvi 1Casa del Arbol Enchants with a Shaded Traditional Spanish Courtyard

The first house, Casa del Arbol, is located just steps from Duarte Park and the Dominican convent, and minutes away from Colón Park and America’s First Cathedral. Decorated around the theme of the “Pineapple,” a symbol of hospitality to the indigenous people, the décor reflects the Dominican culture featuring local artwork, modern carved furniture and antique tropical pieces. The house itself is a centuries old typical colonial corner house. Perimeter halls are lined with street forming bays that incase a charming, private, interior Spanish-style courtyard.

Relish the Discovery of the New World at Casa de los Mapas

The next abode, Casa de los Mapas, or the House of Maps, dates back to the first Spanish settlers. The original structure was preserved and restored during recent renovations, romantically blending modern luxuries with old world charm. The luxurious rooms open out onto a central courtyard with lush tropical vegetation and a welcoming swimming pool open to guests.

Relish the Colonial Architecture of Brand New, Casa Macoris

The third house, Casa Macorís, opened in August 2015 and was originally part of the Convento de los Dominicos grounds during the time of the Spanish settlers. Guests enjoy in the calming chime of nearby church bells throughout the day, as they relish the house’s timeless ambiance. Thick walls and an interior garden offer a refreshingly cool interior with spaces designed for enjoyment and pure relaxation.

With three houses currently open, the property will eventually expand to include 20 homes in the colonial neighborhood, including the collection, Casa de los Barcos, which was originally owned by “Pilot Alonso Perez Roldan,” who traveled with Christopher Columbus on his early expeditions to the Americas. Since its inception, it was conceived as an inn and was one of the first stone houses built on the east side of Mercedes street. During the conservation phase of the house, some depictions of galleons that refer to the former owner of the property appeared beneath the layers of plastering and paint – thus inspiring designer Patricia Reid, to make navigation a central theme of the décor.

Included in the nightly rate is a daily a la carte breakfast prepared each morning by a private chef in each houses’ fully equipped kitchen. Private lunches and dinners can be arranged, as well, with advanced notice through your personal butler.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santo Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial, Experiences a Revival

Casas del XVI is located in the heart of Santo Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial, or the colonial district of the historic city. 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 houses. Centrally located along the cobblestone streets of this cultural paradise, Casas del XVI offers travelers an authentic, friendly, bohemian experience in the ultimate walking city for history buffs and arts enthusiasts.

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. For more information visit www.casasdelxvi.com or call (855) 849-6396.

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Jose Eledra

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