Hodelpa Caribe Colonial

The tiny, contemporary lobby -- with its clean lines, muted color palette, and tasteful transitional furniture -- sets the stage for an overall atmosphere that's quiet and reserved. That's not always the case in the budget and mid-range hotels in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone, making the Hodelpa Caribe Colonial a nice departure from some of the area's competitors. Given its size and limited features, there's not much gong on at the hotel. The small restaurant, Azul, is the only area to socialize, and it’s convivial, but relaxed. While adult beverages are available, it doesn't really have a bar scene, and patrons rarely linger. Guests seeking anything more will need to venture to El Conde -- the city’s main tourist strip -- just outside. The hotel’s clientele consists primarily of couples seeking a relaxed, reasonably stylish place to bed down after a day of exploring the city's Colonial Zone.

The area around the hotel -- the Colonial Zone -- is among the safest and most popular in Santo Domingo. Dozens of restaurants, shops, and bars are within a short walk, along El Conde pedestrian mall -- a popular tourist strip that's a block from the hotel. The city’s famous Fortaleza Ozama castle is less than five minutes away on foot, as are the Alcazar Colon and the city's cathedral (the oldest in the Americas). There are no good beaches in downtown Santo Domingo, and the closest (and most popular) is Boca Chica, a 40-minute drive outside the city. Las Americas International (SDQ) Airport is 35 minutes away by car. Taxis are the safest, most convenient means of transportation, especially given the city’s complicated and often delayed bus lines. Rental cars are available in the airport terminal, however, the country’s roads are notoriously poorly maintained.

The roughly dozen room categories vary in decor, size, and amenities, though the style is a nice step up from some of the local competition. Most feature a contemporary, stark white look with subtle pops of blue and wood tones that warm them up a bit. Modern furniture has clean lines, and many rooms have a piece or two of photography or abstract art on the walls to perk things up even more. Suites add vintage-inspired love seats and funky patterns in the soft furnishings. A handful of specialty rooms offer unapologetically kitschy themes inspired by American pop culture (including Marilyn Monroe, hippie-chic, and Hollywood celebrities).Entry-level rooms are small though not cramped, with a single king or two queen beds, and some upgrade to a furnished balcony with views of the Colonial Zone. Suites offer almost double the square footage which allows for living and sleeping areas, though these aren't in separate rooms. Family Rooms sleep up to four. Each of the themed rooms offers a unique layout with additional upgraded amenities like whirlpool hot tubs, foot and neck massagers, and premium minibar options. Standard amenities in every room are limited to the essentials, including air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs with cable service. Wi-Fi is free, and we found the service reliable during our visit. Mini-fridges or stocked minibars are available as well. Bathrooms in most rooms are tiny, bordering on cramped. All feature walk-in glass shower stalls and generic bath amenities.

Features are limited at this tiny property, and the hotel's sole dining space, Azul, is situated in a small, bright, contemporary room just off the lobby. Seating is available in an air-conditioned indoor space, as well as on a small outdoor deck overlooking the Colonial Zone. A simple breakfast buffet is included in the nightly rate and a la carte lunch/dinner service is likewise available. The latter includes a typical mix of Western-friendly and traditional Dominican fare, and a wine list available. Valet parking is free. Wi-Fi is free in every common area and we found the service fast and stable during our visit.