Hotel Mango

Like the surrounding neighborhood, the hotel’s atmosphere is relaxed and no-frills -- maybe too much for some guests. Most of the common areas are clean, but rough around the edges, and what little style there is is reminiscent of cheap beach motels up and down the Atlantic coast of the U.S. Still, its low rates make this a reasonably pleasant place to crash for a few nights near the beach, and guests are generally out and about during the day (and much of the night). Even so, the hotel has a little life, and the bar and restaurant are a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists. It's open 24 hours a day and the overall vibe at the hotel is relaxed, but convivial any time of the day. Expect to see Boca Chica's usual mix of solo male travelers, families, and couples here.

Unfortunately, the surrounding neighborhood is best known for prostitution and shady dealings, though this isn't entirely uncommon in Boca Chica and the former is technically legal throughout the country. However, the hotel is centrally located less than 10 minutes from the center of town and Playa Publica Boca Chica. While there’s little to see and do in the area beyond the beach, the historic Iglesia San Rafael church is just eight minutes away on foot, while Parque Nacional Submarino La Caleta (a popular underwater park) is reachable in 10 minutes by car. Budget around 40 minutes to reach Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone by car. Without traffic, Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) is less than a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Taxis and shuttles are the safest and cheapest mode of transportation to and from the airport. Alternatively, inexpensive brand name car rental is available in the terminal. However, the country’s extremely dangerous roads make this a less favorable option.

The same budget-motel decor found in the lobby and common areas appears in every room. The mismatched furniture is faded, dated, and clearly in need of an update. Generic, mass-produced artwork is added to the mix of bold and bright colors, but does little to up the style. In any case, rooms are at least clean and a reliably decent place to crash for the night.

Each of the hotel’s three room categories offers almost identical amenities, but differ slightly in size. Standard Rooms are tiny, with just enough floor space to fit the furniture and a path for guests to move about. Superior Rooms add space for a small, two-person dining area. Suites are the largest. Every room category provides the basics including air-conditioning and cable TV, plus mini-fridges and free Wi-Fi. We found the latter to be reasonably fast and reliable.

Standard and Superior bathrooms are predictably small, while Suites offer slightly more room to move around. All are stark white and utilitarian, with no decorative accents of any kind. Stand-up shower stalls and generic bar soap are standard.

Despite its budget rates and simple style, there are a nice handful of features at the Mango. The pool area is well-maintained and surrounded by enough greenery to almost feel inviting. There's enough seating for a dozen guests on plastic patio dining sets and lounge chairs. There is no poolside drink service, however, the 24-hour bar is just steps away.

The hotel’s casual all-day restaurant is a popular spot for guests as well as locals. The latter come and go throughout the day, using the space as a social hub for the neighborhood. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner come from the same menu at any time of day, with options like pancakes, omelets, sandwiches, and fried foods. Room service is available.

The advertised gym is simply two dated, though functional cardio machines that curiously share an outdoor space with the children’s play area. The spa room was under construction during our visit in late 2016, however, basic in-room massage services are available for a fee. Off-street parking is offered in a gated lot -- a nice feature given the neighborhood’s seedy nature. Wi-Fi is free and reasonably fast.