JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo

With retail neighbors like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Carolina Herrera residing in the prestigious Blue Mall on which the JW sits, there’s a certain level of expectation that this hotel should deliver on the luxury front. And it doesn’t disappoint. Opened in 2014, JW Marriott dominates the local skyline like a shiny blue-glass beacon of style in an otherwise fairly bland urban setting. Guarded by a hefty bronze Griffin statue (the brand’s trademark mythical emblem), the swanky entrance foyer sits on the ground floor, flanked by Blue Mall on either side. With designer marble floors, large wing chairs in soft chocolate-brown leather, and a lush fern wall literally growing behind the concierge desk, the foyer sets the slick urban tone for the hotel’s polished aesthetic, which really kicks off 101 feet above ground. 

Elevators from the foyer deliver guests directly to the front desk where an indulgent scene of oak, onyx, and marble in rich earthy tones takes over. The long rectangular lobby continues the modern sophistication with marble, wood, and color contrasts in sleek leather lounge settings on bold-patterned rugs, and striking contemporary artwork on walls. Big ring pendant lights overhead reflect off the gleaming marble floors below like halos. Out to the terrace, Vertygo 101’s claim to fame is it’s clear glass floor on which guests can lounge, dine, and imbibe whilst observing the action at ground level some 101 feet below. The pool, set on the terrace corner of this level, runs with a similar floating theme. It’s framed in glass on two sides, aquarium-style, so guests can see in and underwater swimmers can see out. Glass balustrades around the outer perimeter highlight the city in the background. The JW Marriott is about as cosmopolitan as it gets in Santo Domingo, and while the crowd is largely a business one, anyone craving a slick urban stay who doesn't mind being removed from the beach, should be happy here. 

The property is located in the busy financial district of Piantini, which is considered one of the most safe and upmarket pockets of Santo Domingo. Shopping centers and eateries are scattered all around the hotel. For instance, a huge La Sirena supermarket is located right across the road, and it’s a six-minute walk from the Acropolis Center shopping complex. The hotel adjoins upscale Blue Mall -- home to high end brands like Bvlgari and Louis Vuitton, in addition to a Hard Rock Cafe, an IMAX cinema, and casual eateries. It’s 25 minutes from the Colonial Zone and 45 minutes from Las Americas International Airport depending on traffic. Nearby highlights include the National Botanic Gardens (15 minutes), the National Zoo (15 to 20 minutes), Bellapart Museum (12 minutes), and Centro Olimpico (15 minutes). Taxis can be arranged instantly with entrance staff, and free parking is available. However, the inland city setting removes the JW Marriott from beaches, which may not suit leisure travelers. 

Available in a range of categories that range from Deluxe Room to Executive Suite, all units are handsomely dressed and superbly appointed with thoughtful touches. Dark wood and leather, white marble, and glass furniture finishes give rooms a richness, while plush, concentric diamond carpet adds textural contrast. Soft white bedding lightens the look, as do big abstract artwork pieces in soft tones. Suites dramatically upsize layouts with huge living areas. Features in all units include Nespresso machines, iPod docks, refrigerated minibars, and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms make a serious style statement in black and white marble, with luxe faucets and fixtures. Big, frameless glass walk-through showers lead to substantial bathtubs; hefty jet-black vanities with rectangular basins sit below huge mirrors; and water closets are contained separately. A generous selection of Aromatherapy Associates toiletry and vanity products are provided. In addition, rooms are all equipped with robes, irons, ironing boards, safes, hairdryers, and ample tech outlets. However, Wi-Fi costs an extra fee. Nightly turndown service is provided. All rooms take in city views through wall-to-wall windows -- the higher the better (an expansive green roof dominates some lower level views); and some higher categories have private balconies. Qualifying rooms and guests have access to the Executive Lounge with free mini-buffet snacks and meals, plus coffee, and happy hour beverages.

Features here are stylish and convenient. The glass-edged pool is a real highlight, located on the 101-foot high terrace off the lobby, with plenty of deck chairs observing the city in the background. Vertygo 101 lounge and bar serves lunch and dinner -- plus drinks and cocktails outside on the glass-floored terrace. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Winston Grill & Patio serves a mix of international flavors with a la carte lunch and dinner menus, and an excellent extensive breakfast buffet. The modern fitness center features a range of Matrix cardio- and weight-training equipment with views of the city. Massages are available here also. Extensive meeting, event, and ballroom space caters to all manner of functions and corporate needs. Free on-site parking is available, while valet incurs a fee. Wi-Fi is provided for in public areas, however in-room use incurs a daily charge.