Weston Suites Hotel

Among the mid-range hotels that we've seen in Santo Domingo, the Weston Suites is a solid option. The lobby -- with its angular architecture, copious use of glass, and IKEA-esque outdoor bar stools at the entrance -- sets the hotel’s overall modern vibe right from the outset. The decor takes modest inspiration from European minimalism and blends a sizable amount of modern business hotel design. Without any noteworthy common areas (as of late 2016), the social scene is relegated to the penthouse restaurant (under renovation) and the small lobby lounge. Guests rarely linger in either space, creating a constant sense of transition everywhere on the property -- no one hangs around too long. Expect to see plenty of business travelers here, but few tourists, as anything the latter would be interested in is quite far away.

The hotel is situated on Expreso 27 de Febrero -- a bustling commercial street that hums with traffic all day. The surrounding neighborhood won’t win any points for charm. However, there are plenty of essential services -- banks, a few restaurants, retail shops, and a modern supermarket -- within a five-minute walk of the property. Malls and shopping centers can also be found along Avenida Winston Churchill, a five-minute walk away. The area is quite safe, even at night. Expect a 20-minute cab ride to the Colonial Zone, and a 45-minute drive to Boca Chica, the famous area beach. Las Americas International (SDQ) Airport is 40 minutes away by car via a modern highway. Like most of the city’s hotels, the Weston Suites Hotel does not provide free airport transportation. However, taxis and paid shuttle service are easy to arrange for fees comparable to most Caribbean cities.

Like the common areas, room decor is polished and simple, with Scandinavian-esque furniture, contemporary wall prints, and a restrained palette of brown, white, and wood tones. The overall feel is far more modern than most other hotels in the city, and the look is definitely business-ready. Entry-level Standard Rooms are similar in size to most typical mid-range business hotel rooms. Superior Rooms offer better views (from the sixth and seventh floors) and slightly larger floor plans. Both categories are available in one- or two-bed configurations. Flagship Suite and Suite Deluxe rooms provide almost twice the square footage of other categories. These have separate living and dining areas, plus an additional bathroom. Every room category includes a long list of modern amenities. On the technology side, flat-screen TVs with cable service, free Wi-Fi, and iPod docks are standard. The in-room kitchenettes come well-equipped with a microwave, mini-fridge, sink, and electric cooktop. Bathrooms are likewise bright and modern, with large vessel sinks and walk-in shower stalls. Generic, hotel-branded bath amenities are standard.

Given the hotel’s current state of construction, few common facilities are available. As of our visit in late 2016, the pool, spa, and fitness center are all closed. The penthouse restaurant is a shell of its former self. However, it remains open to serve free breakfast daily. Adjacent the lobby is a small, reasonably modern business lounge with a computer workstation and available printer/copier services. Free parking is provided in a decent sized off-street lot with 24-hour security. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.