Casa Colonial Beach & Spa

If everywhere else in the Caribbean seems old hat, chances are you haven’t tried the Dominican Republic. Here, especially on the rough-and-tumble north coast, it’s possible to escape the package-holiday hordes, and maybe even get a taste of that undiscovered-paradise feeling that’s long since departed most Caribbean ports.

And any question about whether the Dominican Republic is ready for high-end luxury tourism is settled by a look at the Casa Colonial. This Spanish-style mansion, right on the beach at Playa Dorada, comprises some fifty oversized (and over-the-top) suites, each with all mod cons, from plush robe, slippers and Frette linens to the obligatory flat-screen television and stereo system. Junior suites are lavish enough, but there’s plenty of room to upgrade — to master suites with private entrances and Roman baths, penthouses, and the Presidential suite, practically a self-contained residence unto itself.

Though a smallish boutique the Casa Colonial comes with many of the big-resort trappings — full-service spa, rooftop infinity pool, and a number of individual-sized whirlpool baths, poised with views of the Playa Dorada. Hard to believe a place like this can still exist in today’s Caribbean; best to get there while the Dominican Republic is still something of a secret.

How to Get There: Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is approximately a 15 minute drive from Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP).