Fodor's Expert Review JW Marriott Santo Domingo

Simply put, this property belonging to Marriott’s luxury brand is a charmer and may be the best hotel in the capital, with stunning lobby decor, a great restaurant, and a wonderful pool area. Service throughout is admirable, as if the staff were handpicked. And of course, the hotel sits atop the upscale Blue Mall, a destination itself. The main drawback is that some guest rooms—standard and above—are as narrow as the bathrooms are petite, though the mattresses and bedding as just as comfortable as anything you'll find in a luxury hotel back home; ask for one of the oversized rooms on the 16th floor. But where else can you can watch the TV news in the mirror as you shave? The hotel has become a destination for locals, who come to party and conduct business. Vertygo101 Lounge remains very popular, and the hotel is a common venue for local weddings. Even if you aren't staying here, a day-pass will allow you to enjoy the lavish buffet (on Sunday) and spend the day at the infinity pool.