Fodor's Expert Review Sheraton Santo Domingo

What comes around goes around and after several evolutions, this deluxe, Malecón high-rise has once again been rebranded as a Sheraton hotel, as it was in the early 1990s. The rooms had their first extensive redo when the property went from Mélia Santo Domingo to Hotel Magna 365. This go-round, Sheraton’s Sweet Sleeper beds were installed as well as plush robes, desk phones, and free laptop-size safes. One can enjoy the Club Level for about $50 above the cost of a standard room, which includes breakfast in the sea-view lounge and unlimited (only national-brand) cocktails during happy hour. Room and Club-Level renovations so far are fairly disappointing, but the spacious lobby, with its dome-shaped ceiling, underwent a super-stylish renovation to bring it in line with Sheraton's brand. The “Social Hour” (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) features fine wines at a discount at the new bar. The impressive rooftop pool has new Euro-furnishings and Bali sun beds. The hotel has a casino and bar not subject to the city’s normal curfew.