Located in the city’s emerging arts district, this 16th-century villa's very walls are part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.

Discovered in ruins by a couple from Spain, this historic property took over two years to restore, revealing its 16th-century walls and graceful archways that once belonged to San Nicolás de Bari, the 1st Hospital in the Americas, and a UNESCO designated site. Several archaeological objects were found here during renovations. 

Part of a portfolio of design-conscious, small-brand properties developed by the couple, the restoration is modern and minimalist, respecting the sobriety of the original structures' five-hundred-year-old rammed earth walls and its historic significance.

Working with local artisans, the couple designed bespoke furnishings - some furniture and doors were handcrafted of mahogany from the roof - and the finishes are natural and neutral, with creamy limed washed walls, concrete floors, original wooden dintels, and gorgeous handmade tiles. Large format photos and lightboxes punctuate and ad vivid graphic detail to the interiors.

Each of the seven apartments features lofty heights and open plan interiors and are equipped with a kitchen and an ensuite bathroom. Some have private balconies, while others feature large windows overlooking the quiet cacti filled courtyard. 

Conceived as an urban retreat, the convivial communal spaces were designed to share, with three sundecks (where you'll spy the resident parrots flying overhead), a lounge, and the main courtyard serving as the quiet central hub, with the pool placed directly below the original 16th-century arches.

Be sure to take advantage of the cool vintage bicycles (called “fixies”) on offer to tool around the historic district with customized bike tours.

A CARIBBEAN UNESCO TREASURE

The Dominican Republic boasts incredible cultural and natural diversity with some of the Caribbean's most pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and a rich history.  

The island's capital of Santo Domingo dates back to Columbus' discovery in the 16th century, with the UNESCO-listed Zona Colonial at its center, and its miles-long Malecon along the shore. 

Home to the first cathedral, hospital, and university in the Americas, the Ciudad Colonial is experiencing a renaissance and today, is a mosaic of local culture, with ancient monuments, museums, outdoor cafes, and squares bursting with life.

Stroll the cafe-lined Plaza de España with the Alcázar de Colón palace at its center that now houses a cache of Renaissance and medieval treasures. 

Once social distancing is a distant memory, you can dance salsa with locals under the atmospheric ruins of the San Francisco monastery, and literally next door, you'll find the enchanting ruins of San Nicolás de Bari, once the 1st hospital in the Americas. 

Boca Chica beach just under thirty minutes ride and is among several good ones along the southeastern shores including La Romana. The island's interiors are mountainous and lush with the Caribbean's largest mountain Pico Duarte at the center.

Further east immediately offshore is the protected Isla Catalina with beaches, coral reefs, and the wrecked ship of pirate William Kidd.

LOCATION

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Nearest Airport: Las Americas Airport, (14 miles) 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Warm and tropical year-round with the rainy season typically occurring from May through October. December through April is high season.