Re: S.Dom. or B. Chica - Santo Domingo, of course!
I don't know much about BC's night life or hotels, but from a strictly location point of view, you are better off in Santo Domingo than in Boca Chica. If you were to be travelling to the eastern part of the country, then staying in BC might make more sense. You are travelling to the north (to Samana), however. The best route (and only route at this point) is through the Duarte Highway, which is better accessed through Santo Domingo. From Santo Domingo, you will be on Duarte Highway in a breeze!
In terms of Santo Domingo itself as your location for your first night, well I just HAVE to say that you absolutely CANNOT go wrong with this choice. Aside from providing the better location for your road trip to Samana, you will be in a most exciting city! Lots of hotels to choose from, as well as every possible form of entertaiment (restaurants, bars, clubs, points of interest, etc.). I know, you are not going on an excursion of the city, but I just have to emphasize (again) the fact that you will not go wrong staying in Santo Domingo.
In terms of hotels, I have copied a description of a small hotel I highly recommend, it is called Hotel Palacio. No, I don't get a penny for suggesting this hotel, LOL. It is just a very nice place where I have personally stayed, and where friends of mine that have visited the country have stayed also. In addition, take a look at the URLs listed below for more information. Enjoy your trip!
Regards,
Natasha
http://www.dominican-rep.com/Hotel-Palacio.html
http://www.wheretostay.com/caribbean/resorts/319-photos.html
DR1 2001 Archive
Re: Hotel Palacio Info??
Posted By: Natasha
Date: Friday, 12 January 2001, at 5:50 p.m.
In Response To: Hotel Palacio Info?? (RBE)
This is a very nice inn and I highly recommend it. You will not be disappointed by their service and the facilities in general. The rooms range from spacious to downright huge; all done in antiques and impeccably clean. They all have cable TV's. The guestrooms facing the courtyard are a bit dark, in contrary to those that face the streets which are bright and airy. The small indoor courtyard is used for continental breakfasts and it is great for reading and escaping the at times noisy streets. Bathrooms (the only modernity at Palacio) come with abundant toilettries. Some guestrooms' baths have particularly bright lighting and very nice showers!
You will be in the heart of the Colonial Zone, which is a big plus. This hotel is also extremely secured. The rooftop has a jaccuzi and a great view of the old city. Two years ago the rate per night during low season was about $US60. Enjoy!
Regards,
Natasha