An early 20th century hotel has reopened in the Colonial City. The Antiguo Hotel Europe originally operated from 1930-1965 as a traditional hotel, standing out for the exquisite detail and design of its balconies with the characteristic ironwork of the period. The new owners, represented by Spanish businessman Alberto Barrera, have invested RD$100 million in the remodeling, but seek to preserve the original architecture, including the lovely floorwork, considered to be the heritage of colonial architecture. The new, 52-room hotel blends the wonders of the old with the convenience of the new. Its lobby area features Internet facilities, meeting and conference rooms, a travel agency, and a sushi bar. The rooms are Internet ready, offer cable TV, air conditioning, and a safety box. The renowned balconies have also been preserved.
The hotel?s La Terraza bar, with its view of the ruins of the San Francisco monastery (the first monastery of the New World), is under French chef Jean Pierre Jaubert and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Spectacular sunset views are promised.
During the inauguration Manuel Castro, the president of Hotel Management Solutions which runs the hotel, said they seek to attract Caribbean, French and US tourists interested in culture-filled vacations. He said that in addition to the attraction of being located in the Colonial City near its 15th century monuments, the hotel also offers proximity to the great nightlife in the area. A US$65 introductory fee per room has been set. For more on the new hotel, see
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