Kimpton’s New Dominican Republic Hotel Has a Rooftop Pool and 500 Years of History

It’s still one of the best-kept secrets in the Caribbean, despite sitting in the heart of a well-known capital: the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in 1498 and today is a pastiche of centuries-old buildings, art galleries, cafes, bars and exciting eateries and beautiful plazas.

While the old city has always had a clutch of boutique hotels, it’s never had a major-branded property, unless you count the old Accor-branded Nicolas de Ovando, which is now a Hodelpa.

That changed this summer, with the debut of Kimpton’s new Las Mercedes hotel, an exciting debut in the Colonial Zone with everything from a rooftop lounge to a multi-level courtyard garden.

Interestingly, the hotel, which held its grand opening this week, is actually operated by another big brand, Iberostar, thanks to the company’s alliance with Kimpton’s parent company, IHG.

Either way, it’s instantly the area’s must-visit place to stay, with an enchanting blend of modern comfort and colorful historic charm.

So what else do you need to know?

There’s a signature eatery, Zola, which focuses on Italian-inspired food; a courtyard tapas-style spot called El Patio in the heart of the aforementioned garden; and a breakfast buffet spot called Coral. That’s along with a pool bar on the rooftop, with everything overseen by executive chef Cosimo Urso. The Colonial Zone has some very good nightlife; on Saturdays, Zola gets into the act with a live DJ set during the late evening.

There is a rooftop pool and bar.

There are 130 rooms. While they’re not big, they’re true to the Kimpton aesthetic: cool, minimalist and comfortable.

So is this all enough to draw travelers to Santo Domingo? The trend is certainly heading that way. The Dominican government has made growing tourism to the capital a big priority, and that has led to a wave of new flights to the city in recent years. Region-wide, more travelers are starting to consider getaways in Caribbean capitals like Kingston and Nassau, and the Colonial Zone certainly deserves to be mentioned in the same breath.

A street in the Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo.

Kimpton’s Caribbean portfolio now stands at four, with its flagship Grand Cayman property, the Kimpton Grand Roatan (which opened last year) and the Kimpton Aluna Tulum, which welcomed its first guests in 2021. Next year, the brand is opening its first-ever all-inclusive, with a 2025 debut in the Rivera Maya.

So what about prices?

If you’re planning a stay at the Kimpton Las Mercedes you can get a room for as low as $154 per night right now. That gives you a king room with a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a sleek-looking bathroom.

For more details, please visit: https://www.ihg.com/kimptonhotels/hotels/us/en/las-mercedes-santo-domingo/sdqlm/hoteldetail
https://www.caribjournal.com/

Kimpton’s New Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Is Now Taking Bookings — And Has An Opening Date

The wine hour. The yoga mats. The food. The coffee and tea service. There’s a reason Kimpton has such a devoted following: it’s been taking the boutique experience to luxury resorts and city hotels across the US and, in recent years, the Caribbean.

But now Kimpton, which just opened its first urban hotel in the Caribbean in Santo Domingo this past summer, is taking its boutique hotel pedigree into a new concept: all-inclusive.

All-inclusive has been attracting big brands in the Caribbean, and now Kimpton is set to debut its own take on all-inc with the upcoming debut of the Kimpton Tres Rios in the Mexican Caribbean. It’s the first-ever all-inclusive Kimpton, managed by leading owner and operator Playa Hotels and Resorts, which has a growing list of top all-inclusives in the wider region.

The Gibson lobby bar.

The property is set on 326 acres, bridging beach, jungle and mangroves, within a nature park that has everything from cents to eco-trails.

So what else do you need to know?

The Kimpton Tres Rios will have 355 rooms, with everything from adults-only rooms to plunge-pool suites, all with amenities like 24-hour room service and free Wi-Fi, among others

The property is set on 326 acres, bridging beach, jungle and mangroves in a nature park.
You’ll get access to store four pools, along with a fitness center, kids programs and a spa called Kej, which has local Mayan-inspired eatments.

The dining program has seven different concepts: Italian, Asian fusion and Mediterranean, to name a few. That’s along with five bars and lounges, including an adults-only poolside spot called Del Mar.

The new property is an “all-inclusive retreat where every detail has been carefully designed to provide tranquility, comfort, and an intimate connection with nature,” said Fernando Mulet, EVP and chief investment officer at Playa, in a statement provided.

This eatery is focused on Mexican street food. It’s called De la Calle.

So when is it actually opening?

The hotel is now taking bookings for stays beginning on March 20, 2025, Caribbean Journal confirmed.

What about cost?

Entry-level rooms with mangrove views and two queen beds stat at $499 per night, according to Kimpton’s Website.

For more, visit the Kimpton Tres Rios.

By Alexander Britell

Toronto’s First Kimpton, Saint George, Taking Reservations For Stays Beginning July 1

KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS ANNOUNCES THE

KIMPTON SAINT GEORGE

TORONTO, ON – Celebrating its address in the heart of the city’s vibrant Annex neighbourhood, Kimpton announces its first ever Toronto hotel, Kimpton Saint George, located at 280 Bloor Street West between Huron and St. George Street, will open in Summer of 2018.

Now taking reservations for stays commencing July 1, the highly anticipated addition to Bloor Street’s Culture Corridor will pay homage to the community’s history and honour its location at the intersection of arts, culture, and expression. “Toronto is one of the most dynamic cities in the world right now with its own distinct identity and culture, making it a perfect home for Kimpton,” said Ron Vlasic, Vice President of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. “We’re thrilled to be opening the first boutique hotel that embodies the essence of the lively Annex neighbourhood, in the hub of the city’s arts, culture and dining scene.”

As North America’s boutique hotel pioneer, Kimpton is known for embracing a locally oriented approach to its design, service and guest experience in all its 66 locations. With forward-thinking, residential-inspired design, want-for-nothing amenities and heartfelt service, Kimpton Saint George will embody all the hallmarks of an authentic Kimpton experience and proudly showcase the brand’s success in re-inventing existing structures and imagining boutique hotels that garner civic pride.

Located amidst Toronto’s world class museums and attractions including the Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, Bata Shoe Museum, Gardiner Museum, Royal Conservatory of Music and a litany of independent shops, cafes, galleries and arts institutions ripe for exploration, Kimpton Saint George will offer its guests access to Toronto’s multi-faceted cultural scene in one of its most notable districts.

Owned and developed by InnVest Hotels, one of the largest hotel owners in Canada, the 14-story Kimpton Saint George will feature 188 artfully designed guest rooms, including 20 suites, a Presidential Suite and approximately 1,500 square feet of ground level meeting space. Amenities will include a fitness centre. complimentary PUBLIC bikes, in-room yoga mats, pet-friendly accommodations, complimentary morning coffee and tea service and hosted nightly social hour. Additionally, industry leader, Terry Tsianos, founder and CEO of Pegasus Hospitality Group, in collaboration with Jackman Reinvents, is poised to introduce a dynamic gastropub dining destination adjacent to Kimpton Saint George. The soon-to-be-announced restaurant will service the hotel’s in-room dining and catered events.

Reservations are currently available for dates of stay starting July 1. As the hotel moves closer to completion, earlier dates will open for availability. For more information, visit www.kimptonsaintgeorge.com and follow along on the hotel’s journey to its summer opening on Facebook and Instagram.

 

ABOUT KIMPTON SAINT GEORGE

Debuting Summer 2018 at 280 Bloor Street West, Kimpton Saint George is a 14-story, 188-key, artfully designed hotel, including 20 suites, a Presidential Suite and approximately 1,500 square feet of ground level meeting space. Distinguished for its residentially-inspired design, local touches, dynamic gastropub dining, and genuine service, Kimpton Saint George is located in the vibrant Annex neighborhood, walking distances to world class museums, attractions, and independent shops, cafes and galleries. For more information, visitwww.kimptonsaintgeorge.com and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT KIMPTON HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is the acknowledged industry pioneer that introduced the boutique hotel concept to the United States in 1981. Anchored in one-of-a-kind experiences, Kimpton operates more than 60 hotels and 70 restaurants, bars and lounges across urban locations, resort destinations and up and coming markets in the United States, Europe and the Caribbean. Time and again, Kimpton has demonstrated its commitment to creating spaces and experiences that are centered on its guests. From inspiring design that evokes curiosity to forward-thinking flavors that feed the soul, every detail is thoughtfully curated and artfully delivered. The Kimpton experience is always meaningful, unscripted and ridiculously personal.

Kimpton is highly regarded for its workplace culture and has been consistently recognized on the FORTUNE magazine “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. Empowered employees bring to life the heartfelt guest experience that has come to define Kimpton. In January 2015, Kimpton became part of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) family of hotel brands. For more information, visit www.KimptonHotels.com.

Seasonal Packages Available At Kimpton's Midwest Properties For Creative, Intimate Getaways.

Chicago

• Monaco
• Yas Queens! -  Book a Deluxe room with 2 Queen beds & receive:
• An upgrade to a River View room for just $30
• In-room movie of your choice
• A bottle of bubbly
• A pint of ice cream
• Available for stays now through February 28, 2017
• I <3 BEER -   Book this exclusive package and get:
• Deluxe accommodations
• Charcuterie Board and Beer Flight at SouthWater Kitchen       
• Available for stays now through February 28, 2017
• Shopping Package - Tis the season to shop! In the heart of Chicago's Shopping Districts; walk to State Street & the Mag Mile!
• 10% Off Deluxe & River View Deluxe Rooms
• 20% Off Suites & River View Suites
• $25 AMEX Gift Card, For Each Night!
• Palomar
• Cupid's Concierge Package - Book a stay fit for royalty and experience VIP accommodations with the following package that includes:
• Overnight Accommodations
• Pre-arrival Concierge consultation to plan every step of your stay
• VIP access to our Concierge during your stay
• 2pm late checkout
• *All reservations must be booked at 3 days prior to arrival
• *Available for stays through February 28, 2017
• Dylan's Candy Bar Package - Tickle your sweet tooth with our DCB package, including:
• Overnight Accommodations
• Personalized Tour of the Dylan's Candy Bar Store Located on Michigan Ave, Including:
• Your Own Candy Tour Specialist
• Candy, Fudge & Ice Cream Tastings
• Dylan's Candy Bar Bottle of Water
• 1lb Candy Spree
• Personalized Paint Can for Candy Spree
• Customize Your Own Chocolate Bar Wrapper
• 15% Off Any Additional Purchase In-Store
• Complimentary Dylan's Candy Bar Signature Chicago Chocolate Bar
• *All reservations must be booked at least 48 hours in advance 
  *Available for stays through April 30, 2017
• Dylan's Candy Bar Sweet Suite Package - Book a true Dylan's Candy Bar candy land experience that can be themed for adults or kids! Everything from bedding, apparel and treats will be included in the suite. Package includes:
• Overnight accommodations in a one-bedroom suite fully decorated in DCB garb
• Sweet Treats Welcome amenity
• Dylans Candy Bar Signature Hat Box and 3 Dylan's Candy Bar Cupcake Fillables with various candies
• *Available for stays through April 30, 2017
• Allegro

Minneapolis

•  The Grand Hotel
•  Lounging in Love - Bask in the month of love with this exclusive package
• Champagne + Chef’s Specialty Fireworks Chocolate
• $40 Dining Credit for In-Room Dining and/or SIX15 Room
• Turndown Service
• 2PM Late Checkout
• Valid for stays until February 26, 2017

• Midwest Resident Promo - We LOVE Our Locals!
• $30 Off Guestrooms
• Valet Parking ($41/Night Value!)
• Two Drink Vouchers at SIX15Room
• Resident Of: MN, WI, ND, SD, IA

Cleveland

• The Schofield (opened last year)

Win An Unforgettable Night 57 Floors Above Philadelphia At One Liberty Observation Deck In A Suite Outfitted By Kimpton Hotel Palomar

                                                                                                                                                                                                             

WIN “A NIGHT IN THE STARS” AT ONE LIBERTY OBSERVATION DECK

One Liberty Observation Deck and Kimpton Hotels of Philadelphia Team Up to Create a

One-Night-Only Skyline Suite for a Lucky Winner and Their Guest to

Spend the Night in Philadelphia’s Highest Hotel Room – 57 Floors Up

Philadelphia’s newest and tallest attraction, One Liberty Observation Deck, announces its “A Night in the Stars” sweepstakes in partnership with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants of Philadelphia. From June 1 – 14, participants visitwww.phillyfromthetop.com to enter to win one night in a custom-built skyline hotel suite 57 floors above the city. On June 22, the winner of the sweepstakes will spend one unforgettable night in Philadelphia’s highest hotel room and wake up to incredible sunrise views the next morning.  The pop-up hotel room, outfitted with the luxuries of Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia’s Presidential Suite, will maximize the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Observation Deck and allow the winner and his/her guest to take in the expansive 360° city views in this exclusive, one-night-only suite.

During the grand prize stay, the winner and their guest will further enjoy the comforts and Kimpton-signature amenities of a spacious king-sized bed on a Kimpton plush mattress, luxe Frette linens, Atelier Bloem bath amenities, a signature Palomar robe, and VIP culinary experiences.

The full prize package includes:

• One night stay at One Liberty Observation Deck in a suite outfitted by Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia on Wednesday, June 22, 2016
• Bottle of champagne upon check-in provided by Hotel Palomar
• Three-course dinner for two with one bottle of Red Owl Cabernet or Stratus Chardonnay at Red Owl Tavern
• Drinks for two at Stratus Rooftop Lounge
• Room service breakfast at One Liberty Observation Deck provided by Square 1682
• The entire experience is valued at over $1,300

“Since first opening late last year, One Liberty Observation Deck has become the place for visitors and locals alike to experience Philly at brand new heights. It’s the best view of the city in the city,” explained Observation Deck General Manager Evan Evans. “The contest winner will have the once-in-a-lifetime experience of not only enjoying the view, but also waking up to it.”

“Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants of Philadelphia are thrilled to be a part of this unique opportunity with One Liberty Observation Deck, celebrating the gorgeous views of our beautiful city. We pride ourselves in providing to our guests locally inspired, unforgettable experiences, and ‘Night in The Stars’ will be exactly that,” said Mark Hayes, general manager of Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia. “Between the Observation Deck’s stunning views and Kimpton’s superior style and comfort, one lucky winner and their guest will enjoy a truly one-of-a-kind experience here in Philadelphia.”

Prize winner and their guest must be 21 years of age or older and be available for the overnight stay on June 22, 2016. Participants can enter once per day at www.phillyfromthetop.com from June 1 through June 14, 2016.

About One Liberty Observation Deck

One Liberty Observation Deck, Philly From The Top, located in the heart of Center City, is Philadelphia’s tallest enclosed observation deck. At 57 floors up, enjoy 360° views, 365 days a year, morning noon & night! Located within walking distance to other major attractions and just steps away from public transportation, get a top-down look at iconic sights, breathtaking views and discover the music, sports & culture that is the City of Brotherly Love. Open every day 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., One Liberty Observation Deck is owned and operated by Montparnasse 56, the group behind observation decks in Paris, Berlin and Chicago. For more information, visit PhillyFromTheTop.com or call 215.561.DECK (3325)

About Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

San Francisco-based Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is a leading collection of boutique hotels and restaurants and the acknowledged industry pioneer that first introduced the boutique hotel concept to the United States. In 1981, Bill Kimpton founded the company that today is renowned for making travelers feel genuinely cared for through thoughtful perks and amenities, bold, playful design and a sincerely personal style of guest service. Out to help people live full, balanced lives, Kimpton aims to inspire with touches like yoga mats in every room, complimentary coffee and tea to start the day, hosted evening Wine Hour, in-room fitness programming and complimentary bike rentals. The award-winning restaurants and bars are led by talented chefs and bartenders that offer guests a chance to dine like a local.

Kimpton is consistently ranked as one of the top companies in the Market Metrix Hospitality Index, Upper Upscale Segment, for Customer Satisfaction. The company is highly-regarded for its innovative employee culture and benefits and has been named a FORTUNE magazine “Best Place to Work” seven times since 2009. Kimpton is continuously growing and currently operates over 60 hotels and 70 plus restaurants, bars and lounges in 30 U.S. cities. In January 2015, Kimpton was welcomed into the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) family of hotel brands, bringing together two special cultures and sets of values to create the world's largest boutique hotel business. For more information, visit www.KimptonHotels.com.

Boutique Hotel Winners Of The Hotels.Com Loved By Guests Awards 2016

 Sometimes you just can’t beat a boutique hotel, they may be small in size but they’re certainly mighty in their appeal. This selection of boutique hotels from around the world recently took home the ‘Best for Boutique’* awards from the prestigious Hotels.com® Loved by Guests Awards 2016.  

 

Hotel guests are the judges in this annual awards program from Hotels.com. Pulled from almost 20 million genuine and trusted reviews from guests who have actually checked-in, the Loved by Guests awards recognizes those hotels who have achieved the best average guest review rating. 50 hotels worldwide have received the ‘Best for Boutique’ award and here’s the pick of the bunch that will make you want to bed-down boutique on your next trip:

The Culver Hotel in California
Review Rating: 4.6 out of 5 on Hotels.com

Built in 1924 this uniquely shaped flatiron building was once owned by movie star John Wayne and whilst he was more famous for his westerns, today this 4-star artfully designed hotel oozes vintage glamour, a European edge and a romantic cinematic history. Movie stars and former presidents have stayed in this architectural gem in downtown Culver City, so every room has a story. Today, this 46 bedroom manor hotel has created the perfect balance between classic and modern as the rooms feature crystal chandeliers, antique armoires and reinvented vintage finds artfully paired with contemporary custom made pieces. Rooms available from $271** per room per night.

The Anglers Miami South Beach, a Kimpton Hotel
Review Rating: 4.6 out of 5 on Hotels.com
Live the South Beach lifestyle with a stay at The Anglers Hotel - an exclusive getaway in bustling Miami. Moments from all the action of Miami Beach, this is a sun-trap sanctuary with its intimate grounds full of cozy enclaves, lush gardens, a sumptuous pool and rooftop terraces. The 45 rooms are effortlessly elegant, some even come with private hot tubs, outdoor showers and sun decks. Rooms available from $188 per room per night.

 

Sundial Boutique Hotel in Whistler
Review Rating: 4.6 out of 5 on Hotels.com
Explore Canada before you move and this 4-star hotel is a great way to figure out whether or not you’re packing up your home come November. Located in the heart of Whistler Village and just a snowball's throw from the Whistler Blackcomb mountain gondolas, this hotel is renowned for its personalized service and incredible location, this all-suite hotel with its 49 rooms reflects the natural ambiance of British Columbia’s wilderness.  With its rooftop hot tub you can take a break from skiing in the winter to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Rooms available from $114 per room per night.

The top ten ‘Best for Boutique’ award winners to suit every traveler’s taste:

1.       Montalcino, Italy - Castello di Velona SPA Resort & Winery  

·         4.7 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $484 per room per night

2.       Florence, Italy - Hotel L'Orologio

·         4.7 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $184 per room per night

3.       Culver City, California - The Culver Hotel

·         4.6 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $271 per room per night

4.       Miami, Florida - The Anglers Miami South Beach, a Kimpton Hotel

·         4.6 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $188 per room per night

5.       Krabi, Thailand - Nakamanda Resort and Spa

·         4.6 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $131 per room per night

6.       Whistler, Canada - Sundial Boutique Hotel

·         4.6 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $114 per room per night

7.       Vienna, Austria - Saint Shermin

·         4.6 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $103 per room per night

8.       Barcelona, Spain - Hotel Bagues

·         4.5 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $244 per room per night

9.       Berlin, Germany - Hotel Gendarm Nouveau  

·         4.5 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $100 per room per night

10.   Bangkok, Thailand - Praya Palazzo

·         4.5 out of 5 guest review rating on Hotels.com

·         From $91 per room per night

All of these stunning, award-winning boutique hotels, plus hundreds of thousands more, can be booked online via Hotels.com or through the mobile app available for IOS, Android, Windows and Amazon Kindle devices, where customers will also have access to special Secret Prices*** to save even more on their next stay away.

For more information on all the winners in the Hotels.com Loved by Guests Awards 2016, click here.

Survey Reveals America’s Most Romantic Hotel Chains

Money can’t buy love, but it can buy a romantic hotel room. There's no shortage of hotel options in the U.S., but for an anniversary, date night or specific holiday - one must book overly romantic accommodations. With Summer getaways just around the corner, MissTravel.com surveyed members to reveal the most romantic hotel chains.

New York - March 7, 2016

A good hotel, much like a good relationship, must have the perfect combination of comfort, excitement, and indulgence. The trick is finding the right match. Travel-dating website, MissTravel.com, asked members to fill out a blank form, results were then tallied to determine the most romantic hotel chain in America.

Members voted Kimpton Hotels as the most romantic. Respondents alluded to the "stylish rooms," "hosted wine tasting" and the "luxe-feel," as contributors to the romantic appeal of the boutique-hotel brand.

Top 10 Romantic Hotel Chains

Rank - Chain - Number of Votes

1 Kimpton - 10,724

2 Hyatt - 9,145

3 Hilton - 7,897

4 Marriott - 4,718

5 Omni - 3,421

6 Intercontinental - 2,573

7 W - 2,144

8 Raddison - 1,844

9 Sheraton - 1,286

10 Westin - 643

“The perfect hotel is essential to a romantic vacation,” said Brandon Wade, founder and CEO of MissTravel.com. “Travelers looking to book a romantic getaway shouldn't shy away from big-name chain hotels. Many offer unique perks and luxurious amenities which can enhance romance at a very accessible price.”

MissTravel.com is the world’s first travel-dating website, the platform connects singles for dates to popular vacation destinations. MissTravel members are frequent fliers and avid travelers.

About MissTravel

MissTravel.com is the world’s first travel dating website. Instead of the conventional date, such as movies or dinner, singles venture on first dates to vacation destinations all over the world in hopes of finding romance. MissTravel.com was founded by MIT alum and online dating expert, Brandon Wade, and joins an impressive brand family of successful niche dating websites. Launched in 2012, the site boasts over 600,000 members in 135 countries.