The Dominican Republic is a top travel destination for many people. Featuring pristine white sand beaches and top luxury resorts, Dominican Republic is a tropical paradise. A terrific way to experience all this Caribbean country offers, is staying in a large, plantation style house – The Peninsula House.

The Peninsula House is located on the gorgeous Samana Peninsula of the Dominican Republic. Found near the quiet sea town of Las Terrenas, this award winning hotel is for adults only. What a VIP experience to stay in one of the luxury hotel’s plantation-style guesthouse. In total, there are six junior suites to choose from.

Each of the junior suites in this Victorian house are beautifully decorated from a multi-million dollar art collection. The decor in each suite is absolutely stunning. Each guest room also has at least one, spectacular crystal chandelier.

We love the central courtyard that becomes the conduit to everything The Peninsula House has to offer. There is a dining room, a bar, quaint parlors and the dining room.

Enjoying your meals on the property and taking advantage of the magnificent ocean views is incredible. Start your day with a delicious breakfast and savoir the scenic sunrise. For lunch, have it on the nearby beach and afterwards, take a quick swim in the aqua blue ocean. Experience a romantic dinner on the veranda or out on the patio, lit by candles. Your romantic dinner with ocean views is one to remember each night during your VIP stay. That is fine dining at its very best!

The atmosphere at The Peninsula House is relaxed with a Caribbean vibe. But you can expect only the best concierge service. The hotel’s staff is professional and attentive. Their sole goal is to provide you the best stay possible.

During day, soak in the sun’s rays while enjoying Coson Beach. Play in ocean waters or lie on the sand and work on your summer tan. Explore the sleepy village of Las Terrenas on the Dominican Republic’s northern coast. Discover small shops and restaurants. The town offers many water sports such as diving, snorkeling, scuba diving and kite surfing. If you want to get out on the Caribbean Sea, try either deep-sea fishing or sailing along the lush coast.

Once back at the hotel, relax and unwind on the spacious veranda. The veranda provides nice views of the private gardens that go out to the swimming pool area. The infinity pool is the perfect spot to cool down or simply swim a few laps. Again the ocean views are amazing. To socialize and enjoy some great tasting cocktails, head to the inn’s beach club. During lunch, you can order your meal and have it served to you right in your own lounge chair. Now that’s chair-side service at its best

Arrive for your stay in VIP style. Be sure to fly in on a helicopter. The hotel grounds even has its own landing pad, so make your dramatic James Bond entrance.

The Life of Luxury can assist your travel plans to the Dominican Republic. Be treated to superb accommodations and luxury amenities at The Peninsula House. Please stop again soon to follow our luxury blog. Read about the best, luxury travel hot spots around the world.

Photo: The Peninsula House

The weather in the Dominican Republic is excellent year-round, since it’s located in the Caribbean. Dominican Republic is also the most visited tourist destination in the Caribbean.

The Dominican Republic is becoming very popular destinations in what is expected to be a booming travel year in 2015.

The southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic is emerging as a haven for the eco-conscious tourist who seeks a natural, all-encompassing Caribbean escape.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is a 13-room property that has become the region’s leading eco-resort. As a model in eco-tourism, Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge features its own hydroelectric plant that provides 30% of its own electricity. The resort also features a certified organic garden, hiking and mountain biking trails, plus an organic river spa.

There is lots to do nearby and adventure types will love the numerous excursions available such as tour nearby national parks within the Jaragua, Bahoruco and Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve. You can also visit an organic coffee plantation, Oviedo Lagoon and Lake Enriquillo, the Casa de Tarzán (Tarzan’s House), Las Aguilas Bay and even explore caves with ancient tribal art.

Enjoy the beauty of Samaná Peninsula, which is tucked away on the Dominican Republic’s northeastern coast.

The Samaná peninsula is becoming more popular each year as one of the Caribbean’s top new destinations. It’s an authentic, Caribbean destination that boasts incredible beaches and scenic mountain ranges.

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences is the top boutique hotel in the area. Providing ultimate intimacy and privacy along with pristine, private beaches stretching for miles, it’s an ideal travel destination.

Sublime Samana is a modern yet elegant luxury resort and member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The seven-acre property is located amongst an expansive canal of pools that stretch almost 500 feet from end-to-end.

In such a beautiful environment, you can sleep soundly at Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences. Relax in your choice of contemporary-designed 1- 2- and 3-bedroom suites and casitas that provide hotel guests an understated luxury.

If you would like to travel to the Dominican Republic, contact us and a luxury travel concierge agent will assist with all your vacation needs. Follow this luxury blog to keep up with the latest travel industry news.

The New World’s oldest city – Ciudad Colonial in the Dominican Republic will be home to a new boutique hotel – Casas del XVI

Santo Domingo’s Ciudad Colonial is proud to be a UNESCO World Heritage site and regarded as the oldest European settlement in the new world. Now you can step back in time and follow the same cobblestone streets as Christopher Columbus, arrived on the island of Hispaniola in 1492.

Casas del XVI will be an eight-room luxury hotel in the Dominican Republic and is scheduled to open March 2014 in Santo Domingo’s emerging Ciudad Colonial. There is a planned soft opening of the new hotel on December 15, 2013.

What makes the Casas del XVI hotel so unique and intriguing is it will be the first to offer exclusive accommodations in restored sixteenth century, colonial houses.

The boutique hotel carefully preserves the beauty of the abodes that make up the old town neighborhood by offering guests accommodations in eight rooms and suites across three different houses. Each house is reminiscent of the Dominican Republic island’s earliest European settlers.

The stunning interior of each house is decorated based on the theme relating to Dominican culture and sixteenth century history. The result is based on owner’s ultimate goal of preserving the original architecture, drawing upon the area’s international influences, plus celebrating the vibrant Dominican culture.

The interior decor of each colonial house consists of themes that include: maps, navigation and of course …. the pineapple, a true symbol of hospitality to the indigenous people. Also displayed are images of the Colonial City’s inception during the early age of island exploration

Hotel guests quickly realize the colonial charm and will also notice an eclectic mix of ancient artifacts, handcrafted local and international furniture, in addition to local artwork.
For the ultimate in concierge service, each colonial home offers a personal butler to attend your every need.

There is much to see and do during your stay. Casas del XVI hotel guests can pick from a wide variety of excursions. Consider Old City guided strolls, a flavors of the city tour, golf challenge at the Las Lagunas Country Club, tasting series at the area’s finest restaurants, tours of the colonial churches, a rum experience at the historic Ron Barcelo distillery, a chocolate, clay and sugar tour, plus much more!

Included in the nightly rate at both Casa del los Mapas and Casa del Arbol is a delicious, daily a la carte breakfast that features traditional Dominican and international menu options. The meals are prepared by the butler each morning in the fully equipped kitchen of each house.

For those who desire a fine dining experience, private lunches and dinners can be arranged with a private chef. Or if you wish, your personal butler can also cook your special meals with advance notice.

Pre-opening rates at the Casas del XVI boutique hotel in the Dominican Republic begin at $225 per night.

If you are interested in book a reservation at the new Casas del XVI hotel in the Dominican Republic, please contact one of our travel specialists at The Life of Luxury.

One of the most popular destinations in all the Caribbean is the scenic Dominican Republic. As family travel is expected to increase to the island’s lessor know regions in 2014, we wanted to share two luxury boutique hotels – Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge and Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences.

The two luxury hotels are located on opposite coasts of the Dominican Republic. Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is located in Barahonaand the Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences in the eclectic fishing community of Las Terrenas.

What vacationers love about these two, luxury properties is the more remote nature, far from the mega resorts of popular Punta Cana.

Dominican Republic is a literal treasure trove of cultural delights, adventures galore, hidden beaches and natural wonders.

If you are looking for authentic Dominican charm and luxurious creature comforts, these two undiscovered Dominican boutique hotels offer vacationing families a unique opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of this popular Caribbean island.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge:
Found in the tropical rainforest between three peaks, the hotel property offers a thrilling, ten platform canopy tour, horseback riding, mountain biking plus numerous hiking trails.

Well suited for adventurous families, Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge provided its guests an eco-friendly escape that will deliver lasting memories.

The boutique lodge’s 12 guest rooms recently completed extensive renovations to make your stay even better. Discover the natural wonders of the Dominican Republic’s southwestern coast.

Get out and immerse yourself in nature. Take an excursion and visit nearby national parks within the Jaragua, Bahoruco and Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve.

Parents and children looking for some relaxation, can enjoy the hotel’s luxurious open-air, organic river spa that offers a magical escape into the sights and sounds of the surrounding jungle. Healing treatments are available that utilize local ingredients.

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences
Tucked away on a gorgeous, six-mile stretch of beautiful private beach, the luxury Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences is near the bustling cultural mecca of Las Terrenas. Las Terrenas is quaint fishing town that is a blend of eclectic and accessible culture driven by Italian, French and Dominican influences.

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences features 26 tremendously spacious guest accommodations that range from one and two-bedroom suites to two and three-bedroom casitas (villas). This luxury hotel is ideally suited for families of all sizes.

For families with younger children, the hotel offers a new bed, turn-down service. Each evening, your children will receive special gifts ranging from nighttime sweets to toys and books.

Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences provides a wide variety of amenities for families including: complimentary use of paddleboards, boogie boards, surfboards and wind surfing equipment. All easily available in one place at the hotel’s brand new water activity center.

For change of pace that doesn’t involve water sports, consider a unforgettable excursion with choices such as a world-class whale watching experience. For foodies, consider taking family cooking lessons. The package includes taking a trip to the local fish market for the freshest, local ingredients. How about a fun time horseback riding? After your enjoyable ride, end up at natural waterfalls and refreshing swimming holes.

It’s no secret that families do not want boring, cookie-cutter itineraries and travel experiences. Adventure and relaxing opportunities await at either the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge or Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences. Get it all far from the all-inclusive and often crowded mega resorts of Punta Cana.

Both Dominican Republic luxury hotels are currently offering special vacation getaway packages.

To learn more and book a reservation to the Dominican Republic, please contact The Life of Luxury and allow us to make your dream, family vacation a reality.

Photo: Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

Situated on the secluded Southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic, the incredible 12-room, eco-luxe Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge lies on a hilltop and is surrounded by tropical forests.

The Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is nestled in a lush jungle oasis and also offers guests breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

This family owned property serves up the ultimate in green luxury by featuring its own electricity producing hydro plant, expansive sustainable garden and the organic Tanama River Spa.

The Dominican Republic’s eco-luxe Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is now offering a special “Holistic Rebirth Package” for eco-conscious travelers who desire the ultimate, rejuvenating spa-cation.

This six-day, five-night travel package highlights the hotel’s organic river spa, on-site garden and rich biodiversity. It’s your chance to experience a rejuvenating retreat into Taino tradition.

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Featuring a five-hour Rebirth spa day complete with Larimar stone massage and mango body wrap, fresh pressed organic juices, meditation sessions and natural healing courses, this is the perfect getaway for health-concious couples, groups of friends, mother-daughter pairs, and even bridal parties!

Here’s a summary of “Holistic Rebirth Package” now offered by the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge:

• Rebirth Spa Day – Let the rainforest consume you as you enjoy five-hours of uninterrupted pampering in this Taino paradise. Treatments include:

– Tropical Pineapple and Mango Body Wrap – Get lost in the sweet aroma of organically grown local pineapple and mango during this sumptuous body wrap performed in the spa’s temazcal. The treatment is designed to nurture, moisturize, cleanse and detoxify the body.

– Hydrating Facial – Nourish your skin, as the perfect combination of green tea, aloe vera, honey, calendula mint extract and chamomile restore freshness and brightness to your face.

– Tropical Foot Bath – Indulge your feet in an exquisite combination of aromatic salts, before enjoying a mild exfoliation and tropical coconut foot mask.

– Ciba Azul Massage – Experience total harmony during this exotic hot and cold stone massage, including a healing therapy performed with the Dominican’s native Larimar stone.

– Candlelit Jacuzzi – Take in the sights and sounds of the jungle setting, during a relaxing herbal soak overlooking the soothing river.

• Trio of Exotic Daily Juices – From pineapple and spinach to tamarind, mango and guanabana, let Casa Bonita’s chef craft delectable fresh pressed juices for you to enjoy throughout the day. All juices are made from produce grown in the hotel’s organic garden.

• Meditation Session – Relish the subtle breeze as you rejuvenate your mind during an hour long guided mediation session in an open-air pavilion overlooking the soothing river.

• Nature Hikes – Trace the property’s rainforest trails during daily, guided hikes that expose you to the property’s astounding biodiversity.

• Natural Healing Course – Relish the expertise of the property’s healer as you learn how to make teas, scrubs and other home remedies with healing powers. Discover the health benefits of different plants and fruits to continue your holistic journey at home.

• Beach Exfoliation – Indulge your skin as you are whisked away to a secluded beach for your choice of exfoliation treatment. Listen to the waves splash along the shore, as the breeze caresses your skin – leaving you reinvigorated and refreshed.

Package prices begin at only $1,495 for single occupancy and $1,795 for double occupancy. Included are five-nights accommodations in a deluxe cabin, daily breakfast, and transfer to and from the airport in Santo Domingo.

It’s time for you to submit yourself to the all-encompassing sights and sounds of this jungle dreamscape, as you unwind during Casa Bonita’s new five-night, Holistic Rebirth package.

To make your reservations at the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, please contact The Life of Luxury by using the form below:

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

The popularity of a relaxing spa treatment continues around the world.  Many people believe these soothing and detoxifing treatments offer various health, physical and spiritual purifications.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge, nestled in the Dominican Republic’s pristine southwestern Bahoruco Forest and one of the Dominican Republic’s most eco-friendly boutique hotels, is offering brand new Taino Steam Baths and Temazcal therapies at its renowned Tanama Eco Spa.

These soothing and purifing new treatments are tailored for those seeking a green indulgence.  Enjoy a mystical treatment designed to cleanse the body, invigorate the mind, and awaken the senses.  Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge can create a custom eco-friendly spa package perfect for travelers and spa enthusiasts seeking a relaxing escape into ancient prehispanic cultural traditions.  Whether a mother daughter bonding trip or a bridal getaway, you will enjoy a spa package designed especially for you.

Located in a serene jungle oasis and made of rustic natural materials, the spa’s new Temazcal igloo shaped structure symbolizes the womb of mother earth. Within the structure, the cleansing ceremony combines the four elements – earth, air, water and fire – to purify and harmonize the mind, body and spirit in line with techniques going back to prehistoric times.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

During the ceremony, copal incense and herbs are placed on vibrant red volcanic rock.  Inside the Temazcal, participants in the ceremony sit in a circle where the herbal steam from the hot rock begins a process of purification through perspiration. At the conclusion of each treatment, guests emerge renewed with the Temazcal eliminating uric, lactic and alkaline acid from the blood stream and balancing the body’s PH levels.

Tanama Eco Spa is offering spa enthusiasts to an all-encompassing jungle experience at the Dominican Republic’s top organic spa.  Casa Bonita’s two new Taino Steam Bath treatments being offered will pamper and spoil guests with treatments meant to transport the guest into the heart of mother earth.

Taino Relaxing Bath

This soothing treatment begins with an aroma therapy session inside the steaming Temazcal. Seasonal local herbs such as Rosemary, lemon, noni leaves, orange leaves, basil and guayuyo leaves are placed on the volcanic stones, infusing the air as you enjoy a relaxing massage and scalp treatment.

Duration: 60 minutes / Cost: $75

Taino Detox Bath

Organic ingredients such as coffee and cacao enrich the Temazcal steam with rich antioxidants and nutritional benefits during this cleansing therapy. The treatment culminates with a clay massage, which hydrates the skin as the sound of the river lulls the guest to a state of pure relaxation.

Duration: 90 minutes / Price: $110

Visit Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge website at www.casabonitadr.com or call (800) 961-5133 for further information.

Occidental Grand Punta Cana

As winter sets in, most of those desire a getaway to a tropical paradise to soak in the sun and fun.

We are offering 10 top-selling luxury resorts that you can choose from. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic dominates the list of all-inclusive properties with five. The remaining five luxury resorts are located in Mexico, Jamaica and Costa Rica.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic is becoming a really hot destination so now is your chance to experience what all the buzz is about by booking your trip now!

1) Melia Caribe Tropical, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — This 5-star property offers many lures, like lagoon-style swimming pools, eight lighted tennis courts, two world-class spas and an arcade with video games for the kids. Dining options range from casual buffet meals to internationally inspired cuisine available at 10 specialty restaurants. Melia Caribe is a family-friendly resort with dedicated kids’ facilities and activities.

2) Occidental Grand Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Tall coconut palms and thatched palapas dot the beautiful beach in front of the 4-star Occidental Grand Punta Cana, which is a 20-minute ride from the airport. The 865 rooms are housed in 17 three-story, white buildings spread around the property. The draws here include nine themed restaurants, seven bars and three lagoon-style swimming pools, one dedicated to children as part of the on-site youth club.

3) Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. The calm waters in front of this 5-star retreat are protected by a coral reef, and kayaking, snorkeling and pedal boats are included among the complimentary water sports. There are four pools, with one reserved for adults. Children ages 3 and up find age-appropriate activities at the Barcy Kids Club, and teens can enjoy music and alcohol-free drinks in The Xone disco. The Gran Teatro Bavaro hosts daily performances, including a children’s show. Guests have access to 11 restaurants. There’s also a full-service spa and a well-equipped gym.

4) Golden Parnassus All Inclusive Resort & Spa Cancun, Cancun, Mexico — Slip into the kids-free ambience of this 4-star resort tucked between the Nichupte Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. A getaway here can be spent snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, playing tennis or volleyball, relaxing in the steam room or mingling over drinks in the Beer Garden or the Tiki Bar. Try the signature Wayak massage in the spa, a treatment that combines four different massage techniques.

5) Excellence Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Dance lessons, archery, snorkeling, bicycle tours and yoga classes are part of the all-inclusive package at this 5-star retreat. Additional amenities include two pools, eight a la carte restaurants, 10 bars, a spa and a cardio-conditioning facility. The kids-free Excellence Punta Cana is a favorite for active couples looking for an engaging getaway.

6) Iberostar Punta Cana, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — This 4-star resort is part of the Iberostar complex in Punta Cana, steps away from the white sands of Playa Bavaro. Shared amenities include a spa, a fitness center, an 18-hole golf course, live entertainment and a retail area with a supermarket, pharmacy, jeweler and souvenir shop. There are activities and spaces devoted to children and teens, plus a club for the 13-to-17 set outfitted with video games and a sound-mixing booth.

7) Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort and Spa, Montego Bay, Jamaica — Between this retreat and neighboring sister property Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort and Spa (both resorts share a beachfront spot), vacationers have access to about two dozen bars and restaurants, water sports from kayaking to windsurfing, poolside games and nightly entertainment. During your stay at the 4-star resort, relax in the first-class Spa & Wellness Center, enjoy a round of golf at the championship course or go kayaking or snorkeling.

8) Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico — Tropical gardens surround this palace-like, 5-star resort on the Baja California peninsula. Standout features include the RiuLand children’s program, live evening shows, complimentary land and water sports, a fitness room and spa. Buffets and a la carte restaurants, including Japanese and Mexican eateries, await when hunger strikes. Between December and March, you have a good chance of seeing gray whales in the Cabo area, and the hotel’s staff can help you arrange a whale-watching excursion.

9) Crown Paradise Club Cancun, Cancun, Mexico — With family suites that accommodate up to seven people, this 4-star resort is a good choice for a vacation with the kids. Supervised activities are scheduled throughout the day for young guests in the children’s program, which is divided into three tiers: 18 months to 3 years, 4 to 12 years and 13 to 17 years. There are even nightly themed shows just for kids. Adults can indulge in the spa, play golf or tennis or enjoy the paddle boats, Hobie Cats and snorkeling gear.

10) Hotel Riu Guanacaste, Guanacaste, Costa Rica — This 5-star resort is located on Costa Rica’s beautiful Pacific coast. Sports enthusiasts will enjoy free access to beach volleyball, tennis, snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing. Take scuba diving lessons in the pool, or indulge in a hot stone or shiatsu massage in the Renova Spa. A kids’ program caters to young guests ages 4 to 12. Jacuzzi suites feature an ocean-view hot tub on the terrace.

Please use the Contact Form below to submit your travel request at one of these incredible luxury resorts. We will promptly get back to you.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

Located in the Dominican Republic, Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is eco-friendly boutique hotel.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge can be found perched at the base of the Dominican Republic’s southwestern Sierra Barahuco Mountains between two rushing rivers

This ecological wonder provides an unique opportunity for families to bond and develop long-lasting memories in a remote luxury, boutique hotel with a strong focus on the environment.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge offers 12 rooms, making it the ultimate retreat for those wanting a discrete getaway in an absolutely breathtaking, indigenous Caribbean setting.

Found between three peaks in the midst of the Dominican rainforest with views of the sea, the Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge property offers trails for trekking or mountain biking, an impressive zip-line course, glimpses into the region’s wildlife, and the organic Tanama Eco Spa. Guests can also venture to the nearby Barahona, an authentic Dominican town on a pristine stretch of virgin coastline, for a day of beachside fun. Whether enticed by a relaxing massage set to the jungles soothing sound or a thrilling adventure on the 1093-yard zip-line course, the lodge offers activities for travelers of all ages and experience levels.

Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge

Between May 1 and October 31, 2012, you’ll receive a 20% savings on its “Family Fun Adventure” package. This exiting four-day, three-night package includes:

– Canopy Tour – Families can explore the lush jungle from above on a thrilling guided ride along zip-line cables that extend between ten platforms.
– Horseback Riding – Families can enjoy an exciting horseback ride through the awe-inspiring landscape.
– Relaxing Massages – Each parent can take a break to enjoy a ritual infused thirty-minute massage in the Spa’s pristine jungle setting.
– Tour of the Cachote Village – A culturally inspiring enclave of 50 residents perched in the cloud forest of the eastern Bahoruco Mountains.
– Gourmet Picnic –Families can connect in a beachfront setting over a delectable picnic basket prepared by the chef.

Rates are based on families of four and include three nights in a deluxe room and round-trip transfers from the airport in Santo Domingo to Casa Bonita. Rates start at $1,425. Casa Bonita Tropical Lodge is accessible from major American gateway airports.

For additional information, please visit www.casabonitadr.com or call (800) 961-5133.