Casa Santo Domingo

La Antigua was the capital of Guatemala until an earthquake destroyed much of the city in 1773. The capital was moved, but many people and buildings remained, and Antigua was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. These days, Antigua is a fun place to explore. You can cruise the central park and watch the colorful parade of people, or go on cultural excursions to churches and museums. It’s also got some of the country’s best Spanish schools, as well as ample shopping, eating, and drinking opportunities.

Casa Santo Domingo is probably unlike any hotel you’ve ever stayed in. Built in the ruins of a Dominican monastery, this hotel sensitively incorporates modern amenities into a well-maintained historical site. Its 128 rooms are charming and comfortable, and the array of amenities includes museums, a swimming pool, spa, restaurants, and bar.

The guest rooms are attractive and individually decorated with Guatemalan art, handmade textiles, and hardwood features. Some rooms have fireplaces and a sitting area that offers up an incredible place to relax in the morning or evening. All accommodations come equipped with a private hot water bathroom, hair dryer, vanity mirror, and bathtub; some rooms also have a Jacuzzi or sauna. Other amenities include a cable TV, minibar, wireless Internet, safety deposit box, and private balcony. The beds are cozy and have hypoallergenic pillows.

In terms of dining, Casa Santo Domingo has two restaurants where guests can eat. Many of the menu items fuse traditional cuisine and international fare. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served daily. The hotel’s bar, Bar El Cabildo, is open all day and is a great place to enjoy a favorite drink in an elegant setting.

A profound respect for history and culture prevails throughout the hotel. In addition to the original ruins present on the site, there are a number of museums that guests are invited to explore. There’s the Colonial Museum, which contains artwork produced from the sixteenth till nineteenth century, and the Archeology Museum, which has exhibits that mostly correspond to the Classical Mayan period (200–900 AD). Other museums are dedicated to pre-Columbian artifacts, indigenous handicrafts, or contemporary artwork. It’s all very impressive.

Other offerings at Casa Santo Domingo include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym, and spa. Whether you’re looking for a way to work up a sweat or cool down from one, you’ll find what you’re looking for at this hotel.