This fabled sea, covering more than a million square miles and 7,000 islands with diverse languages, cultures, and ecosystems, has become probably the planet's premier vacation playground. Here it's all about its regional issues and allures. And yes, the (Plus) means we're including the Bahamas and Bermuda!
11 of the best experiences in Haiti
SPC Gibran Torres Haiti, really? You´re no doubt wondering. Well, yes, the Americas´ most impoverished country has been an abject basket case for many years, and its current tragic vicissitudes with violence and instability make it seem unlikely to recover any time soon. But here´s a reminder of what a fundamentally beautiful country this is, how rich is its history, how vibrant its culture, and how friendly its people – as I can attest when I visited way back in 26 years ago. This, then, is…
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"Guests booking into Casa de Campo this winter season will be staying in totally new surroundings. Parent company Central Romana Corporation is investing US$25 million into the transformation of the main areas of the hotel and about a third of the rooms in time for high season.
Designers Mayra Gonzalez and Patricia Reid are working on the major changes with architect Rafael Selman of Selman & Asociados Arquitectura, reported in Casa de Campo News October-November issue. According to the publication, the new look blends in with the minimalist approach and use of Caribbean materials that Gonzalez has already used at Minitas Beach and at the Cygalle Spa. Natural materials such as marble, coral stone and oak wood are being used to create an impression of extreme simplicity.
Designer Gonzalez describes it as "bringing the Casa de Campo hotel up to date in a warm contemporary style."
The design involves dramatic changes, from the gardens near the entrance to the lobby, gym, pool area, restaurant and offices that are being relocated. The lobby is being doubled in size. The Tropicana Restaurant has been transformed into a terrace overlooking the pool. The new restaurant is being located at La Cana Bar's former site, with an indoor air-conditioned area, al fresco dining tables and a glassed-in show-kitchen.
The rooms located at the far end of the driving range are will all be new. Patricia Reid designed the rooms to luxury hotel standards in soft, neutral tones. Only remaining are the old mahogany doors to the terraces, which are being restored."
I've long felt the place could use some refreshing...looking forward to checking it out one of these days soon!