My best friend and I stayed here on our last trip to Sto. Domingo and it was terrible. The air conditioner didn't work in the first room my friend was assigned to and he had to change rooms. No big deal except the A/C went out in my room the second day we were there. The toilets didn't work properly in either of our rooms and we had to remove the lid off the tank and manually fill it with water from the sink to get it to flush (in both rooms). The rooms had mildew visible on the walls and cielings and the blankets smelled of mildew as well. Also, the TV didn't work in his room. The staff was pretty nice, but I would never stay there again because the rooms were almost unlivable.

This was my 7th visit to the Duque and I was not disappointed as usual. The staff makes you feel so comfortable and the renovations are very impressive. All of the staff goes the extra step to make you feel comfortable and welcom and Emilio, the owner is like an uncle, who is there to make sure your every desire is served. Every time I visit I bring someone new and now have accounted for 6 new guests over the past 2 years. I will be returning in May and if anyone wants to contact me about the hotel or SD please do so.

Good staff, friendly, accommodating, helpful - am grateful for caring service provided. The suites are definitely worth the extra money - larger, with patio, definitely a much more pleasant experience. Good restaurants, mini markets closeby. Didn't notice gay activity, but the hotel is known as gay friendly. Note most five star hotels in Santo Domingo are much more strict with visitors - they claim it's for safety of guest and hotel, though have never had a problem with Dominicans - they are amongst the friendliest people anywhere. Enjoy your stay with pleasant company and this hotel's good staff - one employee whose name started with "W" was unususually helpful - You'll want to return.

I had heard a few negative things about the hotel, but to my surprise, it was nice. The staff was very friendly and the room very clean. Rates were discussed upfront to make sure it was the same rate quoted on the phone, since i learned my lesson from hotels in other countries not to wait until check out. I would definitely stay there again.