If colonialism has done nothing else for us – it has left us really nice buildings.  And what better way to exact revenge than to turn a beautiful colonial building into a beautiful colonial hotel?

Here to satisfy your inner conquistador is the Hostal Nicolas de Ovando, in the Dominican Republic.  Located in the colonial district of Santo Domingo, this hotel is the flipped house of the town's founder (you guessed it, Nicolas de Ovando), and takes you on a 500 year journey from Spain to the New World from the minute you check in.  Listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Hostal sits on the Calle de Las Damas – 'the first paved road of the New World', and is an impressive historical complex that includes the original home of de Ovando, where it's rumoured Columbus spent a night or two (thankfully, they've changed the sheets since).

All revenge aside, you're checking into this evocative hotel, which comes complete with a colonial-style courtyard, hacienda shutters, ochre floor tiles, and... satellite TV.  It's safe to say it blends its ancient elegance with contemporary design in the most enchanting way – there's a minibar and designer toiletries too (how's that for New World?).  Dinner is at La Residence Restaurant, with gourmet meals prepared by a very non-colonial French chef, after which you have the choice of doing everything the ever thoughtful concierge can throw at you, or absolutely nothing at all while you lounge by the outdoor pool (the surrounding palms are a nice SoBe aesthetic).

Of course, you can also head back to your room for some... room service.  We won't mind.

Hostal Nicolas de Ovando | Calle de Las Damas, Cuidad Colonial, 10211 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic | 809 685 9955 | www.sofitel.com