ÀNI Private Resort, Dominican Republic
This resort is exclusively yours when you book it. You can customize your menu with the head chef, set your own dress code for dinner, enjoy holistic massages at the spa, and create your own beach playlist. Whether you come with six people or a group of 28, you have the entire resort to yourself.
Located on a serene peninsula on the less touristy north coast of the Dominican Republic, the ÀNI private resort offers complete privacy with two living villas and 14 expansive suites. Hummingbirds hover over lush tropical plants, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Blending Latin American style with Old World elegance, the resort even features a thrilling water slide.
The name “ÀNI” is derived from “andjani” which means a journey forward. The resort aims to create memorable experiences that bring people together.
The Welcome
ÀNI can expedite your immigration process at Santo Domingo airport. While the staff handle your luggage, you can relax with a cooling drink in the lounge. Upon arrival at the resort, you are welcomed with chilled flannels and iced passion-fruit juice, followed by canapés overlooking the Caribbean. There’s no tedious check-in process; instead, you can enjoy tasty treats while your luggage is delivered to your room.
The Suite
The long rooms are bathed in Caribbean light, with dark wood ceilings and decor featuring ferns, orchids, and wicker. Each room is secluded and offers full-width views of the Caribbean Sea from a teak terrace with sun loungers and sunken chairs. From the comfort of a wide bed, you can use a remote control to unveil the sea view before stepping onto cool marble floors. For those who do want to watch TV, flat screens come equipped with Amazon Prime and Netflix.
Behind the bed, you’ll find a writing desk and a fully stocked minibar, separated by a back-lit onyx partition.
The Bathroom
The bathroom features his-and-her wash units leading into a dressing area with a centerpiece half-egg bath and a dressing table. Light aquamarine frosted glass encases the rainfall and handheld showers. You’ll have a choice of toiletries including ÀNI’s signature lemongrass, lavender, or eucalyptus scents, which are also available by the outdoor garden shower.
The Facilities
The resort is exclusively booked for one group at a time, offering up to 12 spa treatments daily. The gym is open 24/7. Both Amber and Larimar villas overlook infinity pools with submerged seats for chess and draughts. Meals are flexible – dinner can be served with sea views, in open-sided teak pavilions, or al fresco under fairy lights. The chefs can create anything from Dominican specialties to seven-course tasting menus.
Edison, the Activities Manager, offers various activities such as tennis, water sports, early morning bike rides, and hikes.
Location
An uphill hike guided by Edison takes you through the rural landscape of the Dominican Republic, passing almond, avocado, cashew, cherry, coconut, lemon, orange, and papaya trees. The trail also goes by a small wooden church that seats about 60 people, highlighting the island’s rich Catholic heritage.
Other Nice Touches
The little touches at ÀNI are endless. Guests enjoy prompt laundry service, nightly gifts, and iced coconut juice upon returning to the resort. The final evening features wish lanterns lighting up the night sky and a bag for wet swimwear after the last dip.
The service is exceptional. Staff quickly learn your preferences, from margaritas to a skinny decaf latte. Guests can also visit the nearby ÀNI Art Academy and even commission art from the students. Cookery classes teach you how to incorporate Caribbean flavors into your own kitchen. Evening activities include cocktail-making, rum-tasting, cigar-rolling, folk-dance shows, sunset cruises, and early evening movies.
The Cost
Reservations start from a minimum of five nights at $14,000 per night. Prices vary depending on the group size and length of stay.
The Best Part
ÀNI staff set up an impromptu beach club at a picturesque cove in Rio de San Juan, complete with sun-loungers and a bar. With wi-fi available, you can share photos of kayaking or paddle-boarding. ÀNI masseuses offer al fresco massages, and a BBQ feast is served by the attentive staff, featuring chicken, lobster, pork, ribs, and delicious salads.
The Final Verdict
This is the ultimate holiday experience, perfect for enjoying your favorite activities, food, and people. It offers A-list living and might just become your favorite destination. If not, there’s always the option to explore other ÀNI Private Resorts in Anguilla, Thailand, or Sri Lanka.