On the shores of the Caribbean Sea, the city offers a vibrant nightlife, exquisite cuisine and unique spaces full of cultural richness.
Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, is a vibrant and historically rich city that perfectly blends colonial charm with modernity. Founded in 1496 by Bartholomew Columbus, it is the oldest city in the New World and is home to the first cathedral, hospital, and university in the Americas.
Its historic heart, the Colonial Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, majestic colonial buildings, and iconic landmarks such as the Alcázar de Colón and the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor.
But Santo Domingo is more than history; it's also a dynamic metropolis with modern skyscrapers, a vibrant nightlife, and exquisite cuisine that blends local and international flavors. The city boasts spectacular natural spaces like the Malecón, with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, and the Botanical Garden, an oasis of tranquility amidst the urban hustle and bustle.
Whether exploring its colonial past, enjoying its music and culture, or relaxing on its nearby beaches, Santo Domingo offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Come and discover the essence of the Caribbean in this fascinating city!
By 2025, the Dominican Republic will continue to expand its hotel infrastructure, offering options ranging from luxury to more affordable options.
By 2024, the country reached approximately 11 million tourists and 90,000 hotel rooms, a figure that is expected to continue growing with new investments in key destinations such as Punta Cana, Samaná, Puerto Plata, and Santo Domingo.
Projections indicate that by 2025, the country could surpass 100,000 rooms thanks to new developments and property renovations.
Tourism is a vital pillar of the Dominican economy, representing approximately 8% of the national GDP in 2023, although this percentage may fluctuate due to economic conditions and seasonal trends.
The country attracts millions of visitors each year, captivated by its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and rich cultural heritage. Key tourist destinations include:
Which continue to drive growth in the sector and consolidate the Dominican Republic's reputation as a leading destination in the Caribbean.
By 2025, the country will surpass 100,000 hotel rooms, further strengthening its tourism growth.
Vatel has 50 hotel management schools located in Europe, America, Asia, and Africa. They all share the same mission: to prepare new generations to build their professional future in the international hospitality and tourism industry.
Today, we have 45,000 alumni working around the world, proud to call themselves Vateliens, working in the most prestigious hotels on the planet.
Vatel's success is based on five fundamental pillars. Around the world, our teachers focus on:
Vatel Group's teaching teams are composed equally of university professors and professionals with distinguished careers in the industry.
At the beginning of the 21st century, twenty years after the opening of the first Vatel school in France, all the factors for international development were in place. Our educational concept, based on a progressive and controlled combination of theory and professional experience, is proven, sustainable, and ready for global expansion.
Since then, we have opened new campuses in Europe, Asia, America and Africa. Located on four continents, the Vatel network of schools is the world's leading group of business schools in hotel and tourism management, recognized by industry professionals as the Best Hotel Management School.
VATEL's impact on the Dominican Republic has been significant in the training of professionals in the field of hospitality and tourism, contributing to the development of an industry that is key to the country's economy. This institution has provided a quality education that combines a solid theoretical foundation with practical experience, allowing students to acquire skills that allow them to stand out in the competitive labor market. VATEL has trained generations of industry leaders, preparing future hotel directors, tour operators, and high-level service managers, which has increased the competitiveness of the Dominican tourism sector. Furthermore, its partnership with international hotel chains has created opportunities for graduates to work in global tourism destinations, elevating the Dominican Republic's reputation as a world-class tourist destination. Through its educational programs, VATEL has consolidated its role as a driving force for the development of the hotel and tourism industry, adapting to the changing needs of the sector and training professionals capable of facing the challenges of the present and future.
Agreement with the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU) for the development of academic activities VATEL Dominican Republic.
The Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU) and the Higher Technical Institute and Applied Training (INSTEFA), Vatel's representative in the Dominican Republic, have established a strategic alliance to strengthen academic training in hospitality and tourism in the country. As part of this agreement, Vatel's training activities are offered at UNPHU facilities, utilizing its specialized classrooms and the modern Mike Mercedes Gastronomic Laboratory.
For culinary internships, Vatel features the Mike Mercedes UNPHU laboratory, which opened in March 2023 and is designed to offer students high-quality hands-on training. It features modern equipment and cutting-edge technology that meet high culinary standards. Its facilities include a fully equipped industrial kitchen, a restaurant designed for service internships, and a classroom. It also features an innovative hydroponic garden that allows students to grow food products used in their culinary activities, giving them a comprehensive understanding of the "from farm to table" process.
The classrooms at the Pedro Henríquez Ureña National University (UNPHU) for Vatel Dominican Republic are designed to offer a modern and dynamic learning environment, with high-quality equipment that meets international standards. Each classroom is equipped with advanced technology, including digital whiteboards, multimedia projectors, and sound systems, facilitating interactive and participatory teaching. They also feature ergonomic furniture and air conditioning suitable to ensure student comfort. The infrastructure has been developed to foster innovation and critical thinking, providing an optimal space for academic and professional development.
These facilities have been designed following rigorous international standards and have obtained certifications from prestigious organizations, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). A second international accreditation is currently being sought, reflecting UNPHU and Vatel's commitment to academic excellence and the training of highly qualified professionals in the field of hospitality and gastronomy.
The Intercontinental Hotel Santo Domingo will be the primary internship center for Vatel Santo Domingo students, providing a high-level learning experience in a luxurious setting.
This prestigious hotel, opened in 2016, is part of the renowned Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts chain, a world leader in luxury hospitality. Since its opening, it has established itself as an icon in the Dominican capital, distinguished by its elegance, exceptional service, and first-class facilities.
Through this strategic alliance, Vatel Santo Domingo students will have the opportunity to develop their skills in a real-world hotel operations environment, applying their knowledge in key areas such as hotel management, reception, gastronomy, and guest service.
The exclusive Eden Roc Punta Cana, recognized as one of the finest luxury hotels in the Caribbean, will be another prestigious internship center for Vatel Santo Domingo students.
Located in the stunning Punta Cana community, this five-star resort combines elegance, privacy, and world-class service, offering a unique hotel experience.
Since its opening, Eden Roc Punta Cana has received multiple international awards for its excellent service, high-quality cuisine, and idyllic setting.
During their internships, students will gain practical experience in hotel management, gourmet cuisine, and personalized services—fundamental pillars of the luxury hospitality industry.
Through this collaboration, students will receive comprehensive training in a high-level environment, working alongside industry experts. Internships at Eden Roc Punta Cana will allow them to learn from the best and prepare for a successful career in luxury hospitality.
This hands-on learning will provide you with essential skills in real-life settings, enabling you to adapt to the high standards of luxury hospitality. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, you will hone your expertise in guest service, event planning, and operational management, ensuring you are ready for leadership roles in the hospitality industry.
| Vatel's Fees Structure | Price |
| Degree | USD$6,500 |
| Master's degree for one year | USD$7,500 |
| Registration Fees | USD$350 |
