Every Aman property is meticulously designed to blend in with the natural setting as well as offer an extreme sense of privacy and peace, hence the name “Aman”, which means peace in Sanskrit.

A few days ago I returned from staying at  the new Amanera in the Dominican Republic, and oh what a stay. The hotel executed the perfect balance between a luxurious and relaxed ambiance. Think Swiss Family Robinson meets modernist Aman luxury, and add to that a 4:1 staff to guest ratio.

The moment you walk in, the staff welcome you as if you are an old friend with the backdrop view of Playa Grande, a cold lavender towel and a mouth watering pomegranate and mint drink. After pinching yourself a few times, and taking in the chic, but understated decor, you are swift away to your very own private casita in confortable golf carts.

Amanera has only 25 casitas, which makes the experience even more private. Most villas have a private pool, but not just any pool, a private 30 meter (350sqf) pool, decked out with a gigantic terrace with a sunbed area, outdoor dining, outdoor siting and an outdoor shower. The inside of the villa is as impressive as the outside. The casita is around 90 sqm (850sqf) with a gigantic walk-in closet, separate bedroom, gorgeous living room and a bathroom that makes you feel like you are in the middle of the Caribbean jungle, with floor to ceiling windows showcasing lush vegetation.

Your meals can severed anywhere at anytime, so you can forget about waking up early and rushing to breakfast.  Amanera’s main goal is to have you relax and have whatever you want, whenever you want. How is that for a rule?

They have two restaurants, one in the main lobby and a second one in the beach. Both can serve any dish you desire in addition to their standard delicious menu. My favorite dishes were the ceviche, cod and beef Wellington. However, you cannot go wrong with any item on the menu.

Amanera is perfect for anyone looking for a romantic getaway, golfers or family with small or big kids.

Amanera is the only Aman resort which offers a private golf course for guests only. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, and renovated by his son Reese Jones, it is expected to be one of the most scenic golf courses in the Caribbean.

The hotel also has plenty of activities for children to be entertained like pottery class, cupcake decorating, pizza making class, zip line, surfing and more.

All in all, this vacation was one of the most memorable stays in my recent years, and we cannot wait to go back this next winter.