As I stepped onto the red carpet leading to the massive 121-acre Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Resort, the doorman says “Rock hard at the Hard Rock.”

No doubt a little bit of updated training, now that the property has switched faces from Palace Resorts to the famous empire, synonymous with music, restaurants and T-shirts.

That was part of the plan, after all—take an existing all-inclusive high-end resort and brand it with something the entire world recognizes.

With a serious claim to fame as the Hard Rock’s first all-inclusive resort in the world, the resort boasts a grandeur like no other.

Memorabilia Everywhere

Starting with the tiki-chic-style lobby, you’re greeted with a refreshing blast of A/C, a rare and welcomed commodity in the Caribbean.

As I continued to make the first few steps inside, I couldn’t help but notice myself constantly looking upwards.

Decked out floor to ceiling was stuff. Mick Jagger’s jacket, records signed by the Beach Boys, Madonna’s limo covered in disco ball tiles, there are more than a hundred pieces of music memorabilia scattered throughout.

I heard the resort described in a simple way that nailed it: it looks and feels better at night.

The dark and earthy tones in the furniture, drapes and overall interior feel like an exclusive nightclub without the raunchy crowd that usually follows.

Combined with a day care, arcade and three ice cream shops, it definitely broadens itself to attract the family-oriented crowd looking for some R'n'R (with a side of rock 'n roll).

Interactive Maps

To alleviate the chance of getting lost in such a huge property, set on Macao Beach, Hard Rock brought in touch-screen displays to let you know where you are and which path to take.

They’re up to date to reflect the facelift, providing a full index of restaurants, attractions and, most importantly, how to get to the beach.

Inside the Rooms

Since the rebranding, there are two types of rooms to choose from: Classic and Hard Rock.

Each have the same features, with the latter decorated with a different flare of style.

Within those types are five levels of luxury, with even the basic Caribbean Suite able to accommodate a rock star:

• 800 sq.-ft of space
• Ensuite double Jacuzzi tub
• Plush beds, either one king size or two doubles
• Dual-showerheads (amazing and time efficient)
• LCD TV
• Mini bar with liquor dispenser
• Balcony overlooking the property

Dine Away

To say there are options is an understatement. There are eight full restaurants including traditional Caribbean, buffets (for the indecisive eaters), pizzerias and Japanese-style teppanyaki.

Oh, and five breakfast joints, ice cream shops and delis for a light snack, never mind the 24-hour room service.

Hold 'Em and Fold 'Em

With 45,000 sq.-ft of gaming space, the casino boasts another record—it's the largest in the DR.

The facility is owned and operated by another company, so the casino is open to the general public.

Serenity Now

The on-site Rock Spa is another hallmark that can’t be ignored.

Covering 6,000-sq.-ft of space, they offer a full range of treatments including full body massages (couples treatment is also available), clay steam rooms, saunas and an ice room.

You read that right—an ice room that offers buckets of ice cubes and cold showers for skin purifications.

Room rates start at US$308 per night, and includes meals, beverages, wi-fi, 24-hour room service, taxes and gratuities.