Powering ahead in key international markets, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. announced it has returned to the Dominican Republic with the landmark debut of its Four Points by Sheraton brand in Punta Cana. Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village opens today in a prime location, just steps from Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). It is the first of two hotels Starwood will open this year in the Dominican Republic with its partner Grupo PUNTACANA, and will be followed by The Westin Puntacana Resort in late 2013.

“We are thrilled to introduce our fast-growing Four Points by Sheraton brand to the Dominican Republic, right at the heart of the bustling PUNTACANA Village development,” said Brian McGuinness, Senior Vice President of Specialty Select Brands for Starwood. “Four Points Puntacana Village offers travelers a relaxed atmosphere in a stylish setting along with all the amenities they love in one of the world’s most popular island destinations.”

The newly constructed hotel features 124 stylish and comfortable guest rooms, an outdoor pool and access to five miles of private beach. Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village also provides 1,614 square feet of state-of-the-art meeting facilities, a 24-hour business center, a fully equipped fitness facility and full-service dining. Guests can stroll to the shops, restaurants and salons of Galerias PUNTACANA within the Village, and hop on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle to visit Six Senses Spa, the PUNTACANA Ecological Reserve and a choice of world-class golf courses located at PUNTACANA Resort & Club.

“Grupo PUNTACANA is proud to partner with Starwood Hotels to open the first Four Points in the Dominican Republic, soon to be followed by the island’s first Westin resort,” said Alberto Abreu, Executive Director of Hospitality for Grupo PUNTACANA. “Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy style, comfort and affordability in a terrific location on the island.”