Hotel Rafael was formerly known as Hotel Nicole and was and first opened to the public on December 20, 1994. This P3.5 million structure was patterned after the classic building facilities in Vigan, Ilocos Norte.
This was built during the time the University was still known as De La Salle University-Aguinaldo. Initially, the hotel had 3 bedrooms, a dining room, and a function room and was intended as a practicum site for Hotel & Restaurant Management students.
After several years, it was renamed Hotel Rafael after Br. Rafael Donato, FSC. Today, it has expanded with an additional building and now operates a total of 28 rooms and seven function rooms. It is also recognized as one of the most recommended accommodations in Cavite by the City Government of Dasmariñas.
Hotel Rafael has hosted guests from different places all over the world. Most of its clientele come from delegations attending seminars within the University or nearby areas.