lying to Puerto Plata Airport (POP) is your best option. It is only 25-minute drive from Cabarete. American Airlines and Continental Airlines have daily flights and connections from all over the USA. From Europe and Canada there are Charter flights from most major cities.

Recently the Santiago airport (STI) that is 1.5 hours away has become very aggressive with cheap tickets. There are also more regular flights allowing an easy schedule. The drive from Santiago over the mountain to Cabarete is beautiful. The taxi cost is $75.00 (US) each way.

- Currency
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (RD$). Most people find it safe and convenient to bring travelers checks (in their own currency). There are a number of banks and exchange stands in Cabarete to change your checks into Pesos. US dollars usually have the best exchange rate and are convenient to have on hand for tipping or unconsidered expenses. Visa, MasterCard, Euro Card and American Express are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants and gift shops.

- Personal Documentation and Airport Routine
A Tourist Card, is required for entry into the DR. Depending on your Airline, you may or may not have paid for yours.You can purchase these cards on arrival for $10 US before proceeding through Customs & Immigration. Keep the Tourist Card for Departure. Passports are required of most travelers, US travelers can come with a Birth Certificate but need to confirm it with the Airline.

Once you've finished with Customs and have picked up your luggage, you may encounter Porters offering their help. This service is optional. The current rate for this $2 US per suitcase. This is just one occasion where small US bills may come in handy.

- Caution the... Sun
There's nothing like 'fun in the sun'. Make sure you bring your sunglasses, high SPF sun block, a hat and a long sleeve shirt or cover-up. These are advisable for the warmest parts of the day. Don't worry; if you forget anything, our Shop carries all of these items. If you plan on participating in activities like mountain biking or horseback riding, it is advisable to bring along a pair of running shoes.

- Drink!
Purified bottled water is available everywhere. It is recommended that you drink only bottled water during your stay, and plenty of it, to keep you hydrated for all of your activities and the sun.

- Electricity
The electrical current is 110V, with US plug (jack) design.

- Weather
May and November are considered the rainy months. Periodic rain showers are common, mostly in the evening, so a rain jacket would come in handy. Windsurfing and all of the various other activities available are very rarely hindered by these periods.

- Medical assistance
There is a professional 24 hour clinic located in Cabarete open for emergencies and general medical care. It is run by foreign and local doctors who speak English, French, German and Spanish. There are also a few Pharmacies in Cabarete for typical non-emergency first aid and pharmaceutical needs.

- Communication
Carib Bic Center is in US dialing area code (809). There are telephone booths where AT&T and other long distance calling cards are accepted. There are telecommunication centers where phoning, faxing and internet services are available. Most hotels offer phoning and fax services. Major international newspapers can be acquired at newsstands.

- Children Welcome
Cabarete is a very popular destination for families. It is very easy to hire a Nanny to watch young children while you are windsurfing or out for the evening. All of our hotels can arrange someone for you for this very important job.

- Car Rental
A car is not required in Cabarete. For those who want to tour the country, rental cars can be reserved in advance with Avis & Budget and picked up at the Puerto Plata Airport. You can also rent from various independent companies locally. A passport and valid driver's license are required.

- Public Transportation
Taxi's, Guagua's (mini-van public transport) and Motorconcho's (rides on the back of motorcycles) are available around the clock.

- Supermarket
For those who like cooking in. There are at least 4 small grocery stores where typical food requirements or toiletries can be purchased.

- Whale watching
In February you can take part in whale watching. North Atlantic Humpback whales come to mate at the Bay of Samana and Silver Banks.

- Sand Castle Competition
February also holds the Sand Castle Classic, be prepared to create your own dream in the sand.

- International Events
Race Week, an international windsurfing competition is hosted in June, as well as the Kiteboarding World Cup. Lots of good looking athletes in town.

September hosts the 4th Jazz Festival, bringing in some world renown artists.