Cabarete

The links on this site should help offer those unfamiliar with Cabarete an insight into what is available.

Kevin and I left our wives behind in October 2005 and set off for the Dominican Republic, not really knowing what to expect. We planned provisionally for a multistop break looking for a property to buy. Cabarete was our first port of call, more by luck than judgement. We didn't leave instead deciding that we had found the ideal location.

The many bars, restaurants, clubs and proposed casino grabbed our attention and retained it. Between us we have been back several times and have loved every minute of it.

Cabarete is located east of Puerto Plata on the north coast of the island. A cab from the airport to the apartment costs $30 and takes about 20 minutes. Cabs are easy to find when leaving arrivals and there is always someone on hand to help with the cases if you are feeling lethargic after the flight. Porters cost about 50 pesos although the fee is to all intents and purposes discretionery. Don't be tight though.

The town is located on the beach and comprises a string of bars, restaurants, clubs and shops. Both sides of the road are populated by these businesses.

The food on offer is great and for the most part very inexpensive. The drinks on offer are the same as you would expect to find in any bar in the US or UK and there is always some live music to be had whether you want to hear Pink Floyd or a local soundtrack.

Bars and clubs remain open into the early hours although each one has its own theme. You don't have to be surrounded by youngsters if you don't want to.

Shopping is available in Puerto Plata where you can find pretty much anything you want. The whole apartment was furnished from shops down there right from the sofas and beds to the salt and pepper pots and bed linen. There are a million souvenir shops there too although Cabarete itself offers numerous places to pick up those bits and pieces that your relatives will thank you for before trying to work out where to put them. If they look dusty when you visit it means they've been in the attic while you haven't been there.

The casino is fantastic and is visited by bus trips from the multitude of all-inclusive resorts in the surrounding area. There is a disco there as well as all the usual gambling facilities. If you fancy going home for the night either a billionaire (in pesos) or having chucked your dosh away then that's the place for you.

The beach is pristine and curves gently with the lay of the land. The ocean is warmer when it has been raining and is nice and clean, not to mention refreshing after an hour in the sun.