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Christian Black
THE
LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE
Paradise is closer than you thought, less expensive than you imagined, and more beautiful than you dreamt. Warm breezes, soft sand, and azure waters are waiting for you. Whether to lounge poolside with a drink in hand, ride horses along the beach at sunset, learn to surf, enjoy spa pampering, or sample some of the fine international cuisine, Millennium Cabarete has the experience you have been waiting for, and all the luxury that you deserve.
RESORT & SPA 2
www.cabaretemillennium.com
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CONTENTS 16 The ocean is my playground: GROWING UP IN CABARETE 20 dining out: OUR FAVORITE PLACES 30 dominicanisms: typical foods & Natural remedies 38 put the power back in pink: THE MARIPOSA DR FOUNDATION 44 dominicanisms: culture and lingo 46 dominicanisms: local products & gift ideas
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50 A ROOM WITH A VIEW: Cabarete’s Top Accommodations 66 SAVING OUR OCEANS: WHY WE MUST AND HOW WE CAN 75 Q&A: PAPO FROM JUJITSU DE LA COSTA
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CABARETE
Responsible Tourism and Investment Guide | Created by the Mariposa DR Foundation Editor-in-Chief & Director of Advertising Sales Patricia Thorndike Suriel
Contributors Amanda Bucci, Sarah Fisher, Jessica Lawson, Jessica Mitchell
Graphic Designer & Sales Assistant Photographer Pamela Cuadros Amy Martin To advertise your business in the 2017 Guide, please contact us at: promo@mariposadrfoundation.org (809) 571 0610
Mariposa DR Foundation www.theguidecabarete.com
Deadline for submissions and payment for 2017 issue: April 15th, 2016.
Massage Physiotherapy Hot Stone Massage Body Scrubs Body Wraps Facials Manicures & Pedicures Hair Removal
Location Millennium Resort & Spa Carretera Principal Cabarete
Hours Monday to Saturday: 10am – 8pm Sunday: 10am – 2pm
www.andarispa.com
Appointments +1 809-851-9399 skype: andarispa info@andarispa.com
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WELCOME All of my dreams have come true in Cabarete. I arrived here in 1992 and never looked back. I met my husband Freddy windsurfing on the beach. I got married here, watched my children, Nicolas and Tatianna, grow up here, and built my home right here in Cabarete. As a long time businesswoman, resident and community leader of this town, the idea for a responsible tourism and investment guide to Cabarete had been on my mind for many years, a travel guide where all proceeds go directly toward supporting the local community. This guide is a tribute to the local business owners and their hard work, and to all the individuals and families who call Cabarete their home. All proceeds from advertising sales in this guide go toward supporting programs at The Mariposa DR Foundation. We encourage you to support the businesses advertised throughout the magazine. Watching Cabarete grow from 1000 to more than 17,000 residents in 23 years has confirmed that our work at the Mariposa DR Foundation to educate, empower and employ adolescent girls is essential for Cabarete’s sustainable economic growth; thus, this fifth year edition of CABARETE. This guide could not have been created without the dedication and hard work of Mariposa Co-Founder Jessica Lawson, staff members Amanda Bucci and Sarah Fisher, Photographer Amy Martin, Graphic Designer Pamela Cuadros, and Mariposa board member Jessica Mitchell. One thing I have learned in Cabarete is that the small acts of kindness go along way. Cabarete: there is no place quite like it in the world. Welcome.
Patricia Thorndike Suriel Executive Director of the Mariposa DR Foundation
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CABARETE
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The Adventure Capital of the Caribbean
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THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which is shared with Haiti. The Dominican Republic is one of the Caribbean’s most geographically diverse countries. Made up of sandy beaches, fertile soil, lush valleys, and rugged mountains, the DR is a paradise for memorable vacations and island living.
As the Caribbean’s largest tourist destination, more than four million visitors flock to all-inclusive hotels and resorts annually and tourism remains responsible for fueling the Dominican Republic’s economic growth. Aside from tourism, the economy is highly dependent on the United States, which serves as the main destination for many Dominican exports.
There is no place like the Dominican Republic. A country that captures a variety of influences, residents and visitors are constantly surrounded by Spanish, African, and native Taino cultures. While Spanish is the national language, you will surely hear many other languages during your stay, including English and Haitian Creole. The language of music is also everywhere in the DR and dancing is highly encouraged. The most popular genres are merengue, bachata, and reggaeton, all of which you will hear on the beach and public streets.
FAST FACTS Capital: Area: Population: Sports and Pastimes: Main crops: Climate:
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Santo Domingo 48,442 sq km 10.3 million Baseball, merengue, dominoes, cockfights Sugarcane, bananas, rice, beans, cocoa, coffee Tropical, little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation in rainfall
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The DR has the 2nd largest economy in Central America and the Caribbean.
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The DR is the world’s largest exporter of organic bananas and cacao.
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The traditional dish of the DR is called the “Dominican Flag” (La Bandera Dominicana) and consists of rice, beans, and chicken.
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Occupying the eastern two-thirds of Hispaniola, the Dominican Republic is the second largest country, after Cuba, in the West Indies.
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The city with the 2nd largest population of Dominicans, after Santo Domingo, is New York City; the third is Santiago.
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The Ocean is GROWING UP IN CABARETE
Cami says the best things about growing up in Cabarete were being safe and feeling that the people around her were a small family, having a supportive environment, the sun, the beach and the Dominican people. Giselle said the best things for her were having the beach as her patio, learning to windsurf, and catching crabs on the beach at night and bringing them home to scare the adults! In fact, as we began to interview the local and international citizens that have grown up or are growing up in Cabarete, it was evident that this is a place where children feel a sense of community and family at almost every age. Patricia said, “As a mother who raised a worldclass kite surfer and varsity ranked tennis player, I can proudly say sports and nature are a core part of life for children in Cabarete.” It was our local prodigy “Tony Boy Garcia” who helped put Cabarete on the map as the adventure capital of the Caribbean when he was the youngest person to ever win the Aloha Classic, one of the most important windsurfing freestyle events in the world. Many young people of Cabarete have developed into world-class athletes and socially conscious world citizens. Susi Mai, who is now a household name in the kiteing industry, is giving back. This sense of family has inspired and encouraged local windsurf and kite school owners to teach 100 Dominican boys to windsurf, surf and kite. And with a nudge from the Mariposas, the girls are now learning too! I do not believe any town in the world has raised so many world-class athletes, many of whom came from humble or poor beginnings.
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my playground
17-year-old Brian Coutu, a world-class surfer, would rather wake up at 6am to be the first guy on the water than stay up late, and he is not alone out there. Elena Scates says she loves growing up here for the friendships she has made. Language and friendships are a common thread. Where else does a little French girl become best friends with a little German girl. Susi Mai and Cami ruled the beach when they were kids since there were only a handful of expat children growing up in the 90s in Cabarete. Now there are hundreds of multicultural and national children and numerous schools and home school groups. Cami says, “Going to school in guaguas alone at the age of 8� was part of what she loved about growing up in Cabarete. Paola, whose mother is Dominican and father is German, is now living in Europe but she plans to come home soon to work with the Mariposa girls. She says the sense of humbleness and hospitality that people tend to have or develop, along with having the ocean for a playground, is what she loves most about her homeland.
The truth is there is something unique and fun for every phase of life. I used to call it Never-never Land and maybe the true secret is that in Cabarete we never really have to grow up.
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PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE Open 6pm - 10:30pm. Closed on Tuesdays. +1 809 571 0108 FREE WI-FI Outdoor Seating. Cabarete Main Street, Next to Plaza El Patio.
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dining out Our favorite places
Cabarete is a food lover’s dream. With cuisine from all over the world, the options are endless and satisfy both the simple and sophisticated palates. Don’t miss out on dining at some of our favorite local restaurants! 4 See the map at the back of the magazine for their locations. Aqua Beach Club Bliss Blue Moon Retreat Cabarete Coffee Company Chez Arsenio Food Lovers Pizza & Spaghetti House Fresh Fresh Café Gordito’s Fresh Mex La Casita de Papi Natura Cabana Otra Cosa Serenade Velero Beach Resort Restaurant Yalla Yamazato
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809 571 0395 809 571 4995 809 571 9721 809 757 0614 809 571 0919 809 867 0801 809 571 0108 809 571 2180 829 844 3434 809 986 3750 809 571 1507 809 876 4386 809 571 0578 809 571 9727 809 571 9357 809 571 0814
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YALLA A refreshing option for quality cuisine in Cabarete
While most fine dining in Cabarete is centered around the beach and the catch of the day, Yalla offers a new, hip alternative. What appears to be a small place from the outside opens up into several spaces (indoor and outdoor) with stylish dÊcor befitting of big cities like New York City or London and an effortlessly cool atmosphere. The only thing more aesthetically pleasing than the space is the truly artistic food presentation, matched by the incredible quality of the food itself. The cuisine can be described as Spanish tapas with a Dominican twist, using both imported and local ingredients, with delicious menu items that can’t be found anywhere else.
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Meat lovers and vegetarians will both delight in the wide variety of creative options that appeal to any diet. Wash it all down with fruit-filled sangria, which is refreshing but not too sweet, or any one of their quality wines.
Yalla is in a league of its own, with gourmet food for reasonable prices, great service, and the perfect environment for hanging out and sharing dishes with friends or a date.
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Bahia de Arena, Calle Principal Cabarete. (between Kite Beach and town) cabaretecoee | www.cabaretecoee.com 26
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“Locrio” Recipe
(lo-cree-oh)
Most commonly known as Arroz con Pollo in other Latin American countries, Locrio is a popular, satisfying and delicious local Dominican dish. Similar to paella, this combination of chicken and rice is often enjoyed for lunch and best eaten at home-style restaurants or if possible, a Dominican home. Like paella, the rice at the bottom, called “concon”, should be browned but not burnt. Until you’ve mastered the art of perfectly toasting the “concon”, you’re not considered a good cook! Work on your culinary skills and try this recipe for authentic Locrio to bring the flavor of the Dominican Republic home with you!
Preparation: Place chicken pieces in large bowl. Add cubanelle, onion, garlic, cilantro, green pepper, celery, and vinegar. Stir well and marinate 10 minutes.
4 pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces 1 cubanelle pepper, chopped 1 onion, chopped 1 tsp. crushed garlic ¼ c. fresh cilantro, chopped 1 c. green pepper, chopped 1 celery stalk, chopped ¼ c. vinegar
In large pot over medium high heat, warm oil and add sugar. Stir occasionally, allowing sugar to bubble and brown. Remove chicken from marinade and add to the pot. Turn occasionally until browned and partially cooked through, 15 minutes. Add vegetables and any accumulated juices from bowl. Cook until vegetables begin to soften, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes.
5 tbsp. cooking oil
Add water, oregano, black pepper, salt, and bouillon, stir and bring to a boil.
¼ tsp. black pepper
Add tomato and rice, stir well, reduce heat to low, and cover pot.
1 chicken bouillon cube
Simmer, covered, until rice is cooked through and all liquid is absorbed, about 25 minutes.
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Ingredients:
1 tsp. sugar 6 c. water ¼ tsp. oregano ½ tsp. salt 1 c. canned crushed tomato 4 c. long-grain white rice
TROPICAL FRUITS Tropical fruits are not only delicious to eat, but are packed with nutritious vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that can offer tremendous healing benefits for your whole body. Here are some of the most common fruits you will find in the Dominican Republic. Enjoy them in their purest form or blended up in a fresh juice or smoothie for a healthy, tasty treat!
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Avocado/Aguacate
The avocado is the only fruit that provides good (monounsaturated) fat, which reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke, and also contains over 20 vitamins and minerals. Eating avocado regularly maintains your skin’s elasticity and reduces signs of aging!
Banana/Guineo
Bananas contain both simple and complex carbs, which combine for great energy potential. Eating 2 bananas will energize you for a 90-minute workout. And don’t throw away that peel! Rubbing the inside of a peel on mosquito bites or poison ivy stops the itching and reduces inflammation. It also works on burns and scrapes to ease pain and protect from infection, and on your head to cure a headache. Finally, simply rubbing the inside of a peel over your teeth before bed every day can whiten your teeth.
Breadfruit/Buen Pan
Buen pan is usually served boiled or fried and has a taste similar to that of a potato. Though not served in restaurants, you can find them at local colmados. Highly nutritious and rich in Omega 3’s and 6’s, buen pan is beneficial in controlling cholesterol levels. Buen Pan also strengthens hair roots and stimulates hair growth, making it a great option for those seeking stronger, thicker hair.
Coconut/Coco
With its pure water and healthy meat, coconuts are ready-made meals right off the tree. Coconuts are rich in fiber and a multitude of vitamins and minerals, which boost the immune system. Coconut water has the perfect electrolyte balance for rehydration, especially if you have travelers’ tummy troubles or a hangover. Coconut oil is used for cooking and in many natural beauty products.
Guava/Guayaba
A lemon-shaped fruit with a pale pink pulp, guava has an intense tropical scent, making it popular for enhancing flavors and aromas. Indigenous to the island of Hispanola, it is mostly used for drinks, jams and sweet treats. Guava is rich in antioxidant vitamin C. One serving provides more than a day’s recommended intake.
Mamey sapote/zapote
This oval fruit with salmon-colored flesh is probably not found in your grocery store back home, and has a very interesting taste, moderately sweet and earthy. Some say it tastes like heaven! This fruit is very heart-healthy and its complex carbs take longer to digest, so it can help with weight management. Its oil, extracted from the seeds, stops hair loss, promotes hair growth, and sooths dermatitis for healthy skin and hair.
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Mango/Mango
This delicious fruit is an excellent source of vitamin A and potassium. Containing multiple antioxidants, mangos have been found to guard against many types of cancer. Use it as a skin cleanser as well. Laying slices directly on your skin for a few minutes prior to washing clears clogged pores and adds radiance to the face. Known as the “love fruit”, mangos contain high amounts of vitamin E, which increases virility and boosts sex drive.
Papaya/Lechosa
Almost always in season, this large fruit can grow up to 20 inches in length! Papaya contains a unique enzyme, papain, which is extracted to make digestive enzyme dietary supplements. Additionally, papaya’s folate, beta-carotene, and vitamin E make it a good choice for those at higher risk of colon cancer. Have dry skin? Apply papaya pulp, a natural skin exfoliator and treatment for sore, cracked heels. Mix in a bit of honey for a true spa experience!
Passion Fruit/Chinola
Passion fruit grows on a jungle vine that climbs up the sunny side of trees. A great source of potassium, one serving a day boosts cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure. Its juice is velvety and perfumed, so don’t leave without trying it!
Pineapple/Piña
This popular fruit is very abundant in the Dominican Republic. Pineapples are rich in Vitamin C, beta-carotene, and fiber, beneficial for overall health. Also abundant is bromelain, a natural anti-inflammatory agent, which can reduce healing time from injuries or surgery, and effectively minimize the effects of arthritis.
Soursop/Guanabana
Soursop is a spiny green fruit with white, creamy flesh. It contains vitamin C, several B vitamins, and calcium. Soursop leaves studied as a cancer treatment show promising results in slowing and even killing cancer cells. Soursop fruit and leaves can also help with upset stomach, fungal infections, stress and nervous disorders.
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Mediterranean Cuisine
809.986.3750
put the power back in pink POVERTY IN PARADISE On one side of the busy main road, you will find beautiful beaches, luxury hotels and world-class restaurants. On the other side, you will see a different Cabarete, a place where 90% of the local population lives in extreme poverty. With a severely under-resourced education system, poor access to health care and a rapidly growing population, Cabarete is not just a booming tourist destination, it’s also an example of the power of poverty to persist despite tremendous local economic growth. But there’s good news! The Mariposa Center for Girls has developed a solution, and it’s working.
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Poverty is cyclical. The key indicator for determining if a child will end up living in poverty is if their parents live in poverty. With childbirth being the number one cause of death for poor girls ages 15-19, and 75% of girls with only a primary education marrying before the age of 18, this is a crisis situation that the world cannot afford to ignore. If we do not invest in girls, the mothers of the future generation, the cycle of poverty will continue. If girls are given a fair shot – access to quality education, health care, job and life skills training and social - emotional support – they will marry later, have fewer, healthier children, earn income and invest it back into their families, breaking the persistent cycle of generational poverty.
If there ever was a silver bullet, this is it.
Everything we do at The Mariposa DR Foundation is centered around educating and empowering girls, and helping others to understand why girls are the cause of our time and the role they can play in affecting positive global change. With wraparound services for girls, benefits for the entire family, and a robust volunteer and service-learning program, Mariposa has developed a formula that is a game changer.
The Mariposa Center for Girls is located just down the road from Kite Beach. Open six days a week, our program takes a holistic approach to make a real difference in the lives of girls, providing quality education, health care, job skills training, cultural immersion, social-emotional support and much, much more.
The Mariposa DR Foundation has been supporting local public and private schools since day one, improving education not only for the Mariposa girls but for all the children in Cabarete. 39
Sports are an integral part of our programs at The Mariposa Center for Girls. Each girl must participate in some physical activity at least two days per week. With walking groups, yoga, basketball, baseball, volleyball, jiu-jitsu, circus arts, tennis, dance, swimming and water sports, we make sure that each girl finds an activity that feeds her soul. Physical exercise improves learning, memory and concentration, giving girls the extra edge they need in the classroom. Sports also teach girls important life skills like goal setting, teamwork and problem solving.
Water Sports Rule! In the town of Cabarete, water sports rule and girls are often ostracized from their own community because they do not know how to swim. Imagine how isolating it would feel to grow up in a tropical beach town, never having access to a pool and fearing the ocean. The Mariposa Center for Girls provides a pool that the girls of Cabarete can call their own, and swimming lessons are offered to every single girl enrolled in our program. In the past 5 years we have taught more than 300 girls how to swim!
With the support of local surf schools, our staff and volunteers have taught more than 40 girls to surf, kitesurf, windsurf, kayak and SUP.
Water Safety
Teaching girls to swim is just part of the equation. Teaching them how to be safe and how to ensure the safety of others is empowerment. All of our Mariposas participate in water safety and basic life-guarding training where they learn how to know if someone is drowning and needs help, basic rescue techniques and how to get out of a rip-tide when swimming in the ocean. In 2014 one of the girls in our program saved a drowning girl due to the life saving skills she learned in our program.
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how can i help? If you enjoyed your time in Cabarete and would like to give back to the local community, here is how you can help! The Mariposa DR Foundation is a US 501(c)3 non-profit and Dominican NGO sustained by donations. All US donations are tax-deductible. If you are traveling to Cabarete and would like to bring supplies, check out our wish list on our website and drop off your donations at the Mariposa Center for Girls, located on the main road next to the entrance to La Cienega. We will happily accept cash, check, wire transfer or stock donations as well. Tony Award, Grammy Award and MacArthur Genius Award winning playwright, actor, rapper, lyricist and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda supports the Mariposa DR Foundation. Here he is pictured with Mariposa girls at the 2014 Grand Opening Gala at the Mariposa Center for Girls.
To donate online, ask about volunteer opportunities, and learn more about the organization, visit our website: www.mariposadrfoundation.org Please make checks payable to Mariposa DR Foundation and mail to: The Mariposa DR Foundation 421 N. Aurora St. Ithaca, NY 14850
Advertising Information To advertise your business in the 2017 Cabarete: Responsible Tourism and Investment Guide please contact us at: promo@mariposadrfoundation.org or 809 571 0610 The deadline for payment is April 15th, 2016 and the deadline for artwork submission is June 10th, 2016.
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CuLTuRE
At many colmados and bars you will see groups of four people around a small square table playing dominos, a popular Dominican pastime. The basic game is simple, but the pros have lots of strategies to win and the rules vary greatly. A set of dominos makes a great souvenir!
Baseball is by far the most popular sport in the Dominican Republic, fueled by the dream of young Dominican boys to make it big and play Major League Baseball in the US. About 10% of all MLB players come from the DR, which is impressive considering just over 25% of players are foreign born, making the DR the largest single source of foreign players. Check out the local boys practicing or one of the Dominican teams - passion and excitement guaranteed!
A peek into a typical Dominican colmado.
Dominican colmados are small, locally owned convenience stores that carry everything from rice to toilet paper to soda and more. Prior to 1990, colmados were the only places in Cabarete to buy groceries and for many families they continue to be the principle source of food and other essential items. We recommend you stop in a colmado for an authentic Dominican shopping experience!
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One of the most common forms of transportation in the DR is on motorcycles, transporting entire families, furniture, and anything else needing to be moved. Many men in Cabarete are “motoconchos” or moto taxi drivers. It is not the safest form of transportation, but it can be fun to have a contest between friends to see who can spot the craziest thing on a motorcycle during your trip.
When Columbus came to the New World in 1492, his ships anchored right here in the Dominican Republic, which is when Spanish, the official language of the country, arrived. As the indigenous Taino population was wiped out by epidemics and brutal working conditions, African slaves replaced them as laborers and brought their language, which can still be heard in many words, intonations and colloquialisms. Though all Spanish-speaking countries have a unique dialect, many of the common phrases you will hear in the Dominican Republic are actually heavily influenced by the Yoruba syntax of Nigeria.
Here are some must know “Dominicanisms” that will have you speaking like a local in no time! Ahorita
The Taino population may have been wiped out when Columbus arrived. However, part of their language still lives on today. Many of their words were adopted by the Spanish and passed into English and other languages. Here are some that you might recognize. Barbecue Derived from “barbacoa”, a particular method of cooking meat on a raised platform Canoe Originally meaning a dugout like those used by Tainos, it comes from the word “canoa” Hammock Spanish colonists learned about hammocks from the Taino, who protected themselves from critters while sleeping with fishing nets called “hamaca” Hurricane Huracán is the Taino word for “god of the storm”
In Mexico this means “right now”, here it means an undefined “later”
Bola
Literally, “ball”, but means “a free ride” here
Bomba
Literally, “bomb.” In the Dominican Republic it’s the gas station, where you will often find the best parties in town.
Chevere
From African roots, means “awesome” or “cool”
Concon
The crusty layer of fried rice at the bottom of the pot. A tasty treat!
CHIN
Comes from the indigenous Taino language, means “a little”
Cuarto
Slang for “money”
Dique
Pronounced “D-keh” this means “supposedly” and is commonly used when divulging the latest gossip.
Guagua
Potato But potatoes don’t grow in the tropics! The word comes from the Spanish “patata”, which comes from Taino “batata”, which we call “sweet potato”
“bus” or “van”
Tobacco Referred to by the Taino as a pipe used for smoking, the word “tobaco” now takes on many forms
Shortened from “está todo bien”, means “good” or “fine”
Que lo que
Shortened from “que es lo que hay”, this means “What’s up?”
Tató
Vaina
Pronounced “by-nuh”, means “thing”
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LoCAL pRoduCTs & GifT idEAs
The Dominican Republic has a wealth of natural resources that local artisans and farmers turn into beautiful or delicious souvenirs. Many prices are open to negotiation. Just remember that the sale of souvenirs is the only income for many to support their families.
Amber is a gemstone made of petrified tree resin, dating back millions of years. Due to the large quantity of amber mined here, Cabarete and the rest of the north shore is often referred to as “The Amber Coast”. Keep your eyes open as you are beachcombing the bay. You may find a piece floating along the shore!
Larimar
Larimar’s beautiful blue color is often considered to embody the colors of the Caribbean sea and sky. This stunning gem is extremely rare and is only found here in the Dominican Republic. Larimar can be easily purchased in Cabarete at any of our local jewelry stores, or directly from artisans.
rum
It is not surprising that rum was the favorite of pirates who would drink it while out at sea and steal it from trading ships throughout the Caribbean. Still today, rum proves to be a favorite drink among both Dominicans and visitors alike. The DR boasts several premium, prize winning rum brands, including Barcelo and Brugal.
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Higueros
Traditionally, Dominicans used higueros (non-edible gourds that are dried) to sift and clean rice, for shelling beans and pigeon peas, and to wash fruit. Today, higueros have become more of a novelty item and are often carved by hand into lanterns, candle holders, and other decorative pieces. Here in Cabarete, you can find local, skilled artisans who will do custom designs if you ask.
mama juana is a local elixir made from wine and honey and soaked with a medley of medicinal tree barks and herbs. After at least a month of curing, this aphrodisiac with remedial properties is ready to be served!
cigars
Did you know that the DR has a longer history of producing high quality cigars than Cuba? The DR’s fertile soil and lush climate (ideal for growing tobacco), make us the hotspot for cigar production in the world!
coffee
Nearly every family in the DR starts its day by brewing a dark, rich cup of coffee (locally known as a cafecito). The variety of delicious Dominican coffee covers the spectrum from light to full bodied. We recommend that you consider purchasing organic coffee while visiting, as it supports local farmers with environmentally friendly practices.
cocoa
Here in the hills of the Dominican Republic, chocolate really does grow on trees! Cocoa, locally known as Cacao, is actually a fruit that bears seeds, which, when fermented, dried and toasted becomes cocoa. Cocoa and chocolate not only taste great, but have a host of health benefits as well, containing high levels of antioxidants. The DR is proud to be the world’s leading exporter of organic cocoa!
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Warm, inviting and wonderfully unique 1-2 Bedroom Apartments A place to make life-long friends. A place to call home in a beautiful, resort-style setting.
LAS CAÑAS – MAKE IT YOURS
Las Cañas, La Mulata II, Sosúa
Purchase and Rental inquiries: Tel. 809 571-1522 www.lascanas.net
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Support Las Cañas Charities
and enjoy fun-filled, day-long family friendly events and activities. For our schedule call us at 809 571-1522
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A ROOM WITH A VIEW
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W
hether you’re traveling with your family or friends, came to relax, to party or maybe a little bit of both. If you’re just in town for a few nights, or staying for a few months, prefer to be right in the middle of the action, or just off the beaten path, Cabarete has a great variety of accommodations and something perfect for every type of traveler. Our top picks are more than just your average hotels, they are family run businesses and the cornerstones of our small community. The local hotels are often managed by the same family that built the property, with several of them living right on site. These places are built on a foundation of giving and proudly support The Mariposa Center for Girls. Here are our favorite places in town.
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It would be impossible to talk about accommodations or hotels in Cabarete without mentioning the vision of Georges Coutu, who developed many of the luxury properties that line Cabarete Bay. In 2001, Velero Beach Resort opened its doors as the first boutique hotel in town that catered to a wealthier clientele. Featuring 22 condo units and 7 penthouses on the east side of downtown, Velero offers a peaceful, private and relaxing experience with every unit featuring an ocean view! Even if you’re not staying there, the beachfront restaurant is a great place to enjoy breakfast or a sunset happy hour to enjoy the best view of the Bay. With a clean and simple design, close enough to the action but far enough to get that secluded feel, Velero satisfies all types of travelers.
L’Agence Real Estate is not a hotel, but the biggest rental agency in town! Offering luxury residences from studios to 1-5 bedroom apartments and villas. L’Agence Real Estate has more than 120 properties to choose from in their inventory. The husband and wife team at L’Agence Real Estate and their expert staff can help you find the perfect condo to rent, or if you’re in the market for a more permanent stay, you’ll be well taken care of here.
Their beachfront properties are a great place to stay for just a few days or a few months, and if you’re into kite surfing or came to learn, just step right out in front onto the sand and go! 52
Georges Coutu’s grandest vision was two decades in the making, when he created Millennium Resort & Spa.
Reflecting the sleek and modern style of the new millennium, this place has it all. Equipped with a spa, restaurant, room service, fitness facility, business center, shopping and Laurel Eastman Kiteboarding School, it’s the only place in town where you literally never have to leave the property for anything. Offering great deals on extended stays, a great option if you’re working remotely.
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If you’re looking to stay downtown close to the action, Villa Taina is a local favorite. Just steps away from the ocean in the center of town, you can launch your kite, SUP, kayak or windsurf directly in front of your room. This boutique-sized property offers great amenities with a restaurant serving international fare, beachfront bar, concierge and free yoga for guests twice a week! With a cozy and eclectic style, the name “Villa Taina” honors the original Taino inhabitants of the island and their spiritual heritage.
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Some travelers prefer to rent an entire house for their vacation. If this is more your style, check out Cabarete Beach Houses, also referred to as the “Nanny Estates”. Each uniquely designed two-level beach house has a full size kitchen and an ocean view with direct access to the beach. A great option for the family vacation.
cabarete beach houses is also the only property in town that features a tennis court!
special getaway in sosua
Not every traveler wants to stay right on the beach. Some prefer the peace and serenity of the hills. If this sounds more like you, then check out Las Cañas Apart-Hotel. Just a few minutes drive from Sosua Beach, Las Cañas is more like its own community. Las Cañas offers plenty of recreational activities. It also has the largest pool on the North Coast!
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Not a single tree was removed to build the place, just incorporated into the design, with some running right through the middle of the room! 56
If you’re looking to Zen out, Natura Cabana is the place for you. Featuring 11 private, rustically designed bungalows, each one is uniquely inspired by the travels and experiences of the owners and designers of the property. With a spa, yoga loft, organic garden and gourmet restaurant that will cater to any dietary needs, come here for your own little private retreat.
El Magnifico means “The Magnificent� in Spanish. This place surely lives up to its name. This quiet boutique hotel right in town is a true artistic wonder, with every room featuring a unique, modern design. Relax as you meander the winding garden paths on the property and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
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One of Cabarete’s newest hotels, this luxury 21-unit boutique property is all about fulfilling the requests of its guests. Located just east of busy downtown, but close enough to the action, this place attracts those looking for both ultimate privacy and convenience. Sexy and chic, at Ultravioleta you can travel in style.
When asked about an interesting unknown story about their accommodations, owners Anton Lvov and brother Maxim Lvov replied to us:
“What happens at Ultravioleta, stays at Ultravioleta!” 58
The Prize for Environmental Responsibility Goes To… It’s a Tie! Villa Taina Celebrating it’s 20th year in Cabarete as one of the veteran hotels in town, Villa Taina gets one of the prizes for cutting edge technology when it comes to the environment. The property operates a state of the art wastewater treatment plant that runs without any chemical products. Developed in Austria, the highly efficient system also services some of the surrounding properties, making Villa Taina a great neighbor! Natura Cabana Recycling, organic gardening, conscious water use and a focus on energy details make Natura Cabana one to follow when it comes to the environment. Here the theme “every little step counts” adds up to a huge impact when it comes to taking care of the planet. Natura Cabana’s efforts are a shining example of how any business, big or small, can do its part. Honorable Mention Located on Kite Beach, it wouldn’t be fair to praise the environmental efforts of local businesses without mentioning eXtreme Hotel. Running entirely on solar power, an organic garden, systems to leverage trade winds instead of air conditioning and more, eXtreme is essentially off the grid and strives to be one with the environment.
But really, they are all winners! For many of the owners of these local businesses, Cabarete is the place they call home and each one takes caring for the environment very seriously. At almost every property in town, you will notice the environmentally friendly practices including composting, water conservation, recycling, organic gardening and more; just one more reason why we are proud to be a member of the Cabarete community.
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saving our
Oceans
Why we must and how we can Michael McCabe served intermittently as Acting Country Director of the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic and Haiti from 2001 - 2006, and was responsible for training and supervising many staff and volunteers. He shared the story below to all incoming volunteers to show how little actions can add up to make a big difference. “Once upon a time, there was a man who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had a habit of walking on the beach before he began his work. One day, as he was walking along the shore, he looked down the beach and saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself at the thought of someone who would dance to the day, and so, he walked faster to catch up. As he got closer, he noticed that the figure was that of a child, and that what he was doing was not dancing at all. The child was reaching down to the shore, picking
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up small objects, and throwing them into the ocean. He came closer still and called out “Good morning! May I ask what it is that you are doing?” The child paused, looked up, and replied “Throwing starfish into the ocean.” “I must ask, then, why are you throwing starfish into the ocean?” asked the somewhat startled man. To this, the child replied, “The sun is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them in, they’ll die.” Upon hearing this, the man commented, “But, young man, do you not realize that there are miles and miles of beach and there are starfish all along every mile? You can’t possibly make a difference!” At this, the child bent down, picked up yet another starfish, and threw it into the ocean. As it met the water, he said, “I made a difference for that one.”
“It is estimated that over 90% of the world’s biodiversity resides in the oceans. No matter how remote we feel we are from the ocean, every act each one of us takes in our everyday life affects our planet’s water cycle and in return affects us. All the water that falls on land, from the highest peeks to the flattest plains, ends up draining into the oceans. And although this has happened for countless millions of years, the growing ecological footprint of our species in the last century has affected the cycle in profound ways. From fertilizer overuse in landlocked areas, which creates life-choking algal blooms thousands of miles away, to everyday plastic items washing up in even the most remote areas of the globe, our actions affect the health of this, our sole life-support system.
By taking simple steps, such as paying a little more attention to our daily routines, each one of us can have a significant positive impact on the future of our planet and on the world our children will inherit.
in short, it would be much healthier for us to learn to dance nature’s waltz than to try and change the music.” Fabien Cousteau, aquatic filmmaker and oceanographic explorer, grandson of famed oceanographic explorer Jacques-Yves Cousteau.
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simple things you can do in cabarete (and around the world) to help save our oceans
Problem: 80% of pollution to the marine environment comes from the land.
Pick up a piece of someone else’s trash every day.
Pick up after your dogs, especially on the beach.
Reuse, reuse, reuse. It is the best form of recycling in the world. Dominicans reuse. Learn from them.
Do not purchase plastic bottles or accept to-go food in Styrofoam boxes. Remember organic and compostable products cost more, so be willing to pay for them. Many business owners take on significant financial loss by doing the right thing.
Problem: Coffee is the most chemically treated agricultural product on the planet. If you aren’t drinking organic coffee, you’re likely exposing yourself to a dose of pesticides with every cup. The most common chemicals used in coffee production are synthetic petroleum-based fertilizers that slowly destroy the soil’s fertility and seep into the oceans. Additionally, the production of coffee is causing rapid deforestation. That’s because coffee grows naturally under the shade of the rainforest—not in direct sunlight. AS THE SECOND MOST TRADED COMODITY IN THE WORLD, the reckless coffee industry has developed sun-resistant coffee tree hybrids that now comprise about 70% of the world’s coffee production. As a result, rainforest is being cleared at alarming rates to make room for the new, sun resistant coffee trees.
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Drink certified shade grown, organic coffee. Ask your favorite restaurants to supply organic coffee.
Problem: Lobster fishing is the backbone of the fishing economy in the Caribbean. However, in recent years, the dwindling catch has both governments and fishermen worried.
Since 2010 there has been a ban on lobster fishing during the species’ reproductive season, March 1st-June 30th. Please support local fisherman and restaurants by purchasing lobster July – February only.
Problem: Massive commercial overfishing. The global fishing fleet is 2-3 times larger than what the oceans can sustainably support. Several important commercial fish populations have declined to the point where their survival is threatened. Unless the current situation improves, stocks of all species currently fished for food are predicted to collapse by 2048. Furthermore, each year, billions of unwanted fish and other animals - like dolphins, marine turtles, seabirds, sharks, and corals - die due to inefficient, illegal, and destructive fishing practices.
Support small-scale fisheries and sustainable aquaculture practices, which have cultural ties to the land, not commercial fishing. Most restaurants in Cabarete buy from local fishermen, so ask where the fish is coming from and feel good about eating local fish when you are in Cabarete.
Most importantly, teach your children to love the Oceans and they will protect them.
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FLYING TRAPEZE SCHOOL OF CIRCUS ARTS CIRCUS PRODUCTION PRIVATE PARTIES SPECIAL EVENTS
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Dr. Gideon Plaut Medico General
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Q&A Community Members Making a Difference: Papo from jujitsu de la costa Name: Tomas “Papo” Sone Business: Jiu Jitsu de la Costa Hometown: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Years in Cabarete: 9
What does Jiu Jitsu de la Costa offer to the community of Cabarete? Jiu Jitsu de la Costa is a martial arts academy whose doors are open to all community members, as well as visitors to Cabarete. It is a space where boys, girls, teenagers and adults come to learn to work as a team, to care for and respect each other, while at the same time developing discipline.
on providing innovative and attractive activities that will continue to bring more people to our community, and more importantly, a high quality tourism that supports our community in a positive way. Thankfully, because of the work that we have already done in our community, Jiu Jitsu de la Costa has brought many Jiu Jitsu athletes from around the globe to come to visit our academy regularly, or have moved here permanently.
Due to a lot of body contact in Jiu Jitsu, we also focus on the importance of good hygiene of all of our students. The classes don’t have a specific price, but we ask that each person give as they can to support the academy. What are your hopes for the children participating in your program? My greatest desire for each boy and girl participating in our classes is that they have fun while learning discipline that will help them to develop their potential to serve as examples in our community. How do you envision the role of Jiu Jitsu de la Costa in our community’s development? The community of Cabarete is recognized around the globe for the variety of water sports and unique activities that we offer to tourists. Because tourism is the main source of work for the local economy, we must remember to focus
Jiu Jitsu de la Costa is 100% committed to helping with the positive, healthy, and sustainable development of Cabarete. 75
Andari SPA Beach Club Bliss Blue Moon Cabarete Beach Houses Cabarete Coffee Company CEMEDIN Chez Arsenio CPS Dominican Fisherman El Magnifico Hotel Encargo PAQ EPS Fresh Fresh Cafe Gordito’s Fresh Mex Haciendas El Choco Hotel Villa Taina Iguana Mama Kaiceitos Circus School Kaya Energy Group Kayak River Adventures L’Agence Real Estate Las Cañas Apart-Hotel La Casita de Papi LEK Kiteboarding School Mariposa Center for Girls Millennium Resort & Spa Monkey Jungle Natura Cabana Otra Cosa Restaurant Pizza & Spaghetti House Seguros Universal Ultravioleta Velero Beach Resort Yalla Yamazato 3 Mariposas Montessori 321 Take Off Surf School
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