| | ![]() | |
| Most Commonly Asked Questions ....... | ||
| What is the weather like? The average high is 87* F, average low 73* F. January being the coldest month and August the hottest. There is no real rainy season in the Dominican Republic, it can rain anytime during the year. Most of the rain occurs overnight or as a late afternoon shower. For a look at the weather today, check out our beach page. | ||
| | What should we bring to wear? Formal or casual? Because of our fabulous tropical climate you will be most comfortable in your usual summer garb, however depending on the time frame of your intended vacation you might also want to bring a light jacket or sweater and some long pants for the cooler nights. Casual clothing is acceptable at all establishments in the area, of course if you have a special dinner and a night at the casino planned you might want to bring something a little more dressy. | |
| What credit cards do you accept? Do most places accept? We accept Visa and Mastercard on the resort. They are your best bet in most shopping or dining establishments. Still, dont forget the great outdoor local markets, they of course accept cash, cash, cash!!! Are there ATM's available? Where are they located? Yes, there are ATM's available in both of our neighboring towns of Sosua and Cabarete. They are easily accessible and will provide you with Dominican pesos based on the international exchange rate. | ||
![]() | Transportation from the airport, how and how much? Taxis are available at the Puerto Plata and Santo Domingo airports. It will cost you about $18US from Puerto Plata and $150US from Santo Domingo depending on the taxi. If you wish to have a pre-arranged taxi at the above price, please fax or email the resort ahead of time with your flight information. A taxi driver will then be waiting with a pink placard with your name on it. Take only this taxi, you will be responsible for its fare. | |
| | Can we bring children? Yes, We have a well rounded activities department that is geared towards people of all ages. There are excursions, water sports, horseback riding and a complete range of evening shows sure to entertain all | |
![]() | Do you have baby-sitting? Yes, you can request at the front desk for a baby-sitter in your apartment. You must make arrangements at least 24 hours prior. | |
| What tours are available? There are various tours and excursions available. Some of the more popular include, jeep safaris, waterfall tours, sight seeing tours, city tours, horseback riding and mountain bike tours. For more information and registration with safe, reputable companies you can make arrangements with Pablo at the Front Reception. | ||
| Can we drink the water? Where do we get bottled water? You should not drink the tap water, although it is safe for cooking and bathing. Bottled water is sold and served throughout the resort and surrounding communities. Do be extra careful when outside the designated tourist areas of both water and ice. | ||
| I don't speak Spanish, will it be difficult to communicate with staff? Off the resort? Although Spanish is the official language here, you will find at the resort and in the neighboring towns that many locals are able to speak English, German, French and bits of various other languages. It is wise to speak slowly and clearly though since we are such an international vacation spot, accents sometimes catch locals up. | ||
| Can I learn some Spanish while I'm there? Seguro que si ( yes, for sure)! As stated in our activities schedule we do have daily classes of Spanish taught by our Activities department and many happy people to practice with. | ||
| Where are the local mini markets & grocery stores? For small items and light shopping there is a mini-mart, Creme de la Creme,located in the project. In Sosua, you have your choice between Productos Sosua and Playero both located on the main highway into town. In Cabarete, there are several littering the main street. (Where the hotel transportation lets you off in both towns is at or near the grocery stores.) Of course if you want to really relax on your vacation you might want to consider our meal plan and let us cook all of your meals for you. | ||
| | Where are the beaches and how do I get there? The resort has its own private beach, there is a Tuk-Tuk that makes daily runs back and forth. We also provide a daily shuttle bus service into Sosua and Cabarete. Refer to the 'Getting Around' section of the website for specific schedules. | |
![]() | Is there nude or topless sunbathing? Sorry, poolside it is not allowed. Topless sunbathing is allowed on the public beaches, but for full nude bathing it is better to go to a private beach. | |
| | Do you have room service? When? Yes, we have room and bar service during open hours. You can have anything you like off the menu sent up to your room. | |
| Do you have a daily cleaning service? What is an average tip? Yes, we do have daily cleaning service, you will usually have the same person for the extent of your stay. Most guests choose to tip at the end of the week, a dollar a day, per person being the average tip. | ||
![]() Catedral San Felipe Apostol | Where are the local churches or synagogues? There is a Catholic church in Los Cherimicos that offers service in English and Spanish. Sosua is all so equipped with a synagogue that serves as both a house of worship and a cultural center illustrating the Jewish migration to the Dominican Republic during and after the Holocaust. It is a excellent historical site to visit regardless of your denomination. | |
| What if I have allergies or special diet requirements, can the restaurant accommodate me? Yes, within reason since of course we are limited to the things available on the island. If you do wish to make certain requests let us know and we will do our best to deliver you a satisfactory diet. | ||
| What if I get sick? No one of course wants to fall ill during a vacation, however rest easy as we have doctor's on call 24 hours a day. In addition, for mild cases of sunstroke, or upset stomach etc., there are pharmacies located in both towns. | ||
| What is typical Dominican cuisine? Where can I get some? The typical Dominican diet consists of rice, beans and a portion of meat, chicken or fish. Of course, their diet is also rich in the various fruits and vegetables grown here on the island. At the resort you will find nuances of Dominican produce and seasonings throughout our international menu. But, for special authentic Dominican plate try the Wednesday afternoon Fish Fry on the beach, or Friday nights Dominican Special. | ||
| What is the merengue , where can I learn? The merengue is the national dance. It is a lot of fun to do and a great work out ( no flabby thighs on this island) Mondays and Fridays, when we have our live music shows are a great time to enlist one of our activities guys in to showing you the rhythm of the Dominican night. Once you have got it down you will find an abundance of up beat discos and clubs to show case your new talent. Bailamos!! | ||
![]() | Can I get married while I'm there? Yes, many people do choose our island destination for their nuptials. However, you must have: Original Birth Certificate Valid/Original Passport Solemn Declaration, that the parties involved are single. The Divorce Certificate if married before. Two witness The 3rd and 4th documents must be translated into Spanish and certified by the Dominican Republic Consulate Letter noting the names and occupations of each person getting married. The marriage certificate will be ready a day or two after the ceremony. The consulate or embassy will charge for processing these documents and will usually ask for the originals as well as the translations. | |
| Can I use foreign currency there? Should I change my money before I leave? American money is accepted at all establishments, however the best rates are usually found at local change houses in Sosua or Cabarete. All other currency can be changed there or at the local bank. | ||
| Tips & Tidbits Don't forget about the tax to leave the country. Do not forget about the exiting tax, each person must pay $10US cash (exact change is best) when leaving the country. | ||
| Car rental information? Where? When? Is it necessary? You can make arrangements before you arrive with National to have car during your stay. It is best to stick with international companies, even though their rates might be slightly higher. They are insured and have well maintained vehicles. Remember you only get what you pay for!!! You may however find that a car is not necessary as the hotel provides transportation to all local beaches and villages. Caution! Driving on the roads here is an acquired skill; taxis are readily available if you need a tour off the beaten path. | ||
| What about motorbikes and scooters? Always a popular mode of transport while in the islands, follow the same precautions as recommended for cars. The front desk will be happy to make arrangements for you with one of the reputable companies. Again Caution! We do not recommend this mode of transportation. | ||
| What is the custom for airport porters? The porters at the airport are there to serve you "upon request", if you do not wish help with your luggage firmly state no and continue on your way. You are in no way obligated to use their services, no matter how aggressive they may behave. If you do choose to have help with your bags it is customary to give them a fair tip. We want to apologize for them in advance and assure you that they are not a typical representation of the local people. | ||
| Who can I bargain with? It is customary to bargain with almost everyone here. The main exceptions being where the prices are already posted. Still, it never hurts to ask, as most establishments have a little leeway. Of course on the beaches and in the market places it is a must. It is the fun of the exchange so don't be shy and get into it. You will enjoy the competitive interaction and get great gifts that you paid a fair price for. | ||
| Insects Insect life thrives in tropical climates and makes no distinction between economy and luxury hotel accommodations. You might want to bring a repellent, and take care not to leave food out in your units. |