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Resources & References

Resources & References

North Coast, Dominican Republic

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps

    Use for navigation. Download offline maps of Cabarete and surrounding areas.

  • Google Translate

    For language translation. Download the Spanish offline pack to use without internet.

  • WhatsApp

    This app is for communicating with locals, tour operators, and some businesses.

  • Currency Converter

    For quick exchange rate checks between Dominican Pesos and your home currency. Find apps here

  • VPN Service

    Consider a VPN like NordVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Helpful Websites

  • Dominican Republic E-Ticket

    Eticket.migracion.gob.do (Required for entry and exit)

  • DR Ministry of Tourism

    Godominicanrepublic.com (Official tourism information)

  • Booking Platforms

    Booking.com, Airbnb, VRBO (For accommodation and rental searches)

  • Airline Websites

    Check flight status and book directly.

  • Travel Card Information

    Review your travel rewards card details, such as those from Capital One Travel.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

No specific Cabarete guidebooks exist. General Dominican Republic guidebooks may have a section on the North Coast. A detailed Road map of Dominican Republic might be useful if you self-drive.

Find Road Maps

Books on DR

Look for fiction or non-fiction books about Dominican history, culture, or expat life. "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz gives cultural context through fiction.

Local Publications

Free local tourist magazines or newspapers found in hotels or tourist information centers may feature event listings and local business advertisements.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • Tourist Police (CESTUR): 809-200-5000 (Nationwide tourist assistance)
  • Centro Medico Cabarete: A local clinic for minor issues.
  • Clínica Dr. Bournigal (Puerto Plata): A larger private hospital for serious emergencies.

Safety Protocols

  • U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo: Av. República de Colombia #57. Phone: 809-567-7775.
  • Canadian Embassy Santo Domingo: Av. Winston Churchill #1099. Phone: 809-262-3100.
  • Lost document procedures: Report loss or theft to local police immediately.
  • Natural disaster protocols: Follow local authority instructions. Monitor weather warnings.

Further Reading & Exploration

Dominican Culture

  • Search for documentaries on Dominican culture.
  • Listen to Merengue and Bachata music.
  • Explore local art galleries.
  • Consider cultural tours for insights.

Online Communities

  • Facebook groups for "Expats in Cabarete" or "Cabarete."
  • These groups often share current information.
  • They connect you with locals and other travelers.
  • Engage with discussions for real-time tips.

Language Learning

  • Use language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel.
  • Consider local Spanish schools in Cabarete for immersive learning.
  • Basic Spanish phrases make a big difference.
  • Practice daily greetings with locals.

Emergency and Safety Advice

Important Reminders

Local Emergency Services

  • General Emergency: Dial 911 for Police, Fire, and Ambulance.
  • Tourist Police (CESTUR): Call 809-200-5000 for tourist assistance.
  • Keep these numbers saved on your phone.
  • Report any incidents to the Tourist Police.

Medical Facilities

  • Centro Medico Cabarete is a local clinic for minor issues.
  • Clínica Dr. Bournigal in Puerto Plata is a larger hospital.
  • Ensure you have travel insurance for medical needs.

Embassy Contacts

  • U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo: 809-567-7775.
  • Canadian Embassy Santo Domingo: 809-262-3100.
  • Contact your embassy for lost documents or serious issues.
  • Register your trip with your country's embassy.

Safe Practices

Personal Security

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Inform someone of your itinerary.
  • Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches after dark.

Health & Well-being

  • Never drink tap water; stick to bottled water.
  • Use high SPF sunscreen.
  • Seek shade during peak sun hours.

Transport & Trust

Transportation Precautions

  • For taxis or motoconchos, agree on the price Before the ride.
  • Keep small denominations of DOP for local transport.
  • Pre-booked transfers are a direct option from airports.

Interactions with Locals

  • Be friendly, but cautious of overly insistent vendors.
  • Avoid unsolicited offers that appear too good to be true.
  • Learning basic Spanish phrases goes a long way.

Lost Document Procedures

If Documents are Lost

  1. Report loss or theft to local police immediately.
  2. Obtain a police report; this is important for insurance claims.
  3. Contact your embassy or consulate.
  4. Seek assistance with emergency travel documents.
  5. Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents separate from originals.

During Natural Disasters

  1. Follow local authority instructions.
  2. Pay attention to civil defense warnings.
  3. Hotels should have emergency plans; familiarize yourself.
  4. Monitor international weather warnings, especially during hurricane season.
  5. Maintain a supply of essential items (water, first aid, charged phone).

General Safety Reminders

Stay Informed

Keep up-to-date with local news and safety advisories.

Secure Valuables

Use hotel safes for passports and large sums of cash.

Community Awareness

Observe local routines and blend in where possible.

Emergency Contact Reminder

Keep emergency numbers, including 911 for general emergencies and the Tourist Police (CESTUR) at 809-200-5000, readily available.

Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Before

  • Passport Validity

    Ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond your planned departure date.

  • Visa & Entry

    Research visa and entry requirements, including the E-Ticket process.

  • Flight Bookings

    Book flights, especially if you plan to travel during high season.

-2 Months Before

  • Accommodation & Tours

    Book any remaining accommodation and major tours or activities.

  • Vaccinations

    Check recommended vaccinations and visit your doctor for any required shots.

  • Driving Permit

    Arrange an International Driving Permit if you plan to rent a car.

Pre-Trip Planning

Travel Insurance

Research travel insurance options and purchase a policy. Consider providers like World Nomads.

Get Insured

Language Practice

Start practicing basic Spanish phrases. Simple greetings and polite terms are valued by locals.

Learn Spanish (Babbel)

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates. Cards like those from Capital One Travel can be managed online.

Card Services

Week Before Departure

Final Confirmations

  • Confirm all your reservations for flights, hotels, and tours.
  • Make copies of your important documents, both digital and physical.
  • Download offline maps and translation packs to your phone.
  • Complete the Dominican Republic E-Ticket for both entry and exit. This is a required step.

Home & Packing

  • Arrange for pet and plant care. Hold your mail. Secure your home.
  • Pay any upcoming bills to avoid issues while away.
  • Pack your bags, ensuring you have climate-appropriate clothing and activity gear.
  • Consider packing organizers like those from Eagle Creek.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps for a smooth start to your Cabarete adventure.

Immediate Steps

  • Have your passport and E-Ticket QR code ready for immigration.
  • Proceed to baggage claim. Clear customs efficiently.
  • Withdraw Dominican Pesos from an airport ATM or exchange a small amount of USD.
  • Follow pre-arranged transfer instructions or take an official airport taxi.

Orientation & Budgeting

  • Locate the airport exit for your pre-arranged transport or the taxi stand.
  • Confirm the taxi fare before departing the airport.
  • Use exchanged local currency for immediate needs like transportation or a quick snack.
  • Break larger bills at safe places to get smaller denominations.

Departure Day Planning

Confirm flight details and allow ample time for airport transfer, especially when using public transportation.

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