Cabarete DR - is it safe?
 

I've always heard that if you go to the DR, its perfectly safe as long as you stay at your resort. However, I've been to many all-inclusives and I'm over it, as I prefer to go out to dinner and see some local culture. On Trip Advisor I found this little resort called Velero Beach that looks fantastic. Has anyone been there, and would you be concerned about my husband and I exploring the town, etc? Thanks so much for your input!

does anyone know about this town or resort? thanks!

We were in Cabarete about 4 years ago and stayed at the Windsurf Resort which is a short walk from town. I don't recall Velero Beach. Try Debbie's Dominican Resort reviews which had several listings for this area. We had a great time and felt totally safe walking in town, etc. There were many restaurants in town for dinner as well as shops. There is a beautiful golf course about 20 minutes away right on the ocean. If you go, make sure you go into Sosua for dinner at Pier Giorgio which is a beautiful old hotel on the cliff overlooking the sea. The food was wonderful as well. I would not hesitate to go back. Happy travels!

Thanks, Nankar!

Oh, then Cabarete is for you. First you will see local culture, great inexpensive Dominican restaurants off the beaten path (just a little). Beach restaurants good, beautiful at nite w/ teaky lamps, tables on beach, great ambiance, food more will cost you- but less than us. Local restaurants- DOLLARS for great food. There is a great ecoadventure tour place- Iquana Mama- ck it out on line- hiking, biking, cascading, rafting. If you decide to go, I'll share the local restaurant and entertainment tips- really good! Yes Velero is great. It is on the tip of the bay- within walking distance to all, but provides a haven for you- quiet, safe, pampered, w/ all really really nice local help. They are so lovely and will treat you so nicely!

so if you need more info, let me know, Carol

Oh- and safety. Just be smart. Don't look like you have so much money. Don't carry a lot and carry it on your body. Be nice when they approach you- smile, look in eye and say no thanks. They will persist- I just say I don't like that or I don't want that and keep walking w/o eyecontact. They will not stab, rape, shoot you like in the US. They will steal because they are a poor country $2000/year for large families. You just have to know how to respond and what to avoid. If you decide to go, I'll give you more tips. Good luck, take care. I have not be scared- a go alone as a single woman. But I have learned the ropes.