FAQ (while here)

There is a lot of little bits of local knowledge that we are happy to share with you. To make it easier, we’ve created this page of good information for you to refer back to during your trip. If there is something you think we should add, pleaes tell us – we are happy to add it!

I need to speak to Genevieve or the manager, how can I reach her?

Extreme is a little different than other places- staff double as athletes / instructors and are often busy practicing or teaching an activity. Although they are not always around, they are always available. You always reach any of our team members by emailing info@extremehotels.com or by leaving them a message on Skype: extremehotels . You can also find a phone number on the sign on the front gate, or try the office where there is often a manager on duty.

Where is the office?

The office is in the gym behind the wall – think wizard of oz. After hours try the left gate next to the stairs. Office hours are 10 – 4 pm, closed when the wind blows, and money/bookings and office type stuff is normally only done during office hours. Nothing much happens on Sundays – For an emergency, talk to one of the guards or any of the staff from any of the activities.

How do I book tours?
Ask Genevieve to tell you the options and she will call book your tour.

How can I join one of the activities at the hotel?
If you are on a hotel and activity package, check in with your respective sport and book your times. Mention that you are on a package. If you want to join one while here, note that each activity is a separate business and needs to be booked and paid for separately unless you are on a package.

Is it possible to extend my stay?
It is possible, however you will have to visit our management team in the office/gym to confirm the availability.

How do I refill my drinking water?
Bring your water bottle down the stairs to the gate and inform the eXtreme Team and they will gladly sell you a replacement for $100 RD ($2.50 for 5 gallons). If you are nice to Scott, he will take his shirt off and deliver it.

How do I get to town?

Town is a 30 minute walk along the beach (only during the day), or a taxi / guagua / moto taxi ride to town

• Motos are parked out front. We only use the ones parked there, as we know who they are. Typical costs for a moto taxi are $30-50 RD per person. Yes they will take 3 people on a moto. REMEMBER TO GET ON and OFF FROM THE LEFT SIDE
• Taxis are also parked out front, only until 9 pm. Taxi cost is $200 Rd to town for the taxi, and you can fit up to 7 people
• Gua guas pass on a regular basis during rush hours and less regular on off hours. Cost is $20 RD per person to Cabarete or Sosua. It’s a small car with a little sign on top.

How do I open the gate up the stairs?

The gate and security was designed by a Navy Seal (no kidding!) Each entrance is covered by a security camera, and it’s backed up online for months (have to love free storage). To get through the gate, use your key and turn it towards the Mountain side (vs the beach side). Remember we have a strict NO GUESTS policy.

What does “no guests” mean?

It means only people who are  registered and signed into the hotel with proper identification are allowed into the hotel. This is for your protection as well as ours. If it’s true love, then they will wait until the next day.

I need more toilet paper, where can I find some?
Every floor has a closet at the end of the hallway stocked with toilette paper, a plunger and other cleaning supplies, feel free to help yourself.

Why does my toilet keep getting clogged?

Not sure how to put this, so I’ll just say it. It’s an old building and the plumbing is not designed for foreign objects (large amounts of toilet paper, tampons, hair clips, suntan lotion bottles .. you would be surprised) … please don’t put anything but toilet paper in the toilet, use a minimal amount of toilet paper and flush often (vs one big one), or just put your toilet paper in the basket beside the toilet.

I need to exchange money, where can I do that?
The best place to exchange money in Cabarete is at Wally’s, located in the downtown core of Cabarete on the mountain side of the highway. If you need to take money out from a ATM or bank machine, we recommend that you go only to Scotia Bank or Bank Popular. Keep in mind that these banks will only let you take out 10,000RD ($250 USD) at a time.

What do I do with my keys when I’m checking out?
There are two iron gates in the main entrance of the hotel, the one on the right opens to the stairs to the second floor, the one on the left leads to Genevieve’s room. Before leaving, throw the keys under the LEFT gate.

How safe is Cabarete?
Cabarete is a safe place, however it is important to remember that you are in a foreign country and the rules  are different. One should act in a smart and respectful manner to avoid any altercations, and it’s always better to stay low profile.  Don’t flash money, don’t wear expensive jewelry (including watches).  It’s always better to walk in a group, especially at night. When going out in the evening,  leave everything valuable at the hotel, separate your money and only carry cash. DO NOT GO OUT WITH YOUR IPHONE!

Is the hotel safe to leave my computer?

Yes the hotel is safe.  Historically we don’t have any problems, and almost everyone brings some kind of computer.  Lock your valuables in the safe just to be sure. Don’t bother bringing anything flashy, it’s not that kind of place.

Should I bring cash or Traveler’s cheques ?

Traveler’s cheques are hard to cash down here and get a lesser rate.  But they are safer.

It’s sunny and we are solar. Why is there no power?

Probably because someone tried to plug in a blow drier and/or an electric kettle. I’m sure the manager is cursing their name right now. Problem will be fixed as soon as we find the culprit.

I’m covered in bites. Are they bedbugs?

Highly unlikely. We are strict about spraying down the hotel for bugs (organic!) and in 4 years have never had any whatsoever. Most probably they are no see ems from the sand. Try putting on insect repellant when you are hanging out down on the beach.

What can I leave for poor people or give toys to the kids?

We distribute used clothes and teach sustainable agriculture up on our organic farm. We’re happy to take any donations up there and give them directly to the people that could use them

Where is the common kitchen ?

The common kitchen is an added benefit for the ground floor guests (along with it being a lot cooler, easier access to the beach and having a nice view of the garden.) If you want to use the kitchen, ask for a room on the ground floor.

I’m planning a day trip or a road trip. Any advice?

We have a couple 3D maps and road maps, as well as a ton of local information on the 2nd floor hallway next to the library. It’s a great resource. As well, ask us before you leave for some updates.

Is it safe to rent a car and drive in the Dominican Republic?

It totally depends on your comfort level with driving in foreign countries. Take a map. Try and avoid driving at night. Read up about where you are going before you go. Make sure you have insurance. Avoid problems by backing down and not being too aggressive.  Don’t drink and drive.  If you need directions, often it makes sense to get close to where you want to be and ask a moto taxi to take you to the specific place.

Is it safe to rent a motorbike in the Dominican Republic?

It is by no means safe, but it is doable.  It’s not the place to learn.  Typical rates are $12/day for a moto cross style 125 bike.

I finished my book

We have a book swap on the 2nd floor by the maps. Take a book, leave a book.

Can I go for a run along the beach?

Sure you can, during the day.  It’s about 2 km to Cabarete.  If you are a runner, we can recommend a bunch of fantastic runs in and around the area.  Just ask and we’ll point them out to you.

I saw a cockroach!

It’s possible – after all, we are right at the foot of a huge rainforest jungle called El Choco National Park. Try not leaving food out and take out your garbage, and they won’t come around. No, we won’t spray chemicals all over the place to kill one cockroach. Instead we make an extra effort to be clean so as to not give them reason to come around.

Where can I get laundry done?

There are two places – one is across the street from La Rosa, the other is across the street from Janet’s Supermarket. They can both deliver if you like.

How can I book a taxi back to the airport?

Talk to Genevieve, and she’ll be happy to do it for you.

I’m in love with the place and want to come back and work

It’s long hours and low pay. Best to butter up to Zach.

What’s this I hear about the farm?

We have an organic Permaculture farm with rare tropical fruit right on the river 20 min away in Los Brazos. It’s where we recycle our organic waste, compost and recycle a lot of our garbage into useful items. Often some of the volunteers come down and spend a night at the hotel. They can be easily identified by their keen sense of nature or their smell.

How can you guys be so cool?

It’s a Canadian thing -