The El Choco National Park protects over 77 square kilometers of jungle, pastures, lagoons, caves, jutting hills, with plenty of wild tropical plants and animals. It is important to have a guide that knows his way  because there are a series of trails that could easily guide anyone into a never ending labyrinth.

When going on such an adventure, it is important to be prepared. Wear good shoes, bring lots of water and some snacks. Although there are fruit trees, I wouldn’t recommend depending on them for an energy source. It is also a good idea to have a hat and sunscreen. Although you are often protected by an amazing canopy of trees, there are long stretches in the sun that could do some damage to an unsuspecting explorer.

Near the end of our trip, our guide brought us to some fantastic caves where bats flew around stalactites and stalagmites. The amazing fresh spring water in the caves provided a much needed cool down. I would definitely recommend bringing a camera as well. This 5-6hr trip is filled with beautiful sceneries, from lush green pastures and aggressive rock formations. Farmers walk along with their animals and colorful birds fly above. Although the Caribbean sea is what mostly draws people to the Dominican, I believe it is important to go inland and see what secrets it holds as well.

What is a lifestyle change?

When I arrived to Extreme I already had already engrained some pretty good healthy habits into my behaviour. I exercised regularly, I ate generally well and had a pretty good idea of what was good and bad for my health.  The problem was that I had no self-discipline; I would overindulge in cheese, breads, cereal, chocolate, cookies, alcohol and probably any sweet that you put in front of me. I figured that the best way to improve my physic without giving up my lovely eating habits was to work harder, run faster, or do more reps… in other words, put more intensity into my training. The problem was that I knew that my strategy was flawed. I had come across some valuable information some time ago, something that should have revolutionized my lifestyle, but I decided to ignore it. I hated how I started to see it everywhere!  And more I questioned it, the more it proved to be right. Curious what it is? It’s the 20/80 rule. To maximize and optimize your health and wellness, and to get the results you desire, 20% of the results will come from exercise and the other 80% will come from your diet. You can see now how my strategy was flawed eh? (yes I am Canadian).

Ok so basically I was killing myself and getting nothing really out of it. Well it wasn’t all bad, but I did realize that I had to shift my lifestyle. So with the help of Zach and Matt, our coaches at Extreme I started changing my diet. Living in the Dominican Republic, the majority of my diet consisted of fruit and meat. Dominicans also eat a lot of rice, fried food and beans. Although I could limit my rice and fried food consumption, what I really needed was more vegetables. I decided to take advantage of the fruit and veggie stand that is across the street. Now I buy a big bag of fruits and veggies, leave it in a bowl in my room and munch on it whenever I’m hungry. The shelve life of a bowl of produce sitting in a room in the tropics is about 2 days. I also cut out wheat completely. This was super tough, but I noticed a difference in my body and energy level almost immediately. Within 2 weeks, I saw more definition in my stomach, I no longer felt bloated and I didn’t crash after eating.

Don’t  get me wrong, I still have a long way to go, but the point is that I’ve started to listen to my body and understand how my energy levels fluctuate during my workouts depending on what I’ve been eating. The 20/80 rule is legit!

They are one of the only organic menu places in the Dominican Republic.  Even though there is only a few organic items on the menu, it’s a good start.

If you want to phone in your order for delivery, the phone number for Cab Coffee is 809-571-0919

The portions can be small, but the coffee is amazing, which is what we come for.  Expect to pay double what you would normally pay for a coffee if you go for one of the premier coffees, but if you’re on vacation, who’s counting the coins?

Another big plus for Cabarete Coffee company is that they deliver and they are open early in the morning.  Their place is also a cool place to hang out and surf the web, as they have an air conditioned interior.

If you want to get to Cabarete Coffee Company from eXtreme Cabarete, you have 2 options for walking.  It’s about 1/2 a mile away from Kite Beach, along either the beach or the road.  The road can be quite busy, so we often recommend to guests to take the beach route.

If you walk along the road, it’s hard to miss, as there is a nice big road sign.  Beware the oncoming traffic if you choose this route.

The Road view of Cabarete Coffee Company

If you ware walking along the beach, then it’s a big tricky to recognize the entrance to Cabarete Coffee, as the the path is kind of hidden.  It’s located at the entrance of Nanny Estate, just past Punta Goleta for those who know Puta Beach and Kite Beach.

For those that are new to the area, you walk along the beach past the point (which is where Ocean Point one is), and you come to Puta Beach.  Walk along Puta Beach (which is definced by the big while development, called Punta Goleta).  Just Past Punta Goleta you will see a cement structure that looks like it was once a beach front shop, but is now covered in sand.  Beside that is a rock path that leads up to the back side of Nanny Estates.  Once you walk kup that rock path, you will notice a road lined with Royal Palms – at the end of that road is Cab Coffee.

Here are some photos to make it easier for you.

Entrance from the beach to Cabarete Coffee Company

And here is the path you walk down once you climb up the rocks from the road

The path from the beach to Cab Coffee

Now that the busy winter season is over, the team here has a moment to relax and chill. Here’s some photos and comments from a day in the life here on the sunny beaches of kite beach, Cabarete

It starts with Papo and the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu team, as Papo has to drain on of his student’s ears, which is a common thing to do for Jiu Jitsu – it’s called Cauliflower ears . A little gross, but they seem not to mind too much.

Then we have a nice chat with Aaron, the current gardener from Taino Farms, our organic farm up in Los Brazos. We try to follow the permaculture principals for sustainable agriculture practices, and we practice what we preach, in our effort to be sustainable

It’s a sunny day, so after hanging out with Aaron for a bit, we all decide to head up to Taino Farms. Along the way we wave to the taxi and motoconcho drivers parked right out front of the Kite Beach Hotel.

Once up at the organic farm, we start to see what is coming together. Some of the hot peppers for our friends at Gorditos Mexican are starting to come online

The farmers have been busy building another raised bed for the organic produce, all under the bamboo. They are using local garbage recycled as part of the fencing

It’s always nice to eat organic. The nutrients are a multiple of regular produce. Look how green and healthy it looks! (and tastes!)

We end up down by the river, to escape the heat here in Cabarete. Nothing like a swim in the Yasica river to help us all cool off. Taino Farms has a great tube adventure if you’re up for some nature and relaxing .

And to our builder Scott, thanks for you help building cabins up at the farm!

Here is Zach running a ‘strap’ class

There are a couple passes through the Cordillera Septerrtrional, notably one closer to Puerto Plata, one through Jamao, one in Gaspar Hernandez and a couple through circumvent the main ridge.

Here is a description of the pass through Jamao, with approximate elevations and distances, which will help though who are on their way to Santo Domingo or Santiago with directions, or help though who just want to explore the area.  It makes for a great mountain bike ride, moto ride or car ride as it’s lovely scenery all the way along.

Starting at the bottom of the hill in Moca headed north, it’s straight up 5.5 miles to the ridge, where there are are a couple great reataurants with amazing views of the Santiago valley below, and Jarabacoa in the distance.  At 850m above sea level, it’s worth nothing that it’s significantly higher than Jarabacoa at 550m.  Why make the trip to Jarabacoa when you can escape the heat right here – unfortunatly there are no cabins or hotels or anything of note, other then the two small hotels with restaurants and no other infastructure for us eco tourists.

At 8 miles is the Millitary check point, which already has dropped down to 670m above sea level.  During busy times of the year, they actually stop the cars to check to what’s going on.

Continuing down is Salaillo at 10 miles and down to the same level as Jaraboacoa, at 550 m above sea level.  Off to the east along the road you will see a fantastic little cabin with an amazing view- which we hope to purchase one day as an escape from the heat in the summer.

Las Caobas (the mahogany) is at 13.5 miles and down again to 375 m.

Jamao is at 18 miles from the Moca turn off, and sits at 61 meters above sea level.

A quick drop again then back up  60m to the Blue Moon and Castle club turn offs, at 20 miles from Moca.

One more mile brings us to the entrance of Los Brazos, where our farm, Taino Farm is.  it’s dropps down to 25m above sea level.

And finally at Sabanetta turn off , 26 miles from the Moca turn off is the start of the road.  It’s only 5 miles east of Cabarete

Picture to come!

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.

How do I refill my drinking water?
Bring your water bottle to the entrance and inform the Extreme Team and they will gladly sell you a replacement for $100 RD ($2.50 for 5 gallons). If you 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 NO GUESTS

What does no guests mean?

It means no one who is not registered and signed into the hotel  with proper identification is 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 toilette 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.

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.

I need to speak to Genevieve, 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, the are always available.  You always reach any of our team members by emailing info@extremehotels.com or by leaving her a message on Skype: extremehotels . You can also find her phone number on the sign on the front gate,or try the office.

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.

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 of the law are different. One should act in a smart and respectful manner to avoid any altercations. It is always better to walk in a group, especially at night. When going out in the evening, it best to leave everything valuable at the hotel and only carry cash. DO NOT GO OUT WITH YOUR IPHONE!

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 soon 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 and in 4 years have never had any whatsoever.  Most probably they are no see ems.  Try putting on insect repellant when you are hanging out down on the beach.

What can I leave here 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.  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.

I finished my book

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

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 -

Why does green make me so happy? Other than the fact that it’s a great color, it’s a great way to live! These days, Extreme Hotel is greener than ever. We’ve recently double the number of solar panels we have on our roof, improved our recycling program and continue to make efforts to wean off our dependency on paper. Although most of us are used to recycling programs back home, here in the Dominican Republic, the municipal and provincial system still has a long way to go.  Without going into too much detail, I’ll explain to you how we try to achieve a greener environment.

Generally everything that is discarded goes straight to the dump: Plastics, glass, paper, cardboard and garbage all goes to the same mountain of waste. From there, locals pick through the trash for bottles that can be recycled for some change. Unfortunately, because the bottles get thrown in with the rest of the trash, the bottles can get contaminated and cannot be recycled. Although Extreme can’t change the waste system, we can try to make their job easier. By separating our bottles from the garbage they will easier to detect and have a higher chance of being clean enough to be resold and recycled.

In addition, we still email general information than print it on paper. We have added many whiteboards and chalk boards to deliver information to our guests. Our rooms have low flow faucets and everything is connected to our solar power system.

Please help us get greener! We’d love to hear your innovative and fun ways of decreasing your environmental footprint! Whether it’s small or big, if you’ve got an idea that could help the hotel please write us with your recommendations. We’ll do our best to implement it and give you feedback.

Gracias!

It’s been years in the making, but we are finally there. We recently added 40 more solar panels to our room, another 2 inverters, 5 more charge controllers, and new DEKA solar batteries to upgrade the system.

In addition to the roof top solar panels, we also have 2 solar hot water systems and a solar powered pool pump.

A quick drive by and you can see part of our solar installation from the street – which adds to the allure of eXtreme.

As well as having solar power, eXtreme has numerous other initiatives to help the enviroment. We are the only hotel in Cabarete to recycle (not just say that we do), as we use our compost and much of our food waste up at the farm for vermicomposting -also know as worm composting. The compost we then use to fertilize the soil that we grow all the organic vegetables with, and then in turn in eat in our restaurant. We not only reduce the need for waste disposal, but we reduce the need for transport for much of our food.

Anyone interested in finding out more about our composting is welcome to visit our organic farm – Taino Farms, which is 20 minutes away in Los Brazos. It’s a sustainable permaculture farm, which serves as a demonstration center for anyone wanting to see sustainability in action.

By staying with us at eXtreme, customers appreciate that they are also reducing their impact on the planet, as the power, waste and water that they create and use while they are staying with us is offset by the various things that we do here. It may not be much, but the week, two weeks or month that they stay here is something, and if everyone did something, then the combined result is significant.

Part of the vision for us here at eXtreme is to introduce people to sustainable living, so that they realize that it’s not so far fetched. Every little bit helps, and there are a lot of things that can be done in our daily lives with minimal impact our our comfort level, yet have big impacts in our footprint and impact on the earth.

It’s all part of our bigger commitment to reducing our footprint, and living at one with the earth and our surroundings. You don’t have to be a hippie to enjoy sustainability – you just have to appreciate that the earth is a living being just as we are.

Big surf competition

“DISCIPLINES
There will be four disciplines – surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing and stand up paddle board (SUP). All disciplines will be judged on surfing waves, jumps and tricks performed during riding the wave and freestyle manoeuvres using the wave. Overall impression is the main focus for judges with weight given to performance on or using waves.” http://masteroftheocean.com/master-ocean-2012

Everyone should go down and cheer on the competitors. We’re also really excited to cheer on some of our local talent and our good friend Nir, a pro kiter from Israel staying with us at the hotel. With competitions happening everyday this weekend, everyone come back to our restaurant Chichigua to talk about the days big competitors and stories. Arturo makes a mean cucumber mojito

See you there!