More FAQ
There is a lot of little bits of local knowledge that we are happy to share with you, and it can be a lot to take it. 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, then tell us – we are happy to add it!
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 –