caribbean VillA TAinA SUpporTS ChAriTAble ConCernS in CAbAreTe
cabarete hosts a number of events throughout the year to showcase and celebrate the uniqueness of this particular tourist town. in the summertime particularly, residents and tourists see one event after another, with a goal of supporting the betterment of everyday life for inhabitants on the north coast of the Dominican republic. education, women and children are number-one concerns. exciting events include Kiteboarding 4 Kids, cabarete beach eXPO, Master of the Ocean, Kiteboarding World cup PKra, The butterfly effect and many more. This summer, cabarete beach invited a number of prominent guests to support charitable causes. The DreaMin Live concert hosted in June was held to raise money and awareness for the children of cabarete. The DreaM Project (the Dominican republic education and Mentoring Project) organized the 2011 edition of this event. internationally recognized musicians Doug Wimbish (Living colour) and eric Gales (blues guitarist of the year 2010) were onstage with local musicians, rocking for charity at cabarete beach. “it is rare to see such involvement like the one we have seen during our stay here, and we have experienced an epiphany in regards to the importance of these events. We want to take this message with us during our future travels and use these tools that we have to support more,” said Living colour bassist Doug Wimbish. both musicians shared their respect for the synergy in the local charity and event scene. Hotel Villa Taina is one of the local establishments that promotes and supports local community efforts. Since day one, the hotel has played an integrative role with organizations such as the DreaM Project. “events like these serve not only to raise consciousness about community issues and needs, but also add to the social flavor of the town. i believe many local people, as well as the international audience, will pay attention to upcoming events organized for the benefit of the community,” says Hotel Villa Taina’s Director claudia Schwarz. Villa Taina, a founding partner, supports the DreaM project and the Mariposa Foundation, catering to the needs of young adults and education of children. Villa Taina, www.villataina.com 16 • AUGUST 2011
DominiCA’S 15Th AnnUAl WorlD Creole mUSiC FeSTiVAl SeT For oCTober The slate of musicians is building for Dominica’s 15th annual World creole Music Festival—one of the only truly indigenous music events in the eastern caribbean. The highly anticipated annual festival is planned for October 28–30 at roseau’s Windsor Park Stadium. Known for attracting world-renowned musical groups and soloists from the creole-speaking world, artists at this annual musical extravaganza represent a variety of musical genres, including indigenous styles from east and West africa intertwined with rhythms of the caribbean, including zouk, compas, reggae, soca and calypso. Details on the music festival, where to stay and other ideas for planning a trip to Dominica are available online. national Geographic Traveler has Dominica on its best Trips of 2011 list. it’s the only caribbean island among Shermans Travel 2011 Top 10 Fitness Vacations. Dominica was also named to the 2011 ethical Destinations list by ethical Traveler for its commitment to conserving natural treasures while sustaining and empowering local communities. Discover Dominica Authority, 866-522-4057, www.discoverdominica.com
35% rACk rATe DiSCoUnT on SAnDS AT GrACe bAy’S 2-beDroom oCeAnVieW SUiTe The Sands at Grace bay is offering a 35-percent rack rate discount for guests who book one of their luxurious Two-bedroom Oceanview Suites for travel between September 1 and October 31, 2011. This offer is ideal for families or friends looking to reduce vacation costs by sharing a spacious suite that can easily accommodate up to 6. With the discount applied, suite rates are only $312 per night (excluding 11% government tax and 10% service charge)—down from $480 per night—and feature full kitchens with modern appliances, two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, a living/dining room area complete with a big-screen plasma TV and comfy couches and a private screened balcony boasting incredible ocean views. in addition to enjoying the resort’s idyllic location alongside world-famous Grace bay beach, guests enjoy three free-form swimming pools and complimentary access to watersports equipment—kayaks and windsurfing equipment to snorkel gear and Hobie cats—plus free bicycle rentals for island exploration. There are no minimum night stay requirements and there is no booking window, however, the offer is based on suite availability at the time of booking. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other resort offer or promotion. The offer may be booked online using promo code “35OFFSePOcT2011.” Guests can also call the resort toll-free or contact a travel agent for reservations. The Sands at Grace bay, 877-777-2637, www.thesandstc.com www.travelworldnews.com • Travel World News