Cabarete Guide 2015

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Christian Black

THE

LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE

Paradise is closer than you thought, less expensive than you imagined, and more beautiful than you dreamt. Warm breezes, soft sand, and azure waters are waiting for you.

Whether to lounge poolside with a drink in hand, ride horses along the beach at sunset, learn to surf, enjoy spa pampering, or sample some of the fine international cuisine, Millennium Cabarete has the experience you have been waiting for, and all the luxury that you deserve.

RESORT & SPA 2

www.cabaretemillennium.com

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RELAX FUN ACTION

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CONTENTS

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12 28 CABARETE

Responsible Tourism and Investment Guide Editor-in-Chief & Director of Advertising Sales Patricia Thorndike Suriel Special Contributors Bill Eichner, Guzman Ariza Attorneys at Law Contributors Lauren Chin, Jennifer Furigay, Jessica Lawson, Jessica Mace, Mikaela Perry, DR1.com Sales Assistant Pamela Cuadros Graphic Designer Pamela Cuadros

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Photographer Amy Martin Contributing Photographer Nicole Bleck

12 ORGANIC DOMINICAN COFFEE 22 THE WOMEN BEHIND THE MARIPOSA DR FOUNDATION 28 MEET CABARETE CHEFS 42 INVESTING: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW 44 CABARETE’S BIGGEST INVESTMENT 48 Q&A: PAUL ROBERTS FROM KAICEITOS CIRCUS 56 CABARETE CHARACTERS 61 WHAT TO DO WITH KIDS 63 HELPFUL INFORMATION

To advertise your business in the 2016 Guide, please contact us at: promo@mariposadrfoundation.org (809) 571 0610 Deadline for submissions and payment for 2016 issue: April 11th, 2015.

f Mariposa DR Foundation f Fundación Mariposa www.theguidecabarete.com

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his guide is the Mariposa DR Foundation’s creative and sustainable way of thanking our more than 50 partners for their support. Most of our advertisers are hard- working, small business owners that depend on a short tourist season for their income. They have reached into their pockets and joined us to present this important addition to Cabarete. This guide is a tribute to the local business owners and their hard work, and to all of the individuals and families who call Cabarete their home.

All proceeds from advertising sales in this guide go toward supporting programs at The Mariposa DR Foundation. It is with great pride that we present the fourth edition of this magazine. We encourage you to support the businesses advertised throughout the guide.

Patricia Thorndike Suriel Executive Director of the Mariposa DR Foundation 9

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC The Dominican Republic occupies the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, which is shared with Haiti. The country is approximately the same size as Vermont and New Hampshire combined or roughly 10% larger than Denmark.

The Dominican Republic was explored by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage in 1492. He named it La Española, and his son, Diego, was its first viceroy. The capital, Santo Domingo, founded in 1496, is the oldest city in the new world.

There’s no place quite like the Dominican Republic. That’s because its history is the result of an unlikely mixture of influences; nowhere else will you find a blending of European, African, and native Taíno Indian cultures.

As part of the Tropic of Cancer, the Dominican Republic has a breathtaking topography of mountains, valleys and beaches. Three large mountain ranges run through the island, taking up nearly half of the country! The Dominican Republic is home to the highest point in the Caribbean, Pico Duarte, and the lowest point, Lago Enriquillo.

The country also has more than 1,000 miles of beaches.

FAST FACTS Capital: Santo Domingo Population: Approximately 10.3 Million Area: 48,442 square kilometers (18,704 square miles) Language: Spanish Industry: Tourism, sugar processing, ferronickel and gold mining, textiles Agriculture: Sugarcane, coffee, cotton, cacao, cattle Exports: Ferronickel, sugar, gold, silver, coffee

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FUN FACTS •

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Baseball is a major source of national pride and identity. Almost 40 percent of players in the U.S. Major League Baseball and minor leagues come from Latin America- with most of those coming from the Dominican Republic.

Some of their most famous Dominican players include Pedro Martinez, David Ortiz, Albert Pujols and Sammy Sosa.

With almost 33% of the total land area suitable for crop production and about 17% of the labor force engaged in farming, agriculture remains the primary occupation, accounting for 11% of GDP.

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The Amber museum in Puerto Plata houses the famous amber stone with a prehistoric mosquito preserved inside, which can be seen in the box office hit, “Jurassic Park”.

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The Dominican Republic is a leader in environmental and sustainable tourism. Approximately 25% of the country’s land and coastal shores are preserved as national parks, reserves and sanctuaries.

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The Dominican Republic is the only place in the world where Larimar is produced, a blue stone that resembles turquoise.

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The Dominican Republic is the only country in the world with a bible on its flag.

Only in Cabarete Cabarete is a vibrant beach town known as the adventure capital of the Caribbean. With perfect conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing, Cabarete is one of the top destinations in the world for water sports. Not a water sports enthusiast? There’s something for everyone in Cabarete. You can bike, horseback ride, kayak, go canyoning and take part in so many other adventures, or simply just enjoy lounging on the beautiful beach.

What makes Cabarete so unique and wonderful is the local charm combined with a great place to vacation. Only in Cabarete will you find locals and people from all over the world and all walks of life coming together to live, work, and play.

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Story provided by Bill Eichner.

Edited by Julia Alvarez.

It IS Important for Dominican growers to go organic “Organic”—the buzz word among foodies across the globe—doesn’t imply a new concept for most Dominican farmers who grow their food crops on 1-10 acres. “Organic” was an apt description of their methods in the days before benefactors in the developed world urged them to take up the methods of modern agribusiness--expensive chemicals to do it all--control weeds and plant predators, and supply nutrients to their plantings.

Now, the tide has turned: agriculture with chemicals is not so popular. Farmers are being urged to go back to the old ways, along with certification to say they have done so.

A farmer might ask “Why should I, when it’s so much easier to go to the store and buy one chemical to poison the weeds, another—maybe two or three more—to kill parasites and fungi, along with a few bags of concentrated chemical nutrients? Those bags are so much easier to handle than all the compost we used to use.”

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In some cases food quality is better with organic products. But to fully appreciate the importance of organic farming, we need to look beyond the resulting food product, and examine the total environment in which that food is produced.

Consider not only the soil, water, air and nutrients that are required for any plant to grow and produce food, but also the workers who prepare the soil and care for the plants from seed to the food on your plate. What about the health of the farmers’ families and the medio ambiente in their entire communities?

Sustainable farming means using a parcel of land to raise food over decades of time, and leaving that parcel as pristine and healthy—or even more so—than when the process began.

Organic farming is a critical method for preserving the landscape and protecting the health of those who work on the farm. What makes the method organic?

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In the case of coffee, organic also implies shade-grown.

A bird friendly environment--insects and fruits feed the birds.

Trees and shrubs that hold soil during rain, preventing erosion.

Our neighbor Haiti is an extreme example of erosion due to deforestation.

Shade and beneficial insects help prevent plant diseases.

Animal manure and plant compost make a soil rich in nutrients, organic material and beneficial living organisms, ranging from microbes to earthworms.

“No chemicals” means healthier workers. Soil, water and air are no longer polluted.

“More trees” equals less carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

Crop diversification means food for the table and more products for the market to help farmers weather the lean months and market fluctuations.

Small-scale farmers in the developing world are crucial for global food security. The key to that security is the organic practice of nurturing the landscape (soil, water, and air) as well as those who work on it. A healthy Dominican Republic is in the hands of our small farmers!

Bill Eichner is the founder and owner, along with his wife, Julia Alvarez, of Finca Fundación Alta Gracia, an organic coffee farm and literacy project which operated from 1997-2013 in the mountains of Jarabacoa. [The farm is now for sale!]

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THE DELICIOUS FLAVOR OF OUR FRESH ROASTED COFFEE IS JUST ONE OF THE REASONS TO DRINK CABARETE COFFEE, HERE IS THE OTHER...

Madre de las Aguas, the mountainous region where our coffee is grown, is the most important watershed on the island of Hispaniola.

By purchasing Organic, Shade Grown Cabarete Coffee you are helping to preserve the rivers that provide energy, irrigation and drinking water for more than 50 percent of the Dominican Republic’s population.

cabaretecoffee | www.cabaretecoffee.com | 809 571 0919 | Bahia de Arena, Cabarete.

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The Adventure Capital of the Caribbean Many people come to the Dominican Republic to relax on the beach and work on their tans. Those who come to Cabarete will find this and much, much more. Cabarete is the ideal place for action-sports and adventure.

As the kiteboarding and windsurfing Mecca of the Caribbean, Cabarete offers a wide array of activities for thrill-seekers. Ranked among the top ten sites in the world for water sports, this little strip of paradise is drawing more and more enthusiasts from around the globe.

Many of the expatriates who have taken up residence in this small town came here seeking an adventure and never left.

Whether on land or sea—from kiting, surfing, and windsurfing to hiking, canyoning, and mountain biking, Cabarete has it all. We are proud to present in this guide some of the finest activities and adventures available in and around Cabarete.

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Call 829 305 6883

or

visit our shop 17

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Bananas

The Dominican’s

Superfood

Around every corner in Cabarete, you will find vibrant yellow bananas hanging at the local “Colmados.” At 5 pesos per banana, you cannot leave this country without buying one of these fresh treats! But did you know that there are many varieties of bananas here that can be used for cooking and eating?

There are many reasons to eat bananas. Bananas help the body create serotonin, which protects against depression. They also lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cancer. Finally, they are a great source of fiber, which aids digestion.

Don’t throw away your banana peel! Rubbing the inside of a peel on mosquito bites or poison ivy stops the itching and reduces inflammation. It also works on burns and scrapes to ease pain and protect from infection, and on your head to cure a headache. Finally, simply rubbing the inside of a peel all over your teeth for 2 minutes before bed every day can give you whiter teeth in 2 weeks.

Nutrition Facts Amount per 1 medium Banana (7-8 inches) Calories: 105 Total Fat: 0.4 g Saturated Fat: 0.1 g Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1 g Cholesterol: 0 mg Sodium: 1 mg Potassium: 422 mg Total Carbohydrates: 27 g Dietary Fiber: 3.1 g Sugar: 14 g Protein: 1.3 g

Want to get the great health benefits of bananas? Try these delicious and simple smoothies ZIMZALA

Ingredients: Strawberries Bananas (cut into pieces) Passion fruit juice Sugarcane juice (optional) Instructions: Mix ¾ bananas and ¼ strawberries in a blender.

Add the passion fruit juice and sweeten to taste.

Beat until the fruits dissolve and enjoy the freshness and antioxidants benefits of this smoothie.

Photo and recipe provided by Fresh Fresh Café

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HAZEL NUTTY

Ingredients: 3/4 cup Hazel nut milk 1 tbs Nutella 1 Banana 2 tbs Organic Peanut Butter Instructions: Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth.

Photo and recipe provided by Cabarete Coffee Company

Strong, Empowered, and Successful The Women Behind The Mariposa DR Foundation

Julia Alvarez

Acclaimed Author, Mariposa Honorary Co-Chairwoman

In 2014 Julia Alvarez received the National Medal of the Arts Award from President Barack Obama. An icon in Latino literature, Dominican-American poet, novelist, essayist and writer in residence at Middlebury College, Julia has supported and inspired the girls, volunteers, and staff at The Mariposa DR Foundation since the beginning. Her novel, “In the Time of the Butterflies” tells the story of the Mirabal sisters, the heroines of the Dominican Republic, who lost their lives fighting for social justice in the times of Trujillo.

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The name for the Mariposa DR Foundation was inspired by national heroines the Mirabal sisters and Julia Alvarez, author of “In the Time of the Butterflies.”

The mariposa (butterfly) is a universal symbol representing transition, freedom and peace. In the Dominican Republic, it was the code name given to our nation’s heroines, the Mirabal sisters, who fought social injustice and gave their lives for freedom. The Mirabal sisters, or “Las Mariposas,” have become not just national heroines but international symbols. In 1999, the United Nations declared November 25th, the day of the Mirabal murders, as International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Jacqueline Guzman Mirabal

PATRICIA THORNDIKE SURIEL (TRICIA)

Social Activist and Daughter of Dominican Heroine Maria Teresa Mirabal, Mariposa Honorary Co-Chairwoman

Founder & Executive Director, The Mariposa DR Foundation

Our honorary chairwoman is Jacqueline Guzman Mirabal, the daughter of Maria Teresa Mirabal, who has inspired future generations of women in the Dominican Republic and all over the world. Jacqueline carries on the living legacy of her mother as an active supporter of girls and women’s rights in the Dominican Republic. She lives in Puerto Plata with her husband, Dr. Leandro Albaine, and her two children, Maria Teresa and Leandro.

In 1992 Tricia arrived in the Dominican Republic and founded Iguana Mama, a local eco-tourism company. Offering her clients discounts if they donated children’s books, Suriel was able to build three small libraries. For these pioneer initiatives she received the Outstanding Citizen Award from the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic. In 2009, with a group of passionate advisors, donors, and volunteers, Suriel founded The Mariposa DR Foundation. She also owns and operates Cabarete Coffee Company and Tours, which promotes organic farming and eco tourism.

Nell Newman

Environmentalist, Founder of Newman’s Own Organics, President of the Nell Newman Foundation, Daughter of Actors Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, and Mariposa Advisory Board Member Nell Newman is an environmentalist, biologist, and a prominent supporter of sustainable agriculture, who became an entrepreneur when she founded an organic food and pet food production company, Newman’s Own Organics.

Nell’s parents raised her to be a philanthropist and she carries on her father’s legacy through her work at the Nell Newman Foundation. Nell is a visionary who supports small, innovative organizations - the underdogs making a big difference. Nell was introduced to The Mariposa DR Foundation three years ago while vacationing in Cabarete and has been instrumental to the organization’s success ever since.

Holly Gordon

Campaign Founder & Executive Producer, Girl Rising, Mariposa Advisory Board Member Holly Gordon is a Founder of Girl Rising, a global movement for girls’ education.

She is also an Executive Producer for the film of same name, at the center of the movement, Girl Rising. Holly was selected by Fast Company as a member of the League of Extraordinary Women in 2012 and named by Newsweek/Daily Beast as one of 125 Women of Impact in 2012. Holly and her team traveled the globe to tell the stories of nine girls nine girls living in the developing world, striving beyond circumstance and overcoming nearly insurmountable odds to achieve their dreams. Forbes Magazine named the Girl Rising movement the #1 Most Dynamic Social Initiative of 2012.

Jessica Lawson

Co-Founder, The Mariposa DR Foundation Jessica’s love affair with the Dominican Republic began in 2003 when she first came to Cabarete on vacation. Her work was instrumental in the formation of the Mariposa DR Foundation, earning her the Martin Luther King Social Justice award from her alma mater, Dartmouth College. Now back in her hometown of Chicago, Illinois, Jessica continues to champion for girls in the Dominican Republic and raise awareness of how educating and empowering young women is the only way to affect lasting change.

Aislinn Doyle

President of the Mariposa DR Foundation, Board of Directors Aislinn Doyle began her relationship with the Mariposa DR Foundation when she volunteered in the Dominican Republic in 2008. She has been inspired by the young women and has been dedicated to the cause ever since. Aislinn is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She lives in Burlington, Vermont.

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Soranyi Lugo

President, Lugo & Associates.

Dominican Board Member at The Mariposa DR Foundation Soranyi is one of the most successful young Dominican business owners in the area. She started her accounting career working in a firm in Sosua, which led her to found her own business, Lugo & Asociados. Soranyi is a trusted advisor and service provider to many of the North Coast’s largest and most successful hotels, real estate firms, legal offices and private investors. Soranyi has been instrumental in helping The Mariposa DR Foundation manage financial matters in the Dominican Republic since our inception in 2009.

Claudia Schwarz

CEO, Villa Taina Hotel.

Dominican Board Member at The Mariposa DR Foundation Claudia is an owner and the CEO of one of Cabarete’s most popular downtown hotels, Villa Taina. From offering her space, to providing food, strategic counsel and sound advice, Claudia is always supporting the local community in some way. A Cabarete resident for more than 25 years, Claudia is also a well-known spiritual leader and has conducted many workshops to help people bring light to their lives, including the Mariposa girls.

Photo: courtesy of Claudia Schwarz

Maria Elena Gratereaux Delva

CEO Gratereaux Delva & Asociados Dominican Board Member

Maria Elena is one of Cabarete’s most successful Dominican women. As the CEO of her own law practice, Gratereaux Delva & Asociados, Maria Elena provides strategic counsel to businesses, investors and individuals on the North Coast in four different languages. Maria Elena has done extensive pro-bono legal work to support The Mariposa DR Foundation and was critical to helping secure the land to build The Mariposa Center for Girls.

Photo: courtesy of Gratereaux Delva & Asociados

Executive and advisory board members 24

Raymond Jay Dunn, Executive Board Director Jennifer Furigay, R.N. BSN, Executive Board Director Jessica Mitchell, Executive Board Treasurer Bill Eichner, Founder of Alta Gracia Emmanuel Franjul, Research Analyst Renee Grant-Mitchell, Ed.D Judy Greenberg, Licensed Psychologist Richard Hansen, President of Soluz Deborah Harmon Bouknight, Educator Caitlin O’Shea, Educator Elizabeth Thorndike, Nonprofit Consultant James C. White, Professor Emeritus, Cornell University Michelle Wucker, World Policy Institute, Author Joelle Wyser-Pratt, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Ounavarra Capital

Massage Physiotherapy Hot Stone Massage Body Scrubs Body Wraps Facials Manicures & Pedicures Hair Removal

Location Millennium Resort & Spa Carretera Principal Cabarete

Hours Monday to Saturday: 10am – 8pm Sunday: 10am – 2pm

www.andarispa.com

Appointments +1 809-851-9399 skype: andarispa info@andarispa.com

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Bahia de Arena, Calle Principal Cabarete. (between Kite Beach and town) cabaretecoee | www.cabaretecoee.com 26

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Upon arriving in Cabarete, you will quickly see that there is no shortage of fine cuisine here on the North Coast. Take the time to experience all of the wonderful dining options that our little town has to offer and add these amazing restaurants to your itinerary. After learning about the chefs behind the many tantalizing dishes available in Cabarete, you will be glad you went!

MEET cabarete CHEFS Bliss Tucked away at the entrance of el Callejon, when entering the doors of Bliss you are bound to notice the extraordinary ambience of this hidden Italian-international fusion restaurant. More exciting than the pool in the center of the restaurant is the chef behind the delicious plates on the menu, Andrea Peano.

A native of Mondovi, Italy, Peano has more than twenty years of international culinary experience.

Peano has worked in Italy, Greece, New York City, Germany, Spain, Senegal, Cuba, and now the Dominican Republic, and believes that cuisine is a form of artistic expression.

Some of his favorite dishes: herb crusted scallops with cauliflower-coconut sauce and beetroots, home-made gnocchi with a lamb ragout and pecorino cheese, an Italian-style fish and seafood casserole, and of course for dessert, warm chocolate lava cake with vanilla ice cream.

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Chef Andrea Peano, Bliss Restaurant.

Photo by: Nicole Bleck

Eneyda Reyes, Blue Moon Restaurant.

Photo: courtesy of Blue Moon.

BLUE MOON Dining at the Blue Moon will surely be an unforgettable experience. Located in the foothills, about 20 minutes outside of Cabarete, this Indian-Caribbean fusion restaurant is a must do. Owners and chefs Gideon and Eneyda live on site and grow many of the fresh ingredients in their garden. Guests dine sitting on cushions on the floor and eat off of banana leaves with their hands. Eneyda, a native Dominican, is the head chef and learned to cook Indian food from a friend. Having no formal training, Eneyda has traveled to India for classes; however, she is a remarkable example of a self-taught chef!

Try not to fill up on the delicious vegetable pakoras and save room for the Tandoori Chicken. Must have a group of at least 6, reservations a few days to a week in advance are mandatory Make sure you arrive before sunset as the breathtaking view from the mountain is not to be missed!

Photo: courtesy of Blue Moon.

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Chef Ed Coll and son David Coll, Otra Cosa Restaurant.

Photo by: Nicole Bleck

otra cosa Nestled above the tide pools on the beach at the East end of Cabarete, it’s recommended that you arrive at Otra Cosa in time for sunset to take in the spectacular view, and prepare to be wowed by chef Ed Coll’s exquisite dishes.

Coll is originally from St. Tropez, France, and began his culinary career in the kitchen of his father’s restaurant when he was only 16 years old. Coll has been a chef in Cabarete for 17 years and his specialties include curry coconut lobster and ginger tuna.

Set in a romantic and unique location, do not miss out on this amazing dining experience.

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la casita de papi Located on Cabarete beach in the center of town, visitors and locals alike are drawn to La Casita de Papi because it is one of the few places where you can indulge in world-class cuisine with your toes in the sand. But what also makes La Casita de Papi stand out from other restaurants are the chefs’ stories.

Ramona Perdomo, a Dominican native, never had any formal training. She began her career as a domestic worker in “Papi’s” house and worked her way up to become an incredible chef in his restaurant. Ramona works alongside owner Martial Corneville, a world traveler originally from France, who came to Cabarete for a vacation and found that La Casita de Papi was for sale and bought it!

Be sure to try the restaurant’s signature dishes, the ever-popular “Shrimp a la Papi” and “Langostino a la Papi”.

Ramona Perdomo, La Casita de Papi Restaurant.

Photo by: Nicole Bleck

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Stunning view from Beachfront Serenade Restaurant.

Photo: courtesy of Hotel Villa Taina.

Luciano Merlino, Serenade Restaurant.

Photo: courtesy of Hotel Villa Taina.

Photo: courtesy of Hotel Villa Taina.

serenade Serenade is located at beautiful Villa Taina Hotel, where you can dine next to the palm trees while enjoying the gentle ocean breeze.

Chef Luciano Merlino is originally from Italy and was born into the restaurant industry; his mother was a pastry chef and his father was a cook. With 35 years of experience, Merlino’s specialties include over 300 dishes. Visitors to Serenade enjoy his unique mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine.

The dishes are always fresh, healthy, and natural, and the blend of flavors is sure to please any palate.

A tip: don’t sleep in on the great breakfast buffet!

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natura cabana

Nico and Biagio, Natura Cabana Chefs.

Photo: courtesy of Natura Cabana.

Run by Lole Sumar and her four daughters, this hidden gem is well worth a visit. Sourcing local ingredients and specializing in vegan, gluten free, and healthy dishes, this restaurant offers a cool environment for any food lover. The only ingredients you’ll find imported at Natura Cabana are their chefs: one is from Italy and one is from Argentina. Chef Nico grew up cooking and was formally trained in Buenos Aires. Chef Biagio’s fondest memories are the smells coming from his grandmother’s Italian kitchen. Having studied and worked all over Europe, Biagio loves the art of fusion cooking. Nico and Biagio fuse their unique styles together to create some amazing works of culinary art - Pistachio Tuna is one of their specialties.

Located in the residential neighborhood of Perla Marina, this eco-lodge is the perfect choice for a culinary adventure away from the vibrant beach scene in downtown Cabarete.

Lole Sumar, owner Natura Cabana, and Daughter Bianca.

Photo: courtesy of Natura Cabana.

Photo: courtesy of Natura Cabana.

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Photo: courtesy of Sea Horse Ranch.

Photo: courtesy of Sea Horse Ranch.

the beach club Chefs Chino and Maribel have both lived and worked in Cabarete for almost 15 years. Chino has 20 years of culinary experience and has worked at some of Cabarete’s best restaurants. His specialty is paella, and he loves to make traditional Dominican goat stew with fried plantains. Maribel has been cooking for 14 years and is specially trained in the art of pasta making.

Located on a bluff right above the ocean in the residential neighborhood of Sea Horse Ranch, the food and the view at The Beach Club will definitely not disappoint.

Photo: courtesy of Sea Horse Ranch.

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Chef Chino, one of The Beach Club’s chefs.

Photo by: Nicole Bleck.

Chef Yong, Yamazato.

yamazato Chef Yong, originally from Thailand, has been working in Japanese restaurants for the past 18 years.

Before arriving in Cabarete five years ago, Yong was handcrafting sushi rolls in Thailand and Israel. In addition to the impeccably fresh sushi you will enjoy at Yamazato you may also notice some Thai inspired dishes on the menu, including Tom Yum soup and papaya salad. Located in Ocean Dream Plaza, Yamazato is a favorite hangout for locals.

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INVESTING what you should know

Buying Real Estate in the Dominican Republic Special contribution by Guzman Ariza Attorneys at Law

There are no restrictions on foreigners purchasing real property in the Dominican Republic. Here are key considerations buyers should keep in mind to help them navigate their real estate purchase.

R

eal estate purchases in the Dominican Republic do not usually follow the North American pattern of a written offer tendered by the buyer to the seller, followed by the seller’s written acceptance. Instead, after verbal agreement is reached by the buyer and seller on the price, a binding Promise of Sale is prepared by an attorney or notary public. In reviewing a Promise of Sale, it is important for buyers to be aware of common pitfalls that leave a buyer vulnerable. These include:

• Survey: An independent surveyor should verify that the property matches the one shown on the survey presented by the seller. Cases have occurred in which a buyer acquires title over a property some distance away from the one she believes to be purchasing due to careless work by a surveyor or fraud by the seller.

• The buyer is allowed to pay a large percentage of the price of sale without any security or direct interest over the property.

In case of misuse of these funds, the buyer’s remedies may be limited to suing the seller personally. In the Dominican Republic it is common for a developer to use the buyers’ funds, along with a bank loan, to finance the construction.

If the developer runs into financial difficulties or misappropriates the funds, the bank forecloses and the buyers lose both their money and their property.

Special precautions should be taken with unfenced properties outside known subdivisions. If there are tenants on the property, the buyer should be informed that Dominican law is protective of tenants’ rights and that evicting a tenant is time-consuming and expensive.

• Payments are not conditioned on the availability of clear title or adequate progress of construction. Sellers, therefore, may demand payment or place the buyer in default without performing their own basic obligations.

• Escrow agents are rarely used, giving the seller control over the funds as they are paid.

In the case of a cash purchase, the buyer may consider skipping the signing a Promise of Sale and going directly from verbal negotiations to the signing of a Deed of Sale, making the transaction simpler and cheaper.

Performing proper due diligence on real estate transactions in the Dominican Republic is a crucial step and should include: • Title Search: A certification should be obtained from the appropriate Title Registry Office regarding the status of the property, stating who the owner is and if there are any mortgages, liens or encumbrances.

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• Possession: Check that the seller is in possession of the property and that no squatters’ rights of any kind exist.

• Employees: The seller should pay any employees working on the property their legal severance; otherwise the buyer may be liable for the payment later.

• Utilities: Check that the seller does not have any outstanding utility bills by enquiring at the appropriate power distributor, water, cable and telephone companies.

Prior to filing the purchase at the Title Registry Office, taxes must be paid on the transfer of real estate, totaling approximately 3.1% of the government-appraised value of the property, not the price of purchase stated in the deed of sale.

Properties held in the name of an individual are subject to an annual property tax of 1% of government-appraised value in excess of 6.5 million pesos, except for unbuilt lots or farms outside city limits. Properties appraised at or below 6.5 million pesos are not subject to the annual property tax.

There are no restrictions on foreigners inheriting title to real property in the Dominican Republic and inheritance taxes have been recently lowered to 3% of the appraised value of the estate.

One philosophy, eight offices, endless solutions.

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Guzman Ariza is the exclusive member for Dominican Republic of the State Capital Group, a global network of more than 140 top, independent law firms comprising 11,500 attorneys in nearly 450 officer around the word.

Calle Pablo Neruda No. 20, El Batey, Sosúa, R.D. • Tel.: 809.571.2880 Fax: 809.571.2928 www.drlawyer.com | info@drlawyer.com

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Cabarete’s biggest investment Educating and empowering girls is the most important cause of our time. Just this year, 17-year old Pakistani activist, Malala Yousafzai, became the youngest person in history to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for standing up to the Taliban and fighting for her right, and all girls’ rights, to education. The world is finally paying attention to the most powerful force for change on earth – girls. The Mariposa DR Foundation is leading the charge here in the Dominican Republic and our brand new center is not only changing the lives of local girls, it’s changing the way everyone thinks about local tourism and economic development.

Programs at The Mariposa Center for Girls brought over 500 international visitors to the town of Cabarete in 2014, injecting more than $1,000,000 of revenue into the local community.

Hotels, restaurants, tour companies, grocery stores, taxi drivers and all businesses large and small are directly benefitting from our work, and our plan is to do much, much more.

Service learning or “voluntourism” is a billion dollar industry and Mariposa will continue to bring this revenue stream to Cabarete. In the coming years, we will invite guests from all over the world to The Mariposa Center for Girls to learn about how educating and empowering girls can end generational poverty and stimulate economic growth.

The Mariposa DR Foundation is not just a charity; it is an innovative engine for growth.

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THE MARIPOSA DR FOUNDATION PLANS TO BUILD THE WORLD’S FIRST GIRL MUSEUM. THIS WILL BRING NEW DEMOGRAPHICS TO CABARETE AND CONTINUE TO HELP GROW OUR LOCAL ECONOMY. Plans are underway to create a new Visitors’ Center that will become a landmark and cultural hub on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic.

The Mariposa DR Foundation plans to build the world’s first Girl Museum. This will bring new demographics to Cabarete and continue to help grow our local economy. The Mariposa DR Foundation is not just a charity; it is an innovative engine for growth.

While we have big plans for our center, our biggest investment will always be in the economic potential of girls. Giving girls access to quality education and health care, and helping them feel empowered and in control of their own lives, we will break the cycle of generational poverty. In the coming years, some strong and smart young leaders will emerge from our programs. Our job training programs will provide the work force that businesses need to be successful. As we build our center and realize our vision, our girls will become the driving force behind making it a success. The Mariposa Center for Girls will be a model for responsible, sustainable tourism, and a unique model for the world.

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Lin Manuel Miranda performed with Mariposa. Miranda is a Tony and Grammy-winning composer-lyricist of Broadway’s In the Heights,which received four 2008 Tony Awards, with Miranda receiving a Tony Award for Best Score, and a nomination for Best Leading Actor in a Musical.

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Q&A

PAUL ROBERTS

Business: Kaiceitos Circus Hometown/Country: London, Ontario, Canada Years in Cabarete: 11

How did you begin your career in circus arts? How many years have you been teaching others?

26 years ago I was the Assistant Mountain Manager of a small ski resort in Northern Ontario. The owner bought a circus program from former Ringling Brothers Circus performer Bobby Bates. He took me under his wing and got me started flying, teaching, and rigging. I have been traveling and working in the Caribbean ever since.

Where else in the world have you lived, worked or performed? How did you decide to move to Cabarete?

I went to work for Club Med in their circus programs in the early 90’s so this allowed me to travel to a new location every 6 months. St. Lucia, Punta Cana, Hualtulco, Ixtapa. I left Club Med to open the circus program for the Superclubs Breezes Bahamas and while running their circus program was satisfying I went back to my original career of Resort Management. I was the Assistant Manager at Breezes Bahamas and then was promoted to open a new hotel in Jamaica as the Hotel Resident Manager. While opening the hotel my first son Kai was born and I was never around to see him growing up. I decided that my true passion was circus and child development.

The Superclubs chain was just opening two new resorts with circus schools in the Dominican Republic and I took the opportunity to move on. One of these resorts was in Cabarete and I enjoyed the area so much that when they closed 4 years ago I decided it was time to open Kaiceitos Circus.

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You do a lot for the local community here in the Dominican Republic. What inspires you to give back?

I have been very fortunate in my personal life and was offered any opportunity for sports and liesure as a young boy. I would not have been able to grow without sports in my life.

I truly believe that young children need to be physical and engaged and challenged. There is no better reward than the smiles on their faces as they overcome the fear of heights or attain a new goal at the circus. I am delighted to see children facing challenges and I hope they are able to take that with them for the rest of their lives.

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FLYING TRAPEZE SCHOOL OF CIRCUS ARTS CIRCUS PRODUCTION PRIVATE PARTIES SPECIAL EVENTS

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Phone: (809) 571 0744 • Fax: (809) 571 0655 reserve@cabaretebeachhouses.com www.cabaretebeachhouses.com

VACATION RENTALS AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

VILLAS AND CONDOS IN: • CABARETE BAY Tel. 809 571 0370 info@cabaretevillas.com | www.cabaretevillas.com

• KITE BEACH • BAHIA DE ARENA

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3

Mariposas Montessori is a unique early childhood

development program created by children, parents and teachers to provide the children of our community with the critical foundation needed for educational success and a happy and healthy life.

Seventy percent of 3MM students live in poverty and attend 3MM on full scholarship; however, our student population is diverse and reflects the community in which we live, with students coming from various cultures, countries and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Founder Sarah Ludwig-Ross and her team are creating a model for early childhood education that not only makes a difference in the lives of students, but also in the community. Through the use of the Montessori method, supporting and collaborating with parents, and training and employing local teachers, 3MM offers the highest

quality early childhood education in the area.

The Mariposa DR Foundation is thrilled to be partnering with 3MM .

Our goal is to create a conveyor belt from Cradle to College for girls.

Our vision is that each individual girl will begin her journey with early childhood education at 3MM and transition to programs at The Mariposa Center for Girls as they grow. We support girls every step of the way, addressing the root causes of poverty in a holistic manner by working with families and partner organizations like 3MM.

Michelle Rahn, Sarah Ludwig-Ross, Franchesca Bethelmy.

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Friendly Faces

at the Beach

Street and beach vendors are a vibrant part of Cabarete life and culture. Although many unregistered and unregulated, these informal businesses are a large part of the local economy. It is the way in which many Dominican and Haitian locals earn their living. For tourists in the area, these vendors can be a nuisance, however, buying goods from these vendors is one of the best ways to stimulate the local economy.

Hailing from the batey of Pancho Mateo, Cabarete’s most well-known fruit lady, Ana, serves up some of the freshest fruit on the north coast. Although prices are slightly elevated, the fruit lady’s quality and service delivered straight to you at your chaise lounge on the beach does not disappoint.

Cabito, also known as the Coconut Man, walks Cabarete beach each day selling coconuts under the Caribbean sun. Next time you are sunbathing on the beach, hail down the Coconut Man and enjoy sipping on refreshing and healthful coconut water served up cold in a tropical coconut.

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The long-time Cabarete resident known as El Padre, creatively turns driftwood found along the beach into unique handicrafts, such as masks, bowls and other home decorations.

You can find El Padre selling his creative handmade pieces along the beach each day.

Rarely a dinner out on Cabarete’s beach is had without running into Luis, the Mama Juana Man. Mama Juana is an herbal tincture often served as an after dinner drink. It is widely believed to have curative and even aphrodisiac properties, making it a fun gift to take home and share with family and friends.

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WHAT TO do...

WITH KIDS

Cabarete is a great place for families. Here’s a list of some of the great adventures you can make with your little ones!

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Surfing, Windsurfing, or Kiteboarding lessons

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Horseback riding at the beach

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Stand up paddle boarding at the beach or river

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Mountain biking with Iguana Mama

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Take a class at Kaiceitos Circus School

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Go kayaking in the river with Kayak River Adventures

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Zip line with Monkey Jungle

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Go on a cocoa tour with Cabarete Coffee Company

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Go fishing with Dominican Fisherman

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Whale watching (seasonal)

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURES SURFING, STAND UP PADDLE BOARD AT ENCUENTRO BEACH 321 Take Off Surf School

809 963 7873

MOUNTAIN BIKING, CANYONING, HIKING, RAFTING Iguana Mama

KITEBOARDING

Laurel Eastman Kiteboarding

KAYAKING, CAVING, CANYONING, RIVER SUP Kayak River Adventures

CIRCUS SCHOOL, TRAPEZE, AERIAL ARTS Kaiceitos Circus School

ZIP LINE

Monkey Jungle

COCOA AND COFFEE TOURS

Cabarete Coffee Company

FISHING

Dominican Fisherman

809 571 0908

809 571 0564

829 305 6883

849 607 0253

829 649 4555

809 571 0919

809 613 4177

WINDSURFING AND SUP AT CABARETE BEACH

Vela 809 571 0805

WHALE WATCHING

Make a reservation through a tour operator in your hotel or town

HORSEBACK RIDING

Make a reservation through a tour operator in your hotel or town

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HELPFUL INFORMATION Transportation

To/from airport, around town, or elsewhere on the island Taxi Cabarete

809 571 0767 or 809 571 0824

Taxi Sosua 809 571 2797 Caribe Tour Bus 809 571 3808 Metro Bus 809 571 1324

Private Medical Clinics

Open 24 hours

Centro Medico Cabarete

809 571 4696

Servi Med Cabarete 809 571 0964 Centro Medico Bournigal

809 586 2210

Clinic Abreu, Santo Domingo

809 688 4411

In case of Emergency Ambulance 809 412 5555 Tourist Police 809 571 0713 National Police 809 571 0810 Sosua Fire Department 809 571 2301

Embassies Canada

809 586 5761 or 809 262 3100

France 809 685 4300 Germany 809 542 8949 Haiti 809 686 7115 Italy 809 682 0830 Norway 809 586 1939 Spain 809 535 6500 Switzerland 809 533 3781 United Kingdom 809 472 7111 United States 809 221 2171

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Andari SPA

809 851 9399

Beach Club

809 571 4995

Bliss

809 571 9721

Blue Moon Cabarete Beach Houses

809 757 0614

809 571 0744

Cabarete Coffee Company

809 571 0919

Chez Arsenio

809 571 9948

CPS

809 571 1811

Dominican Fisherman

809 613 4177

DRReba

809 571 1849

EPS

809 571 3451

Fresh Fresh Cafe

809 571 2180

Gordito’s Fresh Mex

809 571 0128

Guzman Ariza

809 571 2880

Haciendas El Choco

809 571 2932

Hotel Villa Taina

809 571 0722

Iguana Mama

809 571 0908

Kaiceitos Circus School

849 607 0253

Kayak River Adventures

829 305 6883

La Casita de Papi

809 986 3750

Lazy Dog Restaurant

809 739 3090

LEK Kiteboarding School

809 571 0564

Mariposa Center for Girls

809 571 0610

Millennium Resort & Spa

809 571 0407

Natura Cabana

809 571 1507

Otra Cosa Restaurant

809 571 0607

Seguros Universal

809 571 0668

Serenade Restaurant

809 571 0578

Ultravioleta

829 931 5555

Yamazato

809 571 0814

3 Mariposas Montessori

809 601 4441

321 Take Off Surf School

809 963 7873

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