Bahia Residence Cabarete

Renee and Tom are incredibly kind and helpful hosts. This is by far the best place we’ve ever stayed, and we’ll definitely be back.

The apartment was spacious and cute, with a clean pool, a pleasant atmosphere, and a really quiet setting. It's a decent place if you're looking to relax, but it needs some improvements. The biggest problem for me was the heat and stuffiness. The living room and bathroom felt very moist and warm, and the bathroom drawer area seemed to be rotting and smelled so strong that I took my things out because I didn't feel safe keeping them there. I was told the AC could cool the apartment, but trying it left the bedroom warm, too. I know hurricane season brings humidity and the power can be finicky, with the WiFi dropping and AC switching off randomly, but a couple of fans tucked in a closet would help. I couldn't really enjoy the apartment and stayed in the bedroom unless I was out. It also needs to be better stocked. I went almost a whole day without toilet paper because staff were off on Sunday. They should have emergency supplies available even when staff are away, especially since I believe they're on or near the property. The co-host was completely unavailable that day, but Tom replied quickly. I had wipes to get through it, thankfully. I also wish the handbook encouraged more appreciation of Dominican culture. It didn't mention Dominican cuisine, and I found it odd that people come here and seem to want to get away from Dominicans. That's not the hosts' fault, but I think they could encourage visitors to engage more with the culture. A full-length mirror would be nice, too. The only one was narrow and squiggly, and I couldn't see my whole body in it.

We’ve returned from our fourth stay at the Bahia and plan to keep coming back for years. The second-floor apartment is bright, clean, and welcoming, and we love spending mornings on the balcony. From there, it’s a beautiful 20-minute walk along the beach to Cabarete, where you’ll find shops, banks, and plenty of beach bars and restaurants. Tom and Renee are always around to answer questions or help. We’ve traveled around the DR, but it’s lovely to come “home” to the Bahia Residence.

Tom and Renee are wonderfully friendly hosts, with lots of helpful information about things to do on the island and nearby. The setting is clean and neat, with 24-hour security, a private pool, and beach access every day. We spent three months here with our family during the global pandemic and had a wonderful quarantine. It’s an experience we’ll never forget, and we’ll definitely be back. Thanks again for a great time!