Extreme Hotels

The meals were a big part of why my eight-day stay at Zen Cabaret felt like such good value. Farm-to-table vegetarian breakfast and dinner are served daily, with generous portions of fresh food. Leftovers are packed in glass containers and made available, so it's easy to have healthy snacks or lunch. I only ate off property once, because I'm not vegetarian and had heard good things about a local steak place. I didn't need to, though, and was very satisfied with the meals. Daily yoga at 5 pm became a highlight, even though I'm not that crazy about yoga. The two women leading the sessions were calming and distinctive, and offered modifications for the diverse group so the class worked at different levels. Staff were welcoming, helpful, and available while giving me space. As a solo female traveler, I felt safe and free to come and go as I pleased. I enjoyed meeting them all, and spent some time with the engaging, approachable owners. Zen Cabaret is an eco resort right on Kite Beach in Cabarete, and that location can't be beat. The rooms are basic, but I wasn't there to hang out in mine. I'd suggest requesting an oceanfront room if one is available. The resort sits along the main road, so there's some street noise, but it didn't bother me. I can't wait to return, and next time I'll stay longer.

During our February yoga retreat, I loved being able to hear the gentle surf and meditate in the yoga loft. It felt therapeutic and healing, and the nearby beach gave us a colorful, athletic show from kite surfers. Our clean, comfortable room was only a few steps from the beach and pool. The owner and staff were kind and professional, and attentive to requests from our group. Breakfast and dinner were part of our package, with delicious, very fresh fruit and vegetables. The property is beautifully landscaped with lush palms and colorful plants. The pool is a must for a relaxing day, and shops and restaurants are close by. What an incredible place in a beautiful country!

The restaurant and yoga loft have breathtaking views. Everything feels relaxed and chill, and the staff are hard to beat for how helpful and attentive they are. There's so much to do around the hotel that you'll wish you could stay longer.

Feeling at home came easily here. It was simple, healthy, and I felt very safe. As someone who works remotely while traveling, I could get work done in peace, then look forward to gym sessions in the morning and time by the sea in the afternoon sun. Extreme Hotels turned out to be exactly the place I’d been hoping to find, even before I knew it existed. The staff were so kind, and I left with great memories.