Description: Style and location are what Villa Taina has going for it, which counts for a good deal in a busy, crowded central area in the booming Dominican north coast town of Cabarete. Along with that, add in some nice dining, splendid views, and some of the friendliest and most helpful hotel staff, and you have the makings of an excellent, beach-based visit in this water-sport crazy resort.
Villa Taina literally has its roots in the water and wind. It began as an even smaller property adjacent to the Happy Surfpool windsurfing school, and then was built up to its current size in 2000. Nowadays, the windsurfing school is a staple of the Cabarete beach scene, but Villa Taina also leads the way in being the most central accommodation to all the action. The melon-colored buildings have floor floors of spacious rooms: the best are on the top two floors, even if you have to take stairs to get there. Mine had two double beds, comfortable wicker chairs and a small wicker coffee table near the double glass doors that opened out onto a balcony. There was also an adequate wood armoire against one wall, and a large wooded desk area with mini-bar to the left of the entry. This main room also had faux-marble flooring throughout, with a bright and cheerful color scheme of pale lemon walls, brightly patterned bedspreads and curtain. To summarize the style, it combines contemporary and efficient with the pleasing additional presence of its Dominican location in the form of ethnic art items—paintings, textiles, and other formats—on the room and hall walls. The very large bathroom featured a standing shower with plenty of space to change when you arrive directly from a long day at the beach. The outdoor restaurant is beachfront and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; there is also a swimming pool and internet access in the lobby.
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