How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least four weeks in advance, but accept reservations at any time. To ensure enrollment for your preferred dates, it is always safer to book early.
What documents do I need for entry into the Dominican Republic?
To enter the Dominican Republic you need a valid passport and a tourist card which you purchase at the Dominican airport upon arrival. The tourist card costs US$10, which must be paid in US currency. Be sure to keep your tourist card in a safe place, as you will need to present it for departure, along with a US$10 departure tax. Required documents and length of stay for tourists varies by country, so we encourage you to visit your country’s Dominican embassy page for more detailed information.
What airport should I use in the Dominican Republic?
Puerto Plata (POP) airport is only 20 minutes from CLI, which makes it the most convenient airport for our students. Two other main airports in the Dominican Republic are Santiago (STI) and Santo Domingo (SDQ), which are respectively two and four hours from Cabarete.
How do I get from the airport to Cabarete?
CLI is more than happy to arrange transportation to and from all airports on the island. Transfer service from the closest airport, Puerto Plata, is approximately 35USD. Just provide us with your flight details, and we will do the rest.
What is the minimum age to enroll in CLI?
There is no minimum age to enroll. We encourage the participation of youth and have excellent courses geared toward the needs of students. All students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. We do not take responsibility for minors traveling by themselves.
What should I do if my health insurance does not cover me in the Dominican Republic?
We work closely with Tours Trips Treks & Travel who will create an international health, travel, and emergency evacuation insurance package to fit your needs. Please let us know in your Enrollment Form if you are interested in an international insurance plan.
What type of currency should I bring?
The Dominican Peso is used in Cabarete, but your country’s currency can be changed at any bank in Cabarete. Traveler’s checks can also be changed at any bank with your passport. ATM’s and Cash Machines are located throughout Cabarete and can be an easy and safe way to use money. Keep in mind that all ATM’s and Cash Machines dispense Pesos. We prefer that you pay for your course in US Dollars, but you may pay in Pesos at the local Peso to Dollar rate.
What supplies do I need for class?
Most beginner Spanish students will need their own copy of “Easy Spanish Step-by-Step,” published by McGraw Hill. This book is available for purchase at CLI. You should also bring along writing utensils, a notebook, and a Spanish dictionary. Cabarete has a few bookstores where you can buy any supplies you forget. While you are studying at CLI, you will have free access to our extensive language library of books and media.
How does CLI determine my level?
In your Enrollment Form you must indicate your approximate level and you will take a placement test created by CLI upon arrival.
How can I contact my family and friends once I am in Cabarete?
At CLI, we offer free WiFi internet so you can connect your laptop to the internet. Also, several internet and call centers are located throughout Cabarete. Cellular service (Orange and Claro/Verizon) is also available in Cabarete. Please ask your cellular company about international service.
How do I get around town?
You can walk just about anywhere in Cabarete in under 30 minutes.
Motoconchos (motorcycle taxis) are available throughout town, as well as
carritos (public cars) and
guaguas (public minibuses). Each ride costs about 20 Pesos. Private taxis are also readily available.
Will I receive a certificate of participation?
Yes, students receive a certificate of participation and achievement at the end of the course with CLI. This certificate is often useful for confirming participation and language level to employers and/or schools.