Jack Tar Village

I am going to the Jack Tar Village soon. I bid for the vacation and have from May until November to go. When is the best time, how are the beaches. I heard mixed stories about the beaches on Playa Dorada. Are they any different from the beaches in Puerto Plata? I might be able to switch to a different hotel, how is this one? I have so many questions any info would be greatly appreciated. I keep seeing different things about the hotel. Is it on the beach? Some say near, some say on. How is the safety in the North? Can I explore and feel safe? I'm going with my mom (60) and I'm 28. I'm sure I'll be out and about more than she will, and want to know if it is safe for me to wonder about by myself. She also needs encouragement about safety and beaches. Any sites I can direct her to, pictures, maps of area etc.....Help!!
Erin

hi erin,

i am sure that others that have any tips will pass them on to you soon. i personally havent been to the area that you are asking about but I found the book 'Dominican republic - the rough guide' to be very informative. i would say that dominican is like any other place - use common sense - i find the people to be very warm and friendly

have a nice day!

Roxanne

We haven't stayed at the Jack Tar but a nearby resort 4 years in a row. We hear that the Jack Tar caters to adults only so that would probably be a plus for your Mother and possibly yourself. Playa Dorada is only 3 kms from Puerto Plata so the coastline is not much different. The beach, as I recall, is fine at the point where Jack Tar is.

As for wandering around by yourself I would caution that, particularly at night,it might not be too cool. There are a number of tours that take you around the country and for a reasonably athletic type could be quite enjoyable. I add the stipulation only because neither my wife nor myself (who are both older than your mother) move around too well.

As to timing I would avoid that later months of the year as you could run into hurricane season. The north shore isn't usually bothered too much by such but it could happen. Also by June it is beginning to get VERY warm. I see temps of 34C posted already. We always travel in February and have found it very pleasant.

Enjoy yourselves.

Hi Erin,
I am a Canadian living about 15 years in the Puerto Plata area. Jack Tar Village is quite acceptable, as is the beach, though not outstanding in world terms.
If you have more questions you can email me direct.

Two years ago, 6 of us stayed at Jack Tar. We loved it.

Its on the beach and the beach is nice. The resort itself is great (the food, the people, the pools). There is a disco and casino in the resort.

The resort is very safe. Being an all inclusive, no one other than hotel guests can be on the resort.

Its close to the Playa Dorada district where you can shop and exchange money.

So Andrea, how would one meet the "warm and friendly people" that Roxanne mentions if, as you say, "being an all inclusive, no one other than hotel guests can be on the resort"? Honestly, what is the purpose in going to another country if someone is afraid of the nationals and desires to be around others who are just like themselves? I'd say they could stay at home and save a ton of money, eh?!