living in Bayahibe
24/7 electricity via CEPM but at high rate of 14rd per kwh.
Decent internet connection.
Local council (Ayuntamiento) keeps the village clean, regularly maintains and improves roads, beaches, malecon etc.
Well stocked supermarket with prices comparable to Jumbo in La Romana.
Good bakery (Trigo de Oro) 5 minutes drive away in Dominicus.
Small gym with zumba, yoga etc.
Good vet.
Good graphics/printing company in town (useful if you have a business).
Everything is within walking distance. If you don't have a vehicle you can get by, use guagua to go to Dominicus (nearby resort styled residential area) or La Romana.
Two residential areas to choose from - Bayahibe and Dominicus. Lot's of Italians living in Dominicus.
Beach front accommodation pretty much impossible to find in both locations.
In Bayahibe there is only one apartment complex with a pool. More choice and more modern accommodations (with pools) in Dominicus.
Expect to pay monthly rental between US$500 and US$800 for 2 bedroom condo. US$600 to US$1200+ for a house.
Hard to find apartments with a private garden.
Village is safe although there have been home robberies in the past but none that I've heard of for a while.
Fewer beaches to choose from compared to up north. Nearest alternative beach is Punta Cana.
On the new Coral Highway 35 minutes to Punta Cana, 10 to La Romana. Hopefully the future toll fees won't be too expensive.
If you are into diving then it's a top spot with 30 dive sites in the area. Decent snorkeling off the beach.
Cabarete has more (and better quality) restaurants and accommodation and there are more activities to do there.
Much quieter social scene compared to Cabarete/Sosua.
Bayahibe is a small village so living here can feel a bit boring and isolated but it depends on your priorities I guess. Personally although I like it here I'd prefer to live in Cabarete but Bayahibe suits us better for our business. If you are young and want some action and a vibrant social scene then go to Cabarete. Hope that helps a bit.