Raising a Family in Cabrera: An Interview with Ryann

Family enjoying coastal views in Cabrera, Dominican Republic

At Las Cuevas, we believe it’s the people who make Cabrera so special. This month, we spoke with Ryann, a business owner, wife, and mother who has called Cabrera home for over a decade. She shares how she built her dream life here and what it’s really like raising a young family in this coastal town.

Finding Home

Q: What first brought you to Cabrera?
A: Cabrera immediately drew us in with its relaxed, Caribbean vibe. We discovered beautiful beaches, waterfalls, freshwater lagoons, and warm, welcoming locals. Something inside me just knew I was home.

Q: What made you decide to stay and raise your family here?
A: We saw the opportunity to design our dream life. We built a lifestyle agency that now offers vacation planning, destination events, property management, real estate, and excursions. On a personal level, we built a home overlooking the ocean and grow more than 30 types of fruits and vegetables. Living so connected to nature is magical.

Ryann’s family story in Cabrera with Caribbean  backdrop



Daily Life in Cabrera

Q: What does a typical day look like for your family?
A: We enjoy slow mornings together — sunrise, breakfast, and coffee overlooking the jungle and ocean. Having house staff allows me to spend quality time with my husband and son and focus fully on my business when needed.

Q: What do you love most about raising your son here?
A: Minimal screen time and maximum outdoor play. We can walk to waterfalls, snorkel at beaches just minutes away, or explore the hills on horseback. Cabrera is truly a tropical playground.

dventure horseback riding by the sea at Las Cuevas, Cabrera



School & Community

Q: Where does your son go to school, and how has the experience been?
A: He attends a local Spanish-immersion school, which was important to us for bilingualism and cultural connection. He loves it, has made many friends, and has really excelled in Spanish.

Q: Have you felt supported by the community?
A: Absolutely. One of my favorite things about Cabrera is how connected we are with the locals. We support them, and they support us — it’s a mutually beneficial relationship.

Kids participating in activities at a Cabrera school



Real Talk: Challenges & Benefits

Q: Were there any challenges to raising a child here?
A: Cabrera is a small town with limited organized kids’ activities outside of the main sports and water activities. But the trade-off is endless outdoor adventures and more time as a family.

Q: How has healthcare been?
A: While facilities may be basic, our local doctors are incredible. Our family doctor is always available, even for house calls, and once even discovered my mom’s ovarian cancer early — saving her life. I’m forever grateful.

Q: What advice would you give families considering the move?
A: Spend a few weeks here first. Island life requires patience and flexibility, but if you embrace it, you can create your dream life filled with purpose, health, and natural beauty.

Looking Ahead

Q: Do you see yourself staying long-term?
A: One hundred percent. We’ve built multiple homes here, and our son will always have a place in Cabrera — whether he stays here or chooses to explore the world.


Previous
Previous

Rooted in Nature: Landscaping as the Heart of Las Cuevas

Next
Next

Meet the Founders of Las Cuevas