Getting around the north coast-Carro Publico

The carro publico is very similar to the guagua. Think of the publico as a car that functions as a bus. These are very common just like the guaguas and you will see them pass by the main road every few minutes. You will see the fixed route of the car either on the windshield or on a little sign on top of the roof. The vehicles are absolutely ancient. (Think 1979 Toyota Corolla) and just barely in working condition. The driver expects to carry 6 passengers in addition to himself. One in the front seat, one small person who straddles the space between the 2 front seats, and 4 passengers in the back (As the above pic shows.) Expect to be packed like sardines. Sometimes the driver may make you pay for 2 spaces if he feels you are taking up so much space that he can't accommodate an extra passenger, so prepare to accommodate everyone who gets on after you. Someone might have to literally sit on top of you! If you have a lot of bags, they will charge you for another space or you can be more proactive and pay for 2 spaces. That way the driver won't pick up as many people and you will travel in (relative) comfort. Pay the driver as you get in and state your destination. To go from Sosua to Cabarete, it's about 30 pesos. Sosua- Puerto Plata 35-40 pesos.

These cars run at night also, albeit less frequently and at higher prices. You will pay at least 60 pesos from Cabarete to Sosua at night.