Click on a label to read posts from that part of the world.
Hispaniola Calling
Sometime in say, the next three months I am planning to escape to the Caribbean and this year's pick happens to be the island in the West Indies comprised by the two countries we know as the Dominican Republic and Haiti. I want to go to both. As much as I like digging my toes into the sand on the beach while reading the latest top-selling book on all the lists, I also take great fancy in being productive, learning while touring and lending a helping hand. Haiti isn't a place I got ignited about visiting after watching Pitt & Jolie hang around with Wyclef Jean, I'd always wanted to go. Having a few friends that are from there, but have yet to go back and wish very little to go back has always intrigued me. The political climate is no secret to me and aside from all the negative images there is an enormous amount of culture and beauty to be found. I want to find it. In fact, I'd love to have Wyclef take me on a tour similar to the one the Brad & Angelina received and see what's happening with Yéle and Haiti combined. 
In regards to the Dominican Republic, I'm looking for beach, sun, fun, dance and more importantly Larimar. Ever since my eyes laid sight on the Pectolite it has become my own "precious" of sorts and I must visit the museum and the mines. I'm told a trip to the mines might change my mind about ever owning a piece of Larimar jewelry, but there is no hiding, running, or turning back now. I want to see the mines. Yes, my agenda seems and sounds quite set right now, but I've got some weeks to plan and I'm opening it up for some reader recommendations. Like Neil, before he took off for Albania and pooled for some additional ideas if anyone says "don't go" I'll be obliged to ignore.
Filed under: Arts and Culture, History, Learning, Dominican Republic, Haiti
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Hone Watson Jan 30th 2007 12:10AM
I'd love to go to the Dominican Republic but would pass on Haiti at the moment even though Wyclef is an ambassador.
http://farflungtravel.blogspot.com/ Jan 30th 2007 3:01PM
I've been to both places. Watch your back!
Lauren King Feb 18th 2007 6:39PM
As an American now living in the Dominican Republic, I have a little advice for you. If you want to go on tour excursions to see what the real country is like and how the people live, yet do it in a safe way, go with a tour operator-run excursion company. Never book on the beach. Hotel tours are extremely inflated price-wise; same with tours sold through your travel agent ahead of time. My best advice if you are going to be in Puerto Plata, is to book your excursions at Playa Dorado Plaza. I most recommend a company called Fan Tours, located adjacent to Venus Jewelry Store. They have the best prices but you should specifically try to book with Frantzy, who is the owner and who can give you the best deal. They are totally insured and won't try to put anything over on you as far as what is included.
As for going to Haitai definately do it with the tour company; not alone as it isn't safe to go alone. Frantzy can also give you a lot of information about Haiti as he is from Haiti. His direct telephone number is (809) 780-4698 or (809) 261-2163. Have a great and safe trip. Hope to meet you while you're here.
Adrienne Feb 8th 2007 10:59AM
Thanks for the feedback all! I'm having a grand old time planning so far with the Dom Rep. However, I'm finding travel to Haiti just a wee-bit more expensive. (At least for where I'm headed, time and what I'm trying to do.) Keep posting the suggestions and I'll make note of where I am before I take off March 2!
A
Lauren Feb 8th 2007 6:39PM
I just read your last comment. What exactly are you trying to do in Haiti? Are you trying to go for an overnight experience or just a one-day excursion to get a taste of it. Like I said previously, Haiti isn't a place to make as a travel experience at this time. It can very dangerous and I really wouldn't recommend it without being with some kind of tour operator or something like that. I do know that the tour offered by Fan Tours just takes you to a safe area where you can get the feel of that country without putting you in any danger. But it sounds to me like you want to flirt with your life. Anyway, just for your info., the Fan Tours excursion costs just $95.00 if you're interested. Be safe whatever you decide, but I hope you'll be smart about this as well.
Adrienne Feb 8th 2007 6:31PM
Hi Lauren,
Thanks for the concern and the info! I'm certainly not trying to flirt with life here. I've actually received some very good info on going safely thru PAP to the destinations (Jacmel) that I am trying to get to, but it is the being safe part that could potentially cost a pretty penny. Oh Boy! I'm still hashing out the details with some folks and I hope to depart and return with news of visiting both countries, but for now I'll be hanging in the D.R. for the most part.
So far I have some plans to visit Bayahibe, Cortecito, Santo Domingo, and Barahona possibly. Again thanks for the Fan Tours info. I will be holding on to this as well.
Chau,
A
Lauren Feb 10th 2007 4:55PM
Great! Sounds like you're getting it all together for your trip. Glad you're keeping safety at the top of your list though. Have a great time when you get here, and if there's anything I can do to help out, just let me know. You can write me at cubanagirl5@aol.com if you like. Maybe we'll meet when you're here. Cuidate mucho. P.S. Do you speak Spanish?