Dominican Republic
Cable Car, Mt Isabela, Puerto Plata
KINDNESS comes to explore the Domincan Republic. First stop Ocean Wrold Marina, Puerto Plata. Here we visited Mr Isabela by Cable car. We then took a tour of downtown which included stops at La Chocolovers, the Larimar - Ambar Mine Museum, the Plaza de Independencia, and the Fortaleza San Felipe.
The cable car journey up to Mt. Isabela in the Dominican Republic is truly a remarkable experience. Rising above Puerto Plata, this unique mode of transport offers visitors a chance to soar above lush greenery and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Caribbean Sea.
What sets this cable car apart is its history and significance. It is the original cable car in the Caribbean and transports visitors to the Pico Isabel de Torres and . This engineering marvel provides access to the botanical gardens and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue perched atop Mt. Isabela.
As you ascend to the summit, you are enveloped in a sense of tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty. The gentle swaying of the cable car cabins only adds to the sense of adventure and wonder. Once at the top, visitors can explore the gardens, take in panoramic views, and marvel at the towering statue that watches over the landscape below.
Downtown Puerto Plata Tour
Our tour of downtown Puerto Plata was an enriching experience, guided by the knowledgeable Luis Vasquez. Our first stop was at La Chocolovers, where we indulged in the delicious world of chocolate-making. The aroma of cocoa filled the air as we witnessed firsthand the art of transforming cacao beans into delectable treats.
Next, we visited the Larimar - Ambar Mine Museum, where we learned about the unique gemstones found in the region. The striking blue hues of Larimar and the warm tones of amber truly captivated us, showcasing the beauty of the Dominican Republic's natural treasures.
Luis Vasquez, our taxi driver and tour guide, was not only a skilled navigator through the city but also a fountain of knowledge, sharing insights and stories that enriched our tour. As we walked through the Umbrella Street and the Pink Street as well as the central square, Luis explained the historical significance of the Plaza de Independencia, coupled with its bustling energy, offered us a glimpse into the heart of Puerto Plata.. Many of these buildings in the square are now being preserved so future generations will be able to experience Puerto Plata as it is today. While we strolled through Plaza de Independencia, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the central square, a sweet pit stop at an ice cream parlor added a delightful touch to our day, allowing us to savor local flavors while soaking in the laid-back charm of the city.
Our final destination was the impressive Fortaleza San Felipe, a fort steeped in history and overlooking the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea. The strategic location of the fort and its architectural grandeur left us in awe, offering a glimpse into Puerto Plata's storied past.
Overall, our journey through downtown Puerto Plata was a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and sweet indulgence, making it a truly memorable experience.
El Limon Waterfall
KINDNESS comes to explore El Limón Waterfall in Samana, Domincan Republic.
During our time in the Samana area, we were faced with a myriad of enticing destinations to explore. Among the difficult decisions we had to make, we opted to reserve a day for a memorable excursion to the El Limon waterfall(Salto). The cascading waters and lush surroundings provided a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. El Limon is not the largest salto in the Dominican Republic, but it was within reach for us, and a true beauty. One thing to note, we were able to find the waterfall on our own, parking was under $500RD at the time (Mar 2024) but we had no change so that became a tip😎. The name of the parking is Sendero Arroya Surdido (Surdido stream trail) see picture. The signs are fairly small but it is the second parking lot if you are arriving from Samana. We then proceeded down the path, a local tried to be our guide (Guia), we politely kept refusing all the way up the top of the first incline when he finally tried to ask for a present/gift (presente). We again firmly said “no, lo siento” and he left us. It is your call if you prefer to help out the locals in this manner, but we wanted to make the trek by ourselves. It was relatively easy to discern the path. At one point atop a hill, we came to a hut and on the left was on open grassy area at the top of the mountain, a horse was grazing and we noticed some people taking a path so we followed. We were told the path to the water fall could be very muddy, we found this route to be the least muddy and we only missed one waterfall along the way going this route. You ask how we know this. One person in our party wanted to try the other route on the way back lol. It was truly muddy and this after a few days of no rain. Stick to the high road. 😎 We eventually converged with the horse route, and found the entrance to the park with a gift shop of sorts at the entrance and a bathroom (bano). admission to the waterfall because its a national park is $50RD/pp. That’s a great deal considering the horse ride in is $49USD/pp and we were told the guides who lead the horses in work on tips they do not get paid. We did indulge in fun poised photos being taken by a local for tips of course. Once in the park there is more to explore than just the El Limon waterfall. There is a mountain adjacent to the waterfall with a view looking down on the waterfall and a mini bar/cafe with drinks and light refreshments. Also a little further beyond the mini bar/cafe is another overlook with views of the ocean as well.
El Valle Zipline Adventure
KINDNESS comes to explore the Samana Ziplining in the Dominican Republic. We stayed at Puerto Bahia and had a great time ziplining with Dan and Kelly from SV Magic. Highly Recommended!!
Our second excursion was a thrilling adventure that included El Valle Ziplining, a delightful lunch at Las Terrenas, and a quick provisioning run at Sirenas, which is akin to Walmart in the States. Teaming up with our buddy boat, SV Magic, added an extra layer of enjoyment to the day. Navigating the bustling streets filled with scooters, motorcycles, and leisurely locals, along with unexpected encounters like horses and cows crossing, kept us on our toes. Despite the absence of speed limit signs, the drive was a memorable experience. The El Valle zipline experience was truly remarkable, with Wilson leading the way and a team of assistants ensuring our safety across the 13 platforms and 12 ziplines. Trying out different styles, like the upside-down zip, the bouncy zip, and even going together on one tether, added to the excitement. Post ziplining, we made our way to Las Terrenas, a vibrant beach town offering a plethora of dining options, and settled on a cozy spot with a beach view. Walking on the boardwalk enjoying a post lunch view of the beach was breathetaking. The food was delicious and the company delightful.
Puerto Bahia de Samana
Puerto Bahia Samana Marina, nestled in a picturesque coastal haven, offers a comprehensive range of services for seafaring enthusiasts. Boasting access to a myriad of 4-star resort amenities, including three distinct restaurants, two inviting pools, a tranquil spa, a fully-equipped gym, a dedicated kids' lounge, convenient laundry facilities, and a well-stocked minimart, this marina goes above and beyond to cater to visitors' needs. Moreover, the centralization of customs, immigration, and the Armada on the premises streamlines the check-in process for arriving guests, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience from the moment of arrival. Whether one seeks relaxation, recreation, or practical conveniences, Puerto Bahia Samana Marina stands out as a premier destination for maritime adventurers.