Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

As we backed into a tranquil little harbor, the captain announced over the PA system that we were not in Puerto Plata because the forecasted winds for the afternoon were too high for us to leave the pier. As a result, our destination was changed to Maimon, about 15 miles away from Puerto Plata.

Pam will still be able to go on the scheduled tour. Instead of being able to watch the activities in the busy harbor of Puerto Plata, I will be staring out at a scene that, while beautiful, changes as rapidly as a Galapagos Tortoise running a marathon. 

- - - Pam's report on her trip ashore begins - - -

There were many beautiful old-colored buildings.

The gazebo is in Central Park, a popular gathering spot in the heart of the city. It is also known as Independence Square in tribute to General Gregorio Luperon who helped unite the Dominican Republic following the war of restoration.

The town hall is just off Independence Square.

Umbrella Street has lovely shops and restaurants.

Larimar is a lovely stone found only in the Dominican Republic. It originates from volcanic mountains and is used to create lovely jewelry.

For centuries, the Dominican Republic has produced extraordinary Rums. This is one of many remaining factories. There is much less sugarcane grown today than at the turn of the century.

This museum was filled with an extraordinary collection of amber artifacts which were millions of years old.

Many antique cars were in the Dominican.

Somewhere very creative

 

Fort San  Felipe shows a glimpse into early life in Puerto Plata, as a Spanish-built fortress. It is the only remaining structure from the 16th century.

- - - Pam's report on her trip ashore ends  - - - 

Good job, RIVIERA! The verandas on this deck, including mine, were scheduled to be varnished and painted today.  They skipped mine so that I could have access to it all day.

The wind that the Captain was worried about increased as the afternoon progressed, making his decision to dock in a more sheltered harbor a good one. Having backed into the pier with the bow pointed out to sea, he was able to make a beeline for open water as soon as the docking lines were cast off. 

On to San Juan, Puerto Rico, tomorrow.