Dominican Republic - Tropical Rendezvous with a Special Family


Taking an invitation from an old Italian friend, I traveled down to explore Puerto Plato in the Dominican Republic.  Puerto Plata sits on the north side of the island.  It is a haven for tourists from the U.S. and other countries.   My friend, who lives in Arona, Italy but is from the DR had built a beautiful winter vacation home near her family.  Upon arriving she immediately drove me to her mama's house to experience my first taste of authentic Dominican Republic cuisine made in her native country.  

Senora Martina's house is airy with marble floors and filled with open spaces (no windows) that look out into tropical scenery that reflects that one can enjoy the warm climate. 

Senora Martina's casa

Over the next 5 days, my intermittent fasting and deference to  moderation and meat went "out the window."  But it was worth it!   Dinner the first night, two huge helpings of, lentil curry (sancocho con arroz) with copious peppers, entire avocados, and plantains filled me up.  But then came an entire crème caramel!  Seconds and thirds.   

My friend Odi's house is spectacular and a testament that hard work and a modest lifestyle can result in an amazing escape even with a very modest income if one saves for many years.  I wish more Americans would embrace delayed gratification like this.  And all her culinary skills were on full display.  I was not allowed to say no!  


I had intended to snorkel, but the rough surf and cool water temperature made me decide to just enjoy a tranquil environment, to relax, meditate and enjoy learning some history of one of the first places Christopher Columbus visited and pirates flourished. 

Playa Dorado


La Catalina is said to be the best restaurant on this island.  It sits high on a volcanic mountain looking down over Puerto Plata.  Amazing food under the most elegant of thatched roofs.  Don't miss it!





 
Granadillo

Grows in Trees

The fort

Grape trees abound


Tropical foods growing everywhere and visits to sisters and historical sites.  All punctuated with eating.  These were the days.  It was so relaxing.  Odi and I made a pack, I would try to speak Spanish, and she English and we would fill in with Italian (our "common" lingua).  Kinda of fun to speak Spantalian. The pace is slower with the ubiquitous scooters and crowded streets, typical for the Caribbean.  Lunch is a time for children to come home even as adults. It's nice.  Navali, gia mule, arroz con concon, berenjena all some the amazing dishes I was able to experience.  
Avacados everywhere!
Thomas making his amazing lunch




For this family it is all about family.  I feel so very fortunate to have been able to experience this with such a lovely family. 

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