Dom Rep

 I have been to the Dominican Republic several times but usually end up in the environs of the capital, Santo Domingo.

So when our ship stopped in Amber Cove, it was a totally different experience.

This area is so named as it produces some of the clearest amber gems in the world. 

An amber and a larimar stone.

There are eight shades of amber here and the darker ones are the oldest. 

There is an interesting museum nearby which gives excellent information on both semi-precious stones.  

Entrance to amber museum

Map showing areas where amber and larimar are mined.

They filmed parts of Jurassic Park around the Amber Cove area.

This stone has a lizard inside.

We never bothered to book a shore excursion for the Dom Rep. The pier area has lots to see and of course numerous shops as its a popular tourist spot.

These steps take you to the bar, zip lining and lockout areas in the pic below.

View from the top.

You can rent these cottages just below the bar.

These small huts in the water are for rent too.

Another view of Amber Cove.

Traditional Dom Rep costumes.

After we finished with the pier, we chartered a taxi and toured the city of Puerto Plata which is only 12 km away. 

This section of the Dom Rep and Jamaica have many similarities in terms of the topograhy, lifestyles, animals, commercial activities etc. 

The big differences are of course that they drive on the right and motorcycles are everywhere, most operating as taxis even carrying up to 5 people!

Construction of San Felipe Apostol Cathedral (in the main square) started 1502 but wasnt completed for almost two centuries.

A section of the Umbrella street in Puerto Plato.

Fort Columbus

Section of Puerto Plata square

Pink Street 

Inside the Cathedral 

Umbrella Street has unique and interesting souvenir shops.

Using an old-time coin operated telephone.

We enjoyed touring Amber Cove and Puerto Plata without taking an organized tour, as it was less hectic, less costly but just as comprehensive.

We had an excellent tour guide in Alberto.👍.